Handbook
CONTENTS
Mission
Statement
History
Philosophy
Goals, Plan and Objectives
Admission
Registration
Tuition
Attendance
The
Continuous Progress Program
Curriculum
Religion
Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Art
Music
Computer
Foreign Language
Physical Education
Library
Homework
Testing
Text Books
Report Cards
Promotion Policy
Family Folders
Playground
Cafeteria
Field Trips
School Supplies
School Equipment and Property
Before and After School Program
Uniform Policy
Visitors
Parent Teacher Guild
Church Functions
Transportation
Weather Emergencies
Auxiliary Services
Title I Reading
Act 89
Services
School Nurse
Discipline and Behavior
Student Responsibilities & Faculty Rights
Invitations &
Communications
Alcohol Policy
Substance Abuse Policy
Weapons Policy
Expulsion Policy
Internet Use Policy
Electronic Items
Athletic Association
Educators’ Oath
Parents’ Prayer
Commonly Used Prayers
The Sign
of the Cross
Apostles’ Creed
Hail Mary
Our Father
Glory Be
Act of
Contrition
Memorare
Prayer to my Guardian Angel
Morning
Offering
Simple
Morning Offering
Blessing
Before Meals
Blessing
After Meals
Oh
Sacrament Most Holy (at entrance to church)
Prayer Before the Crucifix (after Mass)
Act of Hope
Act of Love
Simple
Acts of Faith, Hope and Love
The Angelus (at
lunch)
The Marian
Prayer (at lunch during the Easter Season)
MISSION STATEMENT
Saint Gregory School, as part of the total educational
community of Saint Gregory Parish, has as its primary
purpose: to create a school climate that is permeated by
the Gospel Spirit of freedom and love. In this spirit of
freedom and love, each person is recognized,
acknowledged and accepted as a unique and valuable
individual.
It is our aim to deepen the faith of each individual by
giving daily opportunities to acquire an intimate
knowledge of the person and message of Jesus Christ.
Each individual is encouraged to translate this
knowledge and awareness of Jesus into their daily lives
in the school, at home, in the church community and in
the neighborhoods where they live. By relating all
knowledge to the good news of our salvation, it is hoped
that the light of faith will illumine everything that is
learned.
By keeping this door of faith open, it is our belief
that the true teacher, the Spirit, will instruct all of
us daily.
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HISTORY
Since Saint Gregory School was established in January of
1911, it has provided a quality Catholic education to
the children of the area. The school presently has
students enrolled in grades K through 8. The student
body is made up of children from four (4) counties:
Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Lawrence, and from eight
(8) Catholic parishes: Our Lady of Peace, St. Ferdinand,
St. Gregory, Sts. John & Paul, St Justin, St. Kilian,
St. Matthias and St. Peter. We also have several members
of various non-catholic churches. Transportation is
provided from ten (10) public school districts:
Ambridge, Butler, Ellwood City, Freedom, Mars, North
Allegheny, Riverside, Rochester, Seneca Valley, and
Slippery Rock.
The present staff of St. Gregory is made up of the
Pastor, Rev. Robert M. Miller, a full time lay
principal, twelve (12) full time teachers, three (3)
aides, a full time secretary, a full time
secretary/librarian, a lunch room manager, a day care
supervisor and numerous volunteers. All teachers are
required to hold state certification in elementary
education and diocesan accreditation to teach in a
Catholic School in the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Teachers
are also required to obtain the state mandated Act 48
hours to keep up dated every five years and all staff
members have attended training in “Protecting God’s
Children” through the Diocese of Pittsburgh and have
clearances on file with the school.
The school first received a certificate of accreditation
good for ten (10) years from the Middle States
Association in April of 1990 after completing an
intensive self study involving ‘The Vision and Values
Program’, a long range improvement plan, a three day
Middle States team visit and the writing of a self study
handbook. In October of 1999 the school was again
visited by The Middle States Association of Colleges and
Schools and was reaccredited for another 10 years in May
of 2000. The Middle States Evaluation is an ongoing
process requiring submission of updated plans every
three years.
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PHILOSOPHY
Each teacher, as a dedicated, committed agent of the
Church, willingly assumes the task of presenting in a
positive way the authentic teachings of the Church.
This is achieved through a solid religion program and
active student/teacher participation in church
liturgies. Maintaining the Catholic identity of the
school is the first and foremost obligation of all staff
members. The child’s total educational program is
realized through the use of curricula, value-oriented
goals and objectives in each phase of the state mandated
educational program. Therefore, the child’s faith
foundation, initiated by the parents, becomes his/her
solid foundation for meeting the material challenges in
the world of today and tomorrow.
The entire parish school community reflects a
gospel-witness spirit that dominates the wide range of
personal and experiential growth. As this faith spirit
develops toward maturity, each student gradually masters
a Catholic identity that will produce action in terms of
God and others: service to God, to His Church and to all
people.
This Catholic identity is fostered through a yearly
theme built around the theory that all people deserve
respect as a Child of God and that as a Child of God we
are all responsible for our actions. The yearly theme is
focused on in all classes throughout the entire school
at a level appropriate for the children in that class.
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GOALS, PLAN AND OBJECTIVES
GOAL:
That the Catholic identity of Saint Gregory School may
be enhanced through a daily striving by faculty, staff
and students to imitate God’s love for all life by
fostering a sense of respect and responsibility for life
at all stages and in all forms.
PLAN OF ACTION:
This goal will be sought by daily attempting to make
respect for God, others and ourselves a part of our
school environment and by stressing that we are all
responsible for our actions.
OBJECTIVES:
1. To keep the Catholic identity of the
school as the primary focus in all areas of the
curricula.
2. To focus on Jesus’ concern and love for
all persons and His many deeds of
kindness for the
forgotten, lonely and outcasts of society.
3. To use the phrase in the Our Father ~
forgive us our trespasses as we forgive
those who trespass
against us ~ as the primary focus of our prayers.
4. To plan school wide projects, bulletin
boards, etc. centered on an awareness of
and respect for
differences in people.
5. To encourage staff and students to
practice taking responsibility for actions and to
use various
activities throughout the year that remind all of us
that we are
responsible for our
actions and for the decisions and choices we make, and
that
we will have to
answer to God for any harm that our choices may cause to
ourselves or
others.
6. To plan service projects for each class
as well as school wide projects that will
both make the
students aware of the needs of others and will provide
for those
needs through the
efforts of the student body.
7. To plan prayer services and place
banners throughout the school reminding
faculty and
students that bullying of any type in wrong in the eyes
of God and that
we must not only be
aware that we shouldn’t bully but that failure to stop
bullying
is also wrong and
we will be held accountable for not intervening to
prevent
bullying by others.
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ADMISSION
St. Gregory School admits students of any faith or race
and provides the same rights, privileges, programs and
activities to all who are enrolled in the school.
However, since we are a Catholic school, all students
are expected to fulfill all classroom requirements
concerning the subject of religion and to attend and
participate in weekly church services and programs with
the exception of receiving the sacraments.
School regulations, in regards to admission of pupils,
specify that a child entering Kindergarten must be five
(5) years of age before September 1. There are no
exceptions to this rule.
All students entering Kindergarten must be immunized for
Diphtheria and Tetanus (4 or more properly spaced with
one on or after the fourth birthday) (usually received
as DPT, DtaP, DT, or Td vaccine), Measles (2 properly
spaced), Mumps (1), Rubella (1) (The health department
recommends that the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines
be administered as MMR#1 and MMR#2), Polio (3 or more
properly spaced), Hepatitis B (3 properly spaced) and
Varicella (Chicken Pox) (either from vaccination,
history of disease or laboratory testing). The student’s
birth and baptismal certificate (if not baptized at St.
Gregory Church) must be presented at initial
registration. Verification of these documents will be
noted on the student’s Permanent Record Card.
There is a one-time only, non-refundable, registration
fee of $50.00. This fee is due at the time of the
initial registration. When a student transfers into St.
Gregory School, records must be presented and reviewed
by the Principal before consideration for a child’s
admittance to the school will be approved. There is a
short probationary period to determine the ability of
the child to adjust to the school program and policies.
If a child cannot or will not adjust to the school’s
program and policies within the first report period the
child is in attendance, the parents will need to make
other arrangements for that child’s education within a
one month period following notification. All
registrations must have the approval of the Pastor
before registration is finalized.
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REGISTRATION
Registrations will be taken for the 2007-2008 school
year beginning Monday, January 29th. For
Kindergarten registrations please bring your child’s
Birth Certificate, Baptism Certificate, Record of
Immunizations and $50.00 Registration Fee.
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TUITION
Each family is expected to contribute a
set amount of money to help defray the cost of the total
school expense. The financial committee, following the
Diocesan guidelines and with the approval of the Pastor,
determines the cost per pupil on a yearly basis. A
deposit of 10% is due by the 1st of August each year.
Families belonging to Catholic parishes other than Saint
Gregory Parish must have a ‘Pastor Verification Form’
signed by the Pastor of their parish each year. Failure
to have this signed form returned to the school office
by the 1st of August will result in the family being
responsible for the full tuition amount. To receive
Diocesan subsidy, a family must be registered, active
members of a Catholic parish. This means that the family
must attend weekly Mass, use the envelopes assigned to
the family, and be actively involved in fund-raising
activities.
All checks for tuition should be made payable to St.
Gregory School, placed in a sealed envelope, and sent to
the school. A monthly statement from the parish
accountant keeps parents updated on the tuition account.
All tuition must be paid in full by May 31st.
Families may apply for tuition aid through the Diocesan
Grant Program and the Scholastic Opportunity Scholarship
(SOS) Fund in March of each year or through the parish
in September of each year. The form for parish aid is
sent home in the first family folder each year and the
information on Diocesan Grants and the SOS Fund is sent
home each February. If a family does not apply for
Diocesan aid or for the SOS Fund, then no aid will be
approved at the Parish level unless circumstances have
changed during the year.
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ATTENDANCE
Tardy Bell 8:45 am
Start of Class 8:50 am
Close of Class 3:00 pm
Dismissal 3:05 pm
Regular attendance at school is a major factor in
determining academic success. A phone call from a
child’s parent or guardian should be received by 9:30 am
on the first day that a child will be absent. This
report of absence will assure the school that the child
is safe. It will also assure the parent that classroom
assignments will be logged by the teacher and sent home
for the child or kept on file until the child’s return.
When a pupil is absent the student must submit a written
excuse to the teacher as required by state law. Excuses
must show the date of the absence and a parent or
guardian’s signature. Absentee slips will be provided by
the school for this purpose. If this excuse is not
submitted within three days of a child’s absence, the
absence will be classified as Unexcused. An excused
absence includes cases of illness, death in the family
or other grave reasons. Unexcused absences include
truancy, a missed bus, or parental neglect.
According to Pennsylvania School Code, Section 1332,
“The absence of any pupil who remains out of school with
or without parent’s permission, and is not absent
because of illness or for other urgent reasons, as
defined in the School Code, shall be unexcused. Such
absence will be recorded as ‘unlawful-unexcused’ for a
pupil who is under compulsory attendance age. Section
1333, “Any such child who has been absent three days, or
their equivalent, during the term of compulsory
attendance, without lawful excuse…shall be given written
notice. If, after such notice is given…, attendance is
again violated by the person, such person shall be
liable…for referral to the magistrate.” The school has
the right to request a doctor’s excuse if a child is
absent too often or the reason for the absences is in
question.
On days when a child is tardy, the parent/guardian must
sign the child in at the office. When the child has been
signed in they will receive a pass to get into class and
the parent/guardian can then leave. The child will not
be permitted to enter the classroom without the pass
from the office. Any child coming in tardy and not
signed in at the office will be marked absent for the
entire day. The office sign-in sheet is the only record
we have of a late arrival. Any child arriving after
10:10 will be marked absent for the morning. Children
who leave school before 1:40 will be marked absent for
the afternoon.
Early dismissal requests must be in writing by a
custodial parent/guardian. The request should include
the date, the reason for the early dismissal, the time
of the dismissal and the parent/guardian’s name who is
requesting the early leave of absence. The
parent/guardian must sign the child out in the office.
Please note that these precautions are all in place to
ensure your child’s safety.
In the event that an educational family vacation is
planned during the school year, parents must inform the
Principal and all teachers involved two weeks in advance
of the said vacation. Parents must assume responsibility
for the completion of all assignment work and teaching
material that is covered during that time.
Students are the responsibility of St. Gregory School
from the time they arrive on the property in the morning
until they leave the building at the close of the school
day. For this reason, it is the policy of the school
that no child may leave the property without the
permission of the custodial parent/guardian and the
Principal.
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THE CONTINUOUS
PROGRESS PROGRAM
Saint Gregory School as part of the
Diocese of Pittsburgh is committed to a program of
education that seeks knowledge and practice of the
Catholic faith, academic excellence, moral courage and
the learning of the faith in the light of social
teachings of the Church. In the “Continuous Growth
Program” of the Diocese of Pittsburgh students advance
through a defined curriculum according to their
individual needs and abilities.
In addition to meeting all the requirements of the
Pennsylvania Department of Education, the curriculum
gives special attention to the integration of Gospel
values. This program of education makes it possible for
St. Gregory students to advance educationally through
defined levels of competency according to their
individual needs and God-given abilities. Curriculum
Guidelines for all subject areas are utilized by Saint
Gregory School and are provided through the Department
for Catholic Schools.
Learning for each child is an individual matter and is
unique with each person. Flexibility is the key word in
consideration of each child's needs. In subject areas,
children are often grouped according to the skill they
are being taught or the concept they are learning. Since
the grouping is flexible, each student advances when
he/she is ready for advancement.
This program enables the principal and/or teacher to
have extended groupings that will ensure challenges to
the gifted, pace setting for the average student and
success for the slow learner.
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CURRICULUM
Our curriculum guidelines are correlated with the
Continuous Progress Philosophy and our Vision and Values
Program. Because of the integration of Gospel values
within the Curriculum, the faculty and staff fulfill the
mission "To Teach As Jesus Did”. Children discover their
unique giftedness and personal dignity by working within
a Christ-centered community. This holistic development
within a Catholic atmosphere helps to provide the
children with an edge in combating the impact of the
materialistic world.
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RELIGION
The introduction of the basic prayers in our
Kindergarten religion program starts the children on
their Christ-centered journey. In addition to learning
their prayers, the kindergarten students learn many
Bible stories and basic Catholic traditions & beliefs as
part of their instruction. This program prepares the
young children to participate more fully in the life of
reflection, worship, and commitment to love and service
that all members of the Catholic community share.
The Harcourt ©2007 "Call to Faith" religion program used
in grades K-8 is a comprehensive program of our Catholic
faith presenting the scriptures, doctrines and
traditions in lessons that teach the truths of our faith
based on a scope and sequence of complete Catholic
teachings. In grades 7 and 8 the students also use the
Leaflet Missal Company ©1995 “Outlines of the Catholic
Faith”. Bible study, an understanding of the liturgy and
sacraments, is a vital part of the program for grades 7
and 8 as they prepare for the reception of the Sacrament
of Confirmation.
Each text is enriched with prayers, scripture, lives of
the saints, tests and lessons on the liturgical year
that help reinforce our philosophy that through
continuous progress learning, each child will become a
democratic faith-filled agent of tomorrow and make a
difference in our changing world. Grades 5-8 are also
presented with five (5) classes per year on the Catholic
view of family, marriage, and human sexuality. These
lessons are part of the Catholic Vision of Love from the
Diocese of Pittsburgh.
All teachers are certified through special diocesan
courses to teach religion. In addition, one class per
week is taught by Father Bob to the Middle Grade
students when Father is available.
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LANGUAGE ARTS
The language arts curriculum guidelines
coupled with a motivated and creative teacher will
enable each student to progress to their potential in
learning the life-long skills of reading, English,
handwriting and spelling. The use of a language arts
block allows for flexibility in scheduling to meet the
needs of each child. This language arts block together
with integrated texts will assure that the children are
learning not only skills, but the application of those
skills in daily life situations.
Textbooks used in language arts include McGraw Hill
©1997 “Spotlight on Literature” for Grades 6-8 as well
as Glencoe ©2001 “Writer’s Choice Grammar &
Composition”. The Scholastic ©1996 “Literacy Place”
series is used in grades 1-5. This program includes
separate text for spelling and grammar. The students in
grades 1 through 5 also use the Houghton Mifflin English
©2001 for additional grammar support. Grades K through 5
also have the additional assistance of “Teach Me
Writing” Kits ©2003.The Abrams and Company Inc., ©1999
“Letter People” program is used for Kindergarten.
Students in grades K-1 also use “Handwriting Without
Tears” for beginning handwriting skills. In addition to
these basic texts each teacher makes use of many
supplemental materials in each language arts class.
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MATHEMATICS
Houghton-Mifflin ©2002 "Mathematics” offers active
learning involving problem solving and connections to
daily life for students in grades K-5. This curriculum
presents opportunities for students to use math skills
in every day situations. This subject range permeates
problem solving in real life situations. Supplementary
materials include problem solving computer software,
calculators, math games and manipulatives. “Prentice
Hall Mathematics Course I” ©2002 is used in grade 6 as a
transition from mathematics to pre-algebra. Prentice
Hall “Pre-Algebra” and “Algebra” ©2007 is used in grades
7 and 8. These programs highlight applications and
integrate statistics, probability and geometry. With the
textbooks for grades 6 through 8, each student also has
available an interactive Text CD Rom for use at home.
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SCIENCE
The science curriculum encompasses
concept formation and processes expressed in behavioral
objectives. The teacher permeates content and process
with Christian values. The primary goal of this subject
is to have students realize the sacredness of life, the
establishment of peace in the world, the never ending
work for justice and the responsibility to be
co-creators in the continuing progress of our lives.
Students are encouraged to construct science concepts
for themselves through inquiry and investigation.
Experiments are a part of the curriculum at all grade
levels giving students a chance to plan, conduct, write
conclusions and share knowledge on experiments.
Health classes are also included as part of the science
curriculum at every grade level. The new science lab,
opened in April of 2006, is available for every class to
use for a lab period once a week.
Holt Science & Technology short-Course Series ©2005 is
used by the middle school students in grades 6 through
8. The series is composed of 5 courses for Life Science,
5 courses for Earth Science and 5 courses for Physical
Science and provides an excellent foundation for high
school science. Included with each course is a kit with
all supplies necessary for experiments in the lab.
Macmillan/McGraw Hill ©1993 Science is used for grades
3-5. This includes all activity kits containing the
materials needed for all experiments mentioned in the
textbooks. McGraw Hill/National Geographic Society ©2000
science series is used in Grades 1 and 2. Additional
material is obtained for grades K through 2 by use of
the Weekly Reader magazine which provides both science
and social studies topics.
Meeks Heit ©1999 “Totally Awesome Health” is used in
grades 3-8 for Health classes. Scholastic ©1994 “You and
Your Body” is used in grades 1 and 2. Grade 5 receives
18 weeks of instruction from a specially trained
Zelienople Police Officer in the “DARE” program. This is
an anti-drug/anti-violence program.
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SOCIAL STUDIES
Glencoe ©1999 “American History: The
Modern Era Since 1865” is used in grade 8. This program
depicts the history of the United States from the post
Civil War era to today. Primary source documents are
integrated with an inspiring narrative that brings the
students an up close view of the events that have shaped
their lives.
Prentice Hall ©2002 “World Geography Building a Global
Perspective” is the present textbook for grade 7.
Macmillian/McGraw-Hill – Adventures in Time & Place
Series is used in Grades 6, 5 and 4. Grade 6 uses “Our
World” ©2003, Grade 5 uses “United States” ©2001 and
grade 4 uses “Regions” ©2001. Macmillan/McGraw Hill "The
World Around Us" is used in grades 3 and 2. Grade 3 uses
“Communities” ©1993 and Grade 2 uses “Neighborhoods”
©1995. All these series provides an interesting view of
history through the discussion of decisions, their
historical consequences and the use of biographical
materials and debates. Geography is integrated into the
story of history and consistent references are made to
maps, graphs, diagrams and globes. A strong patriotism
is emphasized with inspiring stories of citizens who
have made a difference. These series also show
multicultural connections with stories about men, women
and children from all regions and cultures.
Silver Burdett Ginn ©1988 Social Studies “Families” is
used by Grade 1 as an introduction to Social Studies in
conjunction with the current events part of the Weekly
Reader.
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ART
The art curriculum is a branch of the finer arts in
which learning overlaps in a number of goals. These
objectives include the study of graphic arts, drawing,
painting, clay modeling, and studying the works of
outstanding artists.
Skills acquired by experience, study, and/or observation
of this media reinforce the beauty and creativity of the
Master Artist, God, the Creator of all people.
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MUSIC
The music media is one of the finer arts that uses a
variety of tools to develop the sophisticated concepts
and understandings of the world of music. Our text has a
six (6) point teaching plan for every musical
experience. The purpose of this series is not only to
deepen a love for the beauty of music, but also to
provide opportunities for creative experiences and
appreciation, curriculum correlation, and informational
backgrounds of outstanding composers.
Grades 4-8 have the opportunity to participate in band
and are given weekly instruction. The band instructor is
hired through the Diocese of Pittsburgh and teaches at
several Catholic schools in the Diocese. The band has
two performances per year for the school and for the
parents. Grades 2-8 attend a weekly class on liturgy
based music. Students in grades 4 through 8 are offered
a chance to participate in the choir and to sing at
monthly weekend liturgies in Church.
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COMPUTER
Computer classes prepare our students to
live in a world dependent on technology and computer
literacy. With this objective in mind, the over-all
planning generated by the principal and staff members
include the use of the computer as:
• a tool for developing general
thinking and problem solving
(computer based
instruction)
• a tool for teaching various
subject areas
(computer based
instruction)
• a tool to record instruction
results, to diagnose that
• activity, and to prescribe
instruction (computer managed instruction)
• a tool to be used as a
subject area in itself (computer science)
• a tool to be used in writing
skills (word processing)
The recently completed elementary computer guidelines
from the Diocese of Pittsburgh will be implemented in
the 2006-2007 school year. A new computer room was
recently opened as part of the new school which was
dedicated in January of 2006. The computer room is
equipped with 27 PCs and a SmartBoard.
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Children in grades K-5 are given an
introduction to Spanish. During these classes the
children learn simple conversations as well as prayers
and a long list of sight words that will provide a good
foundation for the future of a foreign language. Amsco
©1995 “Discovering Spanish” is used with students in
grades 3-5 while students in grades 6-8 use Scott
Foresman ©1996 “Paso A Paso”. This is a two (2) part
series which divides material into small chunks of
learning and offers many projects and group activities.
The use of video materials gives the children an
opportunity to learn about the cultural background of
people in Spanish speaking countries.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Experience proves that a gym program of
movement abilities and activities helps young children
learn to use their bodies more efficiently and
effectively. Our program not only enhances motor
perceptual abilities through diagnostic and
instructional help, but also builds in other areas of
team play that go far beyond the playground. The health
issues taught in science classes as well as good eating
habits are also reinforced during physical education
time. With the opening of the new gymnasium in April of
2006, the physical education program is being expanded
to include more games and more movement with the
additional space.
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LIBRARY
All students in grades K-5 have a weekly
library period. Books of interest may be borrowed on a
weekly basis. Books must be returned on or before the
due date. All books should be placed in the crate
provided in each room. If a book is lost, then the child
is responsible for the cost of a new book. Children also
have an opportunity to use the reference section of the
library for research assignments and/or school projects.
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HOMEWORK
Home assignments are an outgrowth or a
reinforcement of school work. A teacher has the right to
assign homework. The basic objective of home assignment
activities is to help the child develop a sense of
responsibility and independence. Homework includes
written work and home study. Once a teacher has
presented a given lesson, theoretically her
responsibility of presenting a concept is covered.
Often, class time is not sufficient time for a child to
master the skill or concept of a given lesson.
Therefore, outside home study is an essential factor in
the learning process of a child. A quiet room free of
distraction and interruptions is a necessary part of
studying. If a child does not have written homework,
then the child should be encouraged to study for an
upcoming test, read over a chapter in a text book or
just read a good book. There will be no homework
assignments given over the week-end. A child may be
working on a long range project that he/she wants to do
over a week-end, but assignments will not be given on a
Friday to be due the following Monday. A recommended
time schedule for home assignment according to grade
level is:
Primary Department 20-30 minutes
Intermediate Department 30-60 minutes
Middle School Department 60-90 minutes
Students who are absent from a class period are required
to do any make-up work assigned by the teacher. It is
the student's responsibility to obtain all make-up work
from the teacher. Failure to submit any assignment work
within the given time frame set by the teacher will
result in a percentage of the grade being dropped.
Intermediate and Middle School Department Homework
Policy:
All homework is expected to be…
• neat, clean and legible
• complete
• on time - turned in
when due
• made up if absent
If homework is not handed in on the day it is due…
• the student will be
required to hand it in the next day
• the grade will be
lowered by 10%
If work is still not completed and turned in the day
after it was due…
• parents will be
notified
• the grade given will be
no higher than 70%
If the work isn’t handed in after the parents have been
notified, the student will receive a 0% for the
assignment. Legitimate excuses will be accepted if a
note is sent in by the parent, but the work will still
have to be made up. Missing assignments will affect the
child’s final grade. A teacher has the right to drop a
grade if a student does not follow directions or fails
to put a complete heading on a paper.
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TESTING
A mini-battery will be administered to all new students
entering after kindergarten to verify placement. This
test together with recommendations from the previous
school and a review of previous school records will
determine academic group placement.
Standardized testing is given yearly at Saint Gregory
School following the Diocese of Pittsburgh's testing
schedule and recommendations. Levels 2-8 are given
standardized tests each year. Following testing, a
parent's report is given to each parent and a total
school report is shared with the parents.
The fifth grade class is administered a Writing
Assessment Test in March which is also part of the
standardized testing program. This test gives the
teachers a standard way of assessing the students'
writing skills.
Students in grades 5 and 8 are annually given the ACRE
test which checks their understanding of our Religion,
its liturgies and Doctrine.
In addition to these standardized tests given each year,
testing is done throughout the year in the various
classrooms. This involves tests that accompany textbooks
in use by the class as well as tests prepared by the
teacher. Some of this may also include oral quizzing,
surprise pop quizzes, weekly tests or end of unit
testing. All of these, together with assignments, daily
work, oral responses and group work, are used in
determining report card grades.
Testing standards may vary according to a child’s
ability. A child with an advanced ability may be
required to do more or to give more detailed, in-depth
answers than a child who has a learning disability.
Teachers are encouraged to use essay questions as a part
of most testing. This better prepares the children for
real life situations. Real life seldom involves fill in
the blank or multiple choice questions. All students are
given guidance on how to answer essay questions and how
to improve upon answers by including important details
or by better summarizing answers. The main purpose is to
learn how to write good explanations and to communicate
your thoughts and not just to get a good grade on a
particular test.
Please keep in mind that all grades, not just test
grades, are part of the report card grades. Remember
also that if curriculum is adjusted for a child with
special learning needs, that child is graded on the
curriculum being presented to him or her.
After careful review of a child’s academic performance,
it may be recommended that the curriculum and testing
procedure be adapted. These adaptations may be in all or
select subject areas. Adaptations may include some small
group instruction as well as adaptations within the
regular classroom setting. A full time teacher with dual
certification in elementary education and special
education works daily with students in need of special
adaptation. Parental permission is received for all long
term adaptations.
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TEXTBOOKS
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has been providing text
books, instructional materials and services to the
students of non-public schools within the state since
the General Assembly of 1972 passed the first Non-Public
School Acts. Currently, through Act 195 and 90,
non-public school students may be supplied with text
books and instructional materials ($83.50 per student).
Forms are signed by the parents for the loan of text
books and instructional material.
This parish supplies all needed textbooks and
instructional materials, as well as all school supplies
that are not covered by government monies. Therefore,
books are either the property of the state or the
property of the parish school. A reasonable amount of
wear and tear may be expected with normal use, but books
destroyed, damaged or lost must be replaced by the
student. Books must be carried home in a tote bag,
plastic bag or gym bag. All hardback books must have
covers on them at all times and paperback books are to
be kept in a folder. Students will be given book covers
at the beginning of each report period as needed.
Parents are asked to cover the books for the students.
If a student needs to replace a book-cover in the middle
of a report period without good reason, they will be
charged twenty five (25) cents for a new book-cover. Any
student found with an uncovered book will be given a
demerit and charged for a new cover. Book covers are not
to be taped to the inside of the books. This causes
damage to the books when the covers are removed.
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REPORT CARDS
One of the responsibilities that a
teacher has to a parent is to keep them informed of the
academic progress of their child. Our report card,
following the guidelines of the Continuous Progress
Program, shows that a child has made continual
educational progress that is equal to his/her God-given
talents.
The report card is used four (4) times a year with the
exception of Kindergarten which is used three (3) times
a year. A parent/teacher conference is an additional way
to help better evaluate a child’s ability and progress.
An opportunity for a parent/teacher conference is given
to every parent in November; however, a parent can
request a conference at any time during the school year.
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PROMOTION POLICY
According to the Continuous Progress
Program, a child advances educationally at his/her own
rate of speed. However, if a teacher deems it necessary
to retain a child in a given grade, the issue will be
discussed in detail with the parent. The final decision
will be determined according to what is deemed best for
the child by all concerned.
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FAMILY FOLDERS
Family folders are sent home with the oldest child in
each family at the end of each month. This folder will
contain the monthly newsletter, the monthly calendar,
the menu, a tuition statement from the school
accountant, day care bills and various other information
necessary during the school year. This family folder is
to be returned to school each month. All forms, tuition
payments and day care payments may be returned in this
folder. Folders are to be returned to school as quickly
as possible.
The tentative dates for the family folders are listed on
the yearly calendar. If your child does not bring a
folder home on the date listed, check to see if he or
she received the folder and forgot to give it to you.
Through the years, we have found this to be a very good
way to get information back and forth between home and
school. The first family folder of the year will contain
many forms which will need to be returned. It is vital
that all forms from this first family folder be returned
to the school within a few days. Even if all information
is the same as the previous year, forms must still be
returned.
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PLAYGROUND
Children have a general recess period during the day.
Games which are sports related may be played.
Rough-house playing of running games, tag, etc. is not
permissible. All hitting, pushing, kicking, shoving, and
physical contact between students is forbidden and will
result in lost recess time. Name calling and teasing is
not permitted during recess or at any other time during
the day. A teacher is on the playground, in the gym or
in the classroom at all times during recess.
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CAFETERIA
St. Gregory School provides a hot lunch each day and has
the responsibility of providing free and reduced price
meals to eligible children. The price of meals is $10.00
for a strip of 5 tickets at full price and $4.00 for a
strip of 5 tickets at the reduced price. If a student
pays cash daily for meals the cost is $2.00 per lunch.
An extra drink is $.50. Students are welcome to purchase
snacks items after eating lunch.
Students in grades 6 through 8 are able to order
additional main items each morning provided the items
are eaten and not thrown away by the students.
Children who receive free or reduced price meal benefits
are treated the same as children who pay for meals. In
the operation of child feeding programs, no child will
be discriminated against because of race, sex, color,
national origin, age or handicap. We have one (1)
full-time cafeteria manager and a staff of dedicated
volunteers who help make this a smooth operation. All
families are expected to pay a $70.00 cafeteria fee.
This fee is included on your monthly tuition statement.
If you volunteer in the cafeteria at least 7 days in a
year you will receive this fee back.
Lunch tickets are to be purchased in the morning. All
money for lunch tickets should be sent to school in a
sealed envelope and marked with the child's name and
grade. Money should be turned in to the teacher before
the start of class. Lunch tickets may be bought in any
quantity. A lunch ticket is good for five lunches and
may be used at any time in that year.
The use of good manners is expected and the following
rules are to be followed in the cafeteria:
• Remain seated unless
making a purchase or talking to the adult in charge
• Refrain from playing
with food; your own or that of others
• Always walk
• Refrain from shouting
or screaming; enjoy talking to those sitting near you
• Do not save seats
• Be courteous and
respectful to those helping during the lunch period
• Do not take any food or
drink out of the cafeteria
• Dispose of your own
garbage when your table is dismissed
• Do not leave the
cafeteria without permission
• Snacks may not be
purchased until most of your lunch has been eaten
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FIELDTRIPS
In the event that a class plans a field trip, a parent
must return a signed permission slip to the teacher.
These permission slips are kept on file until after the
trip. These signed permission slips are necessary any
time a child is to be taken off of the school premises
by the school staff. All students are required to wear
their blue Saint Gregory Shirt for field trips.
The students in grades 7 and 8 are taken on an annual
trip each spring to Washington, D.C. This trip is
supervised by school personnel and a tour bus is used
for this trip. Every child participating in this trip
must wear a Saint Gregory polo shirt for the day.
Any time a student is on a field trip, he or she is
representing the school and the conduct is expected to
be above reproach. A medical form must be provided by a
parent or guardian before any field trip is case of an
emergency.
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SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Children are expected to have all
necessary school supplies for personal use in Grades
K-8.
Many of the necessary supplies are purchased by the
school out of a paper fee included with the tuition.
These provided supplies include handwriting paper, four
(4) pencils per year, scissors, crayons, glue, art
supplies, folders, book covers, and Kleenex. Students in
grades 2-8 are also provided with an assignment notebook
out of this fee. All other necessary supplies are the
responsibility of the individual student. Large binders
and large boxes of crayons or markers are NOT to be
brought to school. They are too big to fit in the desks.
This is also true of large pencil cases.
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SCHOOL EQUIPMENT AND PROPERTY
Students are liable for any damage to
school equipment and/or school property. Parents will be
responsible for payment for any equipment or property
damaged or destroyed by their child/ren. This includes
but is not limited to writing or carving into desks,
walls or doors.
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BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE
Child Care is available form 7:00 am before school until
6:00 pm after school each day that school is in session.
If a child is not picked up by 3:15 he/she will be
placed in the After School Care program. This program
may be used daily, on specified days each week or on an
occasional basis.
The cost is $3.00 per hour for the first child and $2.00
per hour for each additional child. Bills for day care
will be sent home in the family folders and payment is
due by the 10th of the following month. Payment not
received by the 10th of the following month will be
assessed a $10.00 late fee. If a child is not picked up
by 6:00 pm, the cost will increase to $1.00 per minute,
payable directly to the day care provider. If a child is
continually picked up beyond 6:00 pm then that parent
will be asked to make other arrangements for their
child.
The normal schedule for after school care is as follows:
3:15 – 4:00 Quiet Time
(Homework, Coloring, Puzzles or Reading)
4:00 – 4:30 Snack
4:30 – 6:00 Play Time /
Miscellaneous
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UNIFORM POLICY
Uniform Policy - Revised May 08
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VISITORS
During school hours all visitors MUST report to the
school office. If a parent wishes to discuss a concern
with a faculty member, a conference will be arranged
through the office. Teachers are not available before,
during or between classes. If there is a matter that a
teacher should be made aware of before school starts in
the morning, please come to the office rather than
taking a teacher away from their class. All school doors
will be kept locked during school hours for the safety
of the children. Entry will only be permitted through
the school office. The church office will not open the
doors to the school.
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PARENT TEACHER GUILD
The P.T.G., operating under the direction of the pastor
and the principal and following the guidelines of the
Catholic School’s Office, has as its objectives the
following:
• to acquaint the parish community
with the philosophy and programs of St. Gregory
• to promote better understanding of
the parents and teachers as educators
• to promote fund-raising activities
each year for school and student needs
P.T.G. meetings are held four times during each school
year. Each family is expected to be active members of
the P.T.G. and to attend events. Various fundraisers are
offered yearly through this parent’s organization and it
is the obligation of each family to support at least
several of the fund raisers. These help to keep the
tuition reasonable for families and everyone’s support
is needed. The P.T.G. will occasionally have a guest
speaker come in to present talks on subjects of interest
to parents of school age children. They also sponsor
several assemblies each year for the students.
As a parent involved in a Catholic school, it is
expected that you will conduct yourself properly when
attending school sponsored events. Any parent or
guardian using foul language on school property,
including but not limited to car pool line, sports
events or social events, will be asked to leave the
school grounds. A second offense may result in a parent
being asked to find another school for their child. Our
first and primary objective is to maintain our Catholic
identity.
Parents or guardians making use of car pool are asked to
show the proper respect for the other parents in line
and for the neighbors. When on school property or
waiting to enter the parking lot, you are representing
the school community and a Christian attitude is
important.
While input from parents/guardians is always welcome and
consideration will be given to concerns, final decisions
will be made following discussion between the Pastor and
Principal and their final decision on what is best for
all students involved will be in effect.
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CHURCH FUNCTIONS
Students are expected to fulfill their obligations by
attending Mass each Sunday in their respective parish
church. School Masses are celebrated each Friday at
9:00am. All children in grades K-8 participate in these
planned liturgies. Opportunities for the reception of
the Sacrament of Reconciliation are provided during the
course of the year. Stations of the Cross are scheduled
on a weekly basis during Lent.
Prayers for the opening and closing of class hours and
meal prayers are said in common. Children should know by
memory the common prayers: Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory
Be, Apostles’ Creed, Morning Offering, Act of
Contrition, The Angelus, Prayer to the Guardian Angel,
Prayer before the Crucifix and prayers before and after
meals.
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TRANSPORTATION
Written permission must be given before a child can
change an assigned bus, get off at a different bus stop,
or take a friend home on the bus.
Each public school district has rules regarding
acceptable conduct on the school bus and these rules are
in force for St. Gregory School children as well.
Consequences of misconduct are determined by the public
school district handling the transportation.
No child is permitted to ride home on a bus from a
school district other than that student’s home district.
All car-pool children are to be picked up in the lower
parking area beginning at 3:10 pm. All walkers are
permitted to leave the classroom at 3:10 pm. All after
school care children will be in the cafeteria. Any
car-pool child not picked up by 3:15 pm will be sent to
the after school care program and the parents will be
billed for that time.
All bus students are expected to wait in their assigned
area in the gym until called. When called all students
are expected to proceed in an orderly fashion to the
bus.
PLEASE NOTE: ANY CHILD WHO IS NOT FOLLOWING HIS/HER
NORMAL DISMISSAL ROUTINE MUST HAVE A NOTE. CHILDREN WILL
OFTEN CONFUSE DAYS OR DIRECTIONS. A NOTE IS OUR
ASSURANCE THAT THE CHILD HAS THE RIGHT DIRECTIONS. ANY
CHILD WITHOUT A NOTE WILL HAVE TO FOLLOW THEIR NORMAL
DISMISSAL ROUTINE. NOTES SHOULD INCLUDE THE DATE AND THE
DAY OF THE WEEK.
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WEATHER EMERGENCIES
The Seneca Valley school calendar for
required school days is followed at St. Gregory School
as much as possible. In the case of inclement weather,
emergencies, etc., notices for any school closings will
be heard over any major radio station. St. Gregory
School closings will be included in the Seneca Valley
School closings. St. Gregory School closings or delays
will be announced by name on KDKA only. Although Saint
Gregory School will follow Seneca Valley for delays,
early dismissals and closings, those students not
residing in the Seneca Valley School District will need
to follow some guidelines from their school district.
• If Seneca Valley closes, there is
no school at Saint Gregory’s even if your district
is in session. Keep your
child/ren home.
• If Seneca Valley has a delay but
your school district doesn’t, you may send your
child/ren on the regular
bus. Someone will be at the school at the normal time to
watch your child/ren.
• If your school district has a delay
but Seneca Valley does not, Saint Gregory
School will start on
time. You may still send your child/ren in on the bus.
Although
your child/ren may arrive
late, it is better than missing the whole day.
• If an early dismissal is called by
any school district that services Saint Gregory
School, the children from
that district will be dismissed early.
• If your school district announces a
one (1) hour delay, then your child/ren’s bus
should arrive at their
stop one (1) hour later than normal. If there is a two
(2) hour
delay called by your
school district then your child/ren should get the bus
at their
stop two (2) hours later
than normal.
If you make use of the Before School Care, please listen
to KDKA to see if this service is canceled during
inclement weather. Before School Care will be available
during school delays on most days. However, if the roads
are too bad and the possibility of a cancellation is
eminent, then Before School Care may be delayed or
canceled. If this is the case, it will be announced on
KDKA. Please do not ever leave the school property until
you see your child safely into the building. Do not
assume that someone is here to open the doors until you
see someone responsible letting your child into the
building. Even if the weather is fine, there could be
another type of emergency that might necessitate a
closing.
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AUXILIARY SERVICES
Under state programs, non-public school
children are entitled to the use of additional
educational services. These services include:
• Standardized Testing
• Psychological Evaluations
• Speech and Language Support
• Resource Teachers - remediation
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TITLE 1 READING SERVICES
Remedial Reading services are funded through the Federal Title I Program and allocated through the local public school district. The school district contracts with Educational and Training Consultants (ETC), a part of Sylvan Learning Systems, Inc. to provide a certified teacher to the school for additional reading instruction. Written parental consent will be obtained for those students who are recommended by the classroom teacher to participate in this program. Recommendations are based upon standardized test scores, classroom performance, and report card grades. An initial assessment will be done to determine students’ skill levels. Progress Assessment Reports will be distributed along with school report cards. The ETC/Sylvan Reading teacher is available for conferences with parents and school faculty.
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ACT 89
SERVICES
Remedial services are also provided through Act 89 by a
support teacher who is also provided through
Intermediate Unit IV in Grove City. These teachers, in
collaboration with the classroom teacher, identify
educational needs and design educational interventions
and strategies to help a child succeed.
Written parental consent will be obtained for those
students who are recommended by the classroom teacher to
participate in this program. Recommendations are based
upon standardized test scores, classroom performance,
and report card grades. An initial assessment will be
done to determine students’ skill levels. Progress
assessment reports will be distributed along with school
report cards.
Speech and language services are also provided through
Act 89 funding. This is a special service offered to
students to enhance communication skills which directly
impact social and academic interactions.
A certified school psychologist is assigned to our
school for testing. Testing is available by parent
request or at the recommendation of the teacher in
consultation with the principal. Parents make the final
decision. Results are formally reported to parents,
principal and teachers along with a list of
recommendations. This information is kept confidential
and not shared with anyone without parent permission.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act gives full
rights to each parent, unless the school has been
provided with evidence that there is a court order,
State’s statute or legally binding document relating to
such matters as divorce, separation or custody that
specifically revokes these rights. Such an order is to
be on file in the school and those persons responsible
for the child(ren) are to be informed of the
circumstances. Every effort is made to keep the
non-custodial parent appraised of the progress of the
child/ren through reports, report cards and
parent/teacher conferences.
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SCHOOL NURSE
A visiting nurse, provided by Seneca Valley School
District, covers the medical and dental services of our
school children. Parents have the right to call the
nurse at any time if a question arises concerning the
health of the child.
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DISCIPLINE AND BEHAVIOR
Saint Gregory School administration and faculty are
committed to teach and model Gospel values to encourage
students to live their lives as a reflection of Christ.
The philosophy of the school strives to recognize and
respect the dignity of each person and to offer a
positive, Christ-centered, safe environment based on the
Social Teachings of the Church. Discipline is considered
an element of moral guidance not as a form of
punishment. Students are encouraged to assume
responsibility for their actions, develop self-control,
and accept responsibility and consequences for
inappropriate behavior.
A Christ-centered school environment fosters the
following behaviors:
• Recognizing and fostering the
uniqueness and dignity of each individual
• Nurturing respect in all
relationships involving school and parish community
• Developing a sense of rights,
responsibilities and commitment to the entire
school and parish
community
Social skills, both interpersonal and intrapersonal, are
taught, modeled, practiced, and infused into the daily
life and experience of the school family.
At the beginning of each school year, the teacher and
students brainstorm to come up with desired areas of
behavior within a given classroom. Guidelines and rules
arrived at by a consensus of opinion are based on the
principles outlined in the philosophy, goals and
objectives of the school.
For the sake of continuity and general order, basic
guidelines for group desired behavior are established by
the principal. These areas include desired conduct in
church, in the cafeteria, on the playground, at student
assemblies and on field trips. From the minute a child
enters the building until the time of dismissal, it is
understood that respect for faculty, volunteers and
fellow students is a “MUST” at all times.
A teacher has the right to discipline a student who
violates any of the guidelines for classroom behavior.
The principal has the right to question and/or
discipline a student who neglects to abide by the
general behavior rules of the school.
Corporal punishment is never used at Saint Gregory’s. A
program of positive reinforcement is used by the entire
faculty and staff instead. Reward afternoons or prizes
are planned throughout the year to reward acceptable
behavior. These rewards may vary by grade level and by
teacher.
When a child has received too many demerits (as
predetermined by grade level), a reward afternoon may be
denied that child. If it is deemed necessary an after
school detention may be given to a child if disruptive
behavior is ongoing or if disrespect is shown by a
child. These measures will only be used when positive
attempts to modify a child’s behavior have failed. Once
again, our primary aim is to have each child realize
that actions carry responsibilities and consequences
with them. A parent and a student have the right to
respectfully question any disciplinary measure
administered by the principal or the teacher. In the
event that a child is assigned detention, it will be the
responsibility of the parent to provide transportation
home for that child. The detention period may be
assigned due to fighting, disrespectful conduct toward
any staff member or student, rude or crude remarks,
constant teasing by a student or ongoing breaking of
school rules. The detention period will run from 3:15 to
4:15. Any child receiving a detention will also be
forbidden to participate in any extra curriculum
activity for a week.
Teachers are encouraged to refrain from making negative
remarks to a child or a class. Honest opinions about
work habits and conduct will however be shared with a
child. The children are to understand that their actions
have consequences and that each child is responsible for
his or her actions. No one else is to blame and each
child must learn to take responsibility for their
actions. Our aim is for every child to reach a level of
discipline through self-control.
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STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
& FACULTY RIGHTS
If you, as a student of Saint Gregory School, are aware
of a situation that could be dangerous for any student
or adult and you do not report it or do anything to stop
it, but stand by and watch, you will be held responsible
for your lack of action.
If there is any reasonable cause threatening the health,
safety or welfare of any student, the staff has the
right to inspect lockers or desks without permission.
The lockers and desks belong to the school and are on
loan to students for the year. Students in the right
have nothing to fear.
You deserve the opportunity to learn. Teachers deserve
the opportunity to teach. Nothing should interfere with
these opportunities.
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INVITATIONS & COMMUNICATIONS
Please do not send invitations to school to be
distributed for parties. This may cause hurt feelings
among students who are not invited. The only exception
to this is if every boy or every girl or all students in
the child’s room are invited.
All communication must be approved by the office before
it may be distributed to students. Any communication to
a faculty member by email is to be sent to the school’s
email and will be given to the involved faculty members.
Please do not request a teacher’s home email address.
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ALCOHOL POLICY
Alcoholic beverages should never be served at any
activity or event where anyone under the age of 21 years
of age will be in attendance.
No alcoholic beverages should ever be stored on school
property.
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SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY
Policy Statement: The schools of the Diocese of
Pittsburgh and the Intermediate Unit Consortium,
recognizing that chemical abuse is a serious problem,
adopt the position that students must be chemically free
to develop in the most productive manner. It is,
therefore, the intent of this policy to prevent and to
prohibit the possession, use, sale, distribution and/or
intent to distribute any illegal or controlled
mood-altering medication or chemical. These are
prohibited on school property and at all school
sponsored events. Violations of this policy may result
in the following consequences:
• appropriate disciplinary response
consistent with each individual school's
philosophy
• notification of parent/guardian
• notification of municipal
authorities when appropriate
• suspension or expulsion from school
• referral of student to appropriate
drug and alcohol agency
This policy will be implemented through the cooperative
efforts of administration, faculty, parent/guardian,
staff, student and community. The education system
within the Diocese of Pittsburgh and the Intermediate
Unit Consortium recognizes that chemical abuse and
dependency seriously impair the ability of individuals
to develop to their full potential. We also recognize
that problems created by chemical abuse and dependency
have adverse effects on the ability of all members of
each school community to achieve personal educational
goals.
Our policy is based on the belief that chemical
dependency is a life threatening illness that affects
individuals in all areas of their lives; emotionally,
intellectually, and socially. Because it is our
conviction that chemical dependency is a treatable
illness, the preceding substance abuse policy has been
adopted.
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WEAPONS POLICY
No weapon may be brought on to school property
including, but not limited to, the school building,
outdoor areas, outdoor facilities and school buses or
brought to any school related activity.
A weapon shall include, but not be limited to, knives,
cutting instruments, nun-chuck sticks, fire arms, rifles
or any other tool, instrument or implement capable of
inflicting bodily injury, which is possessed under
circumstances not manifestly appropriate for the lawful
uses which it may have. This includes fire arms which
are not loaded or lack a clip or other component to
render it immediately operable.
A person in possession of a weapon on school property
violate |
