THE LA SALLE SCHOOL

 

                           AT

 

SAINT GABRIEL’ S

 

    PARENT-STUDENT HANDBOOK

 

 

 

 

 

                 

 

                   97^TH STREET AND ASTORIA BOULEVARD

                      EAST ELMHURST, NEW YORK 11369

 

                        TEL. NO.  718  -  426  -  7170

 

                        FAX. NO.  718  -  426  -  1471

 

             WEB SITE:  HTTP:WWW.ST.GABESCHOOL.COM

 

 

 

Choose Catholic Schools!

 

 

“To touch the hearts of your pupils and to inspire them with the Christian spirit is the greatest miracle you can perform and on which God expects of you.”

 

 

Saint Gabriel School is a LaSallian Catholic Parochial School serving primarily the needs of elementary children for the local community.  Saint Gabriel School is a community of believers working cooperatively to achieve a shared vision.  The school is staffed by Christian Brothers, Sisters of St. Joseph, and lay teachers as ministers of grace who exercise their vocation daily by instructing youth in the principles of the gospel as well as in the various academic subjects.  As a community of faith, Saint Gabriel School promotes a collegial style of administration and decision-making as it fulfills its threefold mission: to proclaim the message of Christ, to foster community through shared experiences, and to render service to those in need.

 

Saint Gabriel School believes that all aspects of the child should be focused on by the school community.  Each child is seen as a unique individual with a potential for growth in the spiritual, intellectual, social, moral, cultural and physical spheres.  The primary goal of Saint Gabriel School is to provide a school environment in which each child can discover his/her own potential.  This goal can be achieved primarily through the atmosphere created by interactions among all involved: teachers, students, parents and friends.  Saint Gabriel School professes its conviction that the full education of the child is achieved when parents become an integral factor in the school’s educational  endeavors.  The school tries to create a discipline and a structure which enhance personal growth, develop responsibility, and foster leadership.

 

Moral and spiritual development is encouraged through instruction, through the experience of living and learning in a Christian atmosphere where Christian values are lived and witnessed to, and through participation in liturgical worship The freedom and responsibility of each student is respected and fostered.

 

In order to give each child the firmest foundation for a lifetime of learning, instruction is aimed at providing the child with the basic skills of reading, writing, mathematics, independent study, and research.

 

Social, cultural and physical development is encouraged through the various interactions the child has with teachers and peers.  The interactions in class activities as well as those gained through the voluntary participation in cultural and athletic activities will illustrate the importance of a person’s need for cooperation with fellow human beings.  Each child, through daily experiences in Saint Gabriel School, is encouraged to welcome, accept and explore the cultural, racial and religious differences of his/her fellow students.

 

 

The La Salle School at Saint Gabriel’s

 

 

 

Dear Parents and Students,

 

Welcome to the community of Saint Gabriel School! 

We are pleased to present this Parent/Student Handbook so that you will know more about the school and how we will work together for the education of your child.

 

The faculty and staff of your school look forward to working with you to promote academic excellence and spiritual development in the context of the Catholic values of community, service, reverence and leadership.

 

 

 

Together let us pray that God who has begun this good work in us may carry it through to completion.

 

 

_________________________________

Name:  Brother Edward Shields

Title:    Principal

 

Parents as Partners

Just as the parents look to the school to provide the facilities and the trained personnel which are essential to their child’s proper development, so the school looks to the parents to assume active responsibilities that cannot be delegated to others.

 

No school can be wholly effective in teaching the values of religion and the virtues of honesty, respect for authority, consideration for the rights and property of others, and standards of personal morality and integrity unless these principles have been established, upheld, and valued in the home.  If parents cooperate with the school, instill respect for the integrity of its teachers and administration, and actively support their authority in the home, this is likely to be reflected in the positive attitudes of their children.

 

Parents are asked to take an active role in their child’s education by:

 

·         Sunday church attendance; and the development of a set of moral values that correspond to those of this religious school;

·         assisting their child in his/her academic and moral development by carefully reviewing class work, test results, progress reports, and report cards; supervising home study; and reinforcing school policies;

·         explaining and reviewing periodically the school behavior code with their child.  Parents should discuss school disciplinary episodes in relation to the school behavior code;

·         recognizing their child’s talents and interests so that they may be developed in cooperation with the classroom teachers;

·         seeing that the dress code, including gym uniform, is enforced, and insisting that children dress modestly according to Christian virtue;

·         insisting on their child’s regular school attendance and punctuality and by complying with attendance rules and procedures;

·         making all tuition and fee payments on time and participating in fundraising activities;

·         providing proper supervision at home and not tolerating harassment, inappropriate or violent behavior, or viewing of such in videos, movies, song lyrics as those on the Internet;

·         teaching their child respect for law, for authority, for the rights of others, and for public and private property.  This includes showing respect for the work of others by not tolerating cheating in any circumstances;

·         arranging for a time and place for their child to complete homework assignments;

·         working with the school in a cooperative effort to carry out recommendations made in the best interest of their child, including those related to educational evaluations and counseling;

·         attending all Parent-Teacher Conferences.

·         by always interacting in a respectful manner when speaking with or about the administration, teachers and staff of the school.  Verbal or physical harassment may result in your child being asked to leave the school immediately or not being allowed to re-register for the following year.

The education of a student is a partnership between the parents and the school.  Just as the parent has the right to withdraw a child if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require the withdrawal of a student if the administration determines that the partnership is irretrievably broken.

For any issues or  complaints or questions, please contact Brother Edward Shields, Principal.

 

 

Contact information:

 

Brother Edward Shields, Principal (718) 426-7170

             

                            The La Salle School at Saint Gabriel’s

 

Parent / Student Signature Page

 

 

We have read the handbook and agree to follow the school policies and procedures as stated.

 

__________________________________ (Parent’s signature)		__________________________________ (Parent’s signature)
__________________________________ (Grade 2 and above Student’s signature)		__________________________________ (Grade 2 and above Student’s signature)
__________________________________ (Grade 2 and above Student’s signature)		__________________________________ (Grade 2 and above Student’s signature)
__________________________________ (Grade 2 and above Student’s signature)		__________________________________ (Grade 2 and above Student’s signature)

 

 

 

 

 

                                                    Signed Form Due October 1

 

 

The La Salle School at St. Gabriel’s

 

 

Photo/Video Release Form for the current school year

[Note:  This form MUST BE SIGNED whether or not you are giving permission.]

 

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:

 

I hereby give permission/do not give permission for my son/daughter _________________________________ to be photographed or videotaped at the La Salle School at St. Gabriel’s.  I realize that the photo may be published in the newspaper, a magazine, or other publication.  The video may be used for educational or informational purposes regarding the programs or curriculum at  the La Salle School at St. Gabriel’s.  Please note that a student’s last name will not be included in anything being published

 

 

Signed ______________________________________

 

 

Date __________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                 Return by October 1 of this current year

 

 

 

 

Technology Use Agreement for this School Year

              for the La Salle School at St. Gabriel’s

 

User

 

I understand and will abide by the Technology Use Agreement.  I further understand that any violation of these regulations is unethical and may constitute a criminal offense.  Should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked.  School disciplinary action may be taken and/or appropriate legal action initiated.

 

 

User’s name (please print): ___________________________________________________

 

 

User Signature: _________________________________  Date: _____________________

 

 

 

 

Parent/Guardian

 

As the parent of this student, I have read the Technology Use Agreement.  I understand that this access is designed for educational purposes.  I am aware that it is impossible for the school to restrict access to all controversial materials and I will not hold them responsible for materials acquired in use.  Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s use of school’s technology resources is not in a school setting.  I hereby give permission for my child to use the school’s technology resources and certify that I have reviewed this information with my child.

 

 

 

Parent’s or guardian’s name (please print): ________________________________________

 

 

Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________  Date: __________________

 

 

 

 

Return by October 1 of the current school year

 

 

The La Salle School at St. Gabriel’s

 

Absent Note

 

 

STUDENT'S NAME ___________________________________

STUDENT'S CLASS ____________________________________

DATE(S) OF ABSENCE __________________________________________

 

REASON FOR ABSENCE_________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

 

Doctor's Note is attached:  Yes______          No______

 

 

 

 

 

PLEASE MAKE COPIES OF THIS FOR FUTURE USE.

 

Academic Policies

 

Academic Expectations

Saint Gabriel School expects students to perform to the best of their ability.  Teachers are expected to evaluate student progress on a regular basis.  Students will be given quizzes or tests regularly.  After the test is graded, it will be sent home for the parent to review and sign.  A parent signature indicates that the parent is aware of the student’s progress.  If a parent does not receive quizzes or tests to sign, the parent should contact the teacher.

 

Homework

Homework is an essential part of the instructional program and reinforces learning.  It serves as a means for clarifying and reviewing material learned in class, for providing motivation and opportunity for individual growth, and for creating experiences of in-depth study and supplementary reading.

 

The time allotments for homework (written and study) are as follows:

 

Grades Pre-K & K      up to      15 minutes

Grades 1 & 2               up to      30 minutes

Grades 3 & 4               up to      45 minutes

Grades 5 & 6               up to      90 minutes

Grades 7 & 8               up to    120 minutes

 

Students are required to complete all homework. Students who fail to do homework consistently will be required to attend detention.

 

Grades and Grading

Report cards are distributed three times a year for Grades 1 to 8.  Pre-K and Kindergarten report cards are distributed twice a year.  The report card is a link between the school and the home.

 

Academic Achievement

The first part of the Diocesan Report Card is used to mark the student's achievement in academic subjects.

 

·         The achievement mark is based upon the demonstration of mastery of material covered in class such as:

1.      class work;

2.      homework;

3.      daily quizzes;

4.      unit tests;

5.      special projects.

 

The June grade on the report card is an average of the three previous report card grades.  This grade will be recorded on the student's permanent record card.

 

·         Numerical marks are recorded on report cards for Grades 4 – 8; letter marks are recorded on report cards for Grades 1-3.

·         Passing is any mark 70% or above for Grades 5 – 8; and passing for Grades 1 – 4 is a letter mark of A, B, C, or D.

Character Development

• The conduct/effort mark is placed under Character Development as a “Conduct Grade”.  This mark indicates that the student (1) follows class and school rules; (2) shows care in the use of personal property; (3) treats teachers with respect; (4) treats other students with respect; (5) exercises self-control; and (6) listens attentively.

     Student Recognition

1. Awards assemblies will be held at the conclusion of each trimester.  At that time, HONOR AWARDS will be presented to those students who have attained the following standards for students in grades 4 through 8.

     The criteria for the HONOR ROLL is as follows

• Students who have a 95 % average or above with no N’s or U’s in conduct or effort

            will receive the FIRST HONORS with DISTINCTION certificate.

• Students who have a 90 % average or above with no N’s or U’s in conduct or effort

            will receive the FIRST HONORS certificate.

• Students who have an 85 % average or above or above with no N’s or U’s in conduct             or effort will receive the SECOND HONORS certificate.

 

• In grades 1 – 3 students who have all A’s will receive FIRST HONORS; students

     who have B’s in every subject will receive SECOND HONORS

·         A student who has an “N” or “U” in conduct will not receive an Honors Certificate even though the marks may warrant it.

·         A student with an excessive amount of absences or unexcused lateness would become ineligible to receive an Honors Certificate.

·         Any student who has been suspended from school during the school year would be ineligible for the Honor Roll and an honors certificate.

b.       ALL STARS:  Every month each teacher will be asked to submit the names of stud-

          ents from each homeroom who show maximum performance in the following areas:

 

            1.         Sets good example.

            2.         Respects adults, property, peers and other children in schools.

            3.         Is obedient to teachers and abides by school regulations.

            4.         Tries his/her best in school and works to potential.

            5.         Is willing to render his/her service to the school.

 

The purpose of this project is:

 

1.         To try and give special recognition to deserving students, since very often we acknowledge the brighter child and fail to reward the children working to his/her potential.

 

2.         To give those of our students, who lack some of the above qualities, something to which they can aspire.

 

 3.         To stress positive behavior patterns in order to minimize the constant negative behavior patterns of some of our students. The students who are selected will receive

recognition at the Monthly Prayer Service.

 

It is encouraged that different children be selected from October to May.  Names will be displayed on the bulletin board outside the main office on a monthly basis.  The students who are selected will receive recognition at the monthly prayer service.

 

Perfect Attendance certificates will be presented to those students with no absences or lateness on a trimester basis.

 

Report Card Distribution

Report cards are distributed in December, March and June.  Report cards will be withheld if financial obligations have not been met and fees are outstanding. Depending on the situation, it may be requested to keep the student home until the tuition is paid.  Parents must come to school to receive report cards – giving both the parent and the teacher a chance to meet.

 

Report cards may not be given before the assigned date.  In the event that a student will leave school prior to the last day in June and all financial obligations have been met, the student may give the teacher a self-addressed stamped envelope and the report card can be mailed the last day of school.

 

Promotion/Retention

Very few decisions about children are more important than recommendations to promote or to retain a student.  Most students will be able to follow the school’s regular program of sequential learning objectives.  If the student successfully achieves the year’s objectives, the student progresses to the next grade.

 

Testing, diagnosis, and actual performance, however, may indicate that some students cannot follow the school’s complete course of study.  Therefore, the decision to retain a student indicates that although the school has done everything to help the student achieve success, the student has not made satisfactory progress.  Parents will be notified early enough in the school year that their child may not get promoted to the next grade, allowing them time, if possible, to get their grades up.

 

 

Assessments

In addition to class and school exams your child will also take part in the Diocesan testing program which includes the, annual standardized tests, testing for learning disabilities, and New York State Education Department assessments.  These tests measure academic growth over a period of time.

 

Standardized TestS – students will receive books in September to prepare them for these important educational tests of assessment.

 

Diocesan Standardized Tests - Grades 3 to 8 – take place each year at the beginning of the school year`.

 

 

NY State Tests

 

English / Language Arts	Grade 4 Grade 6                                                                                                         Grade 8	January     January     January
Math	Grades 4, 6 and 8	March
Science	Grade 4, 6, 8	May
Social Studies	Grade 5 Grade 8	November     June

 

The faculty of Saint Gabriel School reviews these test results regularly for the purpose of promotion or retention, academic intervention services (AIS) for those who need extra assistance, and grouping for reading and math.

 

Promotion

Every student is expected to follow the motto: “Hard work and good behavior.” That means that all students are expected to succeed in each of their subjects and to be on their best behavior during each and every school day.

Students who fail one or more subjects will be expected to make up the academic work and/or to attend summer school to earn the lost credits. Such students will not be allowed to return to the school for the following school year without making up the failing grade(s).

A passing grade will be indicated on the student’s personal academic record card when the summer program has been completed and verified by the instructor of the summer school program.

Graduation

All eighth graders must pass every subject by the end of the school year in order to receive a diploma at the graduation ceremony. Diplomas will not be issued to such students until the work is approved by the Principal. Students, however, may be allowed to attend the graduation ceremony and related graduation activities.

All fees must be paid in full for students to participate in graduation activities and to receive a diploma.

 

Graduation Awards

Honors will be issued to those students who demonstrate academically and behaviorally that they have excelled during the eighth grade.

The GENERAL EXCELLENCE MEDAL will be issued to the student(s) who have the highest average for all academic subjects. Such a student(s) who have the highest average may not have an   “N” pr “U” in conduct or effort.

The HONORS MEDAL  will be issued to those students who have maintained an average of

90 and with no grade less than 85 on the final report card. They, too, may not have an “N” or “U” in conduct or effort.

Other awards will also be issued to the students who have been deemed worthy of such an award in accordance with the guidelines of the donor. These awards include the State Comptroller’s Award, the Attorney General’s Award, the President of the Queensborough Community Award, the Triple “C’ Award, the St. John’s University Award in Science which is issued only to those female students who qualify for this distinction.

 

Accidents

A student accident insurance fee is added to every child’s book bill.  In the event of an accident at school you may obtain a claim form from the office.  Please note that the school accident insurance usually is secondary to the parent’s own medical insurance coverage.

 

Admission Policies

Roman Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Brooklyn base their educational purpose and all their activities on the Christian teaching of the essential equality of all persons as rooted in God’s love.

 

Thus, with discrimination so repugnant to their nature and mission, Catholic Schools in this Diocese do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, and gender in administration of educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

 

This policy is subscribed to by all Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the Diocese of Brooklyn whether owned or operated by the Diocese, the parishes of the Diocese or religious communities within the Diocese.

 

The process for admission to Saint Gabriel School is: parents must complete the school application form and provide all required documents.  Following an interview and evaluation of the materials, the parent will be notified about the status of the child.

 

Saint Gabriel School gives preference in admission first, to siblings of currently enrolled students; second, to Catholic students whose parents are active members of the parish; third, to Catholic students whose parents are active in another Catholic parish; fourth, to non-Catholic students.

 

After School Program

An after school program is available to parents at the

 

·         Library on 95th Street and Astoria Boulevard (for young children)

·         Langston Hughes Library on 100th Street and Northern Boulevard (for older children)

 

Announcements

Informational announcements are handled through the school P.A.  Courteous attention is expected when any message is presented over the P.A. system, especially when prayers are said at the beginning of the day.  All announcements must be written and brought to the office and approved by the principal.

 

·         Teachers will lead their students in prayer in the morning and afternoon, and on Friday there’s an announcement reminding children to come to church on Sunday.  All children should pray in order to deepen their relationship with Jesus.

 

Attendance

Legal absence:  A child is legally absent from school for the following reasons: sickness.

Sickness or death in the family, impassable roads or extreme weather. All other absences

are illegal.

 

Lateness: A child should come to school even if he/she may be late. All lateness is recorded and marked on the report card. Parents will be consulted about chronic lateness.  

 

Arrival after 8:15 a.m. is considered “LATE”. Parents will be notified of excessive lateness. There will be detention.

 

Should chronic lateness be the fault of the bus company, parents and the school must call the bus company to complain. Parents should also send a certified letter to the bus company and indicate that the school is receiving a copy of it. All parents with children on a  particular bus should also be notified in order to place a joint complaint.

 

 

 

Absence:

When the child returns to school, a completed absence form must be given to the teacher.  (See Appendix.)  This form is distributed at the beginning of the school year and contains appropriate spaces for the child’s name, date of absence, class, reason for absence, and the signature of a parent or guardian.

 

Doctor or dental appointments should be scheduled for after school or on Saturdays.  If it is necessary for a child to be dismissed during the school day, the parent or adult chosen by the parent MUST come to the school for the child.  The school must be informed ahead of time about such occurrences.

 

When a child is absent, parents are required to phone the school by 8:00 A.M..  Absence notes are still required in addition to the phone call.  In case school does not receive either one, the school will call the home.  We will periodically update the telephone list.  Please send or call in any address or telephone changes immediately.

 

Birthday Parties

Birthday parties for Grades Pre-K – 3 may be held monthly in each homeroom with the teacher’s permission.  Parents should notify the teacher in writing.  Parents may bring small individual items such as cupcakes, brownies, etc.  Parents may not bring in favors or “goodie” bags for the students.

 

Books

All textbooks must be properly covered.  Contact paper is not to be used to cover any books.  Please use book covers or book sleeves.  Each child is responsible for keeping his/her books in good condition.  There should not be any writing, drawing or tearing of pages from the books.  If a book is lost or in poor condition, the student and his/her parents will be liable for the cost.

 

1.      ASSIGNED TEXTBOOKS:  The New York State Department of Education requires that:

                        a.         the pupil’s name be placed in the space provided in each book;

                        b.         the teacher make a record of the number of the book;

                        c.         the teacher make a record of the condition of the book;

d.         In September, each child will put a clean cover on each textbook received.  In June, all textbooks are collected, extra materials and covers are removed.

 

2.      SUPPLEMENTARY BOOKS:  When books are handed out to the student for use during a specific period within the classroom, they will be collected at the end of the period/class.  If the book is to remain with the student for any length of time, his /her name must appear in the book.

 

Buses

Busing is provided within a 15-mile limit to students from their residence.  The public school district where the student resides provides this service.  If a student is to take a different bus from school a note must be submitted to the principal at the beginning of the school day.

Change of Address

The office must be informed immediately if there is a change of home address or telephone number for purposes of mailing and/or emergency.

 

Chewing Gum

Students will not be allowed to bring any form of gum into the school. Repeated violations of this rule result in detention. Continued violations of this rule may result in suspension from school with parents coming in for a conference with the Principal or Assistant Principal.

 

Child Abuse Laws

Under NYS law, school officials are responsible for reporting any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the proper agency.  In so reporting, no allegation is made against a parent or care giver.  Rather, it is a judgement by the school that the child may be presenting signs of abuse or neglect.  MANDATORY REPORTING IS A MUST – PLEASE CALL #311.

 

If the teacher or school nurse suspects abuse or neglect, he or she must immediately confer with the principal to discuss the aspects of the abuse and to determine which person on the school staff will report the alleged abuse to the proper agency.

 

Child Custody

Custodial parents are entitled to receive original sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc.

Non-custodial parents are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc.  Such parents may be asked to supply the teacher with self-addressed stamped envelopes for convenience and expediency.

 

What is required:

 

·         List of anyone who may pick up children:  (1) we will ask for picture identification; and (2) will ask the child if they know who the person is that is picking them up.

·         If necessary, a copy of custody papers, orders of protection, and/or court papers showing guardianship.

 

Communication

As parents you are the child’s first teachers. You are our partners in education.  Therefore, regular communication with you is an essential part of your child’s school experience.  Scheduled parent conferences allow teachers and parents to discuss student achievement as well as to develop means to assist students in areas of difficulty.

It is not optional for parents to miss a mandatory parent-teacher conference. If parents receive such a letter before the regularly scheduled “report card day”, parents must come in and speak to the teacher. Failure to do without arranging for another meeting time will

result in the child not being admitted back to class.

 

A parent may request a meeting with a teacher at any time by simply sending a note to the teacher in question and the teacher will arrange for this meeting outside class time at a mutually convenient time.  The meeting should take place in the classroom or some place that insures privacy, never in a hallway or on the street.  A parent who is refused such a meeting should notify the principal.

 

Parents are not permitted to visit a classroom without a prior appointment. Also, parents may not stand outside the classroom doorway when class is in session.

 

Confidentiality

There is a professional and moral ethic that requires all persons to safeguard all information of a privileged nature.

It is imperative that such information be regarded as a sacred trust.

·                     if there is evidence of knowledge which could impact on the health or safety of any        person, the teacher has the responsibility to share the information with the principal.

·              under Section 423 of the Child Protective Services Act, school officials are required to report when they have reasonable cause to suspect that a child coming before them in their professional or official capacity is an abused or maltreated child.  (See section on Child Abuse.)

The rules that govern privileged information apply, as well, to any personal or academic information that is discovered through daily classroom instruction or other social interaction with students, parents or peers. The sense of the sacred should ALWAYS prevail.

Crisis Plan

Should a crisis require evacuation from the Saint Gabriel School building, students will be taken to a safe place located at Saint Gabriel Church and parents can meet them there For more information parents can listen to local radio stations.

Daily Schedule

The following schedule will be observed by Grades K – 8:

 

7:55 AM 8:05 AM	Enter School Prayers and Pledge of Allegiance
8:15 AM	School Begins
11:30 – 11:55	First Lunch (Gr. @222226,7,8)
12:00 – 12:25 PM 2:00 PM	Second Lunch (Gr. 3,4,5) Dismissal for Grades N,PK, K,1,2 Dismissal for grades 3,4,5,6,7,8

 

Before 7:15 a.m. and after 3:00 p.m. Saint Gabriel School does not have staff available to watch out for problems on school grounds or to supervise children on school grounds.  Students should not arrive on the school grounds prior to 7:15 AM and parents must arrange pick up at dismissal times.  IN THOSE INSTANCES WHEN STUDENTS ARRIVE ON THE SCHOOL GROUNDS PRIOR TO 7:15 AM, PARENTS MUST PROVIDE FOR THEIR PROTECTION AND SUPERVISION.

 

To avoid interruption during the school day, any messages, forgotten lunches, books and boots etc. must be brought to the OFFICE and not to the classrooms while school is in session.  The school office will see to it that the child receives these items.

 

Families may not bring food for their children from McDonald’s, Burger King or Wendy’s or any other fast food chain.  The school staff would spend too much time delivering these lunches and teachers would be distracted from teaching their lessons if there is this constant interruption. The school does provide families with the opportunity to purchase pizza, hot dogs and Burger King hamburgers on specified days.

 

Discipline Codes/Detention

Discipline is a necessary condition in the learning process.  Its purpose is to help students develop self-control, self-respect and respect for others.  In addition to behavioral consequences and punishment, discipline includes positive reinforcement including friendly, tactful, extolling reminders which shape acceptable behaviors.  Discipline serves learning least when it becomes a goal in itself.

 

At no time is corporal punishment permitted.  At no time is verbal abuse permitted; this includes name calling, sarcasm, profanity, and any language that is intimidating or threatens physical violence.

 

Detention is an acceptable form of discipline. When students are given detention, a written notification will be sent to the parent.  The student will serve the detention the next Tuesday or Thursday. Students will not be allowed to talk, to fool around or to do homework during detention. The teacher in charge will give appropriate work to be done during detention.

 

Suspension and expulsion are measures that are reserved for chronic forms of misbehavior when other remedial measures have not successful.  Suspension and expulsion are also measures that are reserved for extreme forms of misbehavior such as fighting, crime, scandal, immorality, disruption constituting a threat to the physical or moral welfare of other students teachers or staff, stealing from teachers or other students, or acting in a way on or off campus that hurts the good name of the school.

 

Teachers will discipline students directly for behaviors judged to be infractions or unacceptable behavior.  Some examples of unacceptable behaviors:

 

·         disrupting class such as talking out, throwing objects, unnecessary movements, etc.

·         not meeting the requirements for homework preparation and submission

·         wearing inappropriate clothing or accessories

·         using profane language including profane and inappropriate expressions on articles of

      clothing

·         returning graded test papers unsigned

·         leaving the classroom without the permission of the teacher or staff member

·         not sitting in assigned seats

·         not responding to the directions of teachers and staff members

·         cheating, stealing or lying.

 

After several attempts to modify or eliminate inappropriate behavior, teachers will inform the principal when student behavior continues to be judged as a major infraction of acceptable behavior.  Some examples of such behaviors:

 

·         evidence of violent and aggressive behaviors that pose threats to the safety of teachers and staff as well as to the safety of others in the school community

·         carrying weapons, and other objects deemed to be potentially dangerous to others and to the school community

·         bringing to school amounts of money unrelated to standard school activities and events

·         showing by word or deed serious disrespect to others

·         any language that is profane, insulting and/or sarcastic, in written or verbal form

·         behaving in a manner that suggests the use of alcohol or illegal drugs (see section on Drug and Alcohol Abuse Policy)

·         persistent misbehavior over minor matters that continue to be unacceptable

·         other behaviors deemed inappropriate by the principal and faculty

·         bullying

·         disrespect for the race or gender of others.

 

Detention for grades 6, 7 & 8 will be held after school:  2:15 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

In school detention for grades 3, 4 & 5 will be held during recess:  11:30 a.m. to 11:55 a.m.

 

Suspensions may result for the following infractions:

 

1. Students who curse or threaten a teacher or a staff member will be suspended from school for two days.
2. Physical, antagonistic behavior during the school day will be punishable by a two   day suspension.
3. Any student found carrying a weapon will be suspended for five days and any student using a fire producing article will be punished by a five day suspension and be subject to criminal prosecution.

4.   A student who is sent to the office of the Assistant Principal or Principal for rude be-                  

      havior or abusive language towards other students in the school will be suspended for  

      two days    

5.   Willful destruction of school property will be punished by a two day suspension. The        

      student will also have to make restitution for the defaced property.

6.      Spray paint cans are not permitted inside the school building. Any student caught        using a magic marker or spray paint can inside the school in order to willfully destruct school property or personal property will be subject to a five day suspension

      7.   Any student caught in the act of writing graffiti on school property will be subject to a

           day suspension and possible criminal prosecution The student will also have to make

            restitution for the defaced property.

      8 .  Any student who is caught stealing will be subject to a three day suspension. Upon re-           

           entry to the school the student will have to make full restitution.

       9.  Any student who is found to have sexually harassed another student will be sus- 

            Pended from school for a period  of three to five days.

10.  Any student who brings a laser pointer to school will be suspended from school for

      one  day .Light from a laser pointer can cause eye damage.

11.  Any student who is found using the internet in an inappropriate manner or logs on to  

an inappropriate site ( e.g. myspace, youtube etc.) will be suspended for a period of two days.

12.  St. Gabriel students are expected to behave in a manner that reflects behavior in the

immediate school neighborhood will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

This applies to both before and after school.

 

    Second offenses of these misbehaviors may lead to a student’s expulsion from the school.

 

 

Dress Code

Your school uniform confirms your attendance at Saint Gabriel School and is a symbol of unity within the school community.  It minimizes distractions in the learning process.  It is important that you take pride in your appearance by wearing your complete uniform.  Saint Gabriel represents professionalism and this is what we should be teaching our children.

 

Boys Uniform	Girls Uniform Gr. 1—3	Girls Uniform Grs. 4- 8
Beige Khaki Pants    Maroon School Shirt    Maroon Sweater	White cotton blouse                     School Jumper Beige khaki pants during the winter months Maroon sweater                Pants (during the winter months: 11/1 through 5/1)	Maroon Lacoste Blouse                               Maroon school skirt     Maroon sweater

Black Shoes or Black Sneakers

·         Gym Uniform –  Gray T-Shirt/           Sweatshirts with maroon  sweatpants

·         Sneakers are to be worn on gym day

·         Boots are permitted only during inclement weather.

 

Personal Appearance

A good personal hygiene routine should be followed daily:  ears, neck and fingernails should be given special attention.  When appropriate, children should be instructed in the use of deodorant.

 

Uniforms should be neat and clean.

 

Hair should be clean and well groomed.  The boys hair should not be below the shirt collar.  Bangs should not be so long that they impede vision.

 

Detention will be assigned for not observing the dress code..

 

Hats are prohibited inside the school. That includes the wearing of dew rags.  Anyone caught wearing a hat inside the building will give it to the teacher, and collect it at the end of the school day.  Large, gaudy, dangling jewelry ( earrings no longer than one inch) is prohibited – it may get snatched or snagged during play, etc. and is quite unsafe.

 

Parents will be notified if a child comes to school consistently in an unkempt manner.  If no improvement is noticed within a reasonable amount of time, an appointment with the parents and the guidance office will be made by school officials.

 

Drug and Alcohol Policies

• In recognition of the seriousness of drug and alcohol abuse to which the children are exposed, Saint Gabriel School will follow the policy as stated below:

• if a teacher suspects that a child is under the influence of either drugs or alcohol, the matter will be referred to the principal immediately;
• the principal will verify the teacher’s observation and will notify parents;

• should it be determined that the suspicion is accurate, parents will be expected to follow the recommendations of the school principal if the child is to continue in the school;
• any student who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or any drug, and appears at a school function in questionable condition will be barred from attending or participating in that ceremony, a party, dance, school outing graduation.  Parents will be notified and appropriate action will be taken.

                    PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL CIVIL LAWS WILL BE ENFORCED!

 

Electronic Devices

Any electronic device such as cell phones, beepers, hand held and other personal electronic devices that may distract the student, other students or the class as a whole during the course of the school day must be turned OFF. 

Parents are prohibited from calling students during the day. If the telephone rings, it must be turned over to the teacher and may be collected at the end of the day. The second time the phone rings, the parent must come to the school to retrieve the phone. Also, if/when the phone rings, the teacher will answer it or try to get the number of the person calling. Teachers are urged to collect cell phones at the beginning of each school day and to return them at dismissal.

Students are not allowed to play their electronic games or IPOD’s or any other similar devices at any time during the school day (including lunch and recess). When a student is observed with head phones, ear phones, hand held games, the student shall be referred to the Principal. Detention will be assigned.

 

Emergency Closings

In case of bad weather and/or other emergencies, please phone the school.  There will be instructions on the answering machine. Listen to local radio stations as well..

 

Expectations and Responsibilities for Students

Students attend Saint Gabriel School in order to develop fully their God-given talents and capabilities.  To accomplish this, students are asked to:

 

·         do their best work at all times; be on their best behavior at all times;

·         treat all members of the school community, (i.e., teachers, staff, priests, parents and students) with respect.  This includes respecting the work of others by not cheating;

·         obey all school rules and regulations, including those forbidding the use of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes or disruptive behavior;

·         develop personal standards of conduct that reflect Christian morals and behavior, and refrain from use of inappropriate language, verbal threats, and sexual behavior (including touching, gestures, writing and dress);

·         speak in a well-modulated tone of voice;

·         observe the school dress code, including standards on no-uniform days;

·         help care for school property and keep the school free from damage and defacement;

·         no littering in school nor on school grounds – THIS IS CAUSE FOR DETENTION.

 

Extracurricular Activities

Students are encouraged to participate in the extracurricular activities of the school.  Participation in these activities is a privilege.  Students are expected to fulfill their obligations in the classroom (class work and homework).  In order to participate in extracurricular activities, students must pass each subject on their report card and model acceptable behavior both during the school day and during the selected activity.  Failure to meet academic or behavioral requirements will result in the student’s suspension or dismissal from the activity.  Participation in these activities requires a commitment of both student and parent.  Attendance will be taken at each activity to determine a student’s participation.  In individual cases regarding participation in extracurricular activities the principal holds the final determination.  Regarding sports, at present we have basketball programs.

 

• Saint Gabriel is open to talented parents volunteering their time to teach students instruments, coach sports, etc.
• Students must be in good academic standing to participate in the activities (Spelling, Math, Sports Night, etc.).

 

Harassment

Saint Gabriel’s provides a safe environment for all individuals. Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken seriously.

Students making such threats (seriously or in jest) face detention, suspension or expulsion. Harassment of any type is not tolerated. The principal investigates all complaints of harassment. Students involved in harassing behavior face detention, suspension or expulsion.

 

Field Trips

Field trips must serve an educational purpose and their value should be an integral part of the school’s instructional program.  They broaden the students’ educational experiences.  Field trips are privileges given to students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip.  Field trips are very limited – educational only.  Metropolitan and American History Museums actually send trucks to Saint Gabriel for the children [they bring the trip to the school].

 

·         Field trips are designed to correlate with teaching units and to achieve curricular goals

·         Field trips vary on each grade level

·         Field trips are permissible when advanced planning, location, and the experience ensure a successful learning opportunity

·         Individual teachers in consultation with the administration reserve the right to restrict or deny student participation on any field trip due to, but not limited to, poor academic performance and/or poor conduct.

·         A WRITTEN OFFICIAL PERMISSION SLIP, SIGNED BY THE PARENT, IS REQUIRED BEFORE A CHILD WILL BE PERMITTED TO ATTEND A FIELD TRIP.  VERBAL PERMISSION CANNOT BE ACCEPTED.  PERMISSION SLIPS ARE DUE IN THE OFFICE 48 HOURS BEFORE THE DAY OF THE TRIP.

 

 

Financial Policies

1.  TUITION Schedule:  Grades N – 8

     TUITION IS DUE THE FIRST FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH.  Tuition is an annual             

     fee paid in ten monthly installments.

 

            If in arrears, please call the Principal to discuss why you are in arrears, come up with a solution and arrangements.  If the promise is still not honored by the parent, the parent will meet with the tuition committee. If the student happens to be in the 8th grade, they will not receive a diploma and will not be allowed to attend the graduation ceremony.

 

Early Childhood Program 2007 - 2008

Nursery, Pre-K & Kindergarten         

$  3,700  -  1 child [ten payments of $  370]

$  5,900  -  2 children [ten payments of $  590]

                        [This includes 1 child in Early Childhood and/or 1 other child in Early Childhood or grades 1—8]  [Computer fee, if applicable]

$ 7,000   -  3 children [10 payments of $ 700 ] [Computer fee, if applicable]

 

Tuition information for Grades 1—8    2007—2008

$  3,500  -   per year/one child [10 payments of $  350 monthly] (See schedule below)

Computer Fee – $150 due by September 19 of the current school year.

 

$   5,600  -  per year for two children; [10 payments of $  560 monthly] (See schedule below)

Computer Fee – $ 275 due by September 19 of the current school year

 

$   7,000 -  per year for /three children or more [10 Payments of  $ 700]  See schedule below)

Computer Fee – $375 due by September 19 of the current school year

 

Registration fee:                      $ 100 ; $ 50 for each additional child

Early Re- Registration                        $ 100  for one child; $ 150 for two children

                                                $ 200  for three or more children

 

 

Forms needed at registration:

                 Birth Certificate                             Medical Form (3 to 6 years)

                  Immunization Record                   Registration Fee

                  Baptismal Certificate                    Report Card (Grades 2—7)

 

Fund Raising Activities

         A.   Candy Sale

                Each family must participate in the annual fall candy sale by selling a minimum of  

    $ 52.00 worth of candy.                               .

 

         B.   Spirit Day

                For each family participating the fee will be:  $50.00.

 

Fire Drills

Fire drills at regular intervals are required by the law and are an important safety precaution.  It is essential that when the fire signal is given, everyone obeys promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible.  Students are not permitted to talk during a fire drill and are to remain outside the building until a signal is given to return inside.  Teachers will direct the students.

 

Guidance

A guidance program is a resource available to Saint Gabriel School students.  Service may include counseling, psychological intervention and support for families experiencing change.

 

Guidelines for the Education of Non-Catholics

Parents must be made aware of the intentional Catholic witness in our schools.  Saint Gabriel School as a Catholic school within the Diocese of Brooklyn has as its primary mission the formation of children in the Catholic faith.

 

All children will participate in the total academic life of our school, including religious education.  According to the norms of our Church, it is expected that non-Catholics participate as fully as they can in the liturgical and prayer life of the school.

 

The religious educators of our schools are committed to teaching the fullness of revelation as it is taught by the Roman Catholic Church and as the life and doctrine are set forth in the Religious Education Guidelines of the Diocese of Brooklyn.  While our teachers value ecumenical education, and respect the traditions of other ecclesiastical communities, they always teach within the context of fidelity to the doctrine and traditions of our teaching church.

 

Parent Organizations

A Home-School Organization provides an effective channel of communication between parents and teachers for the benefit of the students and the whole community.  Its main purposes are:

·         to create mutual support and understanding between home and school and thus bring about a total learning environment for students;

·         to provide a means for keeping parents informed of school activities, programs, etc., and if any, parent service requirement;

·         to assist the school in meeting its financial obligations, primarily through fund-raising activities;

·         to provide adult education programs.

Promotion/Retention Policy

Very few decisions we make about children are more important than recommendations to promote or to retain a student.  Most students will be able to follow the school’s regular program of sequential learning objectives.  If the student successfully achieves the program’s objectives, the student progresses to the next grade.

 

Testing, diagnosis, and actual performance, however, may indicate that some students cannot follow the school’s complete course of study.  Therefore, the decision to retain a student presupposes that although the school has done everything to help the student achieve success, the student has not made satisfactory progress. 

 

Release of Students (during school day)

The school has a sign-out book located in the main office.

 

Occasions for the use of a Sign-out book are:

 

·         for liturgies and services when altar servers leave school; the students will sign out and in.

·         in the event of a student illness the parent or an adult designated by the parent must come to the school and take the child.  It is against the law to dismiss a child during school hours except into the direct custody of a parent, guardian, or an adult designated by the parent.  If the parent cannot be contacted, the secretary will contact the name listed on the child’s emergency contact slip.  Emergency slips are completed in September and must be updated as necessary.

·         when a student is released to a parent or guardian, that adult must sign the book.

·         for a prearranged appointment when the student is released, the parent, guardian, or approved adult must sign the book.  [PLEASE NOTE:  ONLY THE PRINCIPAL MAY APPROVE THE RELEASE OF A STUDENT FOR A PREARRANGED APPOINTMENT.]

 

 

                                       Thank you and God Bless.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GRADUATION/PROMOTION POLICY

 

Every student is expected to follow the motto, “Hard work and good behavior”. That means that all students are expected to succeed in each of their subjects and to be on their best behavior during each and every school day.

Students who fail one or more subjects will be expected to make up the academic work and/or to attend summer school to earn the lost credits. Such students will not be allowed to return to the school for the following school year without making up the failing grade(s).

A passing grade will be indicated on the student’s personal academic record card when the summer program has been completed and verified by the instructor of the summer school program.

All eighth graders must pass every subject by the end of the school year in order to receive a diploma at the graduation ceremony. Diplomas will not be issued to such students until the work is approved by the principal. Students, however, may be allowed to attend the graduation ceremony and related graduation activities.

All fees must be paid in full for students to participate in graduation activities and to receive a diploma.

 

GRADUATION AWARDS

 

Honors will be issued to those students who demonstrate academically and behaviorally that they have excelled during the eighth grade.

The GENERAL EXCELLENCE MEDAL will be issued to the student(s) who have the highest average for all six academic subjects. Such a student(s) may not have an “N” or

“U” in conduct or effort.

The HONORS MEDAL will be issued to those students who have maintained an average of

90 and with no grade less than 85 on the final report card. They, too, ) may not have an “N” or “U” in conduct or effort.

Other awards will also be issued to the students who have been deemed worthy of such an award in accordance with the guidelines of the donor.  These awards include the State

Comptroller’s Award, the Attorney General’s Award, the President of the Queensborough Community Award, the Triple “C” Award, the St. John’s University Award in Science, issued only to those female students who qualify for this distinction.