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                             Student Handbook

About Our School

St. Michael Catholic School is an integral part of St. Michael Parish.  By 2010 we plan to be Kindergarten through grade 8 and have a student body of around 200.  Our students are receiving an excellent education and learn the value of living a Catholic Christian Lifestyle.   

Catholic Nature 

St. Michael Catholic School provides a quality education where children can develop personally, academically, and spiritually.  The teachings are based on Catholic tradition and are supported by parental and community involvement.  The added dimension of shared values and support of the community and parish family provides a unique and valuable experience to any child exposed to this concept of education. 

We proudly proclaim our greatest accomplishment, a time-honored tradition of providing Catholic education to students in Kindergarten through grade 8.  With the help of dedicated teachers, staff, administrators, families, and friends, we fulfill this commitment, guided by the School’s Mission Statement to educate in faith, love and justice. 

We believe the human person is endowed by God with inherent dignity worthy of love and respect.  The foundation of this belief is structured Catholic philosophy emphasizing faith, love and justice.  It is based on a system of moral values and faith in the redemptive plan of God.

Mission Statement 

It is the mission of St. Michael Catholic School to teach students to develop their intellects, imaginations, hearts and souls.  This Catholic Institution welcomes diversity and fosters community in an atmosphere of mutual respect.  St. Michael Catholic School encourages the students to strive for personal and academic excellence and to seek justice through actions inspired by Gospel values. 

Philosophy Statement 

Our classrooms are places where children are well cared for and safe.  Young children need teachers who have the resources to work with them…individually, in small groups and as an entire class… to develop their cognitive and social skills, language abilities, and interest in learning new things about the world. 

St Michael School provides a curriculum which helps children build a strong foundation in the skills needed for success in school as well as their life.  Children at St. Michael are valued for their individual differences and each child is encouraged to develop, grow, and learn while being supported by qualified staff. 

The developmental needs of each child are taken into consideration when planning and implementation occurs, realizing that each child is unique and has their own specific needs.  Academic excellence is encouraged while children are in the process of developing their intellects, imaginations, hearts and souls.

Personnel 

Archbishop

The Archbishop, as chief pastor of the Archdiocese, has the responsibility not only for the spiritual formation of the people, but also for every other factor that contributes to the development of the Catholic Community.  As authentic teacher in the Archdiocese, he articulates faith for the people of God and calls them to the imitation of Christ.  As Chief administrator of the Archdiocese, he oversees the good order of the teaching mission.  The Archbishop is the enactor of all Archdiocesan policies and the ultimate decision maker assisted and represented by the Catholic Schools Department. 

Pastor
The pastor, by direction of the Archbishop and canon law, is directly responsible for all parish endeavors.  One such major endeavor is the parish school.  The Pastor can render service and leadership to the parish school by acting as a religious leader, community builder, and administrator, working together with the principal, faculty, parents, and other parishioners in a joint effort to advance the education of the children.  He is responsible for the hiring of the principal and the renewal or non-renewal of the principal’s employment agreement. 

Principal
The position of Principal carries with it a unique opportunity for shaping a climate of Catholic/Christian values and an atmosphere for learning that will nurture the growth and development of each person.  The principal fosters community among faculty and students. S/he understands the Catholic school as part of larger communities, both religious and secular.  The principal collaborates with parish and Archdiocesan personnel in planning and implementing policies, programs and/or the use of facilities and grounds. 

The Principal is responsible for implementing school policies.  S/he may amend the school handbook as needed. 

Faculty
The faculty (and students) of the school form a community whose purpose is to develop an atmosphere in which the religious faith of each student as well as his/her intellectual, moral, and physical capacities may be developed and strengthened.

School Rules and Regulations 

Be Safe         Be Respectful        Be Responsible
 

As students enter the Classroom:

• All hats must be removed as a student enters the building;
• As a student enters the classroom, greet the teacher and the other students; put all books and supplies for the day at your desk;
• Put belongings in the coat hall (coats/bookbags/lunch);
• Put all notes, tuition, lunch money, etc. in the proper places;
• By 8:32 all students should be organized for the day and prepared for the class to begin at 8:40 a.m. while waiting for the all school announcements, prayer, and flag salute;
• All students will respectfully participate in Morning Prayer, School Pledge and Flag Salute.

Visitors

All visitors to the school must check in and sign in at the school office. They will then be given a visitor's badge to be worn during the duration of their visit. This is to insure the safety of the children and the smooth running of classes. During school hours, all messages, lunches, etc. are to be taken to the office. Unless it is an emergency or arranged with a teacher, visiting parents may not disturb classrooms, as it proves very disruptive to classes. If a message needs to be delivered, the secretary will do it at a time so as not to disturb the classroom. Classroom disruptions are kept to a minimum and learning time to a maximum.

Messages to Students

Students are not to use the phone except in case of emergency and with permission in writing from the classroom teacher. Students may not receive personal calls.

Student messages are sent to classes at 2:45 p.m. (M, T, Th, and F) 1:45 p.m. (W) unless it is critical for the student to receive the information sooner.

All after school plans, activities, and arrangements must be made before your child comes to school each morning.

Parties

If a parent wishes to invite students to a birthday party for their child we ask that invitations not be passed out in school, but rather through the mail. We highly encourage parents to invite all the boys and/or girls in the class so that no one is excluded. You can imagine how deeply hurt children can feel when they know most of their classmates are invited to a party, but they are not.

If you wish to send treats for the class on the birthday of your child, please check with the teacher first about the best time of day.

All treats must be store bought, for health reasons.

In school

Celebrations are arranged with individual teachers.

Out of School Party Invitations

Unless everyone in a class is invited to a party, invitations are not to be brought to and/or distributed at school.

End of the Year Party

School sponsored graduation celebrations may be planned by the school and will be chaperoned by school related personnel. The school is not responsible for any other parties nor does it endorse or allow fund-raising for non-school sponsored celebrations.

Releasing Students during the School Day

Students will be released only to a parent/guardian or to an individual authorized by the parent/guardian. Ordinarily, the parent/guardian's authorization to release a student to a non-parent/guardian should be in writing.

An ill student will be released only to a parent or authorized person as listed on the Emergency Information Card. Please sign out at the main office.

Leaving the School for lunch:

Students may not leave the school for lunch except when a note is written by a parent or guardian. A child may not receive permission over the phone to go home for lunch.

Coming to and going home from school:

Parents are responsible to pick children up immediately after school or when that child’s day ends.

• If your child walks home s/he will exit from the front of the building;
• If your child is being picked up s/he will be picked up from the designated area only;
• All students are expected to go straight home;

Phone Use
The phone is for emergency use only and students may use the phone only when they have a note from their classroom teacher or permission from the office staff.

Student Guests

In general, guests are allowed only when they are prospective students seriously considering attending St. Michael School. Arrangements for prospective students to visit must be made at least twenty-four hours in advance of the visit with the approval of the principal.

Field Trips

Students who go on field trips scheduled by the school must have a signed permission form provided by the school. Transportation is by bus or private cars with insured adults as drivers. Seat belts must be provided and worn by students. Field trips are privileges afforded to students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip. All preschool students, and those whom are required by Washington State law, must be in an approved car seats during transportation.  Students may be denied participation if they fail to meet academic or behavior requirements.

For each field trip the following information should be available:

1. Student Permission Slips

2. Driver responsibilities (e.g., follow planned route, do not make extra stops, and dress appropriately, no use of any alcohol at any time

3. Proof of Insurance and insurance form must be on file in the school office.

Money Collection

All money sent to school should be placed in a sealed envelope and clearly labeled with the student's full name, grade, amount, purpose (hot lunch, milk, field trip, etc.).

Students should not bring money to school unless absolutely necessary.

Money should be given to the teacher and not left in a desk or bookbag.

Dress Code Policy 

St. Michael Catholic School views the education and formation of its students as its most important task.  All aspects of school life must support this task.  Therefore, the school requires that the students dress in a specific manner that contributes to the creation of a Catholic Christian learning environment.  If the school uniform and dress code policy is a financial problem, parents/guardians should contact the Principal or the Pastor. 

Students are expected to arrive and leave school each day dressed according to the code and neatly groomed.  Parents/guardians should also make sure that students attend to matters of personal hygiene and grooming.  All clothes must be clean and in good repair. 

School Approved Uniform Company 

All students K-8 must wear the school uniform.  In the interest of keeping uniforms as affordable as possible we have chosen Land’s End.  You may order uniforms on their website which is: www.landsend.com  and our school code is: 9001-2668-1.  Please be careful to only order clothing that has been approved.  This is indicated on the website after you enter the school code.   

School Uniform and Dress Code 

Anything on the Land’s End Uniform selection approved for St. Michael. 

All Students:

• On days when students will meet in a formal assembly (e.g., Mass, etc.) uniform sweater and tie must be worn.
• Clothing should fit properly and be clean.  It should not be torn, shredded, written or drawn upon.
• Shirts must be tucked in at all times.
• No colored or printed tee shirts may be worn under uniforms.
• Shoes must be in good, clean condition and must be tied or fastened at all times.  For safety reasons shoes with open toes, open heels, slippery soles or sandals are not permitted.  For general purposes, the best school shoe is an athletic-type. 
• Plain navy, brown or black belts are permitted with the uniform.
• Jeans or sweatpants may not be substituted for uniform pants, even in an emergency.
• Dress shirt, or uniform blouse must be worn under uniform sweater.
• Socks or tights must be worn at all times and must coordinate with the uniform.
• Hats and bandanas may not be worn inside the school building or the church.
• Hair ribbons, ties, bows and clips must stay within the school’s color scheme.
• Hairstyles, make-up and accessories should be moderate and appropriate for school.
• Jewelry should be unobtrusive (no large hoop earrings, large chains, etc.) to prevent injury during the school day.

When in doubt clothing and accessories should be brought to the school office for pre-approval. 

The Principal and/or the Pastor will make the final decision on all matters of uniform and dress code should any question arise.

Admission and Withdrawal

It is the goal of St. Michael Catholic School to educate children in the Catholic tradition.  By registering in our school, the family agrees to comply with the programs and policies of the school and actively participate in the activities which support the school in its programs and philosophy.  Catholic schools are a primary means of Catholic education.  The Catholic school is to assist Catholic families in the formation and education of their children in the Catholic faith, Gospel values and traditions. 

Application Process 

For families whose children are in attendance at St. Michael Catholic School, registration for the succeeding year usually takes place in February and March.  Dates are published in the school newsletter and the parish bulletin well in advance.  Registration forms are provided and registration is completed after all forms are filled out and the registration fee has been paid.  It is required that delinquent payments of the current year must be taken care of before the new registration can be processes. 

All incoming kindergarten students must have proof of being 5 years old and first grade students must have proof of being 6 years old on or before August 31^st to be eligible for the current school year.  It is Washington State Law that all students must be current in their immunizations.  Attendance at school may be denied if students are delinquent in this matter. 

Students are considered for enrollment at St. Michael Catholic School in the following order:

            Returning students

            Siblings of returning students

            New students from parishes affiliated with St. Michael Catholic School

            New students who are not associated with area parishes but are Catholic

New students who are non-catholic

Process for Enrollment (new families) 

All new families will be invited to attend an Open house in the spring.  Notification of the Open House will appear in the local parishes and newspapers.  Current report cards, and birth and baptismal records are required.  The student’s final acceptance at the school may be contingent upon the student’s interview, testing, academic data, space availability, and the return of completed registration materials and fees.  Acceptance at the school is not final until all of these steps have been completed. 

Financial and Stewardship Obligations 

Tuition rates are based on a percentage of the actual cost to educate each student.  Revenue for operating costs comes from three sources: 1) tuition 2) Subsidy from parish, the archdiocese and scholarships and 3) School Fundraising and Development. 

Tuition Assistance 

Tuition assistance is available to all students attending St. Michael Catholic School based on need.  The information regarding assistance can be found on the Archdiocese web-site, www.seattlearch.org.  The Fulcrum Foundation provides scholarships for those in need every year. 

Payment 

Smart Tuition is the company we use to monitor and receive tuition payments.  You have a choice to pay by credit card, automatic withdrawal, or to receive a billing statement, which can then be paid with a check or over the phone.  The form for payment is filled out with your registration packet.  A discount does apply to those families which wish to pay in full. 

Since tuition is the main way we fund our school, it is imperative that families stay current with payment.  Lack of staying current or notifying the school of your present situation can result in termination of services. 

Service Hours 

In keeping with the Catholic tradition of service, St. Michael requires service hours of family members.  Each family is required to serve 30 hours per year to the school and 10 hours per year to their home parish.  If someone does not attend church those 10 hours come back to the school for a total of 40 hours.  We understand that some parents may not be able to contribute time so there is the option of paying $1,000 in lieu of service hours.  Each parish family is required to procure a total of $200.00 for the annual auction and each non-parishioner is expected to procure $1000.00 for the annual auction. 

Nondiscrimination Policy 

St. Michael School in the Archdiocese of Seattle admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available at all schools.  We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of their educational policies, admissions policies, scholarships and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs. 

Academic Information  

Academic Honesty 

Honesty is expected of students in the performance of all academic work.  Cheating, plagiarism (such as, but not limited to, copying or sharing the work of another and submitting it as one’s own), or doing another person’s homework assignment are all forms of academic dishonesty.  Anyone who violates the policy of academic honesty may immediately receive a failing grade on that exam or assignment.  Academic dishonesty may lead to other disciplinary procedures including detention, suspension or possible expulsion. 

Conferences

Parent/teacher conferences will be held on a routine basis every year.  The timeline will be determined at the beginning of the year and put on the school calendar.  It is expected that parents will attend conferences.  If the schedule conflicts with something else, the school must be notified in advance so that other arrangements may be made.  Conferences are crucial to developing a relationship with the school and wit the learning of your child. 

Report Cards 

Progress reports will be sent home and will provide specific information regarding the performance of your child in relation to state and Archdiocesan standards. 

Requested by Parent 

Parents whom wish to have a conference longer than those scheduled by the school should contact the teacher to arrange an appointment.  You are free to schedule an appointment with the teacher at any time during the year. 

Guidelines

a)      Please be as courteous to the teacher as you would expect him/her to be of you.  Questioning the teacher’s authority in front of the child is not helpful.  If you have such a disagreement, please request a meeting with the teacher privately.

b)      Please try to be open to both sides of the story if a problem arises.  Perceptual differences and information reported incorrectly can lead to unnecessary confrontations with the teacher and unwise decisions.

c)      Discuss difficulties in the classroom with the teacher first before bringing them to the principal. 

Curriculum 

Local curriculum development is the responsibility of the principal and faculty following the approved Archdiocesan guidelines. 

St. Michael Catholic School teaches a varied and appropriate curriculum in all subject areas and at all levels:  Religion, Language Arts, Math, Reading, Science, Social Studies, Music, Art, Physical Education, and Computer skills are taught on a regular basis. 

St. Michael Catholic School is a place where each child will be challenged to meet the potential greatness within her or himself.  The school strives to help each child realize this potential and to provide an atmosphere that reflects Christian values and a sense of community. 

Religion 

The religious education is the primary reason for St. Michael Catholic School’s existence.  Religious instruction is part of each day.  Students attending St. Michael Catholic School are required to participate in all religious activities.  Religious practices in the family are encourages.  Sacramental preparation is handled at the parish level with supportive instruction in the school and religion classes. 

The sacramental life of a student is fostered by:

• Attendance at school Masses
• Periodic class planned Masses
• Daily school and classroom prayer

Electronic Information/Communications 

St. Michael School believes that technology should be used as a vehicle of communication, analysis, and research in light of Catholic values and moral decision-making. 

Therefore, the school is committed to the integration and effective use of current and future technology to further the educational mission of the school and the Church’s mission of spreading the Gospel to all people.  The Bishops of the United States have supported the use of technology as a means of evangelization. 

Grading and Related Topics 

Grades are documented and recorded on report cards every trimester.  Report cards go home with students, you are always welcome to arrange a meeting if you have concerns. 

Communication with families: 

Each teacher is responsible to communicate in a way that is effective to the parent, what is going on in class.  This may include letters home, e-mail, communication board or whatever method works best for the make-up of the class. 

Communication to Administration: 

Should a parent wish to contact the Principal, an appointment may be needed.  Please call the school office. 

Homework 

Teachers assign homework with great care and for the purpose of fostering habits of independence in study, reinforcing material already taught, or for special assistance to students.  Some school time is given to the assigned tasks, but if school study time is not sufficient, these tasks must be completed at home.

Studies show that students who consistently do their homework achieve higher test scores and receive better grades.  Homework allows our students to practice what is being taught at school, and many times, allows preparation for what will be covered the next day.  Completing work on time prepares students for the heavier homework given in high school and college.  Failure to complete homework assignments hinders the learning process and establishes poor academic habits and skills. 

It is the student’s responsibility to complete assigned work.  When homework is assigned parents should:

• Provide the student with a quiet, well-lit place to study
• Observe, encourage, and assist if needed.  (Resist the temptation to give too much help as this will hinder the purpose of giving homework, self-direction)

Time can always be spent reading books.  If parents are concerned about the amount of time spent on homework, they should contact the teacher. 

Textbooks 

The Department of Catholic Schools and the Washington State Department of Education determines the list of approved textbooks from which the school many select for each subject of the curriculum.  Lost books will be replaced at the parent’s expense and there will be no refund if the book is then found.  Individual damages will be assessed at the end of the year and appropriate charges made. 

Graduation Ceremony

Graduation from elementary school is marked by a simple and dignified celebration that gives recognition to the unique value of the Christian education just completed.  While these exercises should be scheduled so as not to conflict with high school graduation dates, ordinarily the eighth grade graduation should not be scheduled before the last week of the closing week of school. 

Promotion

A student satisfactorily completing each grades work and meeting the standards set forth by the state and the Seattle Archdiocese will be promoted to the next grade level. 

Retention

Recommendation for retention of students is made by the teacher in consultation with the principal, the parents and, if appropriate, with other advisory staff.  Ordinarily, this communication should be made at the end of the second trimester informing the parent that the student is struggling. Conferences will scheduled along with an academic improvement plan put in place to assist and monitor academic performance.  Increased assistance may be needed on the part of the parents to help their child succeed.  In all cases the decision for retention rests with the principal. 

Standardized Testing 

St. Michael School will participate in testing as recommended by the state and the Seattle Archdiocese.  Parent’s will receive the results of all testing that is performed.  Parents may request testing, for special consideration, including academic for special needs and psychological from the local public school district.

Attendance 

Regular attendance is required of all students in order to support the academic climate of the school.  A student’s repeated failure to comply with the school attendance policies may result in the student being suspended or expelled at the discretion of the principal. 

School age children occasionally have signs and symptoms, which may be related to communicable diseases.  Only a licensed health practitioner can determine a diagnosis and or prescribe treatment and provide instructions regarding the students’ return to school.  Very few illnesses mandate exclusion from school.  However, students should be excluded from school participation if:

1.      Illnesses prevent students from being able to participate in school activities.

2.      Student requires more care than the school staff can provide

3.      Any of the symptoms listed below are observed: 

• Fever greater than 99.9.  Students need to be fever free for 24 hours without the use of medication prior to returning to school.
• Vomiting
• Stiff neck or headache with fever
• Behavioral change – irritability, lethargy
• Jaundice
• Diarrhea
• Skin lesions that are “weepy” or pus filled
• Colored drainage from eyes, nose, ears
• Difficulty breathing

If a child becomes ill during the day, it is always in their best interest to go home.  It is the responsibility of the parent to provide transportation for this purpose.  Be sure you have signed the Emergency Form in the registration packet with your name, home and work numbers, doctor’s number and emergency contacts.  (At least two) 

If a child misses more than 15 days per trimester they will not receive credit for that trimester.  

Illness and Recess 

If a child is unable to go out to recess, they are considered too sick to be in school.  No supervision is provided in the classroom, unless it is a rainy day recess, during outdoor recess. 

Reporting Process 

Parents should contact the office by 9:00 a.m. if their child will be tardy or absent from school that day.  If your child arrives late please sign them in at the office so they can get a pass to class. 

Excused Absences 

The following reasons are considered excused absences: 

1.      Student illness

2.      Illness at home requiring the student’s assistance

3.      family emergency

4.      court appearance

5.      funeral

6.      medical need

7.      other, with prearranged approval 

Unexcused Absences 

Children enrolled in St. Michael School are expected to be in attendance daily unless ill, involved in a school event or a pre-arrangement has been made with the Principal. All absences are recorded as unexcused until a note come in from the parents within 24 hours of the absence. 

Doctor or Dental Appointments 

Parents are requested to schedule doctor and dental appointments outside regular school hours, if at all possible.  Students leaving during the day must have a note from a parent, and be signed in and out at the office. 

Homework during Absence 

Students are expected to be responsible for making up assignments missed through absence.

Make-up Homework: 

• When students are absent parents can arrange to pick it up in the office after 3:00 that day.
• It is the student’s responsibility, in grades 3-8, to check with the teacher for any missed work due to an absence.
• The student will complete all missing work within the number of days absent e.g. if a student misses 2 days, they have 2 days from the day they return to make up the work.
• Students who do not attend school during the school day may not attend evening activities or events.  Including sports practice, etc.
• When a student returns after an absence the teacher must receive a note explaining the absence.

Truancy 

A student who is absent from school without a valid excuse for an extended period of time may be considered a truant.  Parents will be contacted.

When a student is tardy 

Students who enter a class late create a disruption to the educational process.  Being on time is a necessary part of a student’s development.  Students are expected to be on time for classes during the school day.  Students that are not in class, seated and ready for class to begin, when the 8:40 bell rings, are considered tardy.  Students are welcome into the classroom at 8:30 to put stuff away and get ready for the day.  Tardy students will get an admission slip form the office prior to going to class.   

When a student is absent 

Students not in their seats and ready to work by 8:40 a.m. will be marked absent and parents will be called by the school office.  Homework will be sent to the office and parents may pick it up at the end of the day after 3:00.  Remember upon returning teacher must receive a note and students may not participate in after school activities on days they are absent. 

Lice Prevention 

Head lice is easy to obtain form another child.  Anyone can get them.  Please teach your child how to avoid lice.  Tell them not to borrow combs, hats, jackets, earphones, and other items worn on the head.  They should not share personal items at school or home. 

If lice are detected, we will notify the class in which they were found so that all parents may take preventative measures for their children.  All names will be kept confidential. 

If a student is found to have lice, the parent will be called.  The students must be taken from school, taken home, treated, and all nits removed before being allowed back in school.  The students will be re-checked by the school staff before returning to class.  If any eggs or nits are found, the students will be excluded from the school until the problem is remedied.

Emergencies

GENERAL EMERGENCIES 

In emergencies, information (such as emergency information) may be released to appropriate persons if it is necessary in the judgment of the principal or their designee to protest the health or safety of the student or other persons. 

Emergency Information Card 

The school has a file containing current emergency care information for each student.  Each parent is responsible to annually update the following information:

• Name of the student, phone number, address, birth date
• The business address, telephone numbers of parent/guardian, and the hours which they are at their place of work.  If applicable cell phone numbers and pager numbers.
• The date of the latest tetanus immunization booster.
• The name of the family physician and dentist, office addresses and telephone numbers
• Name of medical insurance company and identification number
• Special health concerns or conditions including allergies, the emergency measures to be applied and any current medication
• The parents approval to send the student to a medical facility for emergency treatment should it be necessary
• The names of the persons to whom the student may be released
• The signature of the responsible parent/legal guardian

Emergency Earthquake Supply Kits 

St. Michael Catholic School has developed an earthquake safety plan.  We have secured first aid supplies; will practice earthquake drills; and teachers will teach earthquake safety procedures to our students.  Our earthquake plan calls for each child attending our school to have an emergency kit, here at school, in case they need to remain at school for an extended length of time after an earthquake or other emergency.  All students are expected to bring the following items to school each fall.  The school will supply a container for storing the individual kits.  Your child’s kit will be returned to you at the end of each school year to be re-supplied in the fall and returned for the next year.

If possible, please write a short note to your child offering comfort and expressing hope that everyone will soon be together once again.  Research shows that this communication is very important and helpful when children are dealing with stressful situations.   

Send in a Gallon Ziplock Bag

(please label with your child’s name) 

• 2 boxed drinks
• 2 cans of food with pop top ( please no Tuna or Salmon as we have a student with allergies)
• 2 cans dessert with pop top
• 2 packages of granola bars or cheese and cracker type snacks
• 2 plastic spoons
• 1 small soft package of tissue
• 1 package of moist towelettes
• 1 space blanket
• 2 family pictures

PLEASE make sure products do not require refrigeration.

School Lockdown

In some situations it may be necessary to have a school lockdown. As per police recommendations, the following procedures will be implemented for a school lockdown:

1.     Doors will be locked;

2.     Drapes and/or blinds will be closed;

School Closure

In the event of an emergency closing due to weather or unforeseen reasons, please listen to the announcement on the radio and television. St. Michael Catholic School follows the Snohomish School District’s plan for school closure.  If the district is closed so are we.  If it is unsafe for you to travel to school please use your best judgment before proceeding.  Safety is our priority.

All School Evacuation
If the student community must be sent home, the St. Michael Evacuation Process will be put into effect. All students/staff will report to an assigned area, either the large hall or the playground. Students will stay with classroom teachers. Families will sign the release form indication that the child(ren) have been released in their care.

Phone Tree

In times of emergency or school closures we will use a phone tree. 

Discipline Policy

Central to the mission of St. Michael as a Catholic School is the maintenance of a learning environment that upholds the dignity of all individuals through faith, justice and love.  Each of us has dignity because others recognize and respect our rights.  Others have that same right to dignity through the recognition of their rights.  When problems arise, we have options and non-violent alternatives.  The goal we strive to reach which will empower this peace-filled environment is to have each child become a successful self-manager.  To attain this, each child needs to know what is expected of them in terms of behavior.  They also need to take part in planning the rules that govern student behavior.  Thus, to insure that every child is provided an adequate learning environment, we will implement the following disciplinary principals: 

Through their cooperation, attentiveness and behavior in class student will:

            Allow teachers to teach

            Respect their right and others right to learn

            Behave in ways that support the best interest of the class and school 

Student positive behavior will be recognized and reinforced.  This is accomplished through (examples):

            Gaining special additional privileges and awards

            Special recognition assemblies

            Published recognition in both the classroom and the wider community 

We believe that each person has the right to be respected and the responsibility to respect others.  We know that conflicts (“wants in collision”) are inevitable.  Because of our desire for a peaceful environment where the dignity of each person is preserved, we value non-violent resolution of conflict.  At St. Michael, our process for resolving conflict begins by allowing:

            Each child to relate their side without interruption

            Adult checks for understanding on both sides

            Students and moderator decide on a solution together

The students and the moderator evaluates the behavior so they can try to prevent future problems

            The students express reconciliation 

There are times when some student’s choices are inappropriate in, or out of school.  When a student’s behavior or attitude harms the St. Michael community or reputation, the student becomes subject to any or all of the following steps as determined at the discretion of the principal or her designee.  These steps are listed as type “A”, “B”, and “C”. 

Type “A” Choices 

Tardiness, littering, eating outside designated areas, repeated dress code infraction, running, roughhousing, disturbing school atmosphere, inappropriate or disrespectful language, materials, gestures, behavior, and violation of classroom and playground rules, chewing gum, being in an unauthorized area 

Possible Consequences 

Teacher informed, loss of privilege, classroom consequences, repairing physical damage, work detail during recess or after school 

Type “B” Choices 

Repeated type “A” choices, vandalism, graffiti, conduct injurious to the school image, cheating, plagiarism or dishonest, skipping class, destruction of classroom materials, destruction of school property, use of tobacco, off grounds without permission, physical fighting, consistent attitude of disrespect toward students, parents, faculty or administration, inappropriate behavior in the presence of a substitute teacher and play-fighting 

Possible Consequences

Teacher, parent and principal are always informed, loss of privileges, student behavioral contract, repairing of physical damage, work detail, probation, suspension, parental monitoring in class, Saturday school 

Type “C” Choices 

Repeated type “B” choices, theft, major vandalism, graffiti, or destruction of school property, personal or neighborhood property, destruction of another person’s reputation, lying when dealing with administrators during disciplinary matters, serious personal violence, arson or false alarms, possession of weapons, possession of illegal substances, or relates paraphernalia, whether for own use or with intent to sell  ( The lists above are not all inclusive but are indicative of the type of behavior counterproductive to our goal of providing a positive learning environment.) 

Possible Consequences

In addition to previously described steps, the principal or her designee may suspend the student pending further action.  This will include a hearing with parents, witnesses and other concerned parties, subject to the Principal’s discretion.  If, after the hearing, the Principal expels the student, the parents may appeal the decision as per due process procedure.

Explanatory Notes: 

DETENTION
After school detention for disciplinary reasons beginning at 3:05 or five minutes after the last scheduled class period.  Failure to attend on the day assigned results in doubling of the amount.  Detention lasts 30 minutes per day but begins after academic detention in the case of both being assigned. 

BEHAVIORAL CONTRACT
A management plan is developed jointly between student, teacher and parent consisting of expectation of performance and provisions for periodic evaluation buy all parties.  The contract is positive-image affirming and includes an expiration clause.  In extreme cases, the school retains the right to require third party professional intervention (counseling, etc.) as a provision for continued enrollment. 

WORK DETAIL
Some infractions warrant assignments of work detail (gum, vandalism, graffiti, etc.).  These items are assigned by the supervising adult, monitored by the janitorial staff, and parents are notified through the school office.  Such times are usually one hour in duration and may consist of indoor or outdoor labor consistent with the infraction and age of the student.  Failure to show up for a work detail results in doubled time.  Times assigned may be before or after school or, in extreme cases, on a weekend.  Because of the expense of clean up and the possible damage to carpeting and furniture, students chewing gum will scrub the undersides of desks and chairs and other areas where gum tends to land. 

SUSPENSION
When a student’s behavior at school becomes so disruptive to self and/or others that effective learning and community atmosphere are impossible, the students may be temporarily removed from the school.  In order to be reinstated, the student and parents must meet with the administration and other involved persons to work out a solution for the particular difficulty.  The students does not receive any credit for homework, tests, etc. that are missed during suspension.  Suspension also means separation from all school activities.  In some cases where actions and advantages may warrant, a student may be required to wok off disciplinary hours during the school day. 

DISCIPLINARY PROBATION
This consists of a formal behavior contract arrived at between the school administration, parents and the student.  When a student is places on disciplinary probation, any infraction becomes more serious.  A student on probation may be expelled for any negative-type choice. 

EXPULSION
This is the permanent removal of a student from St. Michael School. 

DUE PROCESSDue process procedure for conduct, grievance ad disciplinary measures are in accordance with the Archdiocesan policy, and with the published St. Michael Parish due process procedure.  These publications are on file in the main office. 

CONDUCT FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

As the reputation of the school and its students are on the line, no leeway is given for disrespect to an adult placed in temporary charge of the class.  A Type-B consequence is automatically assigned. 

SATURDAY SCHOOL/PARENTAL MONITORING

In some isolated instances, it may be advisable for a student to be assigned to meet with a teacher for work assignment on a Saturday.  Such an assignment is done after consultation with the parents and administration and its cost is assed to the family.  Likewise, it may be beneficial to require that for a child to return to class, a parent must accompany them for a designated time, taking part in the regular class assignment schedule.  This is scheduled at the teacher-parent level. 

Non-Violence Policy: 

Students have a right to attend school in a safe environment free from harassment, intimidation, or any threat to personal safety.  St. Michael School has no tolerance for violent actions and or speech. 

Students are not allowed to talk about committing an act of violence, threaten to commit an act of violence, or joke about committing an act of violence toward any living thing or object.  Students are not allowed to possess at school any tool that can be used to commit a violent act” this includes but is not limited to pocket knives, guns, cigarette lighters, and matches.  Students are also not allowed to possess any instructions on how to commit an act of violence.

A student who breaks any of these rules will be suspended until a meeting can be held with the student, parents, principal and possible the pastor, when deemed necessary.  Any further disciplinary action, which could include expulsion, is at the discretion of the principal.

Students are not allowed to draw pictures of, or write stories about, situations that are violent, sexually suggestive, or that depict violence either real or fictitious.  A student who does this will have a conference with the principal, who will decide if a conference with the parents is necessary.  Any disciplinary action is at the discretion of the principal.   

Anti-Bullying Policy 

We refuse to tolerate bullying at St. Michael School.  Bullying is unfair and one-sided.  It happens when someone keeps hurting, frightening, threatening, or leaving someone out on purpose. 

Examples of bullying include but are not limited to:

            Hurting someone physically by hitting, kicking, tripping, pushing, and so on

            Stealing or damaging another’s personal things

Ganging up on someone

            Teasing someone in a hurtful way

            Using put-downs, such as insulting someone’s race, culture, gender, size or Appearance

             Spreading rumors about someone

            Leaving someone out on purpose and trying to get other kids not to play with them                       

Staff at our school does the following things to prevent bullying and help children feel safe at school:

            Closely supervise students in all areas of the school and playground

            Watch for signs of bullying and stop it when it happens

            Look into all reported bullying incidents

            Implement consequences for bullying

            Provide immediate consequences for retaliation against students who report  Bullying                       

Students at our school are taught to do the following things to prevent bullying:

            Be respectful, safe and responsible

            Refuse to bully others

            Refuse to let others be bullied

            Refuse to watch, laugh, or join in when someone is being bullied

            Report bullying to an adult 

Drugs, Alcohol, and Illegal Substances: 

The use or possession of illegal substances on school premises or at a school sponsored activity, including but not limited to tobacco, drugs, alcohol, and various types of inhalants, is prohibited and is grounds for disciplinary action. 

Students are not allowed to posses or transmit any legal drug; these are to be kept locked and administered in the school office (see medication policy).  If any student is involved in a drug policy violation, parents and police will be notified immediately.  A conference including the faculty member, principal, pastor, parents and student will be held to determine the consequences, up to and including expulsion. 

The possession or use by students of tobacco products, drugs, alcohol or other illegal substances and the paraphernalia used to administer them is prohibited.  The disciplinary policy lists such infractions as Type “C” choices.

1. If a student if found with, or under the influence of, drugs, alcohol, any illegal substance, and/or with drug paraphernalia, the following procedures will be used by school authorities:

• If school suspects a student has consumed any harmful substance, the situation will be treated as a medical emergency.  This means the appropriate first aid, including calling 911, if judgment indicates.
• If staff members are satisfied that the student has not consumed any harmful substances, the students will be isolated in the office.  (In both of the above circumstances, any drugs, alcohol, etc. will be confiscated and held by the school pending a decision as to its disposition.)
• Parents will be called and informed of the student’s medical condition and asked to come to the school to take the student home.
• This student will be on suspension from school at least until a conference with the parents is arranged and held. 
• The purpose of the conference will be to:

o   Decide the student’s immediate future status as a student at St. Michael

o   Identify appropriate intervention to deal with the student’s harmful involvement with any substance

o   Decide on future consequences for any similar behavior.  It is assumed that the students will be placed on Disciplinary probation as a minimum for the first offence, and if there is a related future incident, he/she will be at the risk of permanent expulsion from the school. 

2. If school officials have reasonable cause to suspect that a student is harmfully involved with drugs, alcohol, or other illegal