Saint Thomas the Apostle School Philosophy

The philosophy of St. Thomas the Apostle School is determined by a firm belief that every child can learn and fulfill his/her potential. Rooted in our belief that Christ is our center, we instill in the students that God loves us, accepts us always, and forgives completely. As Christian educators we commit ourselves to live in the spirit of the Gospel and create an environment where students are inspired to grow spiritually, morally, intellectually, personally, and socially. The school community of St. Thomas the Apostle encourages equality and a belief in the dignity of every person. All our efforts as Christian educators are based on the conviction that Christ is "the way, the truth, and the life." (John 14:6)

FACULTY AND STAFF DIRECTORY

Phone: 718-847-3904 Fax: 718-847-3513

After-school: 718-847-3904

Rectory Office: 718-847-1353

Guidance Counselor: 718-847-3904

Ms. Cathleen Quinn Principal Main Office (87^th Street)

Mr. Giuseppe Campailla Assistant Principal Main Office (87^th Street)

Mrs. Lucy Diaz Administrative Assistant Main Office (87^th Street)

Mrs. Stacy Andrews Financial Secretary Main Office (87^th Street)

88^th Street Building

Nursery & Pre-K Ms. Desiree Grecco

UPK Mrs. Jenne-Marie Leeb

Kindergarten Ms. Christina Duemig

Grade 1 Mrs. Eileen Streib

Grade 2 Mrs. Linda Luberto

Grade 3 Ms. Claudia LaRocca

87^th Street Building

Grade 4 Mrs. Patricia Eggers Religion, ELA, Social Studies

Grade 5 Mrs. Maria Sande ELA, Social Studies

Grade 6 Mrs. Adelaide Polito ELA, Social Studies, Math

Grade 7 Sister Maria Barbera Religion, Social Studies

Grade 8 Ms. Helen Hartel Math, Science

Ms. Lynn Alaimo Science, ELA

Special Content Mrs. Maria Sande 2-8 Spanish/ Library

Mrs. Anne Yorke Guidance Counselor

Mr. Derek Santo Music K-6

Mrs. Mary Farley Computer K-4

Mrs. Patricia Eggers Computer 5-8

Ms. Meaghan Connors Art K-8

Mr. Robert Bermingham Technology Aide

Mrs. Louise Connors UPK Aide

Mrs. Mary Farley Nursery Aide

Mrs. Patricia Flood Office Aide

Mrs. Marianne Frenzel K and School Aide

Mrs. Josephine Pirozek School & Testing Aide

Mr. John Streppone P.E. Aide; Alumni Committee

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Scholarship is acknowledged and encouraged in various ways. Students participate in many academic contests on a school level and advance to the Diocesan level when possible. Students also enter various poster and essay competitions. Certificates are awarded.

Students from Grades 5-8 are acknowledged for their outstanding work and effort each trimester at an Award Ceremony. (Grade 4 will be included in June based on final grades).

The Criteria is as follows: Principal's List 95% - 100% in all subjects

First Honors 90% - 100% in all subjects

Second Honors 85% - 100% in all subjects

Honorable Mention - Commendable Effort & Merit

No N's or U’s in any personal growth areas, homework, or effort.

The Personal Progress section of the report card is determined through consultation with all the teachers in Grades 5-8 and the principal.

Satisfactory grades (S) or better, (G, E) must be earned in all special subject areas (art, music, computer, gym, health, library, Spanish*) and in the area of growth and development, this includes conduct and homework. (* Grades 7 & 8 receive a number grade for Spanish.)

Perfect Attendance will be awarded each Trimester. The award is given to students who have NOT been out for a full day, half day, or early dismissal and have NEVER been late.

ADMISSIONS POLICY

Students are admitted to St. Thomas the Apostle School upon verification of:

1. immunization records as required by NYC and NYS;

2. birth certificate;

3. baptismal certificate;

4. medical examination;

5. Church envelope number, if applicable.

The following is required of students transferring to St. Thomas the Apostle School:

1. current and past report cards

2. standardized test scores

3. IEP if applicable

4. interview with the principal

5. letter of recommendation from previous school

6. three month probationary period

Students currently attending St. Thomas the Apostle School are invited to re-register each school year. The

re-registration fee is published each year and forms are sent home detailing the procedure in the beginning of each calendar year. Class placement for all students, is at the discretion of the administration.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

The After School Program is an organized program that supplies excellent supervision by teachers and aides. The program offers supervised homework time, organized playtime, and well-planned arts and craft activities. It is available every school day from 2:30 - 6:00, and 11:30 - 6:00 on half days. Prices and

applications are available upon request from the office.

APPOINTMENTS DURING SCHOOL HOURS

We can honor a request to release a student from school only when it is an emergency. The parent/ guardian must come to the school to meet the student and sign him/her out of school. In addition, a note should be sent in the morning to the principal stating the reason for the child's release from school. In general, all doctor's appointments should be scheduled after school hours. Doctor's appointments made during school hours are unexcused absences and are coded as illegal unless it is an emergency.

ATTENDANCE, ABSENCES, AND LATENESS

Regular attendance at school is necessary in order that students receive continuity in their instructional areas. Children must report to school on time.

1. A written excuse from a parent/guardian is required by state law when a student is late or absent. This must list the dates absent and reason(s) for absence. It must accompany the student when he/she returns to school. If the school does not receive an absence note within 3 days, the absence is recorded as unexcused in the school register of attendance. Any unexcused absence is to be recorded as illegal in the Roll Book. This book is a LEGAL Document and is retained in the school indefinitely.

2. Parents/Guardians of students in GRADES K-8 must call the school between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. when the child is absent (718-847-3904).

3. All communicable diseases, such as chicken pox, mononucleosis, etc. should be reported to the school office immediately. A child absent 5 or more days or having a serious illness may not be readmitted to class without a doctor's note to return to school.

4. CHRONIC LATENESS will not be tolerated and if continued, the child (in Grades 3-8) will be required to serve detention after school from 3-4 PM. There will be one detention for every 3 days late. Parents will be notified in writing when the detention will be held. Parents of children in Grades K - 2 will receive a communication from the principal if lateness persists. Full cooperation is expected. A child who is constantly late begins the day poorly and causes disruptions to the Office, the teacher, and the other students.

5. The office staff or School Nurse will notify you if your child becomes ill in school. It is extremely important for you to submit a COMPLETED and SIGNED emergency card and continuously update the information.

6. Classes may not be interrupted once they are in session. If a child forgets an important item and you choose to bring it to the office, the child can claim it at the office between classes. Please make sure the item is clearly marked with your child's name and grade.

7. If your child is ill and is absent from school, homework and books can be provided at the end of the school day. Please call the school office before 9:00 a.m. and materials will be ready by dismissal. Schoolwork and homework are expected to be completed in a reasonable amount of time to be determined by child's teacher. All students are required to make up all work and tests missed during any absence. Please confer with the teacher.

***Reminder: Homework is available on-line at: www.stawoodhaven.com.

Our school policy regarding "Take Our Children to Work Day" is as follows:

Students participating in "Take Our Children to Work Day" are to obtain the approval of the administration. In order for a child to be considered for approval to participate in this event, that child must be performing satisfactorily in school and must have a good attendance record. Students who participate are required to submit an agenda of the day's events on the letterhead of the participating company at least three days prior to the event. Such activities should ensure that the child would be taking part in an educationally enriching experience. Students not meeting these requirements will be marked illegally absent.

CELL PHONES

Cell phones may be brought to school but must be turned off and be kept in the student's schoolbag in case of an extreme emergency. Any student, found using their phone during school hours and/or on school property without permission, will be asked to leave it in the office until dismissal. With repeated infractions the child will serve detention and lose the privilege of having the phone in his/her schoolbag.

CLASS ASSIGNMENTS, TESTS, AND MAKE-UP WORK

Assignments should serve as an educational instructional experience for the student. They are part of the student's grades and directly or indirectly affect the student's average in a particular subject. Assignments are given at the teacher's discretion and should be supervised by a parent or guardian. Study and reading assignments should be considered a daily task. Test papers should be examined, signed, and returned to the school the next day, along with corrections if deemed by teacher.

If a student is out for any length of time, he/she is responsible to get the daily work from a teacher or a classmate and complete it within a reasonable time after returning to class. In cases of a serious illness, a parent/teacher conference should be scheduled to discuss class work and assignments. Teachers are not required to, but may, at their discretion and convenience, give work assignments ahead of time if a student will be absent for a family vacation taken during school time. The student is responsible to get the work that has been covered from another student. Make-up tests and scheduled tests are given at the teacher's discretion but within two days of the student's return. ***Reminder: Homework is available on-line at: www.stawoodhaven.com ***

CURRICULUM

St. Thomas the Apostle School has a serious responsibility of assisting children in developing the basic skills and understanding that will insure a lifetime of learning. Central to every instructional experience is our religious education program. This program is a formal one and its attitudinal influence is extended to every part of our school day and hopefully into all the students' everyday lives.

In the basic subject areas of Math, Science, Social Studies, ELA, we follow the New York State and Brooklyn Diocese's Curriculum and Standards. We strive to move towards each student's proficiency in reading, writing, computation, and understanding of our community, country, and world. We do this in light of individual student's needs and interests, aware of the differences in their personal growth pattern and learning styles.

Teachers publish their classroom policies, procedures, methods of assessment, and communicate them to parents at the first Parent Teacher Meeting in September. Our primary goal at St. Thomas the Apostle School is to provide a learning experience that will develop the values, attitudes, knowledge, and skills necessary for our student to grow into mature Christian adults.

DISCIPLINE POLICY

Each staff member at St. Thomas the Apostle accepts responsibility for the maintenance of discipline and for the promotion of a program for the development of wholesome and Christ-like human relations. A student's behavior should conform to acceptable standards of conduct as established by the principal and teachers.

One of the most important lessons education should teach is discipline. While it does not appear as a subject, it underlies the whole educational structure of a school. It is the training that develops self-control and character. Discipline is the key to good conduct and proper consideration of other people. Without discipline, it is impossible for teaching or learning to take place.

When a student does not follow the school regulations, he/she must face the consequences of his/her behavior. The consequences differ depending on the severity of the infraction and on the number of occurrences of the infraction.

Teachers are required to treat each student and any infraction of policy by applying the Christian due process procedure. The student is given notice (within 24 hours) of what he/she did contrary to policy. The student is entitled to a hearing in which he/she is given an opportunity to present his/her side to the teacher. Depending on the severity of the action: the punishment or recourse is imposed or the teacher communicates with the student's parents/guardians concerning the incident(s) (within 24 hours); if no changes occur in the student's behavior, the principal will be notified; if the student does not make any modification to his/her behavior (time frame at the discretion of the principal) the student may be put on "Academic/Behavioral Probation" (a written contract between the student/parents (guardians), and the school) in which is stated the consequences/recourse for continued violation of policy.

Discipline Policy Continued

A student that behaves in a manner that contradicts school policies also may face the following consequences:

1. Detention - deemed necessary by school personnel. When detention is assigned the parent/guardian will receive a detention notice from school personnel or a phone call detailing the time and place detention is to be served.

2. In school suspension - incidents that deem it necessary to isolate the student from the class. Work will be provided and must be completed.

3. Out of school suspension - for serious incidents that involve disrespect or violent behavior. Suspension will be immediate. A note explaining the reason and course of action to be followed will be relayed to the parent/guardian. During a period of suspension a student is required to complete all projects, class work, homework, and notes missed during the period the student was suspended. Students may not return to class until all work is completed.

4. Expulsion - weapons, or anything which can be used as a weapon of any kind, as well as intentional physical violence against another human being, will not be tolerated. Any infraction against this rule may result in immediate expulsion at the discretion of the Principal and/or Pastor.

Students are to refrain from using or bringing narcotics, tobacco or alcoholic products to school.

Violations of any of the disciplinary codes contained in this handbook; on, but not limited to the vicinity of the school, may result in disciplinary action.

Note:

· If a child's behavior does not improve after repeated warnings and disciplinary actions, the student may need to find an alternate learning environment.

· Students who continually miss homework may receive lunch detention or may be kept after school at the teacher's discretion. Students may also need to attend extra help classes before, during, or after school, as a consequence of failing grades.

· Any action performed while wearing a school uniform, whether on premises or not, at anytime of the day, will be dealt with as an in-school action.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

Any child going home for lunch will always be dismissed from the 87^th Street building. Students going home for lunch must return by 12:00p.m.

88th Street Building

Half Day Nursery & Pre K Parents/Guardians will gather at the 88th Street doors. (Nursery closer to 88 Ave., Pre-K closer to Jamaica Ave.) at 11:30 AM. Please identify yourself to the teacher or aide to receive your child.
Full day Nursery & Pre K Parents/Guardians will enter and exit the school from the 88^th Street door closer to Jamaica Ave. at 2:15 P.M.
Kindergarten – 3^rd Grade Parents/Guardians will gather at the 88th Street doors. The children will be individually dismissed at 2:30 p.m. Please identify yourself and once you have your child, quickly proceed away from the door and school property in order to make room for others.

REMEMBER

*No child will be allowed to enter a car by his/or herself. *Please be ON TIME.

*Cooperation by all will make this procedure successful. * The ultimate goal is: The Children's Safety.

87th Street Building

Grades 4 to 8 at 2:35 p.m. - Teachers walk their classes to the comer of 87th Street & 88th Avenue.

The students are asked to either cross over 87th Street or continue around the Church and down to 88th Street on 88th Avenue.

We ask that no parent and/or student walk on the 88th Street school side to Jamaica Avenue. For the safety of all, please do not double park on either of our school blocks. Students exiting and entering cars must cross at the corner. 87^th Street is a fire emergency block. Once dismissed, no student is permitted back into the school buildings for forgotten books, assignments, or personal property.

Note: Any child not picked up by 2:45 p.m. will be brought to the After-school program (87^th St. Basement) and charged the daily rate.

DRESS CODE

Uniforms are to be worn at all times unless otherwise specified. or when using a N.U.T. card. N.U.T. cards MAY NOT be used: 1. when the children are attending church

2. or otherwise directed by a teacher

If for any reason the child cannot be in uniform on a particular day, they are to report to the principal first with a written excuse from a parent/guardian, then proceed to class. (See Uniforms for more details).

St Thomas's dress code prohibits attire or accessories which are libelous, which portray disruptive and/or obscene writing or pictures, or depict logos or emblems that encourage and/or condone the use of violence, prejudice, illegal drugs, tobacco products or alcoholic beverages. Students may not wear clothing that is distracting in nature and may interfere with the learning process. Clothing that bare midriffs, or display undergarments, blouses or shirts resembling undergarments, short shorts or mini skirts can cause distractions from the instructional process. They may also promote an unhealthy concern with physical appearance and are therefore not allowed to be worn in school. The responsibility of the students' dress and general appearance rests with the individual students and their parents.

Out of uniform forms will be distributed to any student not following the dress code. Parents must sign and return the form. After 3 infractions, parents will be notified and the student will serve AFTER SCHOOL detention. *

DRESS CODE FOR SPECIAL DAYS:

1. DRESS DOWN DAYS

However stylish, play clothes or dress clothes must remain modest and appropriate for our setting and a reflection of the integrity of the person. Low neckline shirts, tank tops or blouses, short skirts, tight fitting slacks, or slacks worn below the waistline are NOT permitted. If shorts are worn on dress down days they must be to the knee. NO SHORT SHORTS, BEACH FOOTWEAR OR BACKLESS SHOES, OR "HEELIES" ARE PERMITTED AT ANY TIME ON SCHOOL PROPERTY.

2. DRESS UP DAYS

Dress pants, skirts, dresses, button down dress shirt or sweater; shoes. *NO JEANS OR SNEAKERS*

DRUG, WEAPONS, VIOLENT ACTIONS/BEHAVIOR, AND ALCOHOL POLICY

St. Thomas the Apostle School shares the concern of many for the availability of drugs and alcohol in our community. The following policy will be adhered to during the school day and at school related activities and at any time on school grounds.

1. Any St. Thomas student who feels that drugs or alcohol have become a personal problem is encouraged to approach in confidence any member of the faculty, administration or parish priest. After careful consideration and personal discussion between the two parties, a plan of action will be chosen.

2. Where a high degree of suspicion exists that a student is a drug user, the faculty member will refer him/her to the principal. After discussion, a plan of action will be taken.

3. Any student discovered to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be subject to the following procedures:

a. The principal will be notified.

b. The student's parents/guardians will be immediately notified.

c. The student will not be allowed to attend classes.

d.Students may be referred to an outside agency and the principal on a monthly basis must receive professional and written evidence that he/she is receiving appropriate help for the problem. If this evidence of treatment is not forthcoming, the student may be subject to suspension or expulsion.

e. Should the student be found again under the influence of drugs or alcohol, even while obtaining professional assistance, he/she would be subject to possible expulsion.

4. No weapons are allowed. If found in student's possession the student may be subject to removal from St. Thomas the Apostle School.

5. Students found to be in possession, sale, or exchange of drugs in school, on school property or at school related activities will be subject to penalties commensurate with the gravity of their actions. The following procedures will be used in cases of possession, sale or exchange of drugs:

a. The student will be referred immediately to the Principal.

b. The student will be suspended.

c.The principal, parents/guardians and pastor will evaluate the case depending upon all the factors involved and will choose from the following alternatives:

A. Referral to an appropriate outside agency for assistance with the provision that evidence be shown that professional assistance is being rendered and the student's illegal behavior ceases immediately. Should the student repeat this possession, sale or exchange even while obtaining professional attention, it would be grounds for immediate expulsion.

B. Immediate expulsion.

EARLY DROP-OFF

Early drop-off is available to all students in grades N to 4^th. Students are to be brought to the 87^th Street building no earlier than 7:30 AM. Students arriving between 7:30-8:00 should enter the 87^th Street building. Details are available in the school office. Behavior during the early drop-off program must be the same as classroom behavior.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

St. Thomas the Apostle School will follow the same decisions as the schools in the Brooklyn Diocese in the case of inclement weather and school closings. If the New York City Public Schools are closed we will follow suit. Call the school office at 718-847-3904 and a recording will be available with directives. Information will also be available at our school's website: www.stawoodhaven.com. If there is no announcement, parents/guardians should assume that the school is open. If conditions are hazardous, the decision you make in your child's regard will be respected. You will be given a contact name and number in case of a school-closing emergency. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE RECTORY FOR INFORMATION.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are not required by the school and are at the discretion of the teachers with the approval of the principal. It is a privilege to attend a field trip, and it is the right of the school to deny a child's attendance on the trip. Although the child may not participate in this class trip he/she must attend school or else be marked illegally absent. Because the school assumes an important responsibility on planning these trips any student wishing to join a school group must bring the appropriate form, signed by a parent/guardian, requesting permission to participate. Money for field trips must be submitted to the homeroom teacher in a timely according to the teacher's directives. It is requested that all trip money be paid by check or money order payable to St. Thomas the Apostle School in an envelope marked with the child's name and class.

FIRE DRILLS & EMERGENCY REGULATIONS

Fire drill procedures are posted in each classroom and are reviewed by the teacher with each class. St.

Thomas follows the NYC Fire Department and Diocesan guidelines of practicing 12 times during the course of a school year. To insure the greatest possible safety the following rules must be followed:

1. Students should proceed quickly in a single line, without running.

2. Students should be alert for changes in normal procedures as directed by faculty members.

3. Silence must be observed for the duration of the drill.

If these rules are not complied with, then a consequence may result, e.g. detention.

Emergency regulations are documented in the school's Crisis Management Plan. These plans are located in each teacher's desk for easy access. This document is reviewed and revised yearly and supplies are replenished. To insure the greatest possible safety:

1. This procedure will be practiced at least 2 times a school year.

2. Evacuation of any kind will follow the procedures of a fire drill.

In the event we need to evacuate the building for an extended period of time, we would go to Mulz Hall (gym). If for any reason we need to leave the school block, we would relocate to St. Elizabeth.

(94-01 85^thStreet, Ozone Park). A sign will be posted on the school door to inform you of our relocation.

FUNDRAISING

Since the tuition and fees do not cover the entire cost of educating a St. Thomas student, each family is required to participate in major fundraising activities. Please refer to the Tuition Policy and the Fundraising Committee's Monthly Newsletter and flyers.

GRADUATION POLICY

St. Thomas participates in the Elementary School Program in accordance with the regulations of the Diocese of Brooklyn and awards Diplomas accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and

Schools. The Graduation ceremony is a function of St. Thomas in which the graduating class is honored. There are two speakers at the ceremony. They are the Valedictorian and the Salutatorian (highest point average in the 7th & 8^th grade.) The 8^th Grade students and parents are given St. Thomas' detailed Graduation Policy, which is available upon request, by anyone interested.

GUIDANCE

St. Thomas has a part-time guidance counselor, Mrs. Anne Yorke, on staff on Tuesdays, and Mrs. Abraham on Fridays.

Please feel free to contact her if you or your child/ren feels the need (718) 847-3904.

GUM CHEWING

Chewing gum is not allowed anywhere on St. Thomas the Apostle School's premises, and will be dealt with according to out-of-uniform dress code rules.

HEALTH

New admissions to our school must complete a new medical form with updated immunizations.

A bi-annual dental check up is recommended for all students. Completion notes should be sent to the school to be filed in health record cards. .

The grade level teacher or school nurse gives annual eye-tests, any problems must be documented and parents are responsible to follow up.

Annual hearing tests are administered to certain grades. Problems must be documented and parents are responsible to follow up.

HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

The Home School Association is your chance to become actively involved in your child's school experience. The HSA performs many functions during the school year with the following objective in mind:

To draw the home and school into a closer relationship so that parents and teachers might fully cooperate in the education of the child.

All parents belong to the Home School Association.

The Home School Association will meet every other month in an open forum. All parents are highly encouraged to attend these meetings. An agenda is derived from issues presented by the parents or the administration. At times, there may also be a guest speaker.

During the school year, the HSA sponsors various events to help provide a positive social atmosphere.

In the past, we have had many great family functions including: The Halloween Family Social, Career Night, and Breakfast with Santa. The children also get to experience good times at the School Dances and other planned activities. The HSA provides additional fundraising opportunities and services to the students including: Santa Store, and Mother's Day Plant Sale.

We encourage every family at St. Thomas the Apostle School to support our efforts. Volunteers, suggestions, and new ideas are always welcome.

HOMEROOM PROCEDURES

Homeroom procedures include: attendance, morning prayers, Pledge of Allegiance, collecting of notices and money, and daily announcements. The length of the homeroom period varies with grade levels.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an integral and necessary part of the learning process. Homework reinforces and supplements the facts and concepts taught during the school day. It also gives the students an opportunity to practice and use skills they must master.

Homework is given daily. All teachers expect students to study, review, and read for pleasure on the days when written homework is not given. All written homework is to be reviewed, signed by a parent/guardian, and returned to school the next day.

Homework Policy: Grades K-2: Homework notebook and/or assignment must be signed by parent/guardian.

Grades 3-8: Homework will be averaged into that subject's grade each trimester.

Remember, homework is whatever the directive is from the teacher.

***Reminder: Homework is available on-line at: www.stawoodhaven.com

LIBRARY

St. Thomas the Apostle School is equipped with an extensive library. Students in grades N to 7^th enjoy a

40-minute library class once a week.

LOST & FOUND

St. Thomas students are expected to bring to the office any items that have been found. All articles of clothing and school items are to be carefully labeled with the child's name, so that they may be returned.

LUNCHTIME PROCEDURES

Children eating in school are expected to behave properly. They are to follow all lunchroom and school yard regulations. They are responsible for cleaning up the area where they have eaten their lunch.

Students are required to respect the authority of the teachers and adult volunteers. When the hand bell is rung, all talking is to stop, and students are to listen to the teacher for further instructions.

A student whose behavior is unsatisfactory may be subject to disciplinary action. Consequences depend on the seriousness of the situation and may include: warnings, a note sent home to the parents, lunch detention, parent conference, and possibly even withdrawal from the program. The administration reserves the right to remove any student from the cafeteria and lunchtime activities who is not cooperating with the lunchroom staff, school staff, and lunch volunteers. If a student needs to be removed from the lunchtime activities, parents will need to make alternate arrangements for the child's supervision during lunchtime.

LUNCH ROOM PROCEDURES

1. Upon entering the lunchroom, students should go to their assigned tables, and remain seated.

2. Students are not permitted to table hop, brush or comb their hair, throw food, or engage in other disruptive behavior.

3. Students' eating area is to be left in a neat and clean manner.

4. The teacher in charge will inspect each table. There should be no food, containers, or papers remaining on the tables or floors.

5. During inclement weather, schoolyard activities will not be possible. Books, puzzle-books, or work assigned by the teacher should be sent down with the students, so they will have a quiet activity to occupy their time.

THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO RUNNING, ROUGH PLAYING, BULLYING OR BALL PLAYING PERMITTED IN THE SCHOOLYARD AT ANY TIME.

MEDICAL OFFICE

This year the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene assist us by providing us with a full time school nurse. The nurse's office is located on the 2^ND floor of the 88^th Street Building. The nurse can be contacted at (718) 850-5486, during regular school hours.

In New York City, the Department of Health has established clearly defined protocols and procedures that must be followed by their nurses. These protocols and procedures have been designed to protect the students, the school population, and the local school. The protocol and procedures are available upon request at the school or nurse's office.

MEDICATION DISPENSION

School personnel cannot administer medication, prescription or over the counter medication to students. Please consult with the school nurse about self-administration and use of asthma inhalers.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Birthday and special celebrations are to be kept low key and not interfere with the daily routines of the class. Cupcakes, cookies, and donuts are acceptable. The classroom teacher should be notified 3 (three) days in advance. We ask that you refrain from sending elaborate, expensive, or extravagant party bags. No video cameras are allowed. Parents are NOT allowed in the classrooms during the celebration.

• Any communication sent home through the school or student body must be approved and initialed by the administration.

· All visitors must sign in at the school office to receive a visitor's pass.

·Twice a year students are invited to take individual portraits. Notification will be sent home regarding procedures to be followed. Students taking portraits are allowed to "Dress Up" on that day.

· School staff may, but are not required to, write letters of recommendation for students.

·The Parent/Student Handbook is reviewed and revised each year. Parents and students are invited to send suggestions, or request clarification, regarding the content of this handbook, in writing, to the administration. The faculty will consider such correspondence.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

St. Thomas the Apostle School does not discriminate by sex, race, color or national origin. St. Thomas admits students of any race, color, national or ethic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. St. Thomas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, or ethic origin in the administration of educational policies, admission policies, loan programs, and athletic or other school administered programs.

PARENT NEWSLETTER

A newsletter is distributed to each student every other month from October to June. Its purpose is to keep parents/guardians aware of school news, student accomplishments, upcoming events, and pertinent dates.

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Good discipline originates in the home. The parent/guardian is the first teacher of the child and should develop in the child good behavior habits and proper attitudes toward school.

A parent/guardian should:

· Recognize that the teacher assumes the parenting role while your child is in school.

· Teach your child respect for law, authority, the rights of others, and for private and public property.

· Be sure that your child is clean and is dressed in a complete clean uniform as stated in the dress code.

· Provide a nutritious breakfast for your child every morning, so he/she is prepared to do school work.

· Review daily and weekly homework assignments, being especially attentive to all test results.

· Arrange for prompt and regular school attendance and comply with attendance rules and procedures.

· Be on time to pick up your child at dismissal. Please call the school office in case of an emergency to notify the school that you will be late. If this happens on a continual basis your child will be placed in the after-school program and you will be charged the daily rate and registration fee.

· Notify the school in writing if someone else will be picking your child up. We cannot let someone else pick up your child without proper notification.

· Work with the school in carrying out recommendations made in the best interests of your child, including discipline.

· Talk with your child about school activities; show an active interest in report cards and progress reports:

· encourage your child to be enthusiastic about school work

· schedule sufficient time for home study

· have a suitable, quiet place to study at home, at a regularly scheduled time

· have pencils, pens, paper, books, dictionary, ruler, etc., at hand

· have family agreements that are kept regarding the use of the telephone or television

· suggest the following when you are told there is no written homework:

· Reading: a continuous assignment for everyone-including magazines, newspapers, and books chosen for enjoyment.

· Reviewing: class notes, arithmetic processes, grammar usage, spelling, etc.

· Research: science or other long-term projects that have been assigned.

· Inform the school, in writing, of any change of address or telephone number.

· Report to the school office when entering the school building.

· Arrange to have your child picked up at school when the child is ill or when appointments require leaving the building before regular dismissal time. Sign out the child in the school office.

· Bring allergies and special medical conditions to the attention of the homeroom teacher. Such notification should be done in writing with a copy sent to the school nurse and administration. Such records must be updated each school year.

· Notify the teachers of all family situations that may affect the child's schoolwork (illness, death, divorce, etc.).

· Realize that the office telephone is a business phone and should only be used to notify school personnel

of reason for absence and emergency situations.

· Attend required Grade Level and Progress Report meetings.

· Support school fundraising activities.

· Understand that your child's behavior in and around the school building sets an example for all children in the school.

In situations where orders of protection or special custodial agreements are in effect, parents are advised to bring these documents to the attention of the classroom teacher and/or administration. Copies of such agreements should be on file in the school office. It is the parent or guardian's responsibility to update the paperwork as necessitated by such agreements. Such agreements are legal agreements between the parties involved and subject to interpretation by civil law. The school cannot intervene or interfere in such matters.

Your interest and support are important to your child, and greatly appreciated by the school personnel.

PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION

Parents are made aware of their child's progress in the following ways: through informal meetings; written notices; telephone calls; a mid-trimester written progress report; and verbally at a trimester parent/teacher conference. Parents are made aware, in writing, of the possibility of retention (and in Grade 8 no diploma), or summer school (and in Grade 8 - hold over of diploma), on the second trimester report card, which is discussed at the parent/teacher conference. Teachers are required to keep a dated journal of all communications that occur with parents.

The school program provides an excellent systematic review of goals, methods, and means of evaluation by

keeping track of the children's progress by:

· holding an orientation in September and a mid-year meeting in January. Attendance at these meetings is mandatory. If a parent or guardian cannot attend the meeting they should arrange to meet with the teacher at a mutually agreed upon time.

· providing students in grades 1-8 with a mid-trimester Warning Notice.

· trimester Progress Report cards.

· letters to parents when Warning Notices, tests, and homework papers are not returned or signed.

· parent/teacher conferences at the request of the teacher or parent. (Parents can call or write for

an appointment with the principal or any teacher.)

· telephone communications

As problems arise they should first be brought to the attention of the classroom teacher. No situation can be resolved unless it is brought directly to the person(s) involved.

Written reports of all parent/teacher meetings are kept on file. Teachers keep a log of all communications and written notices.

A monthly school calendar is sent home on or before the first of each month to keep parents and guardians informed of all parish and school activities. The calendar should be kept in a safe place or somewhere that it can be seen regularly. Please note any early dismissal days, days school will be closed or any special events taking place during the month.

PHONE CALLS

Students may not call home unless there is an emergency and must receive permission from the office personnel to do so. Students may not call home for lunch or any forgotten materials unless required to so by the principal or a teacher. Any student using the phone for any other reason must pay fifty cents.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

All students must participate in the physical education program unless medical reasons make this impossible. A doctor's note is necessary in order to excuse the student from physical education classes.

PROMOTION /RETENTION/SUMMER SCHOOL POLICIES

St. Thomas the Apostle School follows the Diocese of Brooklyn's Promotion and Retention Policies.

All promotions should be based on a total evaluation of a pupil's growth in all areas of development. Parents/guardians will be continuously involved and notified in writing of potential academic or behavioral problems.

Students failing to achieve required program objectives in the basic areas of reading, writing, and math should be held over. The purpose of retention is to ensure students opportunities for success.

The final responsibility for a pupil's promotion or retention rests with the principal.

Promotion/retention/summer school policies continue

Attendance at summer school is mandatory if a child:

1. fails any of the major subjects. Children attending summer school are not given grade placements

until the successful completion of their courses.

2. scores 1 year or more below grade level on Standardized Testing in Reading, Math, or Language Arts.

3. scores below competency standards on the NYS Assessment. A student who fails three or more subjects may be retained.

If a student is in danger of being retained, the following procedures will be followed:

1. the parents/guardians will be notified by the end of the second trimester of the possibility of retention.

2. meetings will be set up between the teacher and the child's parents or guardians. At these meetings, methods of remediation will be discussed and agreed upon. These methods will involve both the school and home environment, so it is mandatory that there is parental cooperation and input.

3. reevaluation of the student and his/her progress will take place by the end of May.

4. the final decision about a student's retention will be made after summer remediation has taken place in

consultation with the parent.

8^th Graders Note: Students who through early identification and assessment indicate difficulty in completing required program objectives are to be considered potential holdovers. These students should be provided with remedial instruction to aid in the mastery of required basic skills for that grade level by the end of the year. By the end of May, the academic status of the student should be re-evaluated and recommendations should be communicated in writing to the parents. If the recommendation of summer school attendance is decided upon, the student's diploma will be awarded after successful completion of the required course(s). If the student does not successfully complete the required course(s) the high school that accepted the student will be notified and the ultimate decision will be theirs. Students failing to achieve required program objectives in the basic areas of ELA (English/Language Arts - reading, writing) and math should be held over. In addition to not being rewarded the diploma, the high school to which they were accepted would be notified that the student had not satisfactorily completed the requirements of grade eight and therefore the student will have to repeat the grade at the local public school. The students who are potential holdovers may participate in the public graduation ceremony but their diplomas will not be in the diploma case and therefore ensuring the privacy of the student's status.

RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES

During the year, prayer services and liturgies for the entire school will take place in St. Thomas the Apostle Church. Each month a different grade level(s) will plan and host a celebration. Parents and members of the parish community are invited. The dates will appear on a monthly calendar.

RELIGIOUS FORMATION

One of the main purposes of our existence as a Catholic school is the religious formation of our students.

Because parents are the primary educators of their children, we need your cooperation in guiding their religious growth. Children are primarily influenced by example. Faith need not be taught. It is more beneficial when it is shared and experienced. Listed below are ways for you to share your faith and provide for your child's religious formation:

SERVICE: Show children how good it feels to serve others. Make it easy for them to help and use their skills. Support school activities by actively joining and volunteering for committees and special events. CELEBRATIONS: Family events, holidays, and special church observances are chances to focus on the spiritual nature of life. They are a good time to share family and cultural traditions.

BIBLE: Read age-appropriate Bible stories to your child. There are many children's and young people's editions available.

CHURCH: Encourage participation and join with your child in church activities. It's a great way to socialize, while enriching and deepening their faith.

SCHOOL HOURS & PROCEDURES

88th Street School Building

Grades K to 4 Doors open at 7:50. Students proceed directly to their classrooms through the 88th St. door closest to the 88^TH Avenue.

Homeroom begins at 8:00.

Late at 8:00 AFTER 8:00 ALL STUDENTS MUST REPORT TO THE 87TH STREET ENTRANCE

FOR A LATE PASS.

Classes begin at 8:10. Classes end at 2:20.

Dismissal at 2:30. (Please refer to Dismissal Procedures.) . After 2:45 children will be brought to the After-school Program in the 87^th Street Basement.

*Parents will be charged the daily rate of $15.00*

Half day Nursery & half day Pre-K 8:30 to 11 :30

Doors open at 8:30. Students proceed directly to their classrooms through the 88^th St. doors (Nursery

closest to 88^th Ave.; PreK closest to Jamaica Ave.) .

Full day Nursery & Pre-K 8:30 to 2:30

Doors open at 8:30. Students proceed directly to their classrooms through the 88^th Street doors. (Nursery closest to 88^th Ave.; PreK closest to Jamaica Ave.)