Table of Contents
- Mission Statement
- Philosophy
- History
- School Wide Learning Expectations
- General School Information
- Admissions and Records
- Financial Information
- Policies and Procedures
- Academic Policies
- Spiritual Programs
- Safe Environment Program
- Dress Code and Grooming Standards
- Extra Curricular Activities
- Disciplinary Policy
- Complaints and Concerns
- Bullying Policy
- Emergency Procedures
- Code of Christian Conduct covering Students and Parents Guardians
- Computer Lab Agreement
- Amending the Handbook
- Parent Acknowledgment Form
- Safe Environment Program Form
Mission Statement
St. Catherine School is committed to providing a Catholic education for the whole child, preparing each to be a responsible member of the community. Inspired by our founders, we strive to live the mission of Jesus, expressing the core values of education, justice, charity and freedom. We recognize parents as primary educators, and teachers as facilitators of discovery and learning as students continue to pursue excellence in their spiritual, academic and personal lives.
Philosophy
As an educational component of St. Catherine Parish, we provide inspiration and direction for our students in their pursuit of spiritual, academic and personal excellence.
History
St. Catherine School was built in 1946 and blessed on February 15, 1947 by Pastor Fr. Joseph G. Callaghan, SM. Classes in first through fourth grades began in the nearly completed school in September, 1947, staffed by the Sisters of the Society of the Blessed Virgin Mary, (BVM) with a principal and teachers. Each year another grade was added to the offerings until the school served kindergarten through 8th grades with lay staff as well as religious. Due to declining vocations in the BVM order, they could no longer staff the school. Fortunately, the Congregation of the Dominican Sisters of the Most Holy Rosary (Dominicans), from the Philippines, assumed responsibility for St. Catherine School in May 1969. St. Catherine Preschool was added in 1988 in a portable building at the back of the school. The school sustained severe damage in Hurricane Iniki in 1992. The reconstruction included classroom and office renovations, a new library (remodeling of an existing building, a computer lab and Early Learning Center, housing kindergarten and preschool. Lay teachers continued to work alongside the sisters until June 2000, when the Dominicans needed to consolidate their small community. Since then, the school has been staffed entirely by lay teachers who continue the tradition of excellence in Catholic education as first envisioned by Fr. Callaghan, SM.
School Wide Learning Expectations
A graduate of St. Catherine School is a:- Person of faith who
- understands the teachings of the Catholic faith,
- contributes to the community through service,
- respects diversity in God's creations,
- continues to grow spiritually, and
- makes moral decisions based on the teachings of the Catholic faith;
- Responsible citizen who
- appreciates his/her heritage and respects cultural diversity,
- is aware of global issues and responds to them appropriately, and
- understands civic and community responsibilities;
- Collaborative worker who
- recognizes and respects individual differences and similarities,
- communicates interactively, displaying empathy and consideration of differing ideas,
- demonstrates responsibility and flexibility in the support of group needs and goals, and
- has a good work ethic;
- Curious learner who
- analyzes, identifies, integrates and applies information,
- is able to listen actively, speak clearly, write concisely and correctly,
- has essential thinking and problem solving skills,
- has developed an appreciation for the fine arts, and
- uses technology for learning, communication and enjoyment;
- Child with a positive self-image who
- is growing in self-esteem and self-confidence,
- is self-directed, and
- is able to evaluate progress and accept constructive criticism.
General School Information
Office Hours
Office hours for the School office are 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on regular school days. Intersession and summer office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The school office number is 808-822-4212, e-mail address is , and the web site address is www.st-catherineschool.org.
School Hours
The school day is 7:45a.m. to 2:15 p.m. for kindergarten through grade 8. Preschool hours are 7:30 a.m. through 2:15 p.m. On Wednesdays the school day ends at 1:15 p.m. Please consult the school calendar about half days and school holidays. Coyle Hall is opened and staffed at 7:15 a.m. when students may be dropped off. St. Catherine School cannot assume responsibility for students who are brought to school before 7:15, but students may join morning Mass at St. Catherine Church which begins at 7:00 a.m. Students must be picked up by 2:30 p.m., 1:30 on Wednesdays. Students remaining after 2:30 and 1:30, respectively, will be sent to After School Care and assessed the appropriate fees.
School Day Schedule
| 7:15 | Coyle Hall opens |
| 7:45 | Morning Assembly in Coyle Hall |
| 7:55-8:45 | 1st period |
| 8:50-9:40 | 2nd Period |
| 9:30-9:45 | Recess (K - 4) |
| 9:45-10:00 | Recess (5 - 8) |
| 10:00-10:50 | 3rd Period |
| 10:55-11:45 | 4th Period |
| 10:55-11:40 | Lunch (Pre-K - K) |
| 11:20-12:00 | Lunch (1 - 4) |
| 11:50-12:35 | Lunch (5 - 8) |
| 12:35-1:20 | 5th Period |
| 1:15 | Dismissal (Wednesday) |
| 1:25-2:15 | 6th Period |
| 2:15 | Dismissal (Mon, Tue, Thurs, Fri) |
Morning Assembly
A school wide assembly is held each morning at 7:45 a.m. in Coyle Hall. During this time, positive values are encouraged and students join in prayer, Pledge of Allegiance, and general announcements. Attendance is mandatory. Teachers are present to ensure respectful and appropriate behavior.
After School Hours
After School Care is available, for a fee, from the time of dismissal to 5:00 p.m. Pre-registration is required.
Students are given adequate time to pack their belongings before the last school bell rings. As a professional courtesy, teachers and staff members will not open any locked classroom doors for students and parents. VisitorsAll visitors must report to the school office to sign in and obtain a visitor's badge. For the safety and security of our students, no one is permitted to go directly to the classroom, cafeteria, or playground. Parents bringing items for their children during school hours are asked to bring the items to the office and not to the classroom.
Parking
St. Catherine School has very limited parking. The turn around in front of Coyle Hall is strictly for dropping off and picking up children. Parking in the circle is not allowed at any time, as this creates a traffic problem. Park in designated areas only and follow instructions of St. Catherine School staff on duty.
Cafeteria
St. Catherine School offers a hot, FDA approved lunch to all students. Soda is not allowed in the cafeteria on campus. Lunch tickets may be purchased in the office prior to the start of the school day. Families may apply for free or reduced fee lunches at the time of registration or when there is a change in financial circumstances.
Volunteers
Volunteers are a vital part of our school. Parents are frequently asked to assist in the classroom, as chaperones for field trips, and in many other capacities. All help is encouraged and appreciated. Volunteers and visitors must sign in at the office and obtain a visitor's pass. All volunteers are asked to sign the Volunteer Agreement and adhere to the St. Catherine School Code of Conduct.
Parent Participation (Hana Makua Hours)
Each parent is required to provide a minimum of 10 hours of service during St. Catherine Carnival. The carnival is our major fund-raiser and service opportunities are focused on the success of this activity.
Parent Teacher Guild
The purpose of the St. Catherine Parent Teacher Guild (PTG) is to serve the best interest of the school by supporting its mission, programs, activities and fundraising efforts. All parents and teachers are members of the Parent Teacher Guild which meets monthly.
School Advisory Board
The School Advisory Board is a consultative committee to the Pastor and Principal. Responsibilities include long range planning, finance, development, and marketing. Membership is by appointment.
Admissions and Records
Admissions
St. Catherine School and Preschool does not discriminate in its admission policy on the basis of race, sex, creed, color, religion, national origin, or disability, if with reasonable accommodation, the individual can function.
Age Requirements
- Preschool:
- Three years old by December 31
- Kindergarten:
- Five years old by December 31
- First Grade:
- Six years old by December 31
Probation
All new students are placed on probation for one quarter. This time period allows the school and parents to evaluate the child in the new setting, wait for any pertinent information on the new student that may be forthcoming, and observe the child's academic and social adjustment to the school community. If the need presents itself, the probationary period may be extended or reinstated at the discretion of the administration. New 7th and 8th grade students enrolling after the start of the school year will require a conference with the principal.
Re-enrollment
A re-enrollment application is required for all students who wish to return to St. Catherine School. With the acceptance to return will be information regarding the tuition, fees, and payment plan options. St. Catherine School reserves the right to accept or reject re-enrollment applications from returning students. Such decisions are based on parental cooperation, student's academic growth, behavior, and fulfilling financial obligation. No student will be considered enrolled unless all financial obligations have been met and all required forms turned in to the school office.
Student and Parent Requirements
Students must have all school forms, a current physical exam, TB test, and all tuition and fees paid in full before the start of school unless other options have been agreed upon. Students and their parent(s) or guardian(s) must also agree to abide by and be governed by our school polices and the Code of Christian Conduct for Parents and Students. Students from divorced or separated families will need to provide a copy of the court decree specifying custodial issues and visitation schedule. We expect all parties to conduct themselves in a cordial and respectful manner when dealing with the student's issues and while on campus.
Financial Information
Tuition Obligation and Refund Policy
All families must sign a contract regarding tuition and payment schedules. Monthly tuition is paid through F.A.C.T.S. Tuition Management Company. Families are obligated to pay tuition for the full academic year. Because the school operates on a tight budget, tuition paid or due cannot be refunded or cancelled by the school in the event of the student's absence, withdrawal or dismissal. Parents on F.A.C.T.S. are required, to participate in the Tuition Refund Plan. All families are strongly encouraged to participate. Information regarding the Tuition Refund Plan is available in the school office. Delinquent accounts will be forwarded to a collection agency. Students may be excluded from school until tuition accounts are made current.
Refund Policy
No refunds will be given for registration, or fees. Families are required to purchase tuition insurance at the time of registration. This protects the family's investment should the child be removed from St. Catherine School for any reason.
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance is made available through the St. Augustine Fund, Adopt A Student Fund, and Pauahi Keiki Scholar Program. Applications are due in March for the following school year. Applications are available in the school office. Families receiving financial aid from the Adopt A Student Program are required to perform an addition two hours of service per month. Please call the school office for service opportunities.
Fund Raising
The annual St. Catherine School Carnival is our major fundraiser for the school. All parents are required to participate. Each family is required to sell one hundred dollars ($100.00) in carnival scrip per child enrolled in St. Catherine School. Other fundraising events are held as needed.
Policies and Procedures
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential to a student's success in school. Persistent absenteeism and tardiness create a genuine hardship for the student and is regarded as a very serious problem and may affect re-enrollment for the following year. When a student is unable to attend school, parents should call before 8:00 am. Excused absences include illness, accident, or death in the family. Removing students from class in order to travel is disruptive to student learning and is discouraged. Class and home work missed due to extended vacations will be the responsibility of the student and is not excused.
Tardiness
School begins at 7:45 am., with students reporting to Coyle Hall for morning assembly. Morning Assembly is an important time for our student body. Prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and general announcements are made at this time. Students arriving after morning assembly should report to the office for a tardy slip. Students who are tardy more than 5 times during the school year will not be considered for perfect attendance awards.
Early Releases
Appointments during school hours are discouraged as this disrupts the student's classes. When an early release is necessary, the parent/guardian will sign out the student in the office. A student returning from an appointment must report to the office with a note from the parent/guardian. A student will not be released to anyone without proper written authorization by the parents/guardians.
Health Room
The health room is available for the immediate and temporary care of injuries and illnesses that occur during the school day from 7:30 am until 3:00 pm. St. Catherine School does not have a school nurse on staff. However, our secretary, principal, preschool director, and several other staff members are certified in first aid. We will provide first aid care for the injured and care for ill students until they can be picked up. If a child becomes sick while in school, a staff member will determine if the student can return to class. If the child is too ill, has a fever or is vomiting, parents will be called to pick up their child. Due to limited space in the health room, parents must pick up their child(ren) in a timely manner. Students with a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea will be sent home. Students should not be sent to school if they have had these symptoms within the last 24 hours. Minor accidents will be attended to as necessary by a member of the faculty or staff. Serious accidents are handled immediately. Parents will be notified as soon as possible. If parents or persons specified on the child's emergency form cannot be reached, the school will make every effort to have the child treated by a physician/hospital.
Medication Policy
Request for Administration of Prescription Medication in School Forms must be completed by the parent and physician for all prescriptive medications. Forms may be obtained from the office, and once completed, will be kept on file throughout the school year. A separate form is necessary for each new prescription. If the student requires medicine and a medication policy form is not on file, the parent may come to the school to administer the medication at the office. Forms for over-the-counter medications (such as Benadryl, Robitussin, Tylenol, etc.) will also be available in the school office (no physician signature is required). These forms may be filled out by a parent/guardian ahead of time giving the office or school staff permission to administer the medication sent from home. The required dose of medication must be sent in a container with the prescription label on it to the office (along with the Request for Administration of Medication in School Form). It is advisable to ask the pharmacist to make an extra bottle with a label for this purpose. Injections will not be given. Only oral or topical medication will be administered. Medications will be administered in the office by the office or school staff. Students are not allowed to carry or administer their own medication.The policy for administering medication during school hours does NOT apply to activities or events before or after regular school hours (7:45 am to 2:15 pm). If your child requires medication to be administered outside of these hours, or while participating in St. Catherine School extra-curricular functions, it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to make arrangements.
Child Abuse Policy
For the health and well-being of all students, and in accordance with State law and Diocesan Policy, any staff member who suspects any type of child abuse, whether it be physical, sexual, mental, verbal or neglect, will report it to the proper authorities.
Electronic Devices
Pagers, Ipods, GameBoys, MP3 players, etc. - The possession and use of such items are banned from school grounds. Students who violate this policy, do so at their own risk. The school administration will not expend energy or time to resolve problems that arise from these banned items being brought to school.
Cell Phones - a) may be brought to school but must be kept in the OFF position during school hours; b) may not be used for picture taking; c) may not be used to harass or threaten any persons; d) may not be used for game playing, Internet or e-mail access, gambling or making purchases of any kind. Those who violate any of the above rules or conditions regarding cell phones may forfeit their privileges of bringing them to school. Offender's phones will be confiscated and kept until the parent comes in to pick them up.
Field Trips
Field trips are a privilege, not a right, and are designed to aid students' educational, cultural, and social growth. It is the right of the school to prohibit a student from a particular field trip due to behavior problems. Parents will receive notices of field trips in advance of the scheduled trip date and will be asked to sign field trip permission forms. Students will not be able to participate on the field trip with out a signed St. Catherine School permission form. Phone calls and personal handwritten notes will not be accepted in lieu of proper forms. Parent chaperones will be requested as needed.
Media Use of Photos
St. Catherine School uses local media to showcase our community projects and promote enrollment. Parental consent for the use of student photographs is implied unless expressly denied in writing.
Academic Policies
Report Cards
Report cards are issued quarterly for grades 1 through 8. The assessment and progress reporting of kindergarten students will be contained in portfolios. A summary sheet is issued to parents each quarter.
Progress Reports Grades 5 - 8
Students who are performing below average (D or F) in any subject at each mid-quarter throughout the year will receive a progress report from the teacher of that subject. Parents are asked to sign and return the form, and may request a conference with that teacher.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences are mandatory after the conclusion of the first quarter. Subsequent conferences will be scheduled when dictated by the student=s academic performance or behavior or at the request of the parent or school.
Evaluation and Grading
Academic subjects, which include Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Hawaiian Studies and Religion, will be graded as follows:
| Grades 1-3 | Grades 4-8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| E | Excellent | A | Excellent |
| S | Satisfactory | B | Very Good |
| I | Improving | C | Good |
| NI | Needs Improvement | D | Poor |
| IP | Insufficient Progress | F | Failing |
Non-academic subjects, such as Physical Ed., Art, Music, and Drama will be graded as follows:
| S | Satisfactory |
| U | Unsatisfactory |
Students in grades 4 - 8 will be recognized for academic excellence as follows:
- Principal's List
- 3.6 - 4.0 Grade Point Average
- Honor Roll
- 3.3 - 3.5 Grade Point Average
Homework Policy
Homework is assigned as the natural extension of the student's class work. The amount of home-work takes into account the nature of the subject matter and the age and ability of the students. The following schedule will be used as a guide to determine the time allotted for homework each day:
| 1st grade: | 10 minutes | 5th grade: | 50 minutes |
| 2nd grade: | 20 minutes | 6th grade: | 60 minutes |
| 3rd grade: | 30 minutes | 7th grade: | 70 minutes |
| 4th grade: | 40 minutes | 8th grade: | 80 minutes |
Homework is not given over holidays and weekends for grades K - 4, nor is it due the first day following vacations or holidays, without the principal's approval. Students in grades 5 - 8 may be assigned homework over weekends and holidays. Should a student be absent, please request homework no later than 8:00 am, when calling the office to indicate the absence. Homework assignments for absent students will be picked up at the office. It is the responsibility of the student to discuss work missed during an absence.
Review of Records
Parents and students are allowed to review records. A 24 hour written notice is requested for review. St. Catherine School abides by the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding the child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no access to school information, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order.
Spiritual Programs
Liturgical Services and Observances
Throughout the year St. Catherine School students participate in many liturgical services and observances. All students, regardless of religious affiliation, are expected to participate. During the Lenten season, students from grades 1 - 8 reenact the Stations of the Cross. This moving religious experience is open to our families and friends.
School Mass
A Mass is generally celebrated twice a month, usually on the first and third Friday at 8:00 a.m. in St. Catherine Church. Dress for School Mass is the formal uniform. Students attend Mass with their classes and are supervised by their teachers. Parents are welcome to join us. See the monthly school calendar for specific Mass schedule.
Sacramental Preparation
All students in second grade receive sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist as part of the religion curriculum. The sacraments are administered in each student's registered parish. Students and their families interested in receiving the Sacrament of Baptism should contact the Church office at 822-7900.
Safe Environment Program
The APolicy on Allegations and Incidents of Sexual Misconduct@ promulgated by the Diocese of Honolulu is incorporated in this handbook by this reference. A copy of the policy is contained in the handbook, ATo Offer Healing, To Restore Trust,@ first published January 8, 2004. The handbook is available from the school. The Church endorses the mandatory reporting provisions of H.R.S. Chapter 350 concerning child abuse. All staff members and teachers are required to sign an acknowledgment that they have read and understood the ethical and personal conduct policies of the Diocese of Honolulu.
Consistent with diocesan policy, St. Catherine School will conduct Safe Environment training as part of the school curriculum. A meeting will be held before the class is conducted to provide parents an opportunity to review the safe environment materials. Consent for the participation in this program is included in the signed acknowledgment form located in this handbook.
Dress Code and Grooming Standards
Shoes and Socks
Shoes must be athletic type, predominantly white or black with matching shoelaces. Socks must be white, maroon, or khaki and worn just above the ankles.
Shirts
Uniform shirts are maroon or white with the St. Catherine School logo for Kindergarten through 6th grade. St. Catherine School t-shirts in maroon or white are available at the school office for grades 7 and 8.
Girls Skirts, Jumpers, and Shorts
On Mass days Kindergarten through 4th grade girls must wear a plaid jumper, and 5th and 6th grade girls wear plaid skirts. Seventh and 8th grade girls must wear a denim or khaki skirt on Mass days. Skirts and jumpers must be no shorter than 3 inches above the knee when kneeling. On days when Mass is not attended, kindergarten - 6th grade girls may also wear khaki shorts or slacks. Seventh and 8th grade girls may wear denim shorts or slacks when Mass is not attended. These should be well fitting, free from stains or holes. Shorts should be no shorter than school uniform shorts.
Boys Pants and Shorts
Khaki shorts and slacks must be purchased for grades K - 6. Denim shorts or slacks may be worn by boys in 7th and 8th grade. These must be well fitting free from stains or holes. Long slacks must be worn by all boys on Mass days.
Outer Wear
Jackets, cardigans, and sweatshirts with St. Catherine School logo can be purchased. Non-uniform outer wear is not a part of the St. Catherine School uniform.
Uniform Care
Uniforms must be clean and properly maintained when worn to class. Stained, dirty, torn, or faded uniforms are unacceptable and will result in the issuance of a Dress Code Infraction Notice.
Free Dress Days
Free dress days are a privilege and given at the discretion of the administration. Appropriate free dress reflects modesty and personal pride. Ill fitting, torn, frayed, or stained clothing is not allowed. Shorts and skirts length will conform with uniform standards. Midriffs must be covered, and spaghetti straps or low cut tops are not acceptable. Athletic shoes and crew socks must be worn.
Grooming
Hair: Students hair must be neat and clean. Highlighting or hair coloring is not acceptable. Extreme hairstyles, as determined by the administration, are not allowed. Boy=s hair must be kept at a length well above the shirt collar and must not fall over the eyes.
Jewelry: Students are discouraged from wearing jewelry due to the risk of loss. A wristwatch or simple necklace is permitted. Girls (not boys) are allowed to wear a single pair of earrings - stud or small hoop. The school accepts no responsibility for lost jewelry.
Makeup and Nails: Neither makeup nor nail polish are acceptable at anytime during the school day. Nails should be kept closely trimmed to the fingertip. Rule of thumb: when looking at the palm of the hand, the nail tip should not be seen.
th Grade Graduation
Boys: Long, black slacks, button down short or long sleeve dress shirt, black shoes. Hair should be neat.
Girls: Dress, no shorter than uniform (3 inches above the knee), modest neckline, no spaghetti straps or backless styles. If the material is sheer, appropriate undergarments should be worn. Dress sandals or closed shoes. Minimal makeup is allowed. Hair should be neatly styled with no color treatments. Parents are asked to guide your child in choosing appropriate clothing for graduation night. This is a special night for everyone involved; we don=t want the evening ruined for anyone due to inappropriate dress.
Extra Curricular Activities
Sports
The sports program is designed to encourage students to develop good sportsmanship and school spirit. Participation requires a C average in all subjects and good citizenship. St. Catherine School students participate with other private school students in volleyball, basketball, soccer, and track.
Student Council
The Student Council provides an opportunity for students in grades 5 – 8 to develop leadership skills and work cooperatively as Student Council Officers. Students in grades 1 – 8 participate as class representatives, working with the officers and assisting in school functions and activities.
Altar Servers
All students from grades 3 – 8 are encouraged to participate in the training that will prepare them to serve at Mass.
Yearbook
A student yearbook staff, working with a faculty advisor, prepares materials for publication. All students are encouraged to make contributions to the yearbook.
Disciplinary Policy
Discipline Guidelines
The discipline policy that is implemented at St. Catherine School is guided by Christian values of proper behavior. Each student needs to understand that he/she will refrain from conduct unbecoming to a Christian student. Harassment, either verbal or physical will not be tolerated. Every student is expected to comply with the rules and regulations of the school. Students are not to bring toys, radios, pagers or CD players to school.
Basic rules:
- Be kind
- Show respect for self and others
- Be willing to listen
- Keep hands and feet to self at all times
- Follow school policies
Disciplinary action consists of reminders or reprimands, warnings, suspensions, and dismissals.
- Reprimand
- This is the normal critique of student behavior made by teachers or principal. It is usually verbal.
- Warning
- This is a serious censure of student behavior issued by the teacher or principal. This warning may be given either orally or in writing. Warnings imply that suspension from school or even dismissal is imminent unless the situation is corrected. A conference will be held with all of the concerned parties. Student contracts may be implemented at this time.
- Suspension
- This is the temporary exclusion of the student from classes and school activities. If the student is to remain at home, parents/guardians will be notified immediately and a conference will be scheduled with the student, parents/guardian, and appropriate school personnel.
- Dismissal
- Dismissal is the permanent exclusion of the student from school. Dismissal of a student is a serious matter that requires an appraisal by the pastor, principal, student and parents. No dismissal will be final until a conference is held with the student, parents/guardians and school personnel. The student may be suspended while arrangements are being made for this conference. Records of the procedure will be kept throughout the process.
Complaints and Concerns
Parents who have complaints about a teacher's instruction or classroom management should communicate directly with the teacher. If the problems are not resolved, parents should bring them to the attention of the principal. Any complaints relating to general school administration should be expressed to the principal. If problems are not resolved with the principal, parents may contact the Pastor.
Bullying Policy
The St. Catherine School community recognizes that bullying and intimidation have a negative effect on school climate and negate the spirit of dignity and uniqueness of each individual we advocate in a Catholic school. Students who are intimidated and fearful cannot give their education the single-minded attention they need for success. Bullying can also lead to more serious violence. Every student has the right to an education and to be safe in and around school.
Definition of bullying.
Bullying is a pattern of abuse over time and involves a student being "picked on". Bullying includes physical intimidation or assault; extortion; oral or written threats; teasing; putdowns; name-calling; threatening looks; gestures, or actions; cruel rumors; false accusations; and social isolation.
Bullying prohibited.
The St. Catherine School community shall not tolerate any bullying on school grounds or at any school activity on or off campus.
Staff intervention.
The St. Catherine School community expects all staff members who observe or become aware of an act of bullying to take immediate, appropriate steps to intervene, unless intervention would be a threat to staff members' safety. If a staff member believes that his/her intervention has not resolved the matter, or if the bullying persists, he/she shall report the bullying to the school administration for further investigation.
Students and parents shall report bullying.
The St. Catherine School community expects students and parents who become aware of an act of bullying to report it to the school administration for further investigation. Any student who retaliates against another for reporting bullying will be subject to suspension or expulsion.
Investigation procedures.
Upon learning about a bullying incident, the principal, or designee, shall contact the parents of both the aggressor and the victim, interview both students, and thoroughly investigate. This investigation may include interviews with students, parents, and school; staff; review of school records; and identification of parent and family issues.
Consequences/intervention.
Consequences for students who bully others shall depend on the results of the investigation and may include counseling; a parent conference; detention; suspension and/or expulsion.
Other Disciplinary Actions
No policy is capable of covering all disciplinary infractions that can occur. Therefore, the administration of St. Catherine School reserves the right to impose disciplinary action to students for behavior not in keeping with Christian values. In compliance with privacy rights of parents and students, information regarding specific students will not be made available.
Appeals
The principal, in consultation with the pastor, is the final authority in all disciplinary situations. The principal, at his or her discretion, may waive any disciplinary rule for just cause.
Emergency Procedures
In the event of an emergency, illness or other problem, parents will be called at work or at home. If the parents cannot be reached, emergency contact indicated by the parent on the emergency card or registration form will be contacted. It is the parent=s responsibility to inform the school immediately if there are changes for these emergency numbers. In serious emergencies, 911 will be called first and then the parents or guardians will be notified. The procedures outlined in the Crisis Plan Handbook will be followed for other emergencies.
Fire
Fire drills are held monthly. In the event our school is severely damaged, the children would be held in the parish hall or church and parents/guardians will be called to pick up their child.
Tsunami Warning
St. Catherine School is not located in a tsunami inundation zone, so we do not have to evacuate. The following procedures have been adopted in the event of a tsunami warning:
- If a warning is issued during the school day, the children will be taken care of until parents can safely pick them up.
- If a warning is issued before school begins, school will likely be closed for the day. Parents are urged to listen to local Civil Defense radio station (KQNG 93.5FM).
Hurricane/Tropical Storm
Hurricane or tropical storm watches are issued by the National Weather Service 36 hours prior to the arrival of the storm effects. Hurricane or tropical storm warnings are issued when one of these storms could affect Kauai in 24 hours or less. When a watch is issued, we will monitor the storm and make decisions about school closure before the issuance of a warning. Local Civil Defense radio station (KQNG 93.5FM) will announce school closures.
Earthquake
Should an earthquake of significant magnitude occur on Kauai, we can anticipate considerable disruption to our road networks. The children will be taken care of by the school staff until everyone is picked up by a parent/guardian.
Lock down Situation
A lock down drill is held twice annually. In the event of an intruder or other incident that may result in harm to students and staff, the school will follow lock down procedures. Following an all clear, administration will determine if the situation warrants school closure. If so, students will be cared for until everyone is picked up.
School Closings
If it is announced that Kapa'a Elementary School is closing, St. Catherine School will also close. It is important to listen to local radio stations for information.
Code of Christian Conduct covering
Students and Parents/Guardians
The students= interest in receiving a quality, morally based education can be served if students, parents and school officials work together. Normally, differences between these individuals can be resolved. In some rare instances, however, the school may find it necessary, in its discretion, to require parents/guardians to withdraw their child.
It shall be an express condition of enrollment that the student behave in a manner, both on and off campus, that is consistent with the Christian principle of the school as determined by the school in its discretion. These principles include, but are not limited to, any policies, principles or procedures set forth in any student/parent handbook of the school.
It shall be an express condition of enrollment that the parents/guardians of a student shall also conform themselves to standards of conduct that are consistent with the Christian principles of the school, as determined by the school in its discretion. These principles include, but are not limited to any policies, principles or procedures set forth in any student/parent handbook of the school.
These Christian principles further include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Parents/guardians are expected to work courteously and cooperatively with the school to assist the student in meeting the academic, moral and behavioral expectations of the school.
- Students and parents/guardians may respectfully express their concerns about the school operation and its personnel. However, they may not do so in a manner that is discourteous, scandalous, rumor driven, disruptive, threatening, hostile, or divisive.
- These expectations for students and parents/guardians include, but are not limited to, all school sponsored programs events (e.g. extended care, athletics, field trips, etc.)
The school reserves the right to determine, in its discretion, which actions fall short of meeting the Christian principles of the school. Failure to follow these principles will normally result in a verbal or written warning to the student and/or parent/guardian and normally will first result in disciplinary action short of a requirement to withdraw from the school (e.g. suspension of student or suspension of parent/guardian=s privilege to come on the campus grounds and/or participate in parish/school activities, volunteer work, etc.)
The school reserves the right to determine, in its discretion, when conduct is of such a severe nature as to warrant immediate action without a warning.
Computer Lab Agreement
When using computers at St. Catherine School, I will:
- move slowly and quietly around computers and in the computer lab;
- follow all teacher instructions regarding the use of computers, flash drives, networks, e-mail, digital cameras, video software and other related hardware;
- respect equipment (e.g. no food, drink, or magnetic objects at or near the computers) and electrical cords;
- use computers only with teacher supervision;
- seek help when something goes wrong;
- not alter, add, or delete any software, hardware, or setup of the computer;
- not interfere with the files or folders of others;
- regularly back up my work;
- respect and keep my area clean and talk only when necessary;
- be responsible for my actions with computers.
When using the internet as school, I will:
- be under the supervision of a teacher at all times;
- go to internet sites specified by my teacher;
- respect the copyright laws when accessing information on the World Wide Web;
- not copy another person=s work from the Internet without crediting the author.
When using e-mail at school, I will:
- not give out personal information such as my surname, address or telephone number or the information of another student or teacher;
- always have my teacher=s permission before sending e-mail;
- ensure that any e-mail I send does not contain inappropriate content;
- ensure that any web site postings, replies, uploading are grammatically correct and proofread by at least one other person, and approved my my teacher.
If I come across any information that is unsuitable or makes me feel uncomfortable, I will press the "Home" button and tell my teacher right away. I understand that a log file is kept of all my activity on the Internet.
If I fail to follow these rules, I understand that I could be banned from using the computers for a time decided by the teacher or school administration. This agreement will be good for the duration of my time at St. Catherine School and will be reviewed each year with my classroom teacher.
Amending the Handbook
The Principal retains the right to amend the handbook for just cause. Parents will be given prompt notification if changes are made.
Parent Acknowledgment Form
This is to acknowledge that I/we have received the St. Catherine School Handbook. We understand and agree to cooperate with the policies set forth in the handbook. We also understand that student photos may be used in media to showcase St. Catherine School, its programs and projects.
Signed (Parent/Guardian)
Signed (Parent/Guardian)
Signed (Student)
Signed (Student)
Safe Environment Program Form
Consistent with diocesan policy, St. Catherine School will conduct Safe Environment training as part of the religion curriculum. A meeting will be held before the class is conducted to provide parents an opportunity to review the safe environment materials.
________ Yes, I give my consent for my child(ren) to participate in the Safe Environment training program.
________ No, I do not give my consent for my child(ren) to participate in the Safe Environment training program.
________ I will attend the parent session and make my decision at that time.
Signed (Parent/Guardian)
Signed (Parent/Guardian)
Form SSE-21
