The Staff of Our Lady Star of the Sea School is working together to develop and educate each student spiritually, academically, emotionally, socially and physically. This is evidenced in the students by their spiritual growth, academic achievement, self esteem and positive attitudes. We accept and share the responsibility to provide all students with skills to be active participants in their continuing education.

Philosophy

At Our Lady Star of the Sea School we believe that the child is a unique individual who learns primarily through the development of the whole person, i.e., intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, socially and physically. Positive motivation on an individual level is stressed, enabling students to grow in their capabilities and their experiences of living, doing and interacting with others in a total environment.

Goals

In a Christian environment the teacher serves as a role model offering leadership and guidance in the spiritual, academic and social atmosphere to students entrusted to his/her care.

1. Spiritual – Emotional

· To provide an environment that meets the needs of each child allowing them to progress at their own individual level.

· To strive to meet the spiritual needs of each child.

· To understand the individual needs of each student and to provide supportive services as needed.

2. Academic

· To work together as a total faculty to provide a constant flow of education

· To have parents assist teachers through cooperation.

· To promote open lines of communication among principal, teachers, parents and students.

· To teach all subjects based on Christian principles.

· To insure that individual student needs are addressed at all levels, preschool through middle school

· To make certain that each child is challenged and encourage to achieve at his/her level.

· To employ a variety of teaching methods and materials in class and to provide resource services as needed.

3. Social – Physical

· To encourage each child to treat themselves and those around them with dignity, respect and understanding.

· To regard each child as a whole person.

· To consider the development of the complete child.

· To help each child grow and cope with the challenges of everyday life.

· To take into consideration the variety of backgrounds and environmental needs that exists within each child.

· To encourage each child to appreciate and treat with respect the property of the school and of each individual within the school.

For the purpose of this document the term “parent” refers to mother, father or guardian.

Academic Policies & Programs

Class size for grades 1 – 8 at Our Lady Star of the Sea School will be limited to 25 students per class. A waiting list will be maintained for those families who seek enrollment after the limit is reached. However, class size may be increased upon recommendation of the principal.

Families who have students currently enrolled at Our Lady Star of the Sea School are given the first opportunity to re-enroll their children for the upcoming school year. After current school families have had the opportunity to re-enroll their children, registration will be open to all new parish families, followed by open registration. If after that date, a grade reaches its maximum level, a waiting list will be maintained. Parents are encouraged to submit their registration forms prior to the due date. Preference will not be given to families currently enrolled who have not returned their registration forms in accordance with the time table set forth each year.

Enrichment Center Programs

The Enrichment Center is designed to offer individual and/or small group instruction to students that are in need of additional skill instruction. Collaboration with teachers for some advanced skill instruction may also be provided. Students are seen by appointment after qualifying assessments.

Student Records

Records on students are kept confidential. Parents have the right to see these records by scheduling an appointment with the counselor. Records will be released only with signed permission from the student’s parent. A permanent record will be kept on file after a student leaves Our Lady Star of the Sea School. A non-custodial parent has access to his/her child’s file unless otherwise indicated.

Textbooks

Certain textbooks remain the property of the school. Parents will be informed of such books. It is the student’s responsibility to preserve and protect these books. Replacement value will be charged if a book is lost or severely damaged. Any lost workbook will need to be replaced.

Homework Policy

Purpose of homework

· Teaches student responsibility

· Reinforces skills taught during class

· Allows independent practice of study skills

· Teaches students to develop time management skills

· Prepares students for new levels of education

Tips for success

· Have a quiet, well-supplied study area

· Designate a specific time to do daily homework

· Keep assignment notebook up-to-date

· Be consistent (develop a pattern)

· If there is no formal homework assigned, or less homework than the approximate amount expected, it is recommended that be the time spent reviewing past assignments or reading appropriate material

General time guidelines

Students should expect daily homework. Approximate amount per grade level is:

Grade 1 – 10 minutes Grade 5 – 50 minutes

Grade 2 – 20 minutes Grade 6 – 1 hour

Grade 3 – 30 minutes Grade 7 – 1 hour, 10 minutes

Grade 4 – 40 minutes Grade 5 – 1 hour, 20 minutes

Parental involvement in setting up an effective homework program is key to student success.

Web Site and Edline Program

Our Lady Star of the Sea School website (www.olsos.org) has two components, a home page that contains general information, like the school’s newsletter, the family handbook and teacher contact information.

The second part of the school web is Edline, the parent/teacher communication component of our web. The Edline program can be accessed either from the left hand navigational bar of the home page or directly at www.edline.com. This area of the web is password protected, meaning only parents and students can access this part of the site. Individual classroom pages are contained on Edline. These pages contain the student’s grades and homework assignments. Also, Edline contains detailed CYO sports information such as games and practice schedules. The Edline program allows you to see multiple children’s’ schedules at the same time with the combined calendar. Edline also has teacher contact links for easy communication with the teachers.

Grading Scale (Procedure)

Grades 1 & 2

Primary grades are based on the mastery of basic skills and students’ attitude and performance on daily assignments. Students are assigned grades ranging from 1 to 4 in grade one and A to D in grade 2.

Grades 3 – 5

100 A+ 82-81 C+

99-94 A 80-76 C

93-92 A- 75-74 C-

91-90 B+ 73-72 D+

89-85 B 71-67 D

84-83 B- 66-65 D-

Grades 6 – 8

100-95 A 82-79 C

94-93 A- 78-77 C-

92-91 B+ 76-75 D+

90-87 B 74-70 D

86-85 B- 69-0 F

84-83 C+

Any form of cheating will be given a grade of zero.

Honor Roll

Honor Roll for Grades 6 – 8

The student must earn at least five A’s and two B’s in all subjects including specials. The student must earn all 1’s or 2’ in conduct and effort in every class.

Principal’s Honor Roll for Grades 6 – 8

The student must earn A’s in the all subjects and the two specials. The student must earn 1’s in conduct and effort in all subjects.

Report Cards

Report cards will be issued quarterly, each 9 weeks of the school year. The report card is an important message regarding your child’s academic progress, effort and conduct.

Retention

Our Lady Star of the Sea School understands that retaining a child is a very serious undertaking. Because of this, the decision to retain must be mutually acceptable to the parents and to the school. Generally, by the third quarter of the year, the parents will be asked to attend a conference to discuss the child’s progress and be made aware of the fact that retention is being considered. The school is committed to doing everything possible to help the child grow and succeed in school. If retention of the student is recommended by the school and the parents refuse, they will be asked to sign a letter indicating such. This letter will be placed in the child’s permanent record.

Testing Program

All students in grades 2-8 will be given an annual national standardized achievement test (Iowa Test of Basic Skills) appropriate for their grade level. The results will be used to help plan the curriculum and academic programs at Our Lady Star of the Sea School as well as to compare the child’s ability in relation to a national norm.

The 8^th grade will also be encouraged to participate in the high school placement test.

New students will be given an entrance evaluation to assist in determining an appropriate grade placement.

Computer Policy

The school wants each student to use and enjoy the computers. If the expected conduct is violated, a disciplinary action will be taken.

Students will respect both hardware and software on any computer that they are given permission to use, whether it is in the computer lab or in the classroom.

Students will respect the work that is involved in installing software and therefore will not delete or change icons or programs.

Students will use with care all hardware, which includes computers, printers, the mouse, microphones, headsets, scanners, the digital camera, and software such as cd-roms, and disks.

Improper and vulgar language will not be used in programs, screen savers, or other messages that can be placed on the computer.

Students should respect the use of the computer which includes no tampering with files, icons, software, etc.

The Internet

The use of the computer and access to the Internet is a privilege provided to those students whose parents have signed the Acceptable Use Policy.

Students will use the Internet with the permission of their teacher and only under the supervision of that teacher. Students use the Internet for educational purposes only. Chat rooms, E-Mail and downloading games are not allowed.

Anyone in violation of the “Acceptable Use Policy” will not be allowed to use the Internet for the remainder of the school year. Photos of students, parents or staff may only be published when signed release forms are on file.

Library Policy

Check-Out/Return of Books:

Students in preschool, kindergarten and first grade may checkout one book each week. That book must be returned the following week in order for a student to check out a new book.

Students in second and third grade may checkout two books each week. Those books must be returned the following week in order for the student to check out new books. If the student has two books out and only one is returned, that student may check-out one additional book. If the student has not finished a book, they may bring it back to the library and renew the book.

Students in fourth through eighth grade may checkout two books for personal reading. Additional books for school study/research may also be checked out. Reference materials may not be checked out.

Lost books:

Lost books must be replaced with a copy of the same book or paying for a replacement (cash or check made payable to CASH.) Whether you are replacing a book, or paying for it; make arrangements directly with the library staff. If a book is found, the cash will be refunded.

Damaged Books:

Students are expected to inform the library staff about any damaged books. If a page is torn, the library staff will fix it. If a book is damaged beyond use/repair, it must be replaced or paid for under the same conditions as a lost book.

Library Computers:

Computers are available in the library for research purposes. The Computer Use Policy applies.

Attendance Policy

Attendance

If a child is absent, please call the school office by 9:00 am. Regular attendance is essential for all students. An absence from school is always a loss. Teacher instruction and class interaction that is missed can never be fully made up. Prolonged absences may result in a incomplete grade on a student’s report card.

Appointments

Doctor/dental appointments should not be scheduled during the school day if possible. If an appointment is necessary during school hours, please notify the school office in advance. This must be scheduled through the office. A child leaving school early must wait in the school office until his/her parent(s) arrive. Parents coming to school to pick up a child must always come to the school office to sign the child out of the building. No child will be dismissed from a classroom or released to the parking lot to wait. Any person picking up a child who is not a parent or legal guardian must be listed on the child’s emergency card and must have made prior arrangements through the office in order to be released to that person.

Make-Up Work ~ Homework Policy

A child must complete the assignments given during an absence. It is the child’s responsibility to request the make-up work from the teacher. The child will be given one day for each day absent to complete the make-up work. A grade of incomplete will be changed to an F if the work is not completed within that time. During an unscheduled school vacation, homework assignments will not be given in advance.

Tardiness

Our Lady Star of the Sea School has always focused on academics in conjunction with the teaching of life skills. One such life skill is punctuality.

Parents and students have a shared responsibility for attendance and punctuality. Presence in the classroom enables each student to hear class instruction and to participate in discussion and related learning experiences. Attendance and punctuality directly contributes to student achievement. Although absenteeism due to illness is unavoidable, tardiness should be controlled. Students who walk into class late disrupt the educational process and interrupt the learning of others. In order to avoid this, please allow ample time in the morning to be sure that your child has time to get inside and into the classroom before 8:00 am.

The first bell in the morning will ring each day at 7:45 am. Students will be considered tardy if they arrive in the classroom after 8:00 am.

Tardy Occurrences

Consequences

1, 2, 3

Conference with teacher

On 3^rd tardy, a notice will be sent home for

parent signature

4 or 5

Conference with assistant principal.

Parent contacted after 4^th or 5^th tardy.

6 or 7

Conference with the principal.

Parent contacted after 6^th or 7^th tardy.

8 and above

One hour after school detention to be arranged. The same for every second tardy thereafter.

Health Policy

Illness

If a child becomes ill at school, the school office will make every effort to contact the parent or emergency person. Please make sure your emergency card is up to date.

Communicable Diseases

Please telephone the school immediately if your child is diagnosed as having a contagious disease. Parents of other children in your child’s classroom will be notified to be on the alert for symptoms. Students out of school with a contagious disease will be readmitted only with doctor’s permission.

Head Lice

Our Lady Star of the Sea School adheres to a strict “nit free” policy concerning head lice. This means that the child must not only be treated with the lice killing shampoo, but all nits and eggs must be removed before the child can return to the classroom. The child will be checked upon returning to school. It is essential to report this communicable condition to the office immediately to prevent further spread and/or re-infestation of your own child. Information packets are available in the school office.

Medication Policy

Our Lady Star of the Sea School complies with the Archdiocese of Detroit School Policy 5141.4 for Medical Needs and the Dispensing of Medication.

It is the responsibility of the parents and/or guardians to inform the principal and teaching staff if a student is subject to any medical need that requires regular or periodic attention while at school. Allergic conditions and other medical alerts will be documented on the student’s Emergency Card with detailed information in the student’s permanent record.

It is the policy of Our Lady Star of the Sea School not to dispense or administer any medicine to students. If prescription or non-prescription medication must be taken during school hours, the principal or his/her designee will supervise the administration.

Guidelines for administering medication during school hours are as follows:

1. A signed permission/release form, from either parent(s) or guardian(s), must be on file. New medication authorization forms are needed each school year.

2. A signed physician’s order (pharmacy prescription) indicating drug name, dose, time and method of administration duration (length of time for medication to be dispensed) must be on file.

3. One school administrator or designee will supervise the taking of medication in the presence of another adult witness. A record of date and time medication was taken will be kept.

4. All medicine should be clearly labeled in original container with the student’s name on the container. Non-prescription drugs must be in original container and labeled by parent with child’s name, dosage and time to be given.

5. Any changes in dosage, addition or discontinuation of medication must be accompanied by a physician’s statement.

6. Inhalers are considered medications. Physician’s written authorization is needed if inhalers are to be carried on the student during school hours.

7. All medication is secured in a locked cabinet.

Safety

As a church we value the safety of children in our care, our employees and volunteers and the people whom we serve. We want to take prudent measures to protect our human and material resources. Therefore, the Archdiocese mandates that criminal history background checks be conducted for all employees and volunteers who have unsupervised contact with a child, elderly or persons with disabilities. A form asking basic information about you is available in the school office to be completed and returned to the designated Administrator for Criminal Background Checks.

All volunteers and employees are required to attend Protecting God’s Children, an informative, interactive workshop in which we explore ways to recognize warning signs, risky behaviors and environments, that we might be best equipped to advocate for children and prevent the occurrence of child sexual abuse. As mandated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops for anyone who is employed or volunteers to interact with our children in any parish/school related or sponsored activity. Workshops are offered periodically at Our Lady Star of the Sea in the Parish Center. Each workshop lasts 3 hours. For more information and a schedule of future dates/times please contact: the Parish Office at 313-884-5554, or look for listings in the parish bulletin or at www.virtus.org

Bicycles

Students riding bicycles must park them in the assigned areas. Bicycle riding is not permitted on the school grounds or in the parking lots at any time during school hours. Bicycles should be locked at all times. The school cannot be responsible for lost bicycles. Bicycles need to be walked on and off the school grounds before and after school.

Rollerblades

Students rollerblading to school must remove them prior to entering the school building. Rollerblading is not permitted on or in the parking lots at any time during school hours.

Skateboards

Skateboards are not permitted on the school grounds at any time.

Electronic Devices

Cell phones are the only electronic devices permitted on school grounds. They must remain off and kept in lockers or backpacks during the entire school day.

The office phone is available and is to be used when the student needs to call home. If other electronic devices are found on school grounds, they will be confiscated and returned only to a parent of guardian. The same will apply for violations of the cell phone policy.

Insurance

We are committed to maintaining conditions as safe as possible for the children. Although recognizing that accidents can happen, we will constantly review conditions around and in the school premises. We will also require all students to be covered under a viable insurance policy covering accidents before they will be allowed to participate in our gym and athletic programs. Student accidents are not covered under the Archdiocesan Self Insurance Program. Our Lady Star of the Sea School will offer to parents the opportunity to procure coverage from a local insurance agency which will offer coverage at a cost to the parent.

Visitors

All persons entering the school must enter through and report to the main school office in the elementary building. If they are entering the school hallways, they must sign the Visitor’s Log and obtain a Visitor’s Badge. Upon leaving the building, visitors need to sign out and return the Visitor’s Badge. Forgotten books, lunches, etc. must be left in the office. Office staff will deliver all items as not to disturb classes.

Field Trips

Field trips and community service projects that help participating students achieve educational and/or spiritual objectives are encouraged. The school staff, under the direction of the administration, shall take all reasonable and prudent steps to safeguard the physical safety of the students. Such trips are well supervised. All students must have a signed permission slip before departing. These slips will be kept in the office until after the trip is completed. The administration, teacher, or parent may place restrictions upon a student’s participation in such programs.

Parents driving on a field trip are responsible for safe guarding the welfare of the students. Parents driving must follow all teacher instructions, make no unscheduled stops or side trips, use seatbelts for every child and follow all safety regulations. A driver’s information sheet and ICHAT must be on file as well as completion of Protecting God’s Children workshop. No alcoholic beverages may be consumed by chaperone before or during the trip.

It is the obligation of the chaperone to keep watch of all children assigned to him/her. The children should be kept in sight at all times.

Our Lady Star of the Sea

Elementary School & Middle School

467 Fairford Drive

Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan 48236-2410

(313) 884-1070 Fax (313) 884-0406

This is a copy of what parents and students will receive if/when a 7^th and/or 8^th grade trip is determined

_______________

date

Eligibility for Class Trips

Our Lady Star of the Sea class trips have educational value in addition to having time to socialize with classmates away from home. All students & parents are asked to read and sign the following agreement

In order to be eligible, all students who wish to attend the class trip must:

§ Attend school regularly

§ Maintain an academic record in keeping with his/her ability

§ Abide by regulations set by the tour company

§ Follow School Code of Conduct

A student committing Level III offense for a second time will not be allowed to go on the trip. Any money already paid will be forfeited.

In addition, parents must be up-to-date financially (tuition & kid’s club).

Parents are asked to discuss the seriousness of this eligibility with their child, both behaviorally and financially.

If you and your child agree to abide by the above, please sign and return this form to the homeroom teacher ____________________________. Failure to return this form by ___________________

date date

jeopardizes individual participation.

_______________________________ _______________________________

Parent signature Date Student signature Date

NCA Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Video Policy

Our Lady Star of the Sea School Video Policy for all students during school hours, Kids’ Club or on field trips is as follows:

Any general (G) video can be shown without parental permission for all students.

Parental guidance (PG) videos and parental guidance 13 (PG-13) videos must have written parent permission for all students viewing the film.

Drop Off and Pick Up Children Procedure

Drop Off

The earliest time that children are allowed to line up outside is 7:35 am. The Doors open at 7:45 am. If your children need to be here earlier please see the information on Kid’s Club. Coming in from Morningside onto Fairford, enter the school/church parking area at the first drive. Drive under the covered walk of the church, at this point if the line of cars has stopped, the children exit the vehicle on the passenger side and walk to the school entrance. There are student safety monitors and teachers along the sidewalk to help and guide the children, parents should not exit the car to assist their child. Once the children are out of the vehicle, do not pull out of line, the line will move quickly. Follow along in front of the school to the other end of the parking lot to the exit. Please turn right to exit the school. There is only one car line, do not stop in the driving lane next to the car line and expect to let your children out. This is not accepted and is not safe for anyone.

Another option is to park your vehicle and walk the children up to the school entrance. No child should walk across the parking lot unattended. It is recommended that you park at the far end of the lot so the sidewalk can be used and you are not crossing car line traffic. If this is not possible and you need to park in the main area you are expected to wait for the car line traffic to stop before crossing. The car line is not expected to stop for you.

All children Kindergarten through 5^th grade students are to enter through the courtyard doors. The 6^th, 7^th & 8^th grade students enter through the gym entrance doors. The office doors are to be used only after the 8:00 bell has rung and for Pre-School children.

If you are using the car line or parking there is to be only one lane of vehicles entering the school, do not drive pass the others waiting their turn and cut in front of them. Fairford is not a four lane road and room must be kept for those driving into the neighborhood.

Pick Up - AM Pre-School & ½ Day Kindergarten

The students are let out through the courtyard doors at 11:00 am. Their teachers are with them and will not let them go until a parent or known caregiver/relative is there to pick them up. If no one has arrived by 11:15, the child/ren is taken to the office, and someone is contacted for pick up. That person is expected to enter the office and pick up the child/ren. Please call even if you are going to be just a few minutes late, as children worry if they don’t see you right away.

Both car line and parking are acceptable means of picking up the children. Be aware that while in the car line you will be expected to get out of your vehicle to get your child/ren from their teacher. Safely exit the car line once you have your child/ren have entered the vehicle - please be aware of all pedestrians crossing the parking lot. There is only one car line, do not stop in the driving lane next to the car line and expect the teachers to walk your children over to you. This is not accepted and is not safe for anyone.

Early Dismissal

If your child needs to be picked up early please inform the office. When you arrive, please go to the office and sign the log book. At the appropriate time the office staff will call the student to the office.

Dismissal

Car line and parking are acceptable means of picking up the children. Be aware that while in the car line you will be expected to get out of your vehicle to pick up your K - 2^nd grade child/ren from their teacher. At pick up only are you allowed to leave the car line once you have your child/ren in the vehicle - please be aware of all pedestrians crossing the parking lot. There is only one car line, do not stop in the driving lane next to the car line and expect the teachers to walk your children over to you. This is not accepted and is not safe for anyone.

Pre-School children are let out at 2:55 pm. Their teachers are with them and will not let them go until a parent or known caregiver/relative is there to pick them up.

Kindergarten children are let out at 3:00 pm. Their teachers are with them and will not let them go until a parent or known caregiver/relative is there to pick them up.

1^st & 2^nd grade is let out at 3:05 pm. Their teachers are with them and will not let them go until a parent or known caregiver/relative is there to pick them up.

3^rd grade is let out at 3:05 pm they exit from the Third grade door (please see the map). Their teachers are with them these children are allowed to walk to cars in the car line after acknowledgement from their teachers. They are led to the office door area.

4^th & 5^th grade is let out at 3:10 pm from the courtyard doors. Their teachers are with them these children are allowed to walk to cars in the car line after acknowledgement from their teachers.

6^th, 7^th & 8^th grades are let out at 3:15 pm from the gym courtyard doors.

*On a half day, all students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m.

Leaving the Parking Lot

When leaving the parking lot between the hours of 7:30 am to 8:15 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. it is posted that you turn right only. Please follow these directions for the safety of all people and vehicles moving in the area.

Please familiarize yourself with the following drop off & pick up map.

Emergency School Closing

In the event that the school needs to be closed in an emergency, an announcement will be made on WWJ (950 AM) television channels 4 and 7 and on the school website. When possible, we will follow the Grosse Pointe School District system closing. A round robin calling system among parents will be established through the room mothers. If school is closed for weather, all extra-curricular and sporting events for that day will also be cancelled. If school should ever be closed during the school day, parents will have to pick up their children from the office. We will not allow children to walk or ride a bike home.

Fire and Tornado Drills

Fire drills, tornado and lockdown procedures are clearly outlined in each room. Staff is alerted to the proper procedure for systematic handling of these emergencies. Drills are routinely practiced and methods refined. The school facility is in compliance with all fire safety codes and regulations.

Alcoholic Beverage and/or Drug (Controlled Substance) Policy

Students using alcoholic beverages, drugs or performance enhancing drugs on school grounds or on a school related trips will be suspended or possible expulsion from school and school activities for three days. Students supplying or selling alcohol/drugs to other students will be expelled from school.

Parents have the right to appeal as outlined in the Archdiocesan Policy No. 2450. A copy of this policy is on hand in the office.

Weapon Policy

Students are prohibited from having a weapon in their possession or in their locker while at school, on school grounds or a school related activity. Students found to have such weapon in their possession will be suspended or expelled from school. A weapon can be any object that could be determined to be a threat to injure another.

Parents have the right to appeal as outlined in the Archdiocesan Policy No. 2450. A copy of this policy is on hand in the office.

Gum Policy

Gum chewing is not permitted in school.

Sexual Harassment Policy

Archdiocese of Detroit Policy 4003, as amended by Our Lady Star of the Sea School:

It is the policy of the Archdiocese of Detroit and Our Lady Star of the Sea School to make every effort to provide an educational environment as well as a work environment, free from all forms of harassment. This policy applies to the actions of all faculty, staff and students at Our Lady Star of the Sea School as well as others who may be in a working relationship with the school. The Archdiocese of Detroit and Our Lady Star of the Sea School are open to and respect the complaints brought under this policy.

Respect for the dignity and worth of each individual is basic tenet of Our Lady Star of the Sea School. Each individual faculty, staff member, student, or others who are in a working relationship with the school, are entitled to work/attend school in an environment free from discriminatory practices, including sexual and other forms of illegal harassment. All will be held to standards of conduct that ensure that the school is free from sexual and other forms of illegal harassment.

Our Lady Star of the Sea School will neither tolerate sexual harassment nor will it tolerate reprisals against any employee, student or other person who make a sexual harassment complaint. Any faculty or other staff member who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including termination of employment. Any supervisor or faculty member who receives a complaint of sexual harassment and fails to take corrective action pursuant to this policy is also subject to disciplinary action, including termination of employment.

Students are expected to treat all persons, including each other, with respect and dignity. According, sexually inappropriate behavior directed at faculty, staff or other students will not be tolerated. Such behavior will result in disciplinary action, up to and including exclusion from school.

Definition of Sexual Harassment – Work Environment

Sexual harassment refers to behavior that is not welcome, that personally is offensive to some people, and fails to respect the rights of others. Harassment can be either conduct or communication. Actions that seem harmless or amusing to some may be offensive to others. Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

· Submission to such conduct is made explicit or implicit term or condition of an individual’s continued employment, promotion, or school related pursuits. This can occur by clearly stated or implied words or actions.

· Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment or working relationship decision affecting the harassed person.

· Such conduct is intended or has the effect of interfering with an individual’s work performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

Definition of Sexual Harassment – Student Relationships

Sexual harassment refers to sexually inappropriate behavior that is not welcome, that is personally offensive to some, and fails to respect the rights of others. Harassment can be either conduct or communication. Accordingly, sexually inappropriate behavior means inappropriate touching, gestures, and language of a sexual nature directed at faculty, staff or other students. Sexual harassment also includes conduct or communication that has the purpose of effect of substantially interfering with another student’s education, or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment.

Examples of Sexual Harassment

· sexual innuendoes

· jokes of a sexual nature

· sexual propositions

· sexually suggestive pictures or cartoons

· foul and obscene language, jokes or gestures of a sexual nature

· unwanted and unnecessary physical contact

· unwelcome sexual comments about appearance

Reporting Sexual Harassment

At Our Lady Star of the Sea School the principal will answer questions and disseminate information about the policy, investigate written complaints and take appropriate corrective action. Any faculty, staff member, student or other person in a working relationship with Our Lady Star of the Sea School who feels that he or she has been a victim of sexual or other forms of illegal harassment, should bring the matter in writing to the immediate attention of the principal. If the complaint is made against the principal of Our Lady Star of the Sea School, the pastor of Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish will conduct the investigation and take appropriate corrective action.

The school will investigate all complaints of harassment in as prompt and confidential a manner as possible and will take appropriate corrective action when warranted. Any faculty, staff member, student or other person, in a working relationship with Our Lady Star of the Sea School who is determined to have engaged in harassment in violation of this policy, will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment, appropriate counseling and/or testing and/or exclusion from school.

Retaliation in any form against a person who exercises his or her right to make a complaint under this policy is strictly prohibited, and will result in appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment, appropriate counseling and/or testing and/or exclusion from school.

Code of Conduct ~ Showing Respect and Dignity Toward Others

Level I Disruptive Behavior Teacher Intervention / Phone Calls / Consequences

1^st Offense

2^nd Offense

3^rd Offense

4^th Offense

Level II

Word, action or intent that hurts a person’s body, feelings, reputation or property

Disrespect to an adult or student

Dishonest behavior

Cheating, Lying

Inappropriate physical contact

Intervention with teacher documentation on

***B/D Report

Student calls home in teacher’s presence

Inside lunch and recess on next school day

Student completes the Time to Think Form

Intervention with teacher documentation on

***B/D Report

Student calls home in teacher’s presence

Two inside lunches & recesses

Student completes a Time to Think Form

Intervention with teacher documentation on

***B/D Report

Student calls home in teacher’s presence

Counselor/Administrator will see student

Student serves one day in-school ****suspension

Student completes a Time to Think Form

Parent Conference

Athletic Director notified

Intervention with teacher documentation on

***B/D Report.

Student calls home in teacher’s presence

Counselor/Administrator will see student

Student serves a two-day in-school ****suspension

Student completes a Time to Think Form

Parent(s), teacher, counselor and administrator meeting to implement individual behavior plan.

Athletic Director notified

Level III

Physical contact, hitting, fighting, punching, kicking, knocking down, etc.

**Intimidation or harassment based on race/religion/sex

Stealing, destruction of property, etc.

Student removed from situation

Administrator calls home

Teacher and Administrator complete ***B/D Report

Next day in-school ****suspension

Student completes Time to Think Form

Athletic Director notified

Student removed from situation

Administrator calls home

Teacher and Administrator complete ***B/D Report

Behavioral Intervention Plan

Two or three day in-school ****suspension

Student completes Time to Think Form

Athletic Director notified

Student removed from situation

Administrator calls home

Teacher and Administrator complete ***B/D Report

Revise Behavioral Intervention Plan with outside Interventions

Student completes Time to Think Form

Extended Suspension or Expulsion.

Athletic Director notified

rev. 08-30-07

** Intimidation ~ to frighten *** Behavior/Discipline Report **** With zeros for all work, no participation in extracurricular activities or sports allowed on that day

Athletic Programs

Our Lady Star of the Sea School Parish Athletic Program is participating in the Catholic Youth Organization. A copy of Our Lady Star of the Sea School Athletic Program is available in the Athletic Director’s office. The program provides information on philosophy, policy, roles and responsibilities.

This Parish Athletic Program is open to any parishioner who attends our Religious Education Program and any student that attends our Parish School. The program is established primarily for students in grades 5-8 with a few exceptions for 4^th grade students. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Athletic Director at 313-884-1070 ext. 132.

FALL SEASON: Begins approximately August 12^th thru October 20^th

There is an athletic fee to be paid to Our Lady Star of the Sea if your child makes the teams.

These are competitive teams - NOT “RECREATIONAL”!!

Soccer Boys: We have a 5/6^th grade and a 7/8^th grade team. Practices are 3-4 days a week for 1 ½ hour in length. The boys play a 10 games schedule usually and the 7/8^th boys could move onto playoffs. The boys sometimes will also enter preseason or postseason tournaments. A team uniform is supplied but the boys will need: cleats, shin guards and a mouth guard is recommended.

Volleyball Girls: We have three 5/6^th grade and three 7/8^th grade volleyball teams. These teams practice 3-4 days a week with games usually on the weekends (Saturday and Sunday). The girls usually play a 10 game schedule and the 7/8^th could qualify for playoffs. Also the girls might enter preseason or postseason tournaments. The Team uniform is supplied but the girls will need: knee pads and plain white socks (to the knee)

An Athletic Awards is usually scheduled in November.

WINTER SEASON: Approximately October 25^th thru March 10^th

There is an athletic fee to be paid to Our Lady Star of the Sea for any child who makes the team.

These are competitive teams - NOT “RECREATIONAL”!!

Basketball Girls: Two teams are set up for 5/6^th grade and 2 teams for the 7/8^th grade. The teams practice 3-4 times a week with games on either Saturday or Sunday. A 10 game regular season schedule plus they may enter Thanksgiving, Christmas and post season tournaments are possible. Playoffs are for the 7/8^th only. The Team uniform is supplied but the girls will need: basketball shoes & socks and a mouth guard is recommended.

Boys: Two teams are set up for 5/6^th grade and two teams for 7/8^th grade. The teams practice 3-4 days a week with games on either Saturday or Sunday. A 10 game regular season schedule plus they may enter a Thanksgiving, Christmas and a post season tournament. The Team uniform is supplied but the boys will need: basketball shoes & socks and a mouth guard is recommended.

** We have a 4^th grade boys and girls instructional program. We have no more than 2 teams available for each (15 children per team). There is an athletic fee to be paid to OLSOS (ref fees). A team uniform is supplied.

SPRING SEASON: Approximately March 10^th thru June 10^th

There is an athletic fee to be paid to Our Lady Star of the Sea for any child who makes the team.

These are competitive teams - NOT “RECREATIONAL”!!

Track Girls: Track is open to any student in 4^th thru 8^th grades. There are “NO CUTS” for this sport. The team will practice about 3 days a week with about 6-8 track meets usually on the weekends. The Team uniform is supplied but the students will need: track cleats & socks.

Baseball Boys: There is one team for 5/6^th grade and one team for 7/8^th grade. The teams will practice about 3 days a week. Games will vary from weekdays to weekends. The teams play a 10 game schedule with the 7/8^th possibly playing in playoffs. The Team uniform is supplied but the boys will need: baseball cleats, gloves & socks.

Softball Girls: There is one 5/6^th grade team and one 7/8^th grade team. The teams practice about 3 days a week. Games will vary from weekdays to weekends. The teams play a 10 game schedule. The Team uniform is supplied but the girls will need: baseball cleats, gloves & socks

All teams and levels are based on need and interest. Tryouts will be opened to 4^th grade level if there is a lack of students in the 5/6^th grades only. This has happened several times over the years. So please fill out athletic registration forms on time and return them promptly so decisions can be made in a timely fashion.

Common Questions, Policies & Procedures

Protocol for Discussing Parent/Student Concerns:

All teacher or classroom matters ---first step is to call the teacher(s) to schedule an appointment. If after that meeting, further discussion is necessary, schedule a meeting with an administrator or counselor and teacher(s).

All general school matters---first step is to call school personnel relative to the specific matter to discuss the concern. If after that conversation further discussion is necessary, call an administrator to schedule a meeting with the persons involved.

If there are questions regarding a decision that was made, call the person who made the decision.

After the above has been followed and if further discussion is still necessary, call the Pastor.

What is a …..

Spirit Dress Down Day - Once a month the students can wear Star spirit wear. Please see the Event & Fundraisers page for more information.

Dress Down Day - Once a month the students get to dress in “regular” clothes.

Please see the Event & Fundraisers page for more information.

Formal Uniform - For girls this is the jumper and white shirt or skirt and vest, for boys it is the white shirt, long pants and a tie. These are required wear on Fridays for Mass.

Room Rep - This can be a Mom or a Dad, who is responsible for and planning the Halloween, Christmas and Valentines Day parties with the other Room Rep for that grade. Room Rep’s also plan the Teacher gift and class picnic at the end of the year.

Class Mass - This is a Friday mass that is prepared by the children. Each grade 1^st - 8^th is responsible for two masses. The children are the choir & they prepare the readings and carry up the offertory.

School Mass - Every Friday the children go to mass at 8:30 am. This is the perfect opportunity to join your children in celebrating God. Families are welcome and encouraged to attend. The children are so excited to see you (especially the little ones). Father talks to the children, asks them questions about what is going on in the mass, and they love being able to raise their hands and participate. What a beautiful way to start your day and your weekend!

Burger King Night - The first Tuesday of each month starting with October, raise money for Star by eating out at the Burger King on Harper North of 10 Mile. Please see the Event & Fundraisers page for more information

PAFC - The Mission Statement: The Parent Alumni Faculty Council of Our Lady Star of The Sea Parish strives to fulfill the parish commitment to the total development of our children in the tradition of the Roman Catholic Church. By meeting as a council of equals, we support one another with our time, talent and treasure in encouraging the growth of our children spiritually, academically and physically. With genuine appreciation for the value of a Catholic education, we are committed to assisting the Administration in these endeavors. There is an executive committee (President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, Education Commission Representative & Past President) and Chairpersons (Alumni, , Community Relations, Fundraising, Recruitment and Public Relations, Social Events, Staff Appreciation and Student Activities). The chairpersons are responsible for the following: Recruitment & Public Relations - Catholic Schools Week, Directory/Mailings, New Families & Students Awards. Social Events - Back to School Tea, Parish Ice Cream Social. Staff Appreciation - Teachers’ Luncheons & Teachers’ Wish Lists. Student, Activities - Educational Enrichment, Field Day & Parent Representatives. Fundraising - Auction, Catch a Lucky Star, Harvest Night, Morley Candy, and Santa’s Shoppe.

Please contact the school or parish office to get the dates of the meetings.

Invitations

Students will not be allowed to hand out invitations to birthday parties or other social activities. The school provides a directory so that parents have access to addresses. All invitations should be mailed.

Tuition

Tuition rates will be established on a yearly basis. Families who are currently enrolled in our school will receive first priority, followed by families who are registered members of Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish.

Our Lady Star of the Sea School offers a discounted tuition rate to families with one or more children in full day kindergarten through 8^th grade. When the child transitions from half-day to full day kindergarten, the tuition will be prorated to the first day of the quarter the child is enrolled.

There are two tuition rates: contributor and non-contributor.

To qualify for the contributor tuition rate, a family must be a registered member of Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish, demonstrate active participation in the parish and support the parish financially.

“Active participation” means involvement in the various organizations, services and ministries of the school and parish. The minimum standard in this category would be regular attendance at weekend liturgies.

The minimum level of financial support needed to qualify is five hundred dollars for each calendar year (January 1 – December 31). For example, if your total parish contributions do not equal at least five hundred dollars by December 31, you will be charged the non-contributor rate for the following school year.

To provide for proper accounting of activity and finance, families must use their Offertory envelopes in making parish contributions.

Registration

Completed registration forms must include the current per family registration fee for grades PS-8. Registration fees are in addition to tuition costs and are non-refundable, except in cases where registration is not accepted.

Payment

A Tuition Option Plan form must accompany the Registration form electing one of the following:

Full payment of tuition due by August 5th.

Two payments of tuition: One-half of total tuition by August 5th; remainder due November 5^th.

Budgeted payments of tuition through an automatic withdrawal program (F.A.C.T.S.) July thru January.

If a student is withdrawn from school, tuition will be prorated and refunded accordingly.

Note: Credit Card Payment available (fees apply) – see office for more information.

Delinquent Tuition

The following policies regarding delinquent tuition payments will be strictly followed:

· Option Plan I or II tuition payments more than 30 days delinquent will be assessed a $25 per month late fee.

· No student will be enrolled or allowed to continue to a new semester if tuition payments are delinquent, unless prior arrangements have been made with the Tuition Review Committee or the principal.

· No student will be promoted, nor will their transcripts or report cards released, until accounts are paid in full, including Kids’ Club fees.

· No student will be registered for a subsequent school year if there exists any delinquency in tuition, or Kids’ Club payments.

Kids Club Policies

Admission Policy

The Extended Day Program is a service for students at Our Lady Star of the Sea School for Kindergarten through 8^th grade.

Registration

Every child must be registered in August to be a part of the program. A registration form, emergency card and health form must be provided at the time of registration. A family registration fee is due at time of registration.

AM Session: 7:00 – 8:00 am PM Session: 3:00 – 6:00 pm

Charges are per student and will be charged in 15-minute increments. After 6 pm there will be a $1 a minute late fee charge and payment will be due at the time of pick up.

Arrival/Dismissal

Students should not arrive before 7 am because there will be no supervision before this time. Students must sign in at this time. They are to remain in Kids Club until they are dismissed for classes.

Students participating in the afternoon session must go directly to the Kids Club Room at 3 pm to sign in. Parents must come into the building to sign their child/children out. No students will be allowed to leave with another adult without written permission from the parent. No student will be allowed to walk home at the end of the session. If your child/children is participating in sports, computer club, scouts, etc. before or after Kids Club, he/she needs to sign into the extended day program and we must have that information in writing.

· Parents who do not sign in and out when picking up their child/children will be charged for the whole day.

· If you do not have your emergency card and physicals in within 60 days of registration, your child/children will be dismissed until this information is received.

· Once your child/children leave school grounds, they may not come back to use Kids’ Club. (E.g., children who visit friends after school may not then return to Kids’ Club.)

· In accordance with our state licensing regulations, all persons responsible for picking up child/children must be 18 years of age.

· Bills must be paid in full within 30 days of receipt. After 45 days delinquent, your child/children will be excluded until the balance is paid in full.

Discipline

Students are expected to be cooperative and respectful at all times with all adults in charge and with other students. Parents will be notified if a child has difficulty functioning within these guidelines. Continuous misbehavior may result in exclusion from the program.

Procedures and Activities

After signing in for the a.m. session, students may quietly do homework, read or play a game. Students will not be permitted to go to homerooms during this time. Because of the short period of time, students should come dressed for school. They may bring food to eat.

After signing in for the p.m. session, students may choose a game, read a book, or work on homework in a quiet area. Weather permitting; students will spend some time outside. Students will not be allowed to go to and from their homerooms at this time. All books, supplies and clothing will be kept in Kids Club.

Snacks

Students will be given a snack on half days.

Rules

· All students must sign in each day.

· Students must sit and eat snacks in designate area.

· Students may not wander throughout the building.

· Students may not leave the room without permission.

· Students are free to choose a game, or use any of the designated equipment for the Extended Day Program; however, students must put games and equipment away when they are asked to do so.

· Students are expected to be respectful and cooperative with all supervisors, staff and with each other.

· Because ample supplies and equipment are available for students to use, we discourage bringing toys from home.

· Loud voices, rowdiness, running in the room or halls and roughhousing will not be tolerated.

· Students are expected to help maintain a neat, clean environment daily.

Lunch Period/Cafeteria Procedure

Our Lady Star of the Sea School works diligently to provide balance in children’s lives: spiritual, educational, social, physical and cultural. We provide a school lunch program for our students’ nutritional balance. All students remain at school for lunch. The lunch program starts mid September. All lunches purchased include milk or juice. A calendar with the planned menu and order form are sent home with the children for you to fill out and send back with payment. Other snacks and beverages are available for purchase as well.

If your child chooses not to participate in our school lunch program, please send a lunch from home. Fast food lunches are not permitted.

Cafeteria Rules:

· Moderate voices are to be used at all times.

· Food is to be eaten, not played with or thrown.

· Students are to stay seated during the lunch period.

· At the end of the lunch period students are to have tables cleared, trash from the floor picked up, and be ready to be dismissed.

· Students are not to leave the cafeteria until their table is dismissed.

· Students must walk while entering and leaving the cafeteria.

· No student may re-enter the school from the cafeteria without authorized permission.

Outside Recess:

· Students using swings must sit at all times. Students may not twist or connect swings. Only one student at a time is allowed on a swing.

· Students using the slide must go down one at a time in a forward sitting position.

· Students may not leave the school grounds to get a ball, etc. The lunch supervisor must get it.

· All students are to follow the directions of the lunch supervisors on duty at all times.

· Games involving tackling, pushing and/or shoving are not allowed at any time.

· Students must always be aware of others above and below them while using the climber. Safety and respect are always necessary.

· Students may bring proper play equipment for use at lunch such as plastic balls, tennis balls, nerf ball, jump ropes, etc. Students may only bring nerf footballs. Students may not bring hard balls, roller skates, skate boards, hockey pucks, etc. Safety and respect are always necessary.

Indoor Recess:

· Students are expected to remain in their own classrooms.

· Board games and activities will be provided. Running, jumping or inappropriate physical contact is prohibited at all times.

· Students are to be polite, cooperative and respectful at all times.

A more detailed Handbook of Lunchtime Policy is available for review in the school office.

Uniform Dress Code

Uniforms are an important part of the school setting. They allow the students to focus on their education and not be distracted by dress fads or accessories. They allow the teachers the opportunity to get on with the business at hand of teaching. It is not the responsibility of the school or school staff to see that children are in proper uniform each day; it is the responsibility of the parents. Our Lady Star of the Sea School needs your help, cooperation and support of the school dress code.

Length of Jumpers and Skirts may not be shorter than 1 inch above the knee. Tops may be long sleeve or short sleeve solid white with either logo. If a t-shirt is worn, it must solid white – no logos, designs or writing.

All shoes must be solid black, dark brown or navy blue and have a heel no higher than 1 1/2 inches. Sandals & clog-type shoes are not acceptable. Shoes should not be multi-colored.

Our Lady Star of the Sea School

Family Handbook

Table of Contents

Mission Statement

Philosophy

Goals

Academic Policies & Programs

Enrichment Center Programs

Student Records

Textbooks

Homework Policy

Web Site and Edline Program

Grading Scale (Procedure)

Honor Roll

Report Cards

Retention

Testing Program

Computer Policy

The Internet

Library Policy

Check-Out/Return of Books:

Lost books:

Damaged Books:

Library Computers:

Attendance Policy

Attendance

Appointments

Make-Up Work ~ Homework Policy

Tardiness

Health Policy

Illness

Communicable Diseases

Head Lice

Medication Policy

Safety

Bicycles

Rollerblades

Skateboards

Electronic Devices

Insurance

Visitors

Field Trips

Video Policy

Drop Off and Pick Up Children Procedure

Emergency School Closing

Fire and Tornado Drills

Alcoholic Beverage and/or Drug (Controlled Substance) Policy

Weapon Policy

Sexual Harassment Policy

Athletic Programs

Common Questions, Policies & Procedures

Invitations

Tuition

Kids Club Policies

Lunch Period/Cafeteria Procedure

Cafeteria Rules:

Outside Recess:

Indoor Recess:

Uniform Dress Code

Girls, Grades 6-8

How Can You Help

Grievance Procedure