Introduction

St. Francis School opened in 1928 and was staffed by the Sisters of Mercy.  At that time, Metuchen was part of the Trenton Diocese.  In 1981 the Trenton Diocese was divided in half and thus the Metuchen Diocese was formed making the Borough of Metuchen the See of the new Diocese.  The Church of St. Francis of Assisi became known as the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, and its school is called St. Francis Cathedral School.  The Sisters of Mercy administered the school until June 2001.  At that time the leadership was put in the hands of a lay principal.

This Handbook exists to foster the efficient operation of St. Francis Cathedral School.  To meet this objective, the School administration is given flexibility and the ability to exercise discretion.  In appropriate circumstances, the principal has the discretion to take actions other than those specified in the Handbook.  This Handbook is not intended and should not be considered to create any additional rights for students or parents/guardians.

By enrolling as a student at SFCS you have agreed to abide by the terms of this handbook.  

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Mission Statement

St. Francis Cathedral School creates a Catholic atmosphere where children are challenged to develop respect, justice, and responsibility while growing intellectually and spiritually into leaders of the 21st Century.

School Motto

Respect, Justice, Responsibility

School Colors

Red, White, and Black

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Philosophy

St. Francis Cathedral School is steeped in the traditions of service, peace, and courage.  It shares the common mission of all Catholic schools, namely, to teach, to proclaim the message of Jesus, to build Christian community, to worship God, and to serve one another and the world.  Our school supports and enhances the family’s role as the primary educators of their children.

We engage students from varied cultural backgrounds in a developmental curriculum promoting spiritual growth, academic excellence, and social responsibility.  The school identifies its wider community as faculty and staff, students, families, parish, interested outside individuals and groups, neighborhood, and alumni.  Within this dynamic, the young learner develops as a whole child, grounded in God’s love.  The graduate leaves St. Francis Cathedral School prepared to shape his or her life in a pattern of excellence, morality, service, and commitment.

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Vision Statement

St. Francis Cathedral School exists to inspire our students to live and make visible the love of Jesus Christ in our world.  Molded in the teachings of Christ, our students will be vibrant witnesses to Gospel values and bearers of His light to the world.

We are committed to academic excellence.  Our stimulating curriculum, challenging levels of student engagement and cutting-edge technology inspire a life-long love of learning.

The devoted and professional administration, faculty, and staff are hallmarks of this environment.  We work together to educate and prepare students for a life of service as they go forth to become the next generation of Catholic leaders.

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I. GENERAL SCHOOL AND CLASSROOM POLICIES

A.  Admissions

Non-Discrimination Policy

St. Francis Cathedral School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School.  St. Francis Cathedral School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

Inclusion Policy

As educators in a Catholic School we view each child entrusted to us as a unique, beloved child of God.  We are called to create an environment where every child is provided with whatever he or she needs to learn.

Inclusion at St. Francis Cathedral School refers to the incorporation and supporting of students in the classroom who have learning disabilities or difficulty in learning.  This means using any available service plan, communicating with parents, and participating in Child Study Team meetings whenever possible.  We are called to support the professional recommendations of learning consultants and to encourage students to participate in the services to which they are entitled regardless of any inconvenience this may cause us.

Registration

St. Francis Cathedral School gives preference to:

• Active, Catholic, registered parishioners of St. Francis Cathedral who currently have siblings in the school.
• Active, Catholic, registered parishioners of St. Francis Cathedral Church who currently have no siblings in the school.
• Catholic students who are registered and active in parishes other than St. Francis Cathedral Church and who currently have siblings in the school.
• Catholic students who are registered and active in parishes other than St. Francis Cathedral but who currently have no siblings in the school.
• Non-Catholic students.

A yearly fee per student is required at the time of registration.  This Registration Fee is refundable only if the student is not accepted.

The following requirements are necessary to be accepted into the school:

• Six years old on or before October 1st to enter First Grade
• Five years old on or before October 1st to enter Kindergarten
• Four years old on or before October 1st to enter Pre-K   4
• Three years old on or before October 1st to enter Pre-K  3
• Baptismal Certificate
• Birth Certificate
• Health/Immunization Records
• Non-refundable registration fee

All new students are required to have a complete physical before starting St. Francis Cathedral School or at their yearly physical.  Students entering from a country with a high incidence of TB require a Mantoux test.

In order to plan for the following year, every family in the school will be required during the month of February to re-register their children for the next school year.  The registration fee per child should accompany the registration form.  All registration forms must be completed and returned to the School Office in order for the student to be on a class list.

Immunizations

St. Francis Cathedral School abides by all of the Immunization Policies set by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services.  No child shall be admitted without proper proof that the child has been immunized as required by the laws of the State of New Jersey, N.J.S.A. 26:1A-9.  Proper immunization is a condition of admission to the school. Please see Immunization Policies under the Admissions tab on school website for updated requirements.

Transfer Students

In addition to all of the above items, a transfer notification, a most recent report card, and standardized test scores are to be submitted upon application. No transfers will be accepted during the final year before graduation except in special circumstances. Students who already graduated from 8th grade will not be accepted.

Tuition Policy

I.     Statement of Policy and Purpose

The success of St. Francis Cathedral School hinges upon the commitment of families to make Catholic education a financial priority, be involved in their child’s education, and make their tuition and fees payments on a timely basis. The school relies upon tuition and fee payments to provide an excellent spiritual and educational program operating on a balanced budget.

The school has full-year contractual and financial obligations that must be met, such as teacher salaries, heating and electric bills, building maintenance and improvements, and other expenses. Families that seek their children’s initial and continuing enrollment are required to satisfy the annual tuition by specified due dates.  In addition to tuition, families are responsible for timely payment of registration fees and incidental fees, such as club and activity fees, lunch fees, fundraising or fees for before or after school care.

Yearly tuition rates and registration fees are determined by February. Parents/guardians are given three options for tuition payment:  Option 1 – Single payment ($50 discount), Option 2 – Two payment plan, and Option 3 – Monthly payment plan through F.A.C.T.S. Tuition Management System which requires an AUTOMATIC TUITION PAYMENT AGREEMENT FORM.

St. Francis Cathedral School encourages all responsible parties to maintain open communication with the Business Manager to ensure a complete understanding of each family’s financial obligations. The goal of the school is to provide a Catholic school education to every student that desires one, but only by mutual cooperation can we make certain that this goal is met.  Parental non-payment or delinquency in meeting students’ financial obligations creates an additional burden for the school. 

II.    Procedure to Address Delinquent Payments

When payments are not made in accordance with the selected tuition option, the following steps will take place:

15 days past due:

When an account becomes 15 days past due under the selected tuition payment option, the financially responsible party will be contacted by the Business Manager by telephone and letter notification requesting that tuition be brought current or that they contact the school to offer an alternative tuition payment for the school’s approval.

It is the responsibility of the family and/or financially responsible party to promptly contact the Business Manager to bring the account up to date or to create an alternative tuition payment plan for school approval.

30 days past due:

When an account becomes 30 days past due under the selected tuition payment option, the Business Manager will issue the financially responsible party a written notice by certified letter and by telephone message. The notice will reiterate the terms of the selected financial commitment and request immediate attention to the matter.

III.    Remedies/Exclusions

When an account becomes 30 days past due, in addition to the notification of delinquency sent by the Business Manager, the following remedies/exclusions immediately shall become available to the school:

Student(s) will not be permitted to pre-register for the following academic year or to return after the current semester until the balance is paid in full or an alternative plan has been approved.   

Non-payment of any part of a prior year’s tuition will result in non-admission for the following school year.

All tuition and fees must be current in accordance with the selected payment plan on the first day of class or the student(s) will not be enrolled.

Student(s) will be dismissed at the end of a semester for non-payment of financial obligations.

During the school year, students will not be allowed to make payments for/or participate in any field trips and/or other school sponsored extracurricular activities.

Eighth graders cannot take part in special events and graduation exercises, nor receive any scholarship awards that are presented at the graduation ceremony.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Policy/Agreement that may be applicable. All amounts due and owing for an eighth grade student must be made satisfied no later than May 20th in order for the student to participate in graduation exercises and/or field trips.

To effectuate the provisions of this section, St. Francis Cathedral School reserves the right to cancel the registration of any student whose parents/guardians fail to satisfactorily meet tuition payments.  The school will inform any family failing to pay their tuition according to their agreement with the school, and who have been unwilling to make alternative arrangements suitable to the school, that their children are not allowed admittance or re-admittance to the school.  All tuition and fees paid prior to such cancellation of registration are non-refundable.  

IV.     Good Faith Attempt at Satisfying Financial Obligations:

The school understands that unexpected situations can and do arise and the school strives to work with families. In the event of unforeseen financial circumstances, families are responsible for contacting the Business Manager as soon as possible to review the financial hardship and seek a mutually agreeable alternative tuition payment plan.  Parents/guardians must request a face-to-face conference with the Business Manager.  No alternative arrangements will be discussed or approved over the phone.

However, this opportunity comes with the obligation to make a good faith attempt to satisfy educational financial obligations.   A “good faith attempt” at meeting tuition payments includes, at a minimum that the family formally has applied for school tuition assistance from the Diocese of Metuchen, pursuant to established diocesan procedures.   This procedure includes disclosure of tax forms, W-2 statements and any other financial information the Diocese may deem relevant in assessing whether the applicant is eligible to receive diocesan financial assistance.   In the absence of specific proof that such an application has been made to the diocese by a delinquent party, no special circumstances or other consideration will be allowed by the school for payment of tuition and the Remedies/Exclusion terms in Paragraph III above shall apply.

V.      Other Available Remedies

While a sincere and charitable effort will be made to collect overdue tuition, the school reserves the right to use any legal means necessary to remedy tuition delinquencies, including using a third-party collection agency and/or legal proceedings.  All fees or costs incurred in collecting amounts owed may be included in the balance due.

VI.     Requirement of Signed Agreement on File

A signed copy (with original signatures) of this Student Tuition and Fees Payment Policy/Agreement is required to be in the school’s file for every student attending St. Francis Cathedral School.  It is the parent’s or other responsible person’s obligation to provide the school with a signed copy of this policy/agreement for the school’s file.  However, the failure of a parent or other responsible person to return a copy of this policy/agreement does not prevent full enforcement of this policy/agreement in accordance with its provisions.  Receipt of this policy/agreement, with or without signatures, constitutes full notice of its provisions and terms.

VII.   Effective Date

This policy/agreement is effective January 1, 2018 and immediately applies to any delinquent tuition, fee or other school payment that exists on January 1, 2018, as well as to all future delinquencies from January 1, 2018 forward.

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B.  Attendance

Prompt, regular attendance is absolutely essential to academic success.  The parent/guardian is expected to foster these good habits in the student, both for the benefit of the student’s current academic achievement and to encourage mature adult behavior in the future. 

Absence

A parent/guardian must call the school nurse at 732-548-3162 no later than 9:00 a.m. to report a student’s absence.  If no call has been received by 9:00 a.m., the office will make a reasonable effort to reach a parent/guardian by phone to verify the legitimacy of the absence.  These procedures represent a mutual effort to account for the presence of the student during school hours.

When the student returns to school, she/he must present to the teacher a written excuse from a parent/guardian stating the student’s name together with the dates and reason for the absence.  An absence of five consecutive days requires a doctor’s note.  Students who receive an excused absence prior to their being absent, for example to visit another school, will be marked absent.

Trips and vacations during the school year are strongly discouraged.  Students are responsible for all the work that was missed during her/his absence.

Arrival/Departure

In order to provide a safe environment for the children and to eliminate traffic jams, please follow the procedure below:

Arrival:  School supervision begins at 7:35 a.m.  If you must drop your child off earlier than 7:35 a.m., please contact Mrs. Marilou Rizzo, Before-Care and After-Care Director, at 732-548-3107, to make arrangements for supervision of your child/children.  Before-Care begins at 7:00 a.m. in the Main School Building. 

Children in Grades 1-8 enter the school through the Breezeway door.  Parents who drive their children are asked to drive into the school parking lot and let the children exit the driver’s side.  Drivers, please stay in your cars.  After the children have exited, please stay in the flow of traffic and proceed out of the parking lot with caution.  

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students go directly to the Cathedral Parish Center (CPC). Parents of these children may park in the CPC Parking Lot or on the street.  Left-side parking on Library Place is allowed from the CPC Parking Lot and up to Linden Avenue.  There is “No Parking” at all on the right side of Library Place. Kindergarten studentsenter the door at the driveway on Library Place Pre-K students enter via the door by the playground.

Parents are not permitted in the classroom areas during the arrival time.

Departure:  

Children who ride in cars will be dismissed.  Parents/guardians are to park in the parking lots and meet their children. 

The students will exit through the front doors and walk around to the parking lot.  Teachers will walk them in a line to the lot.  If you are parked in the lot across from the school, your child will have to cross by the crossing guard.  You may wait for them by the entrance of the parking lot and take them to the car.

Those students who walk home are dismissed through the front doors near the office.  Students will walk toward Library Place and cross at the crossing guard. These students must have a walking waiver on file in the office and must be updated each year.

The children who are being picked up on Elm Avenue will exit the front doors near the Church and walk down Main Street on line with teachers guiding them.  The teacher will cross those children who walk home across Elm Avenue.  Parents who are waiting on the corner, please take your child/children and leave so the teachers will be able to see if there are children who need to wait for their parents.

Supervision of Students

St. Francis Cathedral School’s responsibility for supervision of students begins at 7:35 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m.  The School also has a Before-Care and After-Care Program.  The Before-Care Program starts at 7:00 a.m. and the After-Care Program begins immediately after school and ends at 6:00 p.m. 

If a parent/guardian knows ahead of time that she/he will not be able to pick the student up immediately after school, she/he must call the School Office.  The student will be told in advance and will wait outside the Principal’s Office or go to the After-Care Program. 

Tardiness

PreK and Kindergarten students who arrive after 7:50am ring the doorbells at the CPC for late admittance. Students in grades 1 - 8 who arrive after 7:50 a.m.are to report to the school office before entering their classroom. Students with chrinic or excessive lateness will serve detention. We strongly encourage parents to ensure that students arrive on time to school.  It is disruptive to both the student and the class when students to arrive late.  Excessive tardiness will jeopardize a student’s standing at St. Francis Cathedral School.

Truancy

A student who deliberately avoids coming to school, contrary to the wishes of his/her parents/guardian, is considered truant.  Habitual truancy will be reported to the appropriate authority.  A student who is chronically truant will be subject to discipline.

Early Sign Out Procedure

Early dismissal of an individual student will be granted in extraordinary circumstances.  Parents are requested to make dental and doctor appointments after 1:45 p.m.

No student may leave the school building during school hours unless a parent or some other designated adult picks her/him up at the School Office.  Occasionally a student may have to leave school before dismissal.  The procedure is as follows:

• An Early Dismissal Form or a note from home must be sent to the office at the beginning of the day.
• The parent/guardian must sign out the student in the School Office. 
• Per diocesan policy, students must be present in school for three instructional hours in order to be considered present.
• Students leaving school at 11 a.m. or later will be considered an early dismissal and absent for a half day.

The only time a student may be released from school is with written permission from a parent or guardian.  In every instance of leaving early, students are responsible for completing any missed class-work, homework or tests.

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C.  Communications

Office Hours

The school office is open before and after the regular school day.  The office hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Emergency Closings

In case of a severe storm when it may be necessary to cancel school sessions or have a delayed opening, observe the following:

• Swift K12, an alert system for emergency notifications, will notify parents of school closings, emergency early dismissals, and delayed openings. 
• Do not call the school, convent, or rectory.

Appointments

Parents optimum method of communication is through email.  Please allow a teacher/administrator two business days to respond.  Meetings between teachers and parents are seen as vital to the growth and development of students.  If a difficulty should arise concerning conduct or academic work, please contact the teacher involved before the matter is brought to the attention of the principal.  Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled after the first quarter and by request after subsequent quarters.

The faculty/staff member will contact the parent and set up a date and time for the meeting.  For the sake of good order in the school, parents may not approach faculty or staff members during the school day without arranging an appointment beforehand.  Unless parents have an appointment with a teacher, they are asked not to have a conference with the teacher before school.  This time is reserved for class preparation.  When appointments are made, the parents and the faculty or staff members should be aware of the purpose of the conference so that all concerned may be appropriately prepared.

If it is necessary to telephone a teacher, please leave a message at the office and the call will be returned.

Parents who wish to meet with the Principal or Vice-Principal must contact the office to arrange a mutually convenient meeting time. 

Change of Address

The homeroom teacher and the school office must be informed of a change of address, email address and/or telephone number.  This also pertains to emergency numbers.

Communication with Parents

A school calendar is created each year and is in accord with the guidelines of the State of New Jersey and the Diocese of Metuchen. A monthly calendar is printed and distributed  in September to each family. The calendar, and other information, is available on our website. 

During the school year various flyers are also posted online in the Family Envelope (E-velope) every Wednesday.   It is the responsibility of the parents to view the contents of the E-velope.

Faculty Meetings

Faculty meetings are generally held on the first Friday of each month.  Dismissal is at 12:00 P.M.  Parents are notified on the monthly and yearly calendar of the dates of faculty meetings, holidays, and teacher in-service days.  Please note these days on your calendar as they require student transportation at 12:00 p.m.

Party Invitations/Flyers/Student Birthdays

No invitations or flyers for personal parties are to be passed out through school unless there is one for each class member. Class lists with names and addresses are not given out from the school.

Students are allowed to dress down on their birthday or another appropriate day, preferably not a liturgy day.  Parents may not send in goody bags or treats.  

Money

Money that is sent to school for a specific event or purpose should be placed in a sealed envelope and identified with the student’s name, grade and room, the amount enclosed and its purpose.  Any amount of $5.00 or more should be in check form made out to St. Francis Cathedral School.  No cash that is stipulated for tuition should be given to a student.  Please bring it to the School Office in person and we will provide a receipt.

Parents as Partners

As partners in the educational process at St. Francis Cathedral School, we ask parents:

To set rules, times, and limits so that your child:

• Gets to bed early on school nights;
• Arrives at school on time and is picked up on time at the end of the day;
• Is dressed according to the school dress code;
• Completes assignments on time; and
• Has lunch money or nutritional sack lunch every day.

To actively participate in school activities such as Parent-Teacher Conferences;

To notify the school with a written note when the student has been absent or tardy;

To notify the school office of any changes of address or important phone numbers; 

To meet all financial obligations to the school;

To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well-being, safety, and health;

To complete and return to school any requested information promptly;

To read school notes and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education;

To support the religious and educational goals of the school;

To attend Mass and teach the Catholic faith by word and example;

To support and cooperate with the discipline policy of the school;

To treat teachers with respect and courtesy in discussing student problems.

Parent's Role in Education

We, at SFCS, consider it a privilege to work with parents in the education of children because we believe parents are the primary educators of their children.  Therefore, it is your right and your duty to become the primary role models for the development of your child’s life---physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. Your choice of St. Francis Cathedral School involves a commitment and exhibits a concern for helping your child to recognize God as the greatest good in his/her life. 

Good example is the strongest teacher.  Your personal relationship with God, with each other, and with the Church community will affect the way your child relates to God and others.  Ideals taught in school are not well rooted in the child unless these are nurtured by the example of good Catholic/Christian morality and by an honest personal relationship with God in your family life.

Once you have chosen to enter into a partnership with us at SFCS, we trust you will be loyal to this commitment.  During these formative years (Pre-K to 8), your child needs constant support from both parents and faculty in order to develop his/her moral, intellectual, social, cultural, and physical endowment.  Neither parents nor teachers can afford to doubt the sincerity of the efforts of their educational partner in the quest of challenging, yet nourishing, the student to reach his/her potential.  It is vital that both parents and teachers remember that allowing oneself to be caught between the student and the other partner will never have positive results.  To divide authority between school and home or within the home will only teach disrespect of all authority.  If there is an incident at school, you as parents must make investigation of the complete story your first step.  Evidence of mutual respect between parents and teachers will model good mature behavior and relationships.  Talking negatively about a child’s teacher at home will only create an attitude of distrust toward the teacher, the school, and the parent.

Students are naturally eager to grow and learn.  However, sometimes in the process of maturation new interests may cause them to lose focus.  As this natural process occurs, the student needs both understanding and discipline.  At times, your child may perceive discipline as restrictive.  However, it is boundaries and limits which provide a young person with both guidance and security.  

It is essential that a child take responsibility for grades he/she has earned and be accountable for homework, long-term assignments, major tests, service projects, and all other assignments.  Parents are encouraged to let their child experience a logical consequence for an inappropriate action or behavior.  This responsibility also extends to times of absence.

Together, let us begin this year with a commitment to partnership as we support one another in helping your child to become the best person he/she is capable of becoming.

Parental Cooperation

Parental cooperation is essential for the welfare of students.  Normally, a child is not deprived of a Catholic education or otherwise penalized for actions of parents/guardians.  However, the Principal may require the dismissal of a student when parents/guardians have been persistently and overtly uncooperative regarding school policies, regulations, or programs.  Student dismissal may also be required when parents/guardians have interfered in matters of school administration to the detriment of the school’s ability to serve their own or other children.  If, in the opinion of the administration, parent/guardian behavior interferes with the teaching/learning process, the administration may require parents/guardians to withdraw their children and sever the relationship with the school.  Harassment of administration, teachers, or students by parents/guardians may result in the dismissal of students.  Tuition and fees will not be refunded if student is dismissed.

Disputes with the School

The School and parents should strive to communicate with one another in an open and collaborative manner.  It is the goal of SFCS to address parent concerns regarding their child's experience in the school.  In turn, there may be times the School must raise issues pertaining to a student that are related to disciplinary, educational or social issues.

Recognizing that students are best served when families and the School can find mutually agreeable solutions to resolve differences or problems, it may sometimes not be possible to find a solution or compromise to accommodate the needs of the School and the student or their family. It is agreed by the School and the family that it is not an effective manner of communication to bring third parties into the conversation as it impedes collaboration and creates an adversarial relationship.

It is the policy of SFCS and the Diocese of Metuchen, that in the event a family engages an attorney the student cannot remain in the school as it represents a complete, and irrevocable breakdown of the relationship between SFCS, the student and the family. Accordingly, the student must immediately withdraw from SFCS. The students is not eligible to be reenrolled at a later time. 



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Home-School Association

The Home-School Association (H.S.A.) is composed of all parents/guardians of the students of St. Francis Cathedral School.  The faculty and administration are included in the membership.  The objectives of the HSA include:

• Promoting the full spiritual and academic growth of each student.
• Creating better parental awareness.
• Serving as a vehicle of communication between faculty and parents.
• Assisting the school administration in attaining its goals through active parental involvement.  All communication from the HSA must be addressed and approved by the principal.

The Home-School Association is designed to assist the school by fundraising.  Parents are required to volunteer for at least 8 hours (6 dedicated to Tricky Tray).  With this financial assistance, the school is able to provide materials necessary for instruction.  It is highly recommended that all parents make every effort to attend the HSA meetings and cooperate in aiding the HSA both in their fundraising programs and social undertakings.

Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents

If there is a court order specifying the rights and responsibilities of individual parents/guardians, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent/guardian to provide the school with an official copy of the court order that outlines the non-custodial parents’ rights of access to the child, restraining orders, etc.   The custodial parent must provide an updated court order at the beginning of each school year.  The school abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment. Thus, non-custodial parents will be given access to the academic records and to information regarding the academic progress of their children, unless there is a court order specifically stating that the non-custodial parent is denied access to such information.

Pick-up from School – The school will permit only the custodial parent, or her/his designee (designated in writing), to pick up the child during or at the end of the school day.  The non-custodial parent will not be permitted to remove the child from school during or at the end of the school day, unless there is written authorization from the custodial parent.  In an emergency, a clearly defined, one-time telephone authorization may be acceptable.

Visitors

EVERYONE (parents, volunteers, visitors) is required to “sign in” at the office and obtain a “Volunteer” or “Visitor” badge to wear during his/her stay.  No one is permitted to go to a classroom and interrupt the teaching process for any purpose.

Telephone

Children are not permitted to call home for forgotten homework, clothing, materials, etc., for classes.  These do not constitute emergencies.  In an emergency, school staff will place the necessary calls.

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D.  Health Services

Emergency Forms

At the beginning of the school year in September, “Emergency Forms” are distributed.  Parents are requested to read the forms carefully and to register the names, addresses and phone numbers of at least two neighbors or friends that are available locally in the event that a child is ill and the parent is not available.  This form is very important. 

Nurse

A registered nurse is available each school day.  The nurse monitors required medical registration documents, including immunizations, emergency information forms, and informs school personnel of health issues regarding individual students.  Documentation of a physical examination provided by the family physician is required to be on file in the school for all students entering grades K, 3, and 6.

Among the regular services provided by, or through, the school nurse are vision, hearing, and Scoliosis screening; height, weight, and blood pressure testing.

If a child is ill in the morning before he/she leaves home, please do not send him/her to school.  Children should be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medication,i.e. Tylenol, before returning to school.  The school nurse is available for any student who feels ill or is injured during the school day.  When a child becomes ill or is seriously injured at school, emergency care will be given and the parent/guardian will be notified to bring the child home.  The school is responsible only for immediate first aid.  The legal responsibility for medical care rests with the parents/guardians.

In the event of an accident, no matter how minor, the student should report to the nurse immediately.  When a student reports to the Nurse’s Office and the nurse is not available, the student should then go to the School Office.

Parents/guardians are asked to inform the nurse of any significant injuries or accidents that involve students off school grounds.  This will assist the school in accommodating any special student needs.

Parents/guardians are asked to notify the school nurse of any communicable disease that their child develops, as well as any incidents of hospitalization and any additional immunizations or boosters the child receives during the school year.  Children with any type of infectious illness must be kept at home until the period of infection is over.

Temporary absence from physical education classes requires a written statement from a physician and is given to the school nurse, who will inform the physical education teacher.  When feasible, students excused from physical education on a temporary basis will accompany their class to the area of instruction.

Medication

St. Francis Cathedral School strongly discourages the administration of either prescription or non-prescription medication in school or at school-sponsored activities.  However, if it is absolutely essential that a student receive medication while under school supervision, the following procedures apply:

1. A parent/guardian should come to the school and personally administer the medication with permission from the school nurse or administrator.  The parent/guardian should contact the nurse to make arrangements to administer the medication.
2. If this arrangement is not possible, the School Nurse or the principal (or designee) will administer the medication under the following conditions:

• The medication must be given to the School Nurse or principal by the parent/guardian;
• The medication must be in the original pharmacy labeled container; and
• The parent/guardian and the student’s physician must complete and sign an “Authorization to Administer Medication in School” form.  This form is available from the school as well as on the Nurse page on-line.
• Students will be permitted to self-administer medication only for life-threatening illnesses or conditions.  The parent/guardian must schedule a conference with the School Nurse to discuss in detail the need for the medication.  The parent/guardian and the student’s physician must complete and sign an “Authorization for Self-Administration of Medication in School” form.  This form is available from the school as well as on the Nurse page on-line.

Insurance

The Diocesan School Insurance Policy covers all students.

Child Abuse

New Jersey law requires any person who has “reasonable cause to believe that a child has been subjected to child abuse or acts of child abuse to report the same promptly to the Division of Youth and Family Services by telephone or otherwise.”  See N.J.S.A. 9:6-9.10 et. Seq.Failure to report suspected child abuse is punishable as a disorderly persons offense.  N.J.S.A. 9:6-8.14.  Under law anyone who makes a report shall have immunity from any civil or criminal liability that he may have otherwise incurred.  N.J.S.A. 9:6-8.13.  The law imposes this obligation on every citizen without exception.

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E.  School Regulations

Crisis Drills

The school has a crisis management plan in place. Crisis drills are conducted as directed by NJ Regulation.

Textbooks

All textbooks are the property of St. Francis Cathedral School or the State of New Jersey.  They are provided for student use at great expense.  It is important to instill in the students a sense of responsibility in regard to the property of others.  All textbooks and workbooks are to be kept clean, covered at all times, and handled carefully.  If a book is lost, mutilated, or destroyed, the parents must assume the cost of the book.

Every student must carry a school bag to and from school. The school bag should provide adequate protection for the books, especially during inclement weather.  Rolling backpacks are not permitted.

Electronic Devices

Cell phones, smart watches, personal tracking devices, and other personal hand held devices are to be turned off and placed in the teacher’s basket during the school day unless the student has the principal’s permission to use the phone at a specified time and place. A student who violates this policy will have the device removed from his/her possession, and a parent/guardian will be responsible to retrieve it from the principal’s office.  Repeated violations of rules regarding devices will result in a student forfeiting his/her privilege of bringing the devices to school.

Students are not permitted to bring headphones, video or audio equipment or any electronic devices to school unless specifically requested by a teacher for use in the curriculum.

Lunch and Recess Supervision

The teachers, both in the cafeteria and on the playground, are the school authorities in charge of supervision.  Their directives to students must be obeyed.  The health and safety of our students require everyone’s cooperation.

Following lunch, recess is provided for the students.  The following safety regulations are enforced on the playground:

Students must remain under the supervision of the recess proctors and are to stay in the designated areas.
Students must finish their lunch, including dessert, before proceeding outside for recess.  No food or drink is permitted outside the cafeteria.
No student may re-enter the school building for any reason without the permission of the proctor supervising recess.
All problems or injuries are to be reported to the recess proctors on duty.

Peanut and Tree Nut Safe Zone

The school has been declared a “peanut and tree nut safe zone.”  This means that peanut and tree nut products will not be allowed in the school at any time.  Please read all ingredient labels carefully and do not send any peanuts or tree nut products to be eaten in the school.  This includes items with warnings such as “may contain traces of peanuts” or “manufactured on equipment that also processes peanuts and tree nuts.”

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F.  Student Activities

Field Trips

On occasion, St. Francis Cathedral School will sponsor and conduct field trips for the educational enrichment of the students.  Participation in field trips is a privilege not a right of students.  Poor conduct and/or unpaid school fees/tuition may warrant a student being denied the privilege of going on a field trip.  In such cases the student will report to school as usual and remain in supervised classes for the day.  No student may participate in a field trip unless a signed parent/guardian permission slip for the specific event is submitted to the school.  The school provides the permission slip.  Out of state trips require a notarized signature.  School uniforms are worn unless otherwise notified.

Where medical reasons warrant, the teacher may request the child’s parent/guardian to attend.  If a child requires medication during a field trip, parents must discuss this with the school nurse prior to the trip so that arrangements can be made.

All students must accompany his/her class on the school bus going to the field experience and will return with his/her class to the school for dismissal. Parents may not sign children out early for dismissal.

Student Council

The Student Council sponsors charitable activities, services to the school community, and activities for the student body.  The officers are elected in September from a group of candidates who have indicated a willingness to serve the student body and who present their ideas and beliefs in a speech to grades three through eight, the grades that vote in the primary and final elections.  Students must be in eighth grade to run for offices of president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, public affairs or religious affairs.  All other classrooms elect a representative/liaison.

Students running for and holding Student Council offices must meet all academic and disciplinary eligibility requirements.  The Student Council Moderators are faculty members.

School Store

Supplies such as copybooks, tablets, pens, pencils, crayons, etc., may be purchased at the school store from before morning prayers on specified days.

Extra Curricular

St. Francis Cathedral School offers after school curricular activities.  Students cannot participate in after school clubs and activities if they are absent from school that day.

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G.  Transportation

Car

For safety and good order, drivers bringing students to school in the morning, or picking them up at dismissal, are to respect the following regulations:

A student will be dismissed to an authorized adult as per the emergency contact list. The school office must be contacted before dismissal 
if someone other than an authorized adult will be picking up a student.
Drivers who anticipate being late for student arrival or dismissal are asked to call the School Office as soon as possible with that information.
Drivers are required to follow the traffic patterns outlined in the “Arrival/Departure” section of this Handbook.

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II. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

A.  Curriculum

Religious Education and Religious Services

Religious Education takes place in the home and in the school.  Parents, by their interest and example, play a vital role in the religious education of their children.

Our program is concerned with initiating children into the sacramental life and mission of the Church, explaining to them the Church’s nature, history and teaching.  We must foster in each person Christ-like love and dedication to all.  This will result in practical service to whoever is in need.  Students attend Spirituality Day and/or retreats and participate in service projects.

One’s religious development is essentially the on-going development of a relationship with God, a relationship which affects not only how one acts toward God, but also how the person relates toward his/her neighbor as well as oneself.

The children of St. Francis Cathedral School are given every opportunity to grow daily in the practice of this faith.  Liturgy is the focal point of our Catholic belief and children of all grades are given varied opportunities to prepare and take an active role in a monthly liturgy.  The traditional devotions of the church such as the rosary, Advent/Lenten devotions, May Crowning and an in-depth exposure to the history of the church are an intricate part of the religious education given to all the children.

The Sacramental Programs of Penance, Holy Eucharist, and Confirmation have been structured in such a way as to provide student and parent participation.  The reception of the sacraments is done on a parish level.

The universality of the Church is touched upon by encouraging the children to be mindful of the role of the Missions.  Children are motivated to make sacrifices and pray for all missionaries throughout the world. 

The non-Catholic student is welcome at St. Francis Cathedral School.  The non-Catholic student is expected to understand and agree that the school exists to educate in the framework of Catholic values.  Non-Catholic students must participate in the religion classes and liturgical services scheduled for students during the school year.

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Family Life Program

In compliance with the mandate from the Metuchen Diocese, the Benziger Family Life program is taught in Grades 1 through 8.  Family Life is a value based human sexuality program. As a Catholic school we integrate Family Life with the other curriculum areas, such as science, religion, and social studies whenever possible.

Theology of the Body
St. Francis Cathedral School is piloting a supplemental Religion program, Theology of the Body, in grades Kindergarten - 8th grade.  Based on the book by  St. John Paul II the program focuses on what it means to be human in the image and likeness of God. 

Language Arts

This program consists of Literature/Reading, Writing, Spelling/Vocabulary and Oral Language.

Reading – A variety of genres is incorporated in children’s literature.  Reading encourages children to think, write and discuss others’ ideas about literature.  It offers a variety of instructional approaches that help teachers meet the needs of all students.  The emphasis is on developing higher level thinking skills so students will become more critical and analytic readers.  The program provides both holistic and objective based tests.

Writing –The writing component of the language arts program is incorporated as a cross-disciplinary approach.  The emphasis is to learn to develop higher-level writing skills that focus on grammar, punctuation, proper sentence structure and vocabulary.

Spelling/Vocabulary – A variety of exercises is completed in order to encourage the children to spell words correctly and completely understand their meanings.  There is frequent review and assessment in both the student text and supplemental materials.  Students learn the correct pronunciation and expand their vocabulary.

Oral Language – Oral language is developed so that all students will speak in clear, concise, organized language.  Assessments include oral presentations, role-playing, choral reading, and supporting one’s position in debate.

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Mathematics

This program recognizes that every child must have an understanding of the four fundamental operations as they are applied to whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and variables.  Along with computation skills, critical thinking and problem solving are an essential part of the successful mastery in math.

At St. Francis Cathedral school students in middle school are placed in math classes 6-1 or 6-2, 7-1 or 7-2, Algebra 1-1 or Algebra 1-2.  We carefully review each student's class work, report card grade, bench mark tests and standardized test results to determine the math class that will best serve the student to be successful.  Please note that both sections of math classes work on the same grade curriculum.

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Science

The framework of the science curriculum includes topics equally distributed in the areas of life, earth and physical science.  Other disciplines such as language arts, math, and social studies are integrated into the science experience.

Skills stressed within the science program include observing, classifying, inferring, and predicting.  These skills are developed through hands-on experimentation, cooperative group work, teacher demonstration and paper/pencil activities.

Social Studies

The study of history traces the story of humankind for an understanding of the influences that have contributed to its development.  Early levels focus on pupils themselves and the program expands its realm to include families, communities, regions of the earth, our country and the world.

The awareness of good citizenship, honor, and responsibility is immersed in the social studies curriculum, as the study of history, civics, geography, and current events allows for proficiency in analyzing, interpreting, inquiry, and problem solving.

Art

Art classes are intended to stimulate creativity among all students. The type of projects varies with each grade and uses various media.  The students’ projects are displayed throughout the school.

Music

The classroom music program consists of theory, appreciation, and vocal music.  An instrumental music program is available for any student from Grade 1 through 8.  This is over and above the school tuition.  Recitals are presented at the end of the year.

Physical Education

Physical Education in the elementary school is the vehicle through which a child learns to move and moves to learn.  Broad movement experiences, games of low organization, rhythms, and manipulative activities develop body competency and management for the primary grades.          

Specialized sport skills, concepts, positioning and organized play make up the bulk of the intermediate and upper elementary grades program, along with the Presidential Physical Fitness and the National Fitness programs.

Technology/Acceptable Use

The purpose of the School’s technology is to facilitate legitimate educational endeavors while maintaining the students’ safety. Use of these resources must conform to the law and the religious mission of St. Francis Cathedral School and the Diocese of Metuchen. Additionally, the use of all technology devices should be in accordance with the Student Code of Honor. 

The use of the School’s technology is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use will result in a suspension or complete cancellation of the user’s privileges. Use may be suspended, terminated or restricted, with or without cause, with or without notice, at the sole discretion of the School.

Devices include, but are not limited to, laptops, netbooks, desktop computers, electronic readers, mobile phones, tablets, watches and wireless headsets/earbuds.

All personal devices brought into the school are subject to this policy. This policy also applies to devices used during school excursions, camps, Before/After Care and extracurricular activities.

Hardware & Software

Devices issued by the School are the sole property of the School. Students should have no expectation of privacy in the use or contents of these devices. The contents of all school-issued devices are subject to inspection by the faculty and/or administration with or without notice and with or without cause.

Users who damage hardware or software will be responsible for replacing the damaged articles at their own expense.

Users will not attempt to alter, install, modify, upgrade, repair or remove any school hardware or software.

Personal memory devices may not be used without the approval or direct supervision of the teacher/school. Students may not use an external memory device to bring materials into school that may be deemed inappropriate. Personal memory devices should be scanned by a recognized virus-scanning program before use in the school.

Commercial software is copyrighted. Each user must abide by the software’s license agreement. The user will not violate any copyright laws regarding print, electronic, video or audio information.

Users will not read, modify, create, delete, copy or modify any parts of the resident software or the operating system.

Device malfunctions are not an acceptable excuse for not submitting schoolwork.

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Network and Internet Access

Students may use the school network and internet resources for educational purposes only. All other uses are strictly prohibited. 
The internet will be accessed via school-owned equipment only. Students are prohibited from accessing the school’s network and/or the internet via their personal device unless authorized by a teacher or administrator.

Transmission of materials in violation of any church, school, local, state, or federal law is prohibited. 

Users may not upload, download or otherwise access materials deemed inappropriate. This includes but is not limited to content that contains profanity, vulgarity and violence. Electronic materials that are abusive, demonic, promote harassment or insult are unacceptable.

Students may not reveal any personal information about themselves while online.

Students may not access their personal online accounts via the school network.

Streaming music and/or video is prohibited.

Downloads to personal devices must be completed off school premises.

Users will report any communication or online content, which makes him/her uncomfortable.

The administration has the right to monitor all communications on the school network.

Student Network Accounts

Account owners are responsible for all activity under their school account and are not to permit access by another student.

Students may not disclose passwords or any other access codes assigned to him/her or any other user. Conversely, students will not attempt to access another’s files, passwords, or any other access codes.

Students may not use any other equipment other than their assigned device(s) unless otherwise given permission by the instructor.

Attempts to circumvent the school’s network security measures are prohibited.

The school makes no warranties of any kind for the use of technology. The school is not responsible for any damages caused by the user’s negligence or the user’s errors or omissions.

The school is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its technology resources.

Mobile Devices

The use of cameras and/or audio recording on any device is strictly prohibited unless otherwise authorized by the faculty or administration.

All social networking and gaming is strictly prohibited, unless otherwise authorized by the faculty or administration.

Devices may not be used to make sound recordings of individual(s), nor take, scan, share, nor forward pictures or videos of individual(s) without the consent of all involved.

The school assumes no responsibility for lost, damaged or stolen devices owned by a student.

Mobile devices must never be left unattended.

Personal mobile devices are to be turned off and placed in the homeroom basket at the start of the day unless the student has the principal’s permission to use the device at a specified time and place.

Mobile devices are never to be taken into a locker room or school bathroom. Devices are not permitted in the Cafeteria during lunch period or playground during recess.

Students are not to remove any labels or other identification, applied by the school, from any devices.

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Cheating and Plagiarism

Cheating
To cheat is to give or receive assistance with an assignment or during an exam, from a person or artificial intelligence, which is not authorized by the teacher.  Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Referring to class materials during a test without the teacher’s permission
• Copying from another student’s paper or allowing another student to copy from your paper
• Attempting to secure copies of a test before the test date or securing a copy of a test before a test date
• Working together on an assignment without the teacher’s approval
• Submitting for a grade an assignment that was completed by another person or giving an assignment to another student so that he or she can submit it as his or her own work
• Discussing answers during a test
• Using artificial intelligence for the production of written class assignments (ex. Chat GBT)
• Using artifical intelligence to gain answers on tests, quizzes, class assignments, etc. 

Plagiarism
To plagiarize is to copy someone else’s writing or ideas and to present them as your own.  Types of plagiarism include:

• Copying word for word without giving credit to the author
• Paraphrasing without giving credit to the author
• Using language that is almost identical to the language of another author

Plagiarism and cheating directly violates the Code of Honor. The student will receive a zero for the assignment if plagiarism or cheating occurs. Additionally, violations may disqualify the student from that marking period’s honor roll, if applicable, or from receiving academic achievement awards.

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Diocese of Metuchen Discipline Policy

          St. Francis Cathedral School conforms to the Discipline Policy promulgated by the Department of Education, Diocese of Metuchen, which is reprinted below:

“Students who choose to disrupt the order of the school, violate policies or regulations, or infringe on the rights of other students, interfere with the teaching or supervisory duties or staff, must accept the consequences, of these choices.

Students are expected to be respectful of others and others’ property; be obedient to authority; be orderly; cooperate with students, teachers and all others within the school; act in appropriate manner; and behave in a fashion that reflects the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.

Failure to meet these standards of conduct shall result in the application of the following disciplinary actions:

• School authorities shall follow procedures outlined in the Memorandum of Agreement which has been entered into by the Diocese of Metuchen, the school, and local law enforcement agencies.  The behaviors cited below are a mere summary of the behaviors cited in the Memorandum of Agreement and are not intended in any way to supplement, revise, or supersede the specific language of that document. 

 

• Physical violence or the threat of physical violence;
• Bringing weapons to school;
• Bringing drugs to school;
• Threatening another person with weapons, drugs, and/or  violence;
• On-going bullying and/or even one instance of bullying that presents an imminent danger to others;
• Brings to school toys or other objects that can be dangerous or used as weapons.

 

• If a student engaged in any of the aforementioned acts, the Memorandum of Agreement requires that the principal or his/her designee:  (a) call the local police department immediately upon being informed of the student’s violation of this policy, (b) call the parents to inform them of what transpired, (c) call the appropriate administrator in the Catholic Schools Office, and (d) suspend student during the course of the police investigation.  During the course of the suspension, the principal is required to collaborate with the Catholic Schools Office.
• Policy of the Catholic Schools Office requires that the school inform the parents/guardians that the parents/guardians must (a) arrange to have the child interviewed by a Certified Psychologist, and (b) present a letter signed by the Psychologist to the school principal to consider for reinstatement to school.

Due to the provisions of the Memorandum of Agreement, St. Francis Cathedral School must implement the disciplinary actions outlined above when behavioral infractions occur.  Parents will assist their children by helping them to realize the consequence of misbehavior in our ever changing society.

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B.  Student Performance Assessments

Explanation of Grades

Report cards include an interpretation of grading symbols.  Parents/guardians and students should understand these interpretations and discuss them with the teacher(s) when warranted.  Parents should know how specific grades were arrived at by the teacher, including the overall percentage weight of such activities as testing, class participation, homework, projects, etc.  These will differ by subject, teacher, and student age levels.  To discuss student achievement and proficiency effectively, a clear understanding of what the numeric or letter symbol means is important.

Grading Scale

Key to Grades
 Kindergarten

Grades 1 and 2

Key to Grades for All Subjects
Grades 3-8
 

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Incomplete Grades

A student will temporarily receive an “incomplete” grade for course requirements that have not been completed either because of extended illness or for some other legitimate reason that has been approved by the teacher in consultation with the principal.  If the incomplete work is not made up in the time specified by the teacher, the “incomplete” is translated into a grade that gives no credit for the missing work.

Standardized Testing
The Brigance Early Childhood Screening is administered to incoming kindergarten students in late May or early June.  The Diocesan Standardized Testing Program, MAP, is administered to students in grades 1 through 8 three times per year. 

C.  Progress Reporting

PowerSchool

St. Francis Cathedral School utilizes the PowerSchool Student Information System (SIS) which is an established, internet-based program from Pearson School Systems that allows parents to review their children’s school performance and attendance online.  It is the parents’ responsibility to attend an informational workshop on the PowerSchool program which is required before obtaining the login/password.  Additionally, it is the parent’s responsibility to review grades online.  This provides insight into the academic progress of the child and serves as a means of communication between home and school.

Any discrepancy in grades must be addressed with the teacher within one week of the issuance of report cards.  Otherwise, report card grades will not be changed.

Report Cards and Parent/Teacher Conferences

The school year is divided into four marking periods as determined by the Diocesan School office.  A printed report card is issued at the end of the school year. Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled after the first marking period in order for dialogue concerning the child’s progress to take place.  Parents or teachers may request conferences thereafter.  It is only when both teacher and parent work together for the overall good of the child that the student will benefit in a positive manner.

Honor Roll

Students in grades five through eight may be on the Honor Roll.  First Honors consist of students who receive A+ or A’s in every major subject for the marking period (Religion, Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science).  Satisfactory grades in ancillary subjects are also required. 

Second Honors consists of students who receive A’s and B’s in every major subject for the marking period.  Satisfactory grades in ancillary subjects are also required.

Students who receive two detentions during a marking period will receive check marks in the Personal and Social Growth portion of the report card.  Students with marks in this section will not be eligible for either Honor Roll. 

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Promotion/Retention

In Grades K-8 promotion will be primarily on the basis of ability to do the work with consideration of maturity and social development.  Eighth grade graduation is dependent upon a student’s successful completion of the requirements of study prescribed by St. Francis Cathedral School, the Diocese of Metuchen, and the State of New Jersey, Department of Education.

Retention of students in Grades 4-8 is considered when a student fails two or more major subjects (Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Religion) for the year.  Retention of students in Grades 1-3 is dependent upon achievement in Language Arts and Math.

Consultation about retention among teachers, administration, and parents should take place as early as possible during the first semester.  Follow-up teacher/parent conferences to evaluate academic progress of the student should be held throughout the year.

Class Placement

Class assignments will be determined by the teachers and administration.  Parental requests will not be guaranteed due to consideration of the overall make-up of the class.

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D.  Homework Policy

Homework

Assignments are given in order to insure assimilation of the subject matter taught in class and to provide reinforcement.  It is imperative that each student possesses a homework assignment pad in which he/she enters the assignment and the date on which it is due.

Parents/guardians are asked to provide a quiet place free from distraction and are expected to supervise and check studies. 

Normally homework is given everyday.  Weekend and holiday assignments are given at the discretion of the teacher.  Long-range projects may extend over the weekend or a holiday.  It is important that your child develop the habit of doing his/her homework carefully and completing it on time. Parents are discouraged from bringing forgotten homework to the office.  If parents send in forgotten items/homework, the child will be called for them during the 2 pm announcements. Students are not permitted to return to the classrooms after dismissal to retrieve forgotten books or materials.

Homework Time Schedule

Grades 1 – 2                  Approximately   30 minutes
Grades 3 – 4                  Approximately   45 minutes
Grades 5 – 6                  Approximately   80 minutes
Grades 7 – 8                  Approximately 120 minutes

Incomplete Homework

A student who has been absent is required to acquire and complete all assignments.  Students shall have the opportunity to make up tests when they return to school.  School policy allows a period of time equal to the number of absent days to submit due homework (A student absent two school days would have two school days to submit due assignments.)  Parents may wish to pick up homework assignments at the end of the day a student is absent.  This may be requested through the school office.  Teachers will send assignments and materials to the school office to be picked up at dismissal.  Please do not request assignments earlier than dismissal time.

Incomplete or missing homework will limit student achievement and negatively affect grades.  Teachers and parents need to communicate quickly if assignments are not being completed in a timely way.

Home Instruction

If a student is to be absent from for an extended time (two or more weeks) due to illness or hospitalization, the parent/guardian should contact the school for information about home instruction.  This may be provided by the Middlesex County Education Commission.

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E.  Student Records

Access/Viewing

A parent/guardian has the right to view his/her child’s a) academic record, b) academic standardized test results, c) health records and d) emergency sheet (emergency phone numbers, etc.).  These records can be made available upon request, but they do not leave the building.  Please call the office in advance.

Transfers

Parents are requested to notify the School Office in advance of a request to transfer.  A transfer form will be completed and signed by the principal.  The parents submit this form to the new school.  The new school will then request the student’s transcripts from St. Francis Cathedral School.  If the transfer is due to a change of residence, the new address must be provided.  The last date the child will be in attendance at St. Francis Cathedral School is also required.

Transcripts

Transcripts of academic and health records may not be given directly to the parent/guardian in the event of a transfer.  A request for transfer must be submitted in written form by a parent/guardian.  Transcripts will be sent directly from school to school when the sending school receives an official written request from the receiving school.  If the parent/guardian does not submit a request for transfer that includes an authorization to send a transcript, the receiving school must secure permission from the parent/guardian to request the transcripts from the “sending” school.  Re-admittance to the school is left to the discretion of the principal. 

High school applications, including letters of recommendation, processed by St. Francis Cathedral School, will be sent directly to the high school(s) requested.  Students and parents should take note of this prior to requesting information and be sure all parts of the application, including relevant signatures, are completed.

Government Records

Records attached to publicly funded services provided through the local Board of Education such as Child Study Team Reviews, Compensatory Education, Speech, English as a Second Language, etc., are the property of the Board.  A parent/guardian who wishes to examine these records or procure additional copies for his/her own use must apply to the Board.  The School is not permitted to distribute this information to anyone, not even to a parent/guardian.

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III. DISCIPLINE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

A.  Code of Honor

The SFCS community believes an Honor Code is a set of ideals that constitutes honorable behavior within the community.  We believe that all members of our community can be trusted to act honorably.

Personal integrity forms the basis of our Honor Code.  Each member is expected to be accountable to the virtues of responsibility, respectfulness, honesty, and mutual trust.  Members should live honorably and encourage others to live honorably as well.

The school and home must be parallel in disciplinary outlook for the honor code to be effective.  Once an infraction of the Honor Code has occurred, it is important for the student to learn the effect his/her decision will have upon him/herself and others.  As a result students may receive warnings, denial of privileges, detention, in-school suspensions, out-of-school suspensions, expulsion, as well as participation in private counseling. SFCS asks each parent to help in the learning process by supporting the decisions of the administration and faculty if infractions to the Honor Code occur. 

The safety of everyone is a predominant concern to all at St. Francis Cathedral School.  That being true, all threats of violence will be taken seriously.  Appropriate remedies will be applied to all offenses.

Actions that violate the law, threaten or cause harm to other students or staff members, disrupt or impede the welfare and progress of the school community, or bring discredit to the school will not be tolerated.  Such actions and other severe violations of the school rules may result in immediate expulsion.  Parental conferences, counseling, consultation and corrective action plans will be viewed as positive home-school efforts to help the student improve behavior.  If these cooperative efforts of parents and school staff prove ineffective, the student will be subject to expulsion or may be denied re-admittance to the school.  At the same time, all students – even those who threaten or do violence – must be treated with dignity.

In all cases of vandalism, students and parents shall be responsible for all damage.  This responsibility applies to the matter of books and supplies, as well as equipment, buildings, and grounds.

The vision of the SFCS community is that all members will do what is right because it is right so that we are acting as disciples of God and doing God’s will.  The following is our Faith in Action Plan:

ST. FRANCIS CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

FAITH IN ACTION

 

LEVELS OF DISCIPLESHIP

D     Doing God’s Will                       When you do what is right for no other reason than because it is right, you are                                                          
                                                           doing God’s will and therefore, you are a diligent disciple of God.

C     Conscious Christian                  When you are consciously aware,  consciously thinking about the right thing                                                          
                                                              to do and choose to follow that, you are a conscious Christian.

B     Breaking Commandments         When you know the rules/commandments but choose to break the rules, you need
                                                                someone to boss you.

A    Anti-Disciple                                When you are doing whatever you want and make up your own rules, you are 
                                                             following a different way than a disciple would follow.

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St. Francis Cathedral 
School Mantra

                                                          I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.

                                                          I will learn about myself and my relationship with God.

                                                          I will share God’s gifts with others.

                                                          I will celebrate my Catholic faith.

                                                          I will live my faith in the world.

 

B.  Policy on Bullying

The mission of St. Francis Cathedral School is to help students to understand the Catholic faith, live this faith and to extend this faith to others in love.  We recognize that all members of our school community have a right to be treated with respect and dignity. We seek to provide an environment in which moral values are taught which help in forming Christ like character.

St. Francis expects its students to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects our school motto, respect, justice and responsibility, at all times.  We reserve the right to review cases of off-campus student behavior that is detrimental to the reputation of the school.

Bullying is not acceptable behavior at St. Francis Cathedral School, en route to and from school, or at school sponsored events.  Bullying is defined as the intimidation of others by the real or threatened inflection of written, verbal, physical or electronically transmitted acts, emotional abuse, or through attacks on the property of another.

We expect that students’ behaviors should reflect the child’s age, level of development, and maturity.  Consequences will take into consideration these factors.  Consequences for students who have committed acts of bullying may range from behavioral interventions up to and including suspensions or expulsion.

The principal, vice principal and teachers are responsible for receiving reports of acts of bullying.  Acts of bullying can be reported to any school employee who will in turn report the act.  The principal or designee will conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of the alleged incident of bullying.  In doing so, the principal or designee will determine if the incident violates the school Code of Honor.  Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for students who commit an act of bullying include positive behavioral interventions, removal from a classroom, meeting with parents, after school detention, to suspension or expulsion.    

Diocesan Guidelines
Conflict vs. Bullying

Conflict is different than bullying. Not all disagreements and fights are bullying. Conflict is a normal part of human interaction and arises frequently in our day to day lives. Part of learning to be independent and grown up is learning how to deal with and respond appropriately to conflict at home, at school, and in your community.  Recognizing the difference between conflict and bullying will help students, parents and teachers know how to respond.

Conflict is:

• A disagreement
• All parties have equal power to solve the problem
• All parties have an equal interest in the outcome
• All parties are of relatively equal size, age or status
• A conflict can be resolved by talking or working things out together or with help from an adult.

Bullying is:

• Not a disagreement
• A repeated form of mistreatment where the victim cannot defend him/herself
• An imbalance of power – usually one person is either bigger or older than the other or has a higher social standing (is more popular) and uses this against the other person
• Usually involves repeated acts of harassment, harm or humiliation

Differences in Addressing Conflict and Bullying

Conflict is an important part of growing up but bullying is not. Conflict teaches kids how to give and take, how to come to an agreement and how to solve problems.  When it comes to conflict, it’s good for kids to learn conflict resolution and resiliency skills. These skills promote listening and working together to come to an agreement or plan to move forward.  Conflict resolution works based on the assumption that both people are in part responsible for the current problem and need to work it out. In this situation, both kids make compromises and the conflict is resolved.
Bullying is different. It is about the bully making a choice to intentionally hurt another person. There is nothing to work out. When bullying occurs, the bully is fully responsible for the situation. And the bully bears all the responsibility for change.  Bullies usually do not negotiate with others. They want power and they blame others for their actions. Even if an adult can get them to apologize, bullies will often retaliate when no one else is around. As a result, it is crucial to recognize the difference between conflict and bullying.

 

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C.  Substance Abuse

St. Francis Cathedral School recognizes that the misuse of drugs, tobacco, steroids and alcohol has a deleterious effect on students and staff and jeopardizes the welfare of the entire school community.  The school is committed to the prevention of drug, tobacco, steroid and alcohol abuse through educational means and other appropriate programs.  The school will take necessary and firm action to protect the school community from harm and from exposure to the negative aspects of drug, tobacco, steroid and alcohol use/abuse.  The school prohibits the use, possession and/or distribution of drugs, tobacco, steroids, or alcohol on school premises, at any event away from the school that is sponsored by St. Francis Cathedral School and on any transportation vehicle provided by the school.  A student who is suspected to be under the influence of or in possession of drugs, steroids, alcohol or tobacco will be reported immediately to the principal.  Parents will be contacted immediately.  When deemed necessary, students will be suspended and will not be permitted to return to school without the written statement of an examining physician.

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D.  Sexting Policy

The Diocese of Metuchen prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation or exploitation of all students. Each school must insure a safe environment that reflects the gospel and is conducive to student learning. With more students having access to phones and social media accounts, it is becoming easier for them to send and receive explicit messages and images.  All students are expected to refrain from any and all conduct involving sexting.  They are to respect the dignity of others and of themselves at all times.  Sexting shall not be tolerated on school property, on the school bus, at any school sponsored function or off school grounds. 

In complying with this Policy, the following must be considered:

• Sexting is the production, possession or dissemination of sexual materials, including sexually suggestive text messages, nude/semi-nude photographs, or videos of themselves or others via cellular telephone or the Internet by students on school property or at any school sponsored function. Sexting does not fuel committed, eternal love as God desires for us.  It stands in opposition to God’s plan for us, and for that reason it is wrong.
• Creating or sharing explicit images of a child is illegal, even if the person doing it is a child. A young person is breaking the law when they take an explicit photo or video of themselves or a friend; share an explicit image or video of a child, even if it is shared between children of the same age; or, possess, download or store an explicit image or video of a child, even if the child gave his/her permission for it to be created. Images covered under the law include, but are not limited to, naked pictures, photos of intimate body parts, including topless photos of girls, any sex act and any sexually suggestive image, which includes photos of a person in undergarments/underwear. The consequences may include:
  • Temporary removal from the classroom;
  • In-school or out-of-school suspension;
  • Parent conference;
  • Deprivation of privileges;
  • Suspension from sports participation;
  • Removal from After-School programs;
  • Counseling;
  • Therapy;
  • Expulsion

Search and Seizure Policy

In order to protect the safety, health, property, values, and welfare of the members of the school community, the school reserves the right to call for a search of the student’s locker, book bag, desk, automobile, any other object on the school property or the person.  Such searches will be with reasonable cause, in the sole opinion of the school administrator, that contraband, illegal substances, or inappropriate objects are concealed.  Any unauthorized items found may be seized.  Additionally, student desks and lockers, which are at all times under the joint control of the school and student to whom the desk or locker is assigned, may be searched by school administrators at any time, for any reason or for no reason at all.

STOPit App

In complying with Diocesan Policy, SFCS has enrolled with STOPit, an online reporting tool designed to deter and mitigate bullying, cyber abuse, and other inappropriate behaviors. 



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IV. ATTIRE

Students attending St. Francis Cathedral School are required to wear a prescribed school uniform.  The only company from which school uniform apparel may be purchased is Flynn & O’Hara (click to access website). Substitutions are not permitted. 

The ONLY acceptable school shoe is either a black or brown tie shoe with rubber soles and heels OR a black or brown shoe with rubber soles that have a sturdy strap across the ankle (AKA Mary Janes). Both of these shoe styles are available at Flynn and O’Hara (click to access website). The shoe may be either leather or nubuck. SNEAKERS THAT RESEMBLE SHOES (SKETCHERS, FOR EXAMPLE) ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE.  Please do not purchase them for school shoes because you will be asked to replace them with SHOES.

The winter uniform is worn from Nov.1st through March 31st or at the discretion of the principal. 

St. Francis Cathedral School Uniform 2023-2024
 
Parents may see photos of items by grade on the Flynn & O’Hara website.  Students may continue to wear previous uniforms while they fit.
 
Boys Winter uniform
K – 5 Boys

• Gray uniform pants
• White polo shirt, short or long sleeved
• Gray sweater/vest
• Belt (black, brown or gray)
• Socks (white, gray or black)
• Black or brown tie shoes with rubber soles and heels

 
6 – 8 Boys

• Gray uniform pants
• Red polo shirt all year, short or long sleeve or short sleeve performance polo
• Belt (black, brown or gray)
• Socks (white, gray or black)
• Black or brown tie shoes with rubber soles and heels
• Optional ¼ zip red SFCS fleece (purchased through the HSA Spiritwear) – no other fleece or hoodie allowed

 
Girls Winter Uniform
K – 4 Girls

• Plaid jumper or gray pants
• White Peter Pan collar blouse with school insignia
• Red uniform sweater with school insignia
• Red knee socks /leotards with jumper; red or white socks with pants
• Black or brown tie shoe or with a sturdy strap across the ankle (Mary Janes)

 
5 ^th Girls

• Plaid jumper with Peter Pan collar blouse with school insignia
• Wrap around kilt or gray pants with white polo shirt, short or long sleeve
• Red uniform sweater with school insignia
• Red knee socks /leotards with jumper/kilt; red or white socks with pants
• Black or brown tie shoe or with a sturdy strap across the ankle (Mary Janes)

 
6 – 8 Girls

• School plaid wrap around kilt or gray pants
• Red polo shirt, short or long sleeve or girl fitted short sleeve polo

• Optional ¼ zip red fleece (purchased through the HSA Spiritwear) – no other fleece or hoodie allowed  

• Red knee socks or leotards with kilt; red or white socks with pants
• Black or brown tie shoe or a tie deck shoes

 
Summer uniform - Optional uniform from start of school to Oct. 31 ^st and April 1 ^st to end of school
K – 5 boys:

• Navy uniform walking shorts (Only K & 1st grades may wear pull-on shorts)
• White polo shirt with school insignia
• Belt (black, brown or navy)
• White crew socks with shorts
• Sneakers (Boys who wear gray pants must wear shoes and socks)

 
6 – 8 boys:

• Navy uniform walking shorts
• Red polo shirt or performance shirt with school insignia
• Belt (black, brown or navy)
• White crew socks
• Sneakers with shorts only (Boys who wear gray pants must wear shoes and socks)

 
K – 5 girls

• Navy uniform walking short or skorts (K & 1^st grades may wear pull on shorts)

• White polo shirt with school insignia
• Belt (black, brown or navy)
• White crew socks with shorts
• Sneakers

 
6 – 8 girls

• Navy uniform walking short or skorts 

• Red polo shirt with school insignia
• Belt (black, brown or navy)
• White crew socks with shorts
• Sneakers (Girls who wear kilts must wear shoes)
• Flynn and O’Hara will not sell white polo shirts to middle school girls, but students may continue to wear them while they fit.

 
Winter Gym Uniform for all students:

• Grade K – 5: Gray uniform sweat pants
• Grades 6 – 8: Black uniform sweat pants
• Red tee shirt with school insignia
• Red sweatshirt with school insignia
• Tie sneakers (no slip-ons)

 
Summer Gym Uniform for all students:

• Grade K – 5: silver nylon mesh shorts or gray sweat shorts
• Grades 6 – 8: Black nylon mesh or black sweat shorts
• Red tee shirt with school insignia
• White crew socks
• Tie sneakers (no slip-ons)

 
Please note the acceptable shoes and sneakers in the uniform policy. Sneakers that resemble shoes and boots may not be worn.
 Any student not in proper gym uniform will not be permitted to take gym. Spirit wear is not part of the uniform and may not be substituted for any part of the school uniform.

Scout Uniforms

Students may wear scout uniforms on the day of their scout meeting except if it is a gym day.

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Dress Down

Dress down days are sponsored by the school in order to support important school projects, functions, or charities.  Regulations for dress down days are listed below.  Rules specific to a particular dress down day (for example, school colors) will be communicated to the parents and students beforehand.

The guidelines below pertain to all dress down days. 

The following items are not permitted:

• Any article inconsistent with our Catholic philosophy of education and values
• Any article which is excessively worn or soiled
• Any article which displays indecent or inappropriate writing or illustrations
• Clothing which does not cover the body appropriately (Ex. tank tops, spaghetti straps, short tops, low cut bottoms)
• Any item excessively tight fitting
• Any item that may cause a safety risk to the student or his/her classmates
• Hats, caps or headgear
• Makeup, jewelry, or additional articles that would not be permitted on a regular uniform day
• Flip flops, crocs or slippers. 

Shorts may be worn only when summer uniforms are allowed. 

Uniform Dress Code

The following will be considered violations of the uniform dress code:

• For all: incorrect blouses, shirts, sweaters, gym uniforms, pants, socks or shoes;
• For girls: make-up or nail polish (except clear), jewelry of any kind (exceptions: if the child can tell time, one watch; for girls: one set of small post earrings);
• For boys: earrings, a non-traditional male haircut.

Temporary and permanent tattoos are not allowed.  Skirts are to be worn no shorter than two inches above the knee.  Shirts and blouses are to be tucked in neatly.  Hairstyles should be neat and age-appropriate. Boys' hair needs to be above their eyes, above their ears and above their collar.  Boys' and girls' hair is to be the natural color.

The administration reserves the right to make the final decisions regarding the appropriateness and acceptability of student dress in school.

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V. MISCELLANEOUS

Amendments to Handbook

The principal is the final recourse and reserves the right to amend this handbook.  Parents will be given prompt notice.

Asbestos Management Plan

The School’s Asbestos Management Plan is on file in the School Office, as required by the federal Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA).  This document is available for examination upon request.

Publication of Student Names/Pictures

In an effort to publicize our school activities, our students may be photographed or videotaped.  Photographs may be sent to local newspapers.  We like to include names of students pictured in our press releases.  A release form must be signed by parent/guardian.

Use of School Grounds
St. Francis Cathedral School supervises students from 7:30am to 2:30pm as well as in school-sponsored programs, such as Before/After Care and extra-curricular activities.  Students who are not picked-up at dismissal time go to the school office to wait or sent to after care if not retrieved in a reasonable amount of time.  

Students may not use the school parking lots or playground outside of school hours, unless in a school sponsored activity. The PreK playground is used solely by the PreK program during school hours.  It is not for public use before, during or after school.

Use of School Logo

The design of the school logo must remain intact.  No alterations, additions or deletions to any part of the logo are permitted.  Any individual, organization or company wishing to use the logo for any purpose must obtain permission to do so from the principal and pastor.

Web Site Release

Photographs of students participating in school events and activities will be periodically posted on our school Web site (stfranciscathedralschool.org).  No names or addresses will be included with the photographs.  A Web Site Release form must be signed by parent/guardian.