Parent/Student Handbook

MISSION STATEMENT, PHILOSOPHY, AND STUDENT LEARNING EXPECTATIONS

This statement of the mission statement, philosophy, and student learning expectations were developed and approved by the principal, staff, pastor. We believe that these statements are consistent with the needs of our community, our school families, and the students whom we serve. These statements are reviewed annually and revised as necessary, resulting in systematic evaluation and future planning.

MISSION STATEMENT
“…the Catholic school has had a clear identity, not only as a presence of the Church in society, but also as a genuine and proper instrument of the Church. It is a place of evangelization, of authentic apostolate and of pastoral action-not through complementary or parallel or extra-curricular activity, but of its very nature: the work of educating the Christian person.” (The Religious Dimensions of Education in a Catholic School, Section 33, Vatican Congregation on Education).

PHILOSOPHY
Sacred Heart Academy educates in the message of Jesus Christ in the Catholic tradition and nurtures strong academics through the Core Knowledge Curriculum. Faculty, parents, and students create a Christian community where students worship God and learn to serve. The role of the school community is to guide academic instruction; and support, enhance and complement the parents as primary educators to be ministers of Christ's message.

 

ABSENCES FROM SCHOOL PREMISES
At no time during the daily session are students allowed to leave the school grounds, except by previous arrangement. If arrangements have been made the parent or legal guardian MUST PRESENT HIMSELF/HERSELF TO THE OFFICE (NOT THE CLASSROOM) BEFORE THE CHILD IS RELEASED. The child is then signed out and released. If someone other than the parent or guardian is picking up the child, he/she must present a signed note from the parent/guardian before the child will be released. The school assumes no liability in cases where students leave the premises in violation of this policy.

For an anticipated absence, a special request from the parents or guardian must be made to the principal in writing well in advance of the absence permitting the child sufficient time to obtain assignments from all of his/her teachers.

Every effort should be made to have dental and doctor appointments after 3:00 P.M. on a school day, or on a holiday, or on a Saturday. When there are no other alternatives, and appointments must be scheduled during school hours, parents must pick up their children at the school office. ALL STUDENTS LEAVING CAMPUS DURING SCHOOL HOURS MUST BE SIGNED OUT AT THE SCHOOL OFFICE.

ABUSE OF TEACHERS
Any parent, guardian, or other person who insults or abuses any teacher in the presence or hearing of other school personnel or students and at a place which is on school premises or public sidewalks, streets, or other public ways adjacent to school premises or at some other place, if the teacher is required to be at such other place in connection with assigned school activities, is guilty of a misdemeanor, and is punishable by a fine of not less than fifty dollars nor exceeding five hundred dollars (E.C. 13560).

ACHIEVEMENT TESTS
Achievement Tests are administered to students in 2-8 and Cognitive Abilities Tests in grades 4 and 7. The testing takes place in the Fall. This testing program is used as a measurement of achievement for the students.
ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER
It is necessary that you notify the school secretary when there is a change in your home and/or work address or phone number. This is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT so that we keep our emergency information cards up to date.

ADMISSION POLICY
To be admitted the student and his/her parent must subscribe to the school's philosophy and agree to abide by the educational policies and regulations of the school and the Diocese.
A Tuition and Policy Agreement must be signed before being admitted. Birth and baptismal certificates are required, as are immunization records.
All students will be screened academically. No one will be admitted who, in the judgment of the administration, will not have his/her needs met at Sacred Heart Academy. All students will be screened for behavior patterns and attitudes. No student will be admitted who in the judgment of the administration, demonstrates severe grade level deficiencies or behavioral problems.
Students are admitted in the following order of priority for grades K-8:
1. Students presently enrolled.
2. Parishioners
3. Siblings of students presently enrolled.
4. Non-parishioner Catholics
5. Non-Catholics
Kindergarten students must be five years of age by September 1st of the school year. The applicant student must demonstrate age-appropriate developmental maturity on the Brigance Readiness Test. An original copy of the Birth and Baptismal Certificates are also required.
First grade students must be six years of age by September 1st of the school year.
All new students are placed on academic and conduct probation for at least a nine week period. It is of utmost importance that parents constantly seek to remind themselves that their support of the school, especially in regards to prompt payment of tuition and a willingness to volunteer in school projects, does operate as a prerequisite to re-registration and a condition for continued presence in school.
The administration and faculty of Sacred Heart Academy wish to remind every family that this school is not geared to accommodate those students who demonstrate severe grade level deficiencies or behavioral problems. We do all in our power to recommend and/or schedule specialized testing where academic deficiencies may be caused by specific learning disabilities, and will assist in referrals for alternate school placement if we can not meet the student's needs through a learning prescription.
Any parent whose child has been diagnosed as having a learning disability should set up a conference with the principal and the child's teacher to write a learning prescription for the child. Parents are responsible for having IEP's updated every year.

ATTENDANCE
Upon returning to school after an absence, a written excuse stating the reason for the child's absence must be presented to the teacher (State of California Education Code). If a child is absent from school, you must notify the office before 9:00 A.M. The school accepts no liability for a student absence when the parent has not contacted the school to inform the office that the student will not be in attendance that day.
If a child has been diagnosed as having a contagious disease, (e.g., Chicken Pox, Strep, etc.) kindly notify the office so that precautions can be taken and notifications sent home. If your child is not well prior to the beginning of the school day, you are requested to keep the child home.
Students who have illnesses or injuries which require non-participation in PE, should not go to PE class. They should remain at the school. Students who are to miss PE for these reasons, should have a note from their physician.

BICYCLES
Only students in grades 4-8 may bring bicycles to school. All bike riders are to enter the school grounds by walking their bikes to and from the street. Students who violate this rule will not have the privilege of riding their bicycles to school for a designated time. It is necessary that your child's bike have a lock. The school accepts no liability for bicycle damage and/or theft.

CARE OF TEXTBOOKS/SCHOOL PROPERTY
Most textbooks and library books are the property of the state or the school. Students are expected to take care of the books. All textbooks must be covered at all times with an SHA book cover. If books are damaged through carelessness, students will be expected to replace or repair them. Any books that are lost must be replaced at cost to the students. All students are expected to have a book bag to carry books to and from school.
Because of the problem it poses on floors, furniture, sidewalks, etc. students must refrain from chewing gum anywhere on the school premises. We all want to be proud of the appearance of our school, its furnishings and grounds. Students and parents shall be liable for all damage to equipment and school property.

CHILD ABUSE REPORTING OBLIGATIONS
In accord with Diocesan policy and California law, school staff are obligated under penalty of fine and jail term to report the reasonable suspicion of physical abuse, emotional abuse, emotional deprivation, physical neglect, inadequate supervision, or sexual abuse and exploitation.
In this very serious and legally narrow area, the school will not contact parents in advance of making a report to legal authorities which would be the procedure followed in most other legal matters. The clear intent of the law, based on the seriousness of the crimes listed above is to mandate that a report of reasonable suspicion of abuse be made. School staff will make such reports in the best interests of the affected child and do not, once reasonable suspicion is established, have any legal alternative except to make the report to the proper authorities for their investigation and review.

COMMUNICATIONS/TUESDAY FOLDERS
Each student will receive important items of class/school business in an envelope every Tuesday. This folder must be returned with any and all responses on the following day. Do not place papers in the Tuesday folder to be returned to the school. Have the student deliver payments, fieldtrip forms, etc. to the teacher or school office. Parents may communicate with Sacred Hart Academy via e-mail. Our e-mail address is shaob@cox.net. All Curriculum Updates (Tuesday letters) are posted weekly on the school website. Progress Reports for grades 4-8 are also on the website.

CURRICULUM

KINDERGARTEN
At this level we are concerned with preparing the whole child for his/her later years in school. Emphasis is placed on motor, perceptual, social, emotional, spiritual and academic development of each child. A basic curriculum is used in conjunction with the other academic programs in the school.

GRADES ONE TO EIGHT
Sacred Heart Academy supports a policy of total education for its students. Such education embraces basic fundamentals: reading, literature, grammar, writing, mathematics, spelling/vocabulary, science, social studies; moral direction; religions, family life, Christian service, sacramental programs; computer programs, physical education and fine arts, all aimed toward the development of the entire individual. We are a Catholic school committed to spiritual and academic excellence. Our commitment to Christian values continues to provide students with a positive, moral learning environment.
Curriculum is enriched at all grade levels through use of the Core Knowledge Curriculum.

CUSTODY OF STUDENTS
In order to cooperate with student and family needs, the school should be informed of any custody arrangements. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to inform the school of custody status and subsequent changes and/or arrangements. The school may ask for legal verification of these arrangements.

DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATIVE HANDBOOK
This handbook establishes the policy parameters within which this school operates. A copy of this handbook is always available in the school office. Copies may be purchased from the Diocesan Education Office.

DISCIPLINE
Discipline in the Catholic school is considered an essential aspect of Christian development and moral guidance. The purpose of discipline is...
? To define and experience the ideas of Christian disciplineship.
? To provide school and classroom settings conducive to learning.
? To help students become self-disciplinarians.
? To build a sense of Christian community.
We are striving to make Sacred Heart Academy a positive place where students and staff members treat one another with respect and dignity. By registering their children here, students and parents indicate their intention to accept and observe the school's regulations.

The staff of Sacred Heart Academy commit themselves to the belief that all students have the right to learn in a distraction free environment and that no student has a right to distract the learning environment of any student; and that teachers have a right to insist on a distraction free environment in which to teach; and that no student has a right to distract the learning environment in the classroom.
To this end and with this goal in mind, all staff will develop a set of expectations for student conduct, will make those expectations known to students and available to parents, and will establish a set of positive rewards which may include verbal and written praise and recognition, special privileges, attendance at assemblies, and special classroom celebrations. Should a student choose to break a rule, the following procedure will be utilized:
First time - name on board (warning).
Second time - one check (15 minutes detention the following day; note sent home to parent that day).
Third time - two checks (30 minutes detention the following day; note sent home to parent that day).
Fourth time - three checks (student removed from the class and taken to the principal's office, parent called, written record sent home, detention time assigned, suspension in or out of school may result).
In the case of a severe violation of the rules, the principal may invoke a suspension or expulsion in accord with the procedures described.
Appropriate explanation of the classroom procedures and expectations is presented and any questions should be directed to the teachers at any time during the year. We invite your support in assisting us to direct your children to consistently correct decision-making and we pledge our support to your efforts for follow-up at home.
Middle School Discipline Policy
1. Follow Directions.
2. Respect others.
3. Listen attentively.
4. Bring all necessary materials to class.
5. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
6. Homework assignments books MUST BE SIGNED BY PARENTS EVERY NIGHT HOMEWORK IS ASSIGNED.
These rules are posted in all middle school classrooms. The rules will be discussed in detail at the start of the school year.
Saturday Detention
When a student has served a total of one hour in detention during one school quarter, he/she is automatically assigned three hours of Saturday detention the next time the student is given detention.
After the student has served Saturday detention, he/she will be given Saturday detention again if he/she accumulates thirty more minutes of regular detention. This process is repeated until the end of the quarter. At the end of each quarter every student who has served detention time begins with a clean slate.
Saturday detention dates and times are assigned by the principal. If a child serves Saturday detention and is scheduled to participate in an extra-curricular event on that day, the student is not allowed to participate in that event.
Failure to report for assigned Saturday detention may result in suspension. After serving two Saturday detentions in one quarter, it may result in suspension.

8th GRADE SCHOLARSHIP

Sacred Heart Academy’s Parent Association will award two, eighth grade scholarships. The scholarships, each in the amount of $1,200 will be awarded to one girl and one boy continuing their education at a Catholic High School. Any 8th grade student may apply for the scholarship by filling out an application and writing a one to two page essay on why this scholarship will make a difference to their education. All applications will be submitted to the Parent Association Parliamentarian, who will present them to the Parent Association Executive Board and SHA principal for a confidential voting process. In order to keep the voting fair and unbiased, the identity of the applicants will be withheld from the voting members.
Applicants will be judged on the following criteria:
1. 6th,7th, and 8th grade GPA
2. Citizenship
3. Service Hours (School, Community, and Parish)
4. Extra Curricular Activities
5. Essay
6. Leadership Qualities
The winners of the scholarships will be announced at the 8th grade graduation awards ceremony. Scholarship money will be disbursed to the Catholic High School the recipient will attend.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Parents are notified immediately of serious injury or sudden illnesses that occur during school hours. For this reason you must notify the school office when there is a change of phone number or persons to be contacted when you cannot be reached.
It is understood that enrollment at Sacred Heart Academy confers upon the school the obligation to select emergency providers in the absence of our ability to reach the parents and that no liability would attach to such a decision in the event that the parents cannot be reached. EMERGENCY CARDS must be turned in on the first day of school.

EXTENDED DAY CARE
Our Extended Day Care Policy is as follows:
Any of our children who are dropped off before 7:45 A.M. or not picked up by 2:55 P.M. or not picked up by 12:10 P.M. on noon dismissal days will be automatically assigned to the Day Care Program and billed at the end of the month for these services.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Students are encouraged to participate in extra curricular programs. It is the parents responsibility to see that academic performance does not suffer as a result of participation in extra curricular activities. It is expected that all participants follow the codes of conduct outlined for them as students at Sacred Heart Academy and may be exemplary witness to good sportsmanship, both as spectators and players.

Students must have a "C" overall average at Progress Report time and at Report Card time.
Any serious infraction of these codes will terminate a student's membership on a team. If a student is absent from school, he/she will not participate in an extra curricular activity that day.
If a student is absent from school, permission to play in a game that day, or if absent on Friday, permission to play in a game on Saturday or Sunday is granted by the Athletic Director in consultation with the principal.

FAMILY COMMITMENT
Each family is asked to donate a minimum of 20 hours (10 hours for single parents) of contributed service to the school. Attendance at each of the PTG General meetings is recorded as 1 hour of service.
Re-enrollment in SHA is dependent upon completion of service hours.

FIELD TRIPS
Students usually attend field trips during the school year. These trips are educational in nature. Parental permission slips must be obtained for all field trips. Permission slips are required if the activity does not occur:
1. On the school campus.
2. On church property.
When parent drivers are needed it is required that there be adequate seat belts for all passengers when private cars are used for transporting students. Students may not sit in the front seat of any automobile with passenger air bags. California State law requires that children under 6 years of age and less than 60 pounds in weight be secured in approved child safety seats.
Parents who act as drivers on field trips are not to bring non-school age children with them.
All drivers must be at least 21 years of age. They must have a current California Driver's License and proof of insurance on their person or in their vehicle. A copy of drivers license and proof of insurance must be on file at the school.

FORGOTTEN LUNCHES, BOOKS, HOMEWORK
To minimize classroom interruptions, any forgotten article brought to school during class time must be deposited at the office, not the classroom. No parent may visit a classroom during school hours unless provision has been made for this through the principal.

FREE DRESS GUIDELINES
The opportunity to wear non-uniform clothing (free dress) to school is given to students as part
of the total educational program at Sacred Heart Academy. The following guidelines apply to
free dress days:
Acceptable for Boys:
Rugby shirts
Polo shirts
Tee shirts
Oxford button-down collar shirts
Jeans in good condition - no holes, do not sag
Walking shorts - no baggies
Appropriate shoes - no thongs, boots, or open toed shoes
Acceptable for Girls:
Rugby shirts
Polo shirts
Blouses
Skirts - no minis
Jeans in good condition - no holes, do not sag
Culottes
Tee shirts
Walking shorts - no baggies
Appropriate shoes - no thongs, platforms, boots, or open toed shoes
Note: No clothing is to be worn with any kind of emblems, pictures, or writing which are
incompatible with Christianity. Revealing or immodest clothing may not be worn (midriff exposure, skin showing below shirts, halter tops, visible undergarments).

GENERAL STUDENT RULES
In addition to those individual rules and consequences posted in every classroom the following are to be recognized:
ß Chewing gum, candy, and/or sunflower seeds are not acceptable in the classroom or on the school grounds at any time.
ß Students may not leave the school grounds at any time during the school day without written permission and clearance from the office.
ß Students should be in their assigned play areas during recess and lunch time.
ß Students are not allowed in the classroom at any time unless the teacher is present. (California Education Code)
ß All students will be responsible for the protection and preservation of school property and for the good of others.]
ß Fighting or "play fighting" is prohibited and subject to suspension.
ß Using profanity on the school grounds is prohibited
ß Willful disrespect toward staff, visitors, parents, and fellow students is prohibited.
ß Disobedience to a staff member's directives will result in disciplinary procedures.
ß Riding skateboards or bicycles on school grounds is prohibited.
ß Any items that would be dangerous to themselves or others are prohibited.GRADING POLICY
Grades 4-8 - The following grading scale has been adopted by the Diocese of San Diego and used at Sacred Heart Academy:
A = 100-93 B = 92-85
C+ = 84-80 C = 79-75
C- = 74-70 D = 69-65
F = 64-0
Grades K-3 - An alternate Diocesan Scale is used in these grades:
0 = Outstanding VG = Very Good
G = Good S = Satisfactory
NI = Needs Improvement

PHYSICAL EDUCATION GRADING SCALE
Grades K-8 – Physical activity is critical to the development and maintenance of good health. A physically educated person at Sacred Heart Academy will be graded as follows:
ß 10% skills test- student demonstrates competency in motor skills and movement patterns needed to perform a variety of physical activities.
ß 20% participation-student participates regularly in physical activity.
ß 20% fitness testing-student achieves and maintains a health-enhancing level of physical fitness
ß 20% sportsmanship and behavior-student exhibits responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and other in physical activity settings.
ß 10% attitude-student values physical activity for health, enjoyment, challenge, self-expression, and/or social interaction.
ß 20% teacher discretion.
If a student does not dress-out in the appropriate uniform 2 times consecutively, a 15 minute detention will be given to the student.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
The purpose of these procedures is to secure, at the lowest possible level, equitable solutions to the problems which may arise from time to time affecting the welfare of students and teachers.
A parent teacher conference should always be the first level of this procedure. If an agreeable solution cannot be reached at this level, a parent-principal conference may be arranged. These procedures will be kept as informal and confidential as may be appropriate in order to facilitate reconciliation, communication, and the strengthening of the school community. If the problem still remains unresolved, the principal and/or Pastor may make a resolution they deem appropriate.

HARASSMENT
Harassment in any form, including sexual harassment, is prohibited. Any person who believes that he/she has been the object of harassment or has witnessed such behavior should notify a teacher and/or the principal immediately.
Harassment is any form of conduct that is not welcome, is personally offensive, and undermines one's integrity.

HEARTBEAT MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Sacred Heart Academy endeavors to maintain a high level of parent-school communication. To facilitate this process, a newsletter is sent home to all school families once a month. Parents are encouraged to read the "Heartbeat" carefully. Parents who wish to submit articles for the "Heartbeat" should send the article to the principal for approval in advance of the deadline date. The Heartbeat also contains the monthly school calendar updates. Keep this handy for important information. Latest updated news is on our website: www.s-h-a.org.

HOMEWORK POLICY
Homework is planned to meet the needs of the students and has an essential place in the educational program. We urge all parents to take an active interest in the child's homework.
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT TO SEE TO IT THAT ASSIGNMENTS ARE PROPERLY WRITTEN DOWN AND ARE COMPLETED ON TIME. STUDENTS IN GRADES 3-8 ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE AN SHA ASSIGNMENT BOOK TO KEEP ALL ASSIGNMENTS WRITTEN DOWN. PARENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CHECKING AND SIGNING ASSIGNMENT BOOKS EACH NIGHT.
Homework is assigned...
ß To reinforce concepts and skills that have been presented in class.
ß To foster the student's creativity and discipline through enrichment projects or research
ß To train the student to work independently and to accept responsibility for completing a task.
Homework will be assigned on a regular basis. Weekend homework is given only for the purpose of making up work missed through absence or poor effort, or for certain long-range assignments except for math. Students will regularly have math homework on weekends.
Testing is not scheduled for Mondays or on Tuesdays after a long weekend.
Kindergarten students will receive homework on Monday night. On Wednesday a library book will be sent home with the student. The book is to be read aloud to the student and returned on Friday.

HONOR ROLL
At the end of each academic quarter eligible students are recognized on Academic and/or Citizenship Honor Rolls. The following criteria are used in the selection process:

CITIZENSHIP HONOR ROLL
This roll will include students in grades 1-8 who receive a "VG" (Very Good) or "O" (Outstanding) mark in Responsible Behavior on their report card.

ACADEMIC HONOR ROLL
This roll includes students in grades 4-8 who maintain a 3.0 overall average in the basic subject areas.
No grade below "C" is acceptable.

PRINCIPAL'S HONOR ROLL
This roll includes students in grades 4-8 who maintain a 3.75 or higher overall average in the basic subject areas.
No grade below "B" is acceptable.
A = 4.0 A- = 3.8 B+ = 3.5
B = 3.0 B- = 2.68 C+ = 2.5
C = 2.0

ILLNESS AND INJURY
Should a student be injured or become ill, the parents shall be contacted and asked to come for the student. Students may not walk home unless parent permission is given.

The student accident program provides financial aid in helping to meet hospital, surgical and medical expenses incurred by reason of student injury which occurs on the school grounds, coming to and from school or while the student is participating in a school sponsored activity. Should accidents occur parents will be notified immediately. Parents should request an insurance form from the office if it is not is sent home at the time of the accident.

LITURGICAL PARTICIPATION
Throughout the school year, the students will be introduced to and will participate in various liturgical celebrations and activities (i.e. Mass, Penance Services, Scripture Services, Prayer Sessions). All students are expected to attend with respect any liturgical celebrations as part of their education at Sacred Heart Academy. Participation is always optional for Non-Catholics.

LOCKERS
Each middle school student will be assigned a locker to use for the year.
1. Students are responsible for his/her locker. Please do not write on them or tape things to them on the outside or inside.
2. Locker checks will be done at random. Please keep lockers clean and take special care of the books that are in the locker.
3. If a student abuses his/her locker privileges the locker will be taken away from them.
4. All student supplies must be stored in the locker.LOST AND FOUND
All items susceptible to loss should be PERMANENTLY LABELED. It would be well to put the child's name on school clothing and lunch boxes/sacks and book bags. Lost articles will be kept at the school for two weeks. After that time they will be given to charity.

LUNCHES/SNACKS
Parents bringing lunches to the children from fast food places, etc. IS NOT ALLOWED. We STRONGLY ENCOURAGE the children to buy milk or bring cartons of juice. CARBONATED SOFT DRINKS ARE NOT PERMITTED. Glass containers are not allowed. NUTRITIOUS snacks may be brought to school for recess time. CANDY AND GUM ARE NOT ALLOWED AT ANY TIME AS A SNACK.

LUNCH CLEAN-UP POLICY
1. Each student is responsible for his/her own trash.
2. Each student is responsible for making sure that the entire campus is clean and neat, even if this means picking up trash that is not one's own.
3. After the final lunch period each day, the campus and restrooms will be inspected by the principal and a group of students.
4. If the campus is found not to be clean, TEN MINUTES WILL BE ADDED TO THE END OF THAT SCHOOL DAY.
5. During the ten minutes added to the school day, one class (on rotating basis) will clean the campus. All other students will remain quietly in their classrooms.
6. THE DISMISSAL BELL FOR THAT DAY WILL RING AT 2:55 (12:10 ON HALF DAYS).
7. A SIGN WILL BE IN FRONT OF THE SCHOOL TELLING YOU THAT IT IS A LATE
DISMISSAL DAY.

Please reinforce the importance of your child being a responsible person here at Sacred Heart Academy. We all want our school to be one of which we can be proud.

MAILINGS TO SEPARATED/DIVORCED PARENTS
We try to accommodate the requests of separated and divorced parents; thereby seeing that both the custodial and non-custodial parents receive mailings, report cards, etc. However, we do not know who you are unless you so advise us. If both parents are to receive school information, please advise the school secretary. Regarding unofficial copies of student records, non-custodial parents will be given access to these records, unless a court order providing otherwise is filed with the school. Divorced parents must file a notarized copy of the custody section of the divorce decree with the school. Such a procedure helps to protect the rights of everyone in the family. If one parent does not want the other parent to receive the school's communication materials, the school must have a court order on file from the one parent stating this.

MAKE UP WORK
If your child is absent from school, it is the family’s responsibility to contact the school office to request make up work for the day(s) missed. Please call no later than 9:00 am to request make up work. You may pick up make up work at the school office after 2:15 pm or you may request that it be sent home with a sibling or classmate. Students have the same number of days to make up work as the number of days absent. Due dates for long term assignments should be discussed with the teacher.

MEDICAL RECORDS
California law requires specific health screening procedures for all children entering school for the first time. Proper evidence of compliance is the completed CERTIFICATION OF EXAMINATION FOR ENTRY INTO GRADE ONE, which will be placed in the student's file. No child will be admitted as a student unless he/she has been immunized against diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, and measles. (E.C. 11704-DP-5141.5). A student who lacks the required immunizations has two weeks to begin immunization from the opening day of school.

MEDICATION
If a child has a health problem (diabetes, allergies, etc.), it is absolutely essential that this information be given to the school secretary and classroom teacher each year. State law forbids school personnel to administer any type of medication (even aspirin) to the students. Medication may not be kept in a student's desk.
If your child needs to take medication during school hours, we must have a note from the parent on file, and the medication must be left with the secretary in the school office.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SERVICE HOURS
All students in grades six are required to do ten hours and seven and eight are required to do fifteen hours of service during the school year.
These service hours are a requirement for promotion from sixth to seventh, seventh to eighth grade, and for graduation from eighth grade. Service includes doing something for the school, your church, or your community.
If service hours are performed for an organization, the organization must be a non-profit organization.
If you are doing service for an individual, this must be approved in advance by the principal.
It is each student's responsibility to turn in service hours to his/her teacher, and to keep track of service hours performed. Fifty percent (50%) of the student’s service hours must be completed by the end of the 1st semester. If the student has not met the requirement, their report card will be held until the hours are completed.
At the end of the school year, the Sacred Heart Academy Parent Association awards the Silver Heart Award to two eighth grade students who, in their opinion, have demonstrated the real spirit of service. Taken into consideration is the diversity of service and the number of hours of service. The award includes a savings bond. Two seventh graders will be chosen to receive a savings bond.

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY
National Junior Honor Society is a nationwide society for seventh and eighth grade students. In order to be initiated into the NJHS, students must have an overall seventh grade GPA of 3.75 and show qualities of leadership, scholarship, service, character, and citizenship.

NATURAL DISASTER
In the event of a natural disaster we will ordinarily follow the direction of the San Diego Unified School District as to the opening or closing of the school.
Students have been instructed in evacuation procedures for fire and earthquake emergencies. Students will remain with faculty personnel on or near school property unless you are notified otherwise. Students will be released to parents or those with parental permission.

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
The Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego, mindful of their mission to be witnesses to the love of Christ for all, admit students of any race, color, and national and/or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the schools. The Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, and national and/or ethnic origin, age, sex, or disability in the administration of educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
Likewise, the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego do not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of sex, age, disability, race, color, and national and/or ethnic origin. (California Catholic Conference, March 1994; revised January 1997)

PARENT-STUDENT-TEACHER-CONFERENCES
Conferences are held following the first report card. This is a formal conference for all parents/guardians, students and teachers. A special schedule will be in effect on these days. Subsequent conferences can be requested by the teacher or parents/guardians. Please call for an appointment in advance. Please do not drop in unannounced as this is disruptive to the classroom.

PARENT ASSOCIATION
Parents have the primary responsibility for the education of their children. It is the role of the school to support and complement this parental function. The purpose of this organization shall be:
ß Promoting, coordinating, and overseeing parent volunteerism.
ß Planning events and activities fostering family integration with the School and Parish community and promoting school community growth while support the ideals of Catholic education.
ß Organizing fund-raising, as needed.

PARENT ASSOCIATION MEETINGS
General meetings are held throughout the school year. Your active involvement in this organization will have its own rewards and shows your children that you are vitally interested in them and the school. Check your school calendar for these and other important dates. Parent Association Board meetings are held monthly. Parents are welcome to attend.

PARKING
We ask that parents park along Saratoga near the curb. Children are not allowed to leave the curb for double parked cars. DOUBLE PARKING ON SARATOGA IS NOT ALLOWED.

PREPARATION FOR HIGH SCHOOL
Entrance to Catholic High Schools is based on placement exam scores, report card grade for grades 6,7,8, standardized testing, behavior, and responsibility.
It is recommended the eighth grade students prepare for the test using the ARCO Catholic High School Entrance Examinations COOP/HSPT by Eve P. Steinberg.

PRINCIPAL'S ADVISORY COMMISSION
The purpose of the Principal's Advisory Commission is to give input and advice, on an ongoing basis, on matters relating to curriculum, extra-curricular programs, educational and financial goal-setting, student services, and plant management.
The Commission is an advisory panel only. Recommendations from the Commission will be taken under advisement and, as appropriate, discussed with staff, Pastor, PA Board, Education Commission, or Pastoral Council.
The goals of the Commission is to enhance and facilitate input from parents in order for Sacred Heart Academy to better serve the needs of our students and families.
The membership of the Commission is open to all parents of Sacred Heart Academy students through an application process. Membership will be limited to no more than fifteen parents selected by the Principal and Vice Principal. Parents will serve for a two year term as long as they have a child enrolled in Sacred Heart Academy.

PROMOTION/RETENTION
All students are expected to achieve at least grade level proficiency in order to merit promotion to the next grade, with teacher evaluation and standardized test score review to form the basis of the decision. Any decision concerning non-promotion will be made only after considering all facts related to the student's development and after consultation between the teacher and principal. A conference will be held with the parents as early as possible to advise of the possibility of retention and to discuss possible remedial actions.

RELEASE OF RECORDS
Release of records to any person is not permitted without written permission of the parent. When a student transfers to another school, a copy of the student's transcript will be transferred by Sacred Heart Academy only when proper request has been made in writing from the parent/guardian. These transcripts will be mailed to the receiving school or delivered by a school official. They will never be given to parents or students for delivery to the school.

REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS
Report cards are issued quarterly to keep parents informed about student progress. Report card envelopes must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the classroom teacher the following day.
Progress reports will be issued midway through each quarter for students in grades 3K-3 who are failing or whose grades have dropped significantly. Progress reports will be posted on the school website every two weeks for students in grades 4-8. It is the responsibility of the student and parent to inquire as to the steps which may be taken to correct any deficiency. Note: Blanks on the progress report means the assignments was not received by the teacher or it was not done by the student. Outstanding means the assignment was done well.
Kindergarten students will receive three report cards during the school year, beginning with the second nine-week period. At the end of the first nine-week period, parents and students will have a conference with the teacher. (see Parent-Teacher Conferences).

RIGHT TO AMEND

The principal retains the right to amend this handbook for just causes. Parents will be given prompt notification if changes are made.

SCHOOL HOURS
8:10 First bell to enter building
8:15 Tardy bell
10:00-10:20 Recess - Grades K-3
10:20-10:40 Recess - Grades 4-5
11:45-12:30 Lunch - Grades K-4
12:30-1:00 Lunch - Grades 5-8
2:45 Dismissal
Extended Day Care - before and after school.
Early Dismissal Days - 8:10-12:00 (no lunch)
Middle School students are to use the back stairs before and after break and lunch. No student is allowed upstairs before 8:05 am unless they have a conference with a teacher. No student is to be upstairs during either break or lunch.

SCHOOL & MEDICAL RECORDS
The parents or legal guardian have the right to inspect all of their student's records in the presence of the principal or his/her delegate, provided 24 hour written notice is given. However, behavioral records shall be inspected only in the presence of a person qualified to interpret the records.

SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION
General Guidelines
Suspension from school is not an ordinary punishment. It will be used when other corrective measures have failed or a serious offense committed. When a student is suspended, the parents will be notified of the suspension and the reason for this disciplinary measure. The following quotations, taken from the California Education Code, will be the criteria used for Suspension or Expulsion.
E.C. 48903 Continued willful disobedience, habitual profanity or vulgarity, open and persistent defiance of the authority of the school personnel, or assault and battery upon a student, upon school premises or while under the authority of school personnel, or any threat of force or violation directed toward school personnel, at any time or place shall constitute good cause for suspension or expulsion from school...
Smoking or having tobacco on school premises constitutes good cause for suspension of a pupil...
E.C. 48904 The school may suspend or expel a pupil who has on school premises or elsewhere used, sold, or been in the possession of narcotics or other hallucinogenic drugs or substances.
E.C. 48907 The school may suspend or expel pupils for misconduct when other means of correction fail to bring back proper conduct...
E.C. 48909 Any minor who willfully cuts, defaces, or otherwise injures in any way property, real or personal, belonging to a school is liable for all damages so caused by the minor...
C.A.C. Students are forbidden to use or possess intoxicating liquor while on the school grounds, or elsewhere when under the authority or direct supervision of school personnel, or when such conduct is otherwise related to school activity or school attendance.

SUSPENSION - SPECIFIC GUIDELINES
A student may be placed on suspension for serious misconduct, on campus or off campus during school related activities, or for continued misconduct after having been placed on probation. Official suspension may assume various forms depending on the circumstances.
The student may attend class but lose the right to participate in any school activity on or off campus. The student may be suspended from a particular class and required to report to a specific place on campus during that time. Students may also be required to report for a maintenance work responsibility. In unusual cases, the student may be sent home for the entire period of suspension provided that he/she be assigned academic work to make up for loss of class time.

EXPULSION - SPECIFIC GUIDELINES
The final decision to expel a student rests with the principal and, in parish schools, with the knowledge an consent of the Pastor. Full credit shall be given for all work accomplished by the student prior to the time of expulsion.

TARDIES
It is the parents' responsibility to see that the student is at school by 8:10 A.M. Reasonable explanations are always acceptable, but HABITUAL TARDINESS IS INEXCUSABLE. A child is considered tardy after the 8:15 A.M. bell.
After 4 tardies (unexcused), a student's conduct grade will be lowered. Students attending or serving at morning Mass are not considered tardy.
For safety and insurance reasons we ask that no students arrive at school before 8:10 A.M. and the school will accept no liability for students on the school grounds before that time or after 3:00 P.M. unless they are present because of an after school activity or in the Day Care Program.

TRUANCY
If a child leaves school without permission from the principal, he/she will be considered truant and subject to the penalties thereof. Truancy is considered a serious offense. After being truant, a student is suspended and must return with a parent/guardian for reinstatement.

TELEPHONE
The school phone is a business phone and is not intended for student use. Students may use the telephone in the office in cases of emergency. A student phone is located in the lobby of the school for use after school to arrange rides.

TUITION POLICY
Tuition may be paid in full at any time; or the Tuition, Curriculum fee, and Building fund (new families only) will be added together and paid in ten equal installments. These payments are required from August through May.
The tuition statement will be mailed to you in the summer for the August payment and sent home with your child during the school year unless otherwise requested. Each monthly statement will reflect any previous payments. Alternative payment schedules may be negotiated for difficult circumstances. Tuition procedures will be as follows:
ß Tuition is due on the first of every month and is delinquent by the tenth. Any payment received after the 10th will be assessed a $5 Late Fee unless prior arrangements have been made.
ß Any checks returned due to insufficient funds will result in a $5.00 service charge for bank fees.
ß Report cards may be held for non-payment of tuition.
At the time of registration:
ß All tuition for fees uncollected from the previous year must be paid in full or a plan of payment sent in writing and accepted by the school.
ß Past due points fees must be paid or arrangements made.
Refunds: The registration and curriculum fee are non-refundable.
Tuition Refunds: If enrolled in school less than half of the month, receive half month refund. If enrolled in school more than half of month, no refund.
Tuition schedules are available in the school office. All families are required to sign a "Tuition and Policy Agreement."

UNIFORM POLICY-STUDENT DRESS CODE
Uniforms are to be worn during school hours unless permission is given by the principal for free dress. We expect parents to show their support for the school dress policy by insuring that their student leaves home dressed appropriately. Students must have a note from their parents or guardian if they come to school in non-uniform dress. The note must state an appropriate reason for being out of uniform. Uniform guidelines are as follows:

BOY’S UNIFORM
Pants: Grades K-5: Navy blue from Royal Blazers. Grades 6,7,8: Khaki from Royal Blazers.
Shorts: Grades K-5: Navy blue from Royal Blazers. Grades 6,7,8: Khaki from Royal Blazers.
Shirts: Green knit collared shirt, from Royal Blazers. Shirt must be tucked in at all times.
Socks: White or blue or forest green socks.
Sweaters: Navy blue pullover or cardigan from Royal Blazers.
Sweatshirts: Only SHA sweatshirts may be worn. Sweatshirts must be worn over uniform shirt.
Jackets:Jackets may not be worn in the classroom. SHA jackets may be purchased from Royal Blazers.
Turtlenecks: Green only. May be worn on cool days only.
Hair styles: Hair should be kept neat and well trimmed above the collar. Unconventional hairstyles, coloring, etc. are not permitted.
Belts: If there are belt loops on shorts/pants, a belt must be worn.

GIRL'S UNIFORM
Blouse: Green knit collared shirt or white blouse from Royal Blazers. Blouses and shirts must be tucked in at all times.
Jumper: Grades K-5: Belair Plaid Jumper or culottes from Royal Blazers.
Skirt: Grades 6, 7 & 8: Belair Plaid Skirt or culottes from Royal Blazers. Skirts to be no more than 3 inches above the middle of the knee.
Pants: Grades K-5: Navy blue from Royal Blazers. Grades 6,7,8: Khaki from Royal Blazers.
Shorts: Grades K-5: Navy blue walking shorts from Royal Blazers. Grades 6,7,8: Khaki from Royal Blazers.
Sweaters: Navy blue pullover or cardigan from Royal Blazers.
Sweatshirts: Only SHA sweatshirts may be worn. Sweatshirts must be worn over uniform blouse or shirt.
Jackets: Jackets may not be worn in the classroom. SHA jackets may be purchased from Royal Blazers.

GENERAL
Shoes: Casual shoes or tennis shoes to compliment the uniform. No sandals or clogs.
Writing: Writing or drawings on the uniform will not be permitted.
Shorts: Shorts may not be rolled up.
Sweat shorts: May be worn in grades K-3 on P.E. days. May be worn in grades 4-8 to P.E. only.
Sweat pants: May be worn in grades K-3 on P.E. days. May be worn in grades 4-8 to P.E. only.
P.E. UNIFORM
P.E. uniforms are to be purchased from the Parent Association. Students in grades K-3 may wear their P.E.
uniform to school on P.E. days.
Student in grades 4-8 may wear their P.E. uniform to P.E. only. P.E. shirts are not to be worn
under uniform shirts or blouses.
The P.E. uniform consists of the following:
White P.E. shirt
Navy blue sweat shorts or pants from Parent Association - or -
Navy blue uniform shorts from Royal Blazers
NOTE:
All uniforms worn to SHA are expected to be in good condition, not faded and/or torn.
Sweat shorts and sweat pants will not be accepted in used uniform sales.