St. Brigid School
Parent/Student Handbook
St. Brigid School
695 Stevens Ave.
Portland, ME 04103
207-797-7073
207-797-7078 Fax
www.sbrigids.com
Dear Parents and
Students,
Welcome to St. Brigid Catholic School! In choosing to
be a member of this school you have selected to be a part of something life
changing, focused on Catholic virtues and willing to be a participating and
active member of a Catholic community.
The staff of our school and I look forward to working
with you to see your family grow in the light of Christ promoting a love for
one another and a love for learning in keeping with our patron St. Brigid.
Together we pray:
St. Brigid Fire of Truth, Keep us true to God’s will in our daily lives.
St. Brigid Fire of Compassion and Love burn strong for all those who need our prayers.
St. Brigid Fire of Wisdom and Knowledge be with us as we share in learning. Bless us while we form friendships while we learn from one another.
St. Brigid of Kildare, patron saint and guardian of our
Catholic School watch over us today and everyday helping us to be as
faith-filled as you were; so willing to share the St. Brigid Fire of faith
with everyone you met.
Peace and All Good Things,
Ms. Lee
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
I.
St. Brigid School
II.
Mission Statement of Maine Catholic Schools
III.
Mission
Statement of St. Brigid School
IV.
VISION: A Catholic Community of
Excellence
V.
Values
VI.
Accreditation
VII.
Admission Information
a.
Nondiscriminatory
Policy
b.
Acceptance of Students
c.
Financial Obligations
VIII.
Parent’s Role in
Education
IX.
Parents as Partners
X.
School Board
a.
Finance Committee
b.
Development Committee
c.
Marketing Committee
d.
Facilities Committee
XI.
Parent/Teacher Organization / Home and School Association
XII.
General Information
a.
School Hours
b.
School Office Hours
c.
School Visitors
d.
Attendance
e.
Absence
f.
Absence During the
School Day
XIII.
Academic Information
a.
Curriculum
1.
Religion
2.
Language Arts
3.
Mathematics
-
Grade 6
-
Grade 7
-
Grade 8
4.
Physical Education
5.
Spanish and Latin
6.
Social Studies
7.
Science
8.
Handwriting
9.
Fine Arts
10.
Computer Literacy
b.
Grading Scale
c.
Report
Cards/Progress Reports
d.
Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences
e.
Student Records
f.
Testing
g.
Promotion
Policy and Retention Policy
h.
Academic Probation
i.
Homework
j.
Homework Policy
Due to Illness
k.
Library
XIV.
Field Trips
XV.
Athletics
XVI.
Sacramental Program
XVII.
Lunch
Program
XVIII.
Uniform Code & Enforcement
XIX.
Medication
a.
Dispensing of Medication
b.
Asthma Medication
XX.
Gifts
XXI.
Parties
XXII.
Conduct
a.
General Conduct
b.
Off-Campus Conduct
c.
School
Safety/Harassment Online
d.
Drugs and Alcohol
e.
Cheating
f.
Detention
g.
Suspension
h.
Expulsion
XXIII.
Electronic Devices/Valuables and Cell Phones
XXIV.
Volunteers
XXV.
Home-School
Communication
XXVI.
School Property
XXVII.
Lockers
XXVIII.
Transfer of Students
XXIX.
Office Records
XXX.
Telephone
XXXI.
Student Directory
XXXII.
Service Projects
XXXIII.
Emergency
Drills
XXXIV.
Crisis Plan
XXXV.
Weather Emergencies
XXXVI.
Car Pool/Drive-Through
XXXVII.
Parish Playground
XXXVIII.
Right to Amend
XXXIX.
Forms
a. Field Trip Permission Form
b. Acceptable Use
Policy & Photo Release
c. Phys Ed Program for Students in Pre-K through
Grade 8
d. Release Form
XL.
Signature Page
Opened as the consolidated school of the parishes, St.
Pius, St. Joseph’s and St. Patrick’s in September of 2007 with grades Pre-k
through 8.
The name celebrates the historical legacies of both St.
Patrick’s and St. Joseph’s Schools originally established in Portland, Maine
during the early nineteenth century. Both schools, founded by the Sisters of
Mercy, an Irish order of sisters, are perpetually and respectively linked
both to St. Joseph and to St. Patrick. It is said that St. Patrick blessed
and converted St. Brigid. The Sisters of Mercy, just like Brigid of Kildare,
aided in comforting those who came to them in Ireland (and in the city of
Portland) with a spot 0’ tea and a cookie or warm meal. The Sisters of Mercy
were a driving force in the conversion of souls in the early nineteenth
century here and abroad, when both schools were established. They remain a
powerful force in the work of today’s church in Maine.
The St. Brigid’s cross, a legend told about a
conversion she made while wrapping the reeds of the field into a cross
during the teaching and blessing of a dying man, seems to be the most
profound symbol for our new consolidated school. St. Brigid was resourceful,
while she taught and prayed over this dying soul receiving the blessings of
a conversion and inception into the loving arms of Christ. The legend says
she wove a symbol of reeds, into the symbol of the cross. This will surely
give us direction while we, ourselves, find conversion though prayer and
action throughout this great change as well as a great opportunity in the
life of our parish cluster community. The center of the St. Brigid Cross,
they say, depicts the eye of God. It will certainly be a fitting logo and
symbol of the resourcefulness of St. Brigid, our new patron, to embrace
while becoming a renewed community of God.
It is fitting and so beautiful that we have found a
name, which matches our schools primary heritage. It is through our work
together as well as rejoicing in our heritage that we will create a lasting
future for all generations of children to come in the same spirit of the
Sisters and loving, faithful parishioners, who established our schools at
the turn of the century.
MISSION STATEMENT
OF MAINE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
The mission of the
Catholic Schools in Maine is to strengthen the Catholic
Church and to create an environment in
which the faith is preserved, nourished, shaped and communicated to foster
values that give meaningful direction to the
Christian family and society. This is
accomplished through dedication to the
growth, development and formation of the
student by proclaiming the message, creating community, providing service
and celebrating worship so that our
students will become faith-filled
Christians, creative and critical thinkers, life-long
learners and confident contributors.
MISSION STATEMENT OF ST.
BRIGID SCHOOL
The mission of St. Brigid School is to fulfill the Christian mandate to teach as Jesus did by providing a holistic education that integrates the truths and traditions of the Catholic Church with life and learning. In partnership with families and grounded in the mission of the Catholic Church, St. Brigid School is committed to academic excellence that will assist students to realize their unique intellectual, spiritual and physical potential.
St. Brigid School pursues excellence in school-wide learning by encouraging the discovery and development of individual talents, by enhancing self-esteem and by promoting the ideals of faith, family, social justice and civic responsibility. St. Brigid School provides learning experiences needed to acquire knowledge and skills required to grow and adapt to the increasingly technological and diverse world in which we live.
VISION: A CATHOLIC
COMMUNITY OF EXCELLENCE
As a school community, we value, support and pursue a variety of excellences to encourage personal, spiritual growth and a commitment to learning. St. Brigid School is called to be a Catholic school family. In our school, community is a special part of our love for God. When we care for one another, we actively celebrate the mission of our school and church. Our faith community leads us to understand who we are, where we come from and our resultant responsibility. As a community, we live, learn, model and share the gifts of ourselves. We pray together, work together, share joys and sorrows too.
·
We value teaching and
exemplifying the beliefs, traditions and values of the Catholic Church.
·
We value and provide a
learning environment, which encourages critical thinking, cooperative
problem solving, creative inquiry and lively
participation.
·
We value providing a
solid academic foundation grounded in the basics and structured for
individual
learning styles.
·
We value the development
of each person's God given potential and meeting the needs of each
person's intellectual, emotional, physical,
social and spiritual, growth.
·
We value and actively
promote parent-school partnerships, which integrate families and our school
and reinforce the concept of parents as primary
educators.
·
We value, support and
foster a Catholic, Christian Community, which reflects a faith in God,
concern
for community and service to humanity.
·
We value and stress the
importance of respect for self, others and life in all forms.
·
We value the opportunity
to learn in a creative, Christian, caring atmosphere.
·
We value and emphasize
positive life skills such as communication, responsibility and organization.
·
We value and provide
ongoing professional and spiritual growth for our staff and the parents of
our
school.
ACCREDITATION
St. Brigid School is a Diocesan Catholic School Approved for attendance in the State of Maine.
ADMISSION INFORMATION
Nondiscriminatory Policy
St. Brigid School admits students of any race, color,
and national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and
activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school.
It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or
ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions
policies, or athletic and other school-administered programs.
As openings
become available, the following priorities will be used to accept students
to St. Brigid School:
1.
Members of St. Patrick’s/St. Pius/St. Joseph’s Parishes
2.
Members of other Catholic parishes
3.
Non-Catholic students
Children entering Pre-K must
be four (4) years of age by October 15th.
Children entering
Kindergarten must be five (5) years of age by October 15th.
Students will be conditionally accepted into Kindergarten with full
acceptance contingent on displayed readiness on the Kindergarten entrance
test.
At the time of registration,
all new students seeking admission to St. Brigid School are evaluated and
placed on the basis of current standardized test scores and report cards.
Requirements
1.
Verification of active
parish affiliation/stewardship
Use of weekly
envelopes and Tuition contract signed by the pastor
of sending parish
(Catholic Applicants
only)
2.
An Application with
non-refundable fee
3.
Health Records
(Immunization Records)
4.
Birth Certificate
(original)
5.
Baptismal Certificate
(Catholic applicants only)
6.
Report Cards
7.
Standardized Test Results
8.
Record of IEP or ISP
Students applying for
Admission in Grades 1-8 must present a copy of the current report card and
standardized test results.
These will be reviewed to determine how the program at St. Brigid School
will meet the educational needs of the students.
An interview with the parent and student is part of the admission
process in grades 1 and up and / or Kindergarten screening.
Testing in some academic
areas may be held for new incoming students in Grades 3-8.
All new students will be
given a trial period in which to prove himself/herself both socially and
academically. If during this
trial period there are any problems, a student may be asked to withdraw
his/her attendance at St. Brigid School.
Non-Catholic students whose parents accept the philosophy of St. Brigid School will be accepted on a space available basis.
Financial Obligations
Tuition is paid in full or in a
monthly installment program used in all Diocesan Catholic Schools called
FACTS. FACTS is a secured automatic debit payment plan through your bank.
Families will have the option to pay their
tuition in one of the following ways:
1.
Payment in full the first
week of June.
(Made directly to St. Brigid School)
2.
Monthly Payments through
FACTS, which must be completed by March (Timely enrollment
will result in a 10 month payment plan beginning
in June.
Elected payment dates are the 5th or
20th of each month. (NOTE:
An additional FACTS
enrollment fee is paid directly to FACTS and
debited upon receipt of your enrollment or
re-enrollment form).
Non-fulfillment of financial obligation may constitute non-renewal of enrollment.
PARENT’S ROLE IN EDUCATION
We, at St. Brigid School,
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. Brigid 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 St. Brigid School, 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. Similarly, we, the school will also make
an investigation of the complete story our first step. Evidence of mutual
respect between parents and teachers will model good mature behavior and
relationships.
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. This
responsibility also extends to times of absence.
Together, let us begin this
journey 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.
As partners in the
educational process at St. Brigid School, we ask parents :
1.
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 bagged lunch every day.
3.
or neglect on the part of the student;
safety, and health;
The primary purpose of the school Board is to assist and support the administration of St. Brigid School and the mission of Catholic Education, “To Teach as Jesus Did.”
This advisory board’s responsibility in supporting the
mission includes work in strategic planning, finance, development,
marketing, facilities improvement and policy development. As such, the board
provides the administration advice and also oversees and supports the
working committees of St. Brigid School. Since the board is not bonded,
comprised of employees or elected for the purpose of school management,
individual student, or personnel issues and matters related to curriculum
development are not addressed by the board. The board is reflective of the
parish cluster and must consist of practicing Catholics fully vested in the
philosophy and Catholic Mission of St. Brigid School. Currently, membership
is by appointment of the pastors of the cluster in consultation with the
principal of St. Brigid School.
Committees of the Council:
Finance Committee:
The finance Committee of St. Brigid School develops and monitors the
school finances and budget of St. Brigid School. This committee meets
monthly and is comprised of representatives of the cluster parishes, the
pastors and the principal.
Development Committee:
The primary purpose of this committee is to support, plan and implement the
major fundraisers of our school. The committee coordinates solicitation as
well as planning for the fundraising amount set in the budget process.
Marketing Committee:
The marketing committee promotes St. Brigid School through all
marketing means, which also includes print and radio advertisements as well
as an annual Open House.
Facilities Committee: The facilities committee meets monthly and works on the planning and work of improving the physical plant and all aspects of facilities repair, replacement and updating the buildings and grounds of St. Brigid School.
PARENT
TEACHER ORGANIZATION/HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
The St. Brigid Home and School Association is a dynamic
organization comprised of all parents/guardians of children attending our
school as well as faculty and staff members. The H.S.A. meets to plan,
support and sponsor social and academic programs which reinforce the values
of Catholic Education and foster a familial atmosphere for the school
community. The H.S.A. is a vital communications link between parents,
faculty and the school administration. It is instrumental in encouraging and
sharing ideas for calendar activities to keep the school spirit vibrantly
alive.
Home and
School Association is the name widely used by Catholic Schools. This
organization is not to be confused with a public school organization. The
St. Brigid H.S.A Organization works to support and enhance the educational
ministry of the school. Building community, parent education and community
events are goals of this organization. The H.S.A. meets monthly and all
parents are invited and encouraged to attend.
Officers are elected from community nomination and can serve terms of
up two years.
Grades
Pre-K through 8: 8:00 AM – 2:45 PM.
Students who are not in their homeroom at 8:00 AM are considered
tardy.
At St.
Brigid School, we work in partnership with parents to enable each child to
develop as an independent learner.
Parents should allow their child(ren) to enter the school building on
their own each morning. Various
classes invite parent involvement or visitation on particular occasions.
Pre-k and Kindergarten can be escorted to the door in the morning and should
wait outside at dismissal along with the rest of the school.
The school
doors are opened for students at 7:00 AM.
Students arriving at that time will go to the Before School Care Room
until they are dismissed to their classrooms at 7:45 AM.
We celebrate morning prayer together Monday through Thursday at 8:00
AM. On Fridays we attend mass
as a group at 8:00 AM and everyone in the community is always welcome.
Excessive
tardiness will have a direct impact on a student’s academic evaluation and
promotion to the next grade.
Parents are required to sign in their child at the office when arriving
after the 8:00 AM start time.
Prayer and
afternoon announcements begin at 2:45 PM each day. Dismissal follows
immediately. Please check the
school calendar and weekly newsletter for early dismissal dates.
Parents are
to make arrangements for their child(ren) to arrive at school on time and be
picked up at dismissal time.
Students not picked up by the end of the dismissal period (approximately
3:00 PM) will be sent immediately to the After School Care Program.
Parents are charged the daily per child hourly rate for using this
program.
St. Brigid
School offers an After School Care Program for an hourly fee and an
additional fee is charged for students remaining in the program after 5:30
PM. The service will be
suspended for families in arrears, 45 days past billing date.
The school
office is open on all school days from 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
School
visitors (volunteers, parents, etc.) must report to the main office.
For safety and security reasons, each person is required to sign
in at the office when he/she enters the building for any reason and
sign out at the time of departure.
Volunteers
helping with the Hot Lunch Program can report directly to the kitchen in the
Fr. Hayes Center and sign in there.
A student’s
absence from school interferes with his/her academic progress.
When a
student is absent from school, a parent should call the office by 10:00 AM
each day of the absence.
A written
statement giving reasons for the absence or tardiness must be brought
to the student’s teacher upon the student’s return.
Should absence for any reason other than illness seem imperative,
parents are requested to consult with the Principal and present a written
reason for the absence.
The school
calendar provides for extended weekends throughout the school year.
Parents are encouraged to schedule trips or family outings during
these times so as to eliminate the need to interrupt a child’s learning
process. Missed assignments are
the student’s responsibility.
Students
who are absent due to illness have two days for each day of absence to make
up the missed assignments. For
example, a student who was absent three days would be given six school days
to complete the missed work.
When a
student is absent for three or more days due to illness, a parent may
call the school office before 9:30 AM to arrange for homework assignments.
Homework assignments may be picked up at the school office between
3:00 PM – 3:30 PM.
For short
absences, students should make arrangement with classmates regarding
assignments. Students may also
receive missed assignments from their teacher when they return to school.
Teachers are not required to give make-up tests or assignments for absences
due to vacations.
No assignment will be given in
anticipation of the vacation.
Arrangements
for regular classroom tests missed because of an absence are to be made with
the individual teachers. These
tests must be taken within one week of the original test date.
Excessive
absence (25) days or the equivalent of 25 days including tardies, may be
cause for a student to be retained in the current grade for another year.
Students
needing medical appointments during school hours require a written note by
the parent. Parents are
required to sign out their child at the office.
If the child returns to school during the same school day, he/she
must be signed back into school in the office.
Students who are away from school for an appointment for 3 ½ hours or
more will be counted as absent for ½ a day.
St. Brigid
School offers students opportunities for growth in the following major
subjects:
Catholic
doctrine and tradition, Bible study, Social Justice, preparation for the
reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation, and Eucharist.
Liturgical services are held every Friday for the school and parish
community. Students also take
part in the Diocesan program entitled; Think First, Stay Safe the Second
Step Program and Project Wisdom.
Reading,
English, Spelling, Vocabulary, Composition, Creative Writing, Library
Skills, and Appreciation of Literature.
Mathematics
Skills, Pre-Algebra, and Algebra I. Students in Grade 8 Algebra take the
Algebra Competency Placement Test in June.
In order to allow
teachers to meet students’ individual needs in mathematics instruction,
students in Grades 6-8 are placed into math groups.
Grade 6
The 6th grade math teacher will place students into
instructional math groups. Student math averages, ITBS (Iowa Test
of Basic Skills) math stanine scores, and teacher recommendation
based on observations of student skills, effort, and ability determine
placement. All 6th grade math groups will complete the same
curriculum. Each group may work at a different pace or be given
different homework assignments or enrichment as needed.
Grade 7
At the end of Grade 6, students will be placed
into instructional math groups according to their score on a placement
test, their final math average, and teacher recommendation
based on observation of student skills, effort, and ability.
Based on these criteria, students will be placed in either 7th
Grade Pre-Algebra OR Comprehensive 7th Grade Math.
Grade 8
At the end of Grade 7, students in 7th Grade Pre-Algebra will be eligible to take the Algebra placement test if the following criteria have been met:
·
Passing final average in 7th Grade
Pre-Algebra
·
Teacher recommendation
Upon successful completion of the placement test, students will be placed in 8th Grade Algebra in their eighth grade year. Students in Comprehensive 7th Grade Math will be eligible to take the Algebra placement test if the following criteria have been met:
·
A final average of 94 or above in Comprehensive 7th
Grade Math
·
Teacher recommendation
Upon successful completion of the placement test,
students may be placed in 8th Grade Algebra.
Extra work may need to be completed by the student over the summer months to
ensure readiness for the Algebra curriculum.
Students not eligible to take 8th Grade Algebra according to the criteria outlined above will be placed in 8th Grade Pre-Algebra.
Physical
fitness programs appropriate for each grade.
Vocabulary,
common expressions, grammar, conversation, and culture.
History,
Geography, Economics, Maine State History, and Current Events.
General
Sciences and Laboratory Experiences in grades 3 and up.
Students in
Grades 3 through 8 are expected to submit handwritten work in cursive using
the Zaner Bloser handwriting method unless a student’s Individual Service
Plan indicates otherwise (ISP) .
Music,
Visual Arts, Crafts, Musical instruments and Choir
Word
Processing, Data Base, Spread Sheets, Web Design, and Integration with
Curricular Subjects.
Academic Code
A+=97-100
A=93-96
High Honors
E,M, in conduct
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B+=88-92
Honors
E,M, in conduct
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B=85-87
Commendable
E,M, in conduct
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C+=80-84
C=75-79
D=70-74
F=below 70
I=Incomplete
Observations
1.
Shows outstanding ability and results
2.
Works well
3.
Works hard but finds the subject matter difficult
4.
Shows improvement
5.
Lacks motivation
Recommended Improvements
6. Needs to improve quality of work
7. Needs to
complete assigned activities
8. Needs to hand
in assignments on time
9. Needs to come
to class prepared
10. Needs to study for quizzes
and tests
11. Needs to follow given
instructions carefully
12. Needs to make better use
of class time
13. Needs to improve self-
control within classroom situations
Conduct
E-exceeds expectations
M-meets expectations
N-needs improvement
U-Unsatisfactory
Report
Cards are important
tools for communication. Report
Cards will be given four (4) times during the academic school year or every
nine (9) weeks.
Progress
Reports will be
given mid-way between each nine-week grading period.
PARENT/TEACHER/STUDENT
CONFERENCES
Two
Parent-Teacher-Conferences are held each year. Conferences take place at the
end of the first marking period and the end of the third marking period
after teachers have completed grades and report cards. Parent attendance is
necessary.
Conference
schedules are prepared and issued by the school office well in advance of
the scheduled date. Parents
requiring additional conferences during the school year may make
arrangements with the individual teachers or through the office.
Progress reports are issued quarterly.
Records of students transferring to other schools will be
sent through the US Mail. No
records will be given to parents to transport to the new school.
Students
requesting records/transcripts/recommendations must make a five school-day
request to the School Office.
All forms should be signed by a parent/legal guardian and submitted to the
St. Brigid School Office for distribution.
Completed forms will be sent via the U.S. Mail or hand delivered by
the administration to Cheverus and Catherine McAuley High Schools.
Special handling will require that all postal fees be paid by the
parents.
No
records will be sent to transferring schools of students whose financial
commitment is in arrears.
The Iowa
Test of Basic Skills is given in Grades 3 through 8 yearly.
PROMOTION POLICY AND
RETENTION POLICY
Advancement
to the next grade in St. Brigid School is based on a student’s daily
performance, test results, recommendations of teachers, and the student’s
ability to complete work successfully on a more advanced level.
Promotion
to the next grade depends on successful completion of all subject areas.
The Administration may recommend the repetition of a grade, tutoring,
or summer school classes as requirement for promotion when, after
conferences with teachers and parents, it is believed that such action will
better prepare the student academically or emotionally for the next grade.
Parents may not agree with the Administration for retention in a
grade. In an event agreement cannot
be reached students may also be transferred to another grade at another
school.
A student
whose academic performance indicates serious deficiencies, a grade below 75
and poor conduct, may be placed on academic probation.
Academic
probation impacts a student’s ability to participate in extra-curricular
activities including sports, dances and activity period.
Please see the Athletic and Extra-Curricular Activities Handbook for
more detail.
Formal
home-study is assigned to help students become self-reliant and
self-directed. Assignments are
designed to reinforce daily lessons, to supplement and enrich class work,
and to prepare for certain lessons through various experiences.
Since each
student has different capabilities and interests, it would be difficult to
denote the specific amount of time to be spent on an assignment.
If a problem arises, the teacher should be contacted.
Summer Reading and Math assignments
are also given prior to the close of the school year.
HOMEWORK POLICY DUE TO ILLNESS
When a
student is absent for three or more days, a parent may call the
school office before 9:30 AM to arrange for homework assignments.
Homework assignments may be picked up on the counter in the school
office between 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM.
For
short absences, students should make arrangements with classmates
regarding assignments. Students
may also, receive missed assignments from their teacher when they return to
school.
Students
will be allowed two days for each day of absence due to illness.
For example, a student who was absent three days should be given six
school days to complete the missed work.
The school
has a well-equipped library.
Students are encouraged to use the library for curricular enrichment and
pleasure reading. The following
rules are to be observed:
1.
Borrowed books are to be returned on time and in good condition.
by the student before any other materials may be checked out.
ensure a successful learning opportunity.
student participation on any field trip due to,
but not limited to, poor academic performance
and/or poor conduct.
will be permitted to attend a field trip
activity. Verbal permission
cannot be accepted.
Permission slips are due in the office
forty-eight hours after receipt of the permission slip.
used to allow a student to leave school during
school hours. If your child
fails to bring his/her
permission slip home, you may tear out and use or
copy the form provided. Call
the school for
information needed to complete the form.
Note: a fax does
not take the place of an original signature.
form.
Students who do not attend a field trip will remain at
home with the parent and will be marked
absent for the day.
class.
Students not on the bus may not participate in
the field trip and will be counted absent for the day.
administration.
The
school’s athletic committee known in most Catholic Schools as
The Athletic Association
fundraises, plans, implements team, intramural and club sports for students
attending St. Brigid School. St. Brigid School Athletic Association is also
responsible for teams in the Southern Maine Athletic Conference under the
name Southern Maine Catholic. Southern Maine Catholic consists of students
from St. Brigid School, Holy Cross and Cathedral.
The Athletic Association is a committee comprised of parents of our school lead by an athletic director, a treasurer, secretary and including representation from the SMC teams. As host school of the Southern Maine Catholic Team in the Southern Maine Middle School Conference, representation of participating schools will include the principals, athletic directors or a designee from the participating schools at monthly or seasonal meetings. The committee plans, coordinates volunteer efforts as well as for the funding and/or fundraisers to support the sports programs. The committee implements all extra-curricular sports activities making possible competitive and intramural sports for all the students of St. Brigid School. As a Catholic School the goal of the Athletic Association is to teach team values, and sportsmanship.
The
sacramental life of the children of the Catholic tradition is an important
component of the religion program at St. Brigid School.
Preparations for three sacraments, Reconciliation, Confirmation,
Eucharist, form the core of our efforts in Grade 2.
In accordance with the diocesan guidelines, candidates for First
Eucharist will receive the sacrament of Reconciliation prior to First
Eucharist.
Parents are
required to be active partners in the preparation of their children for
these sacraments. The sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist are only
conferred to students baptized in the Roman Catholic tradition.
St. Brigid
School offers a hot lunch program daily.
The school participates in the State and Federal Free and Reduced Hot
Lunch program. Meals are served in the Father Hayes Center
through the services of outside vendors.
Students may purchase a lunch in advance through the menus sent home
in the Friday Envelope or purchase ala carte items on a daily basis.
Students
may choose to bring their lunch each day.
For safety reasons and to foster good health students should not
bring glass bottles, soft drinks or excessive amounts of candy. Students are
expected to use the same manners required in the classroom during lunch.
Courtesy toward other students and cooperation with parent volunteers
and teacher lunch monitors are in order at all times.
UNIFORM CODE
Below is the uniform code for St. Brigid School.
Uniforms are used at St. Brigid and other Catholic schools for a few
reasons. First, they help to
foster a sense of order in the classroom.
Second, they indicate to students that school is an institution that
must be respected, and it is proper to dress respectfully at school.
Finally, uniforms help to lessen the impact of the economic disparity
present in any school. All
students are dressed alike and can concentrate on learning, instead of “who
is wearing what.” It is with
these very Catholic goals in mind that we developed the uniform code.
At St. Brigid it will be enforced by classroom teachers and staff and
it is expected that all students will comply.
Thank you very much for your cooperation in this matter.
Girl’s Uniform
Grades Pre-K-5
Everyday
and dress uniform
Plaid jumper
White long or short sleeved, Peter Pan collar shirt (no polos or Oxfords)
Blue, black or white tights, socks or full length (tight fitting at bottom) leggings
Safe, rubber soled shoes or sneakers
Grades
6-8
Everyday
and dress uniform
Plaid skirt (kick pleat)—at least finger tip length
White Oxford button down shirt OR
White school polo shirt (must be purchased from JB Edwards and must have
school name)
Navy or black tights or white socks
OPTION (on days when dress uniform is not required)
From November 1- March 30:
Navy blue Docker-style pants (no cargos, capris or jeans)
NOTICE:
Yellow shirts will be grandfathered in through the transition.
When buying new
shirts please select white.
Boy’s Uniform
Grades
Pre K-5
Everyday
and dress uniform
Light blue Oxford button-down shirt, long or short sleeved
Navy blue Docker style pants (no cargos or jeans)
Plaid tie (must be purchased from JB Edwards)
Grades
6-8
Dress uniform
(Friday Mass and special events to be announced)
Light blue Oxford button-down style shirt, long or short sleeved.
Navy blue Docker-style pants (no cargos or jeans)
Solid navy tie for grades 6 and 7
Grade 8 may where any school appropriate tie
Everyday uniform (Same as above dress uniform with the following option)
Light blue school polo shirt (must be purchased from JB Edwards and must
have school name)
Option for
all boys
From
September 1 - September 30 AND from May 1 – June 30:
Navy blue long dress shorts (no elastic waist shorts—gym or
otherwise)
Accessories/Outerwear
–All students, All grades
Navy blue cardigan, v-neck or crew neck sweater with or
without school logo (no hoods) OR navy blue fleece vest or jacket, with or
without school logo.
NOTICE: Students will not be allowed to wear sweatshirts as outerwear at St. Brigid, with the exception of the gym uniform on gym days. Please tag your child’s apparel on the label in permanent marker for identification.
Gym Uniform
All
students
Navy or white t-shirt with school name or logo (available from JB
Edwards)
Navy shorts (long shorts) with or without school logo
Navy wind or sweat pants
Gray sweatshirt with or without school logo and without hood
(available from JB Edwards)
NOTICE:
Gray hooded sweatshirt will be grandfathered in through the transition.
When buying new, please purchase gray sweatshirt without hood.
All pants and shorts for gym MAY have two white stripes down each
leg, but may NOT have ANY OTHER LOGO OR WRITING ON THEM, except the St.
Brigid
logo or name. This will
be enforced.
Dress Down Day Attire
The H.S.A. and other groups such as Student Council sponsor
monthly dress down days. For a
dollar students are allowed to wear jeans, sweatshirts and t-shirts without
offensive or questionable slogans.
Appropriate dress does NOT include tank tops or halters.
If dress down day occurs on a mass day, students should dress up for
mass.
Please be advised that all items in the uniform
code can be purchased through JB Edwards, (800) 654-5148. The following
items MUST be purchased through JB Edwards:
Polo shirts for girls and boys grades 6-8, t-shirts and sweatshirts for gym.
Please note as well that though JC Penney and Land’s End have jumpers
and skirts with a plaid similar to our St. Brigid plaid, it is not the same.
Plaid items from JC Penney and Land’s End are not acceptable
parts of the uniform.
Other items such as shirts, pants,
etc. may be purchased from these companies.
As fads are ever-changing the
appropriateness of each will be determined by the principal. Good Rule for
dress down day and for the uniform code:
If you think you shouldn’t wear it, you shouldn’t.
All uniform regulations and guidelines are subject to the discretion
of the principal working in conjunction with the uniform committee.
Uniform Enforcement Policy
We are proud of our uniform at St. Brigid.
It is the symbol of our school. Uniforms are used at St. Brigid and
other Catholic schools for a few reasons.
First, they help to foster a sense of order in the classroom.
Second, they indicate to students that school is an institution that
must be respected, and it is proper to dress respectfully at school.
Finally, uniforms help to lessen the impact of the economic disparity
present in any school. All
students are dressed alike and can concentrate on learning, instead of “who
is wearing what.” It is with
these very Catholic goals in mind that we developed the uniform code.
At St. Brigid it will be enforced by classroom teachers and staff and
it is expected that all students will comply. Below is our uniform
enforcement policy. Thank you
for your cooperation.
Uniform
policies
1. All students are expected to be in full and
appropriate uniform every day.
2. Students are expected to follow the spirit as well as the
letter of the code. In other
words, ties must
be tied and properly worn, shirts must be tucked in, skirts
and jumpers must be of appropriate length.
3. It is the classroom
teacher’s responsibility to enforce the uniform policy, and all staff will
assist the
classroom teachers in this effort.
4. If a student is not in full and proper uniform the following
steps will be taken:
a. For the first offense, the student will be spoken to, and a form
will be sent home to parents,
explaining the infraction and include a copy of the uniform code.
b. For the
second offense, the student will be sent down to the office.
Their parent will be
called, and the student will remain in the office until the parent brings to
school the
appropriate uniform.
c.
Please remember that outerwear is a part of the uniform.
Students cannot wear any
sweatshirts or sweaters to school or at recess, except the St. Brigid
sweatshirt (on gym
days only), or the navy sweaters or fleeces that are a part of the uniform.
If students do
not have the proper outerwear, they will not be allowed to go out to recess.
The purpose of the uniform is, as stated above, to reinforce our Catholic values. The purpose is not to cause undue stress or trouble for families. If there are any unusual circumstances that make complying with the uniform difficult on a certain day, or for a certain period of time, please send in a note with your child. We will of course understand such situations. In addition, we do not want the cost of the uniform to be a burden to any family. We have a large number of extra uniforms downstairs at St. Brigid’s main building. Please help yourself to any item in our extras area. If even after looking through the extras, the cost is still a burden, please arrange a meeting with Ms. Lee. We will work with families to the best of our ability.
If a child
must take any medication in school which is prescribed by a doctor, that
medication must be sent to the office in the container received from the
pharmacy and must have on its label the following information:
All
non-prescription medication (cough drops, lip balm, etc.) should be taken to
the office with the following information:
Immediate access to reliever inhalers is vital. Children are encouraged to carry their reliever inhaler as soon as the parent, doctor or nurse and class teacher agree they are mature enough. Parents are asked to ensure that the school is provided with a labeled spare reliever inhaler. All inhalers must be labeled with the child's name by the parent.
Students should not exchange individual gifts at school. This gesture only creates hurt feelings among other students. Invitations for slumber parties or birthday parties should be sent to the homes of students via the U.S. Mail unless an invitation is being given to every student in the entire grade.
Students
are permitted class parties for: St.
Brigid Day, Catholic Schools Week, Christmas,
Valentine’s Day, 100th day of School and/or Mardi Gras.
Room parents may assist the classroom teacher with these parties.
Since students bring in or purchase a hot lunch it is desired for
parents to choose items for class parties that won’t interfere with and take
the place of the state hot lunch program.
In accordance with the stated philosophy of the school, which emphasizes deep respect for the human dignity and uniqueness of every individual, each student will be considerate of the rights of others in all interactions. All students are expected to cooperate with the Catholic spirit and policies of the school, which are designed to foster mature development and personal responsibility. This requires courtesy in all personal relationships, promptness in fulfilling obligations, concern for the environment, and many other factors, which the students’ sense of appropriateness will indicate to them.
Students at
St. Brigid School are expected to behave in a way that helps make their
school conducive to learning and a safe, happy environment to grow into the
fullness of life. The staff, will model and instill a Christ-like ideal to
help students succeed both in and outside of school.
Respect
yourself, respect other people and respect other people’s property. Remember
this code is in effect on and off campus as well as on church property, at
all school sponsored activities and functions too.
Examples of
unacceptable behavior include, but are not limited to:
·
Cheating
·
Disregard of safety, physically hurting self or others in any way
·
Poor manners: inappropriate words, being rude,
·
Harassment: verbally threatening, using unkind words, or acting in a
threatening manner
·
Defiance of authority: not doing what you are asked to do
·
Lying: not telling the truth, omitting truths when asked for information
·
Vandalism: defacing or destroying property
·
Stealing: taking items, which do not belong to you
Infractions
of the rules are handled by the teacher who is present at the time with
penalties that may include a conference with the student, a note sent home,
a call home, loss of privileges, loss of recess or detention. When
infractions are serious or repetitive, a student may be sent to the
principal. The principal will investigate the incident, give the student a
chance to explain what happened, determine a follow up action, which will
include notifying parents. Actions will vary according to the seriousness of
the misbehavior. A conference with the teacher and parents/guardians may be
warranted to discuss the best methods of working with the child to achieve
success.
We, at all times, reserve the right to depart from these guidelines, when it would be in the best interest of the student or other students to do so. In addition, the Principal reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of an action if any doubt arises.
OFF-CAMPUS CONDUCT
The administration of St. Brigid School reserves the right to discipline its
students for off-campus behavior that is not in line with behavior
expectations of its students during the course of the school day.
SCHOOL SAFETY/HARASSMENT ONLINE
St. Brigid
School provides a safe environment for all individuals.
Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional
well-being of any individual are taken very seriously.
Students making such threats (seriously or in jest online)
face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion.
Harassment
of any type is not allowed. The
Principal investigates all complaints of harassment.
Students involved in harassing behavior face detention, suspension,
and/or expulsion.
Engagement in online blogs such as, but not limited to, MySpace.com®, Xanga®, Friendster®, etc. may result in disciplinary actions if the content of the student’s blog includes defamatory comments regarding the school, the faculty, other students or the parish.
Students
who possess drugs and/or alcohol at school or at any school function face
suspension and/or expulsion and are subject to the penalties of local
authorities.
Cheating of
any type will not be tolerated.
Students who choose to cheat face a failing grade, detention, suspension,
and/or expulsion.
Detention
may be issued for a breach of classroom and/or school rules.
Parents are provided with a Detention Form with written notification
of the detention. The day,
date, and time of the detention are at the discretion of the Principal or
the teachers who monitors the detention.
Detention takes precedence over practices, lessons, ballgames,
etc. On the day a student is serving a detention or a suspension a student
is not allowed to participate in extra-curricular activities.
Students
who are given an in-school suspension will be required to report to school
each day and work with a substitute teacher paid for ($75.00) by the
suspended student’s parents.
Students who receive an out-of-school suspension will not be allowed on
campus during the time of their suspension.
Students must complete all class work and tests from the days of
suspension but a grade of 70 will be recorded for this work.
Expulsion
is an extremely serious matter. Students may be expelled from St. Brigid
School according to diocesan policy.
Students who have been expelled will not be allowed to return to the
school without prior permission from the Principal.
ELECTRONIC
DEVICES/VALUABLES AND CELL PHONES
Valuable items should not be brought to school. The school is not responsible for such items lost. Electronic devices that are distracting to class are also not allowed.
Please Note
*The only exception to cell-phones are for after-hours use for students
involved in middle school extra-curricular activities. Cell phones are not
to be used in school as each classroom is equipped with a telephone for
student calls and emergencies. They should be kept in a student backpack or
locker during school hours and turned in the off position. Cell phones seen
in class will be confiscated by a staff member. Picture taking and recording
is also prohibited with a cell phone.
Digital cameras are allowed only for yearbook purposes and technology assignments.
Volunteers
are an important part of our school.
All individuals who volunteer in the school must complete the
Diocesan Volunteer application form and must complete Diocesan mandated
background checks as well as participation in the educational/informational
program entitled, “Protecting God’s Children.”
All volunteers are expected to enter the school building and report to the office to sign in before reporting to their volunteer assignment.
In order to
insure that all communication from school reaches home in a timely manner,
St. Brigid School uses a Friday folder system.
Official envelopes containing all correspondence are sent home on
Fridays and should be returned the following School day.
Your child is responsible for emptying the contents of his/her
envelope when it is returned to their homeroom.
Information may not be sent home if the folder has not been returned.
The parent
of a child who carelessly destroys or damages any furniture, equipment,
buildings, or anyone’s personal property will be obligated to pay the full
amount of repairs and labor or replacement.
Textbooks used by the student must have a proper book cover.
No writing in textbooks is permitted.
The student will pay a fine or replacement for damaged or lost texts
before any final reports, transcripts, or diplomas are presented.
Student may
be assigned a locker or cubby in which to store clothing and textbooks.
In order to maintain a quiet atmosphere for class, students are
allowed to go to their lockers only at specified times.
The school reserves the right to inspect lockers at any time.
Lockers and desks may not be decorated inside or out.
Notice of
withdrawal of a student should be made by the parent in writing to the
Principal in advance of the withdrawal date.
This enables the school to prepare necessary information and settle
accounts. No student records
will be forwarded to another school until Business Office accounts have been
settled. (See previous
section on Student Records for transcript information.)
Parents/Guardians are requested to notify the School Office in writing of
any change of address, home telephone numbers, cell phone numbers, business
phone numbers, e-mail addresses and/or phone numbers of emergency contacts.
This will guarantee that office records are accurate, complete, and
up-to-date.
Permission
to use the telephone must be obtained from the school’s office personnel.
Students must submit a note from
their teacher. The office phone
is a business phone and students are permitted to use it only in case of an
emergency. The telephone in a
teacher’s classroom is for the use of the teacher only.
Forgotten homework, athletic equipment, etc. do not constitute
emergencies. Arrangements for
after-school visits with friends should be made at home and not via a school
phone.
Within the
first month or so of the school year, each family receives a Student
Directory listing students’ and parents’ names, addresses, home telephone
numbers, and e-mail addresses.
The Student Directory should be used to acquaint parents with the
names of their children(s) classmates and parents.
These directories should not be used or sold for other
purposes.
Parents
reserve the right to be excluded from the Student Directory.
State Law
requires that fire drills be held.
During the fire drills, teachers and students should follow these
regulations:
·
Rise
in silence when the alarm sounds;
·
Close
windows and doors;
·
Walk
to the assigned place briskly, in single file at all times, and in silence;
·
Stand
in a column of two’s, facing away from the building;
·
Return
to building when signal is given.
St. Brigid
School has implemented a “Diocesan Crisis Plan” in case of a lockdown
emergency. In the event of such an emergency or if circumstances permit,
(upon direction of local police authorities), the building may be evacuated
and students will be moved to one of three secure designated locations.
In the
event of a lock-down or evacuation parents will report to a designated
command center area to collect their child. A designated staff member will
act as a runner to retrieve the child and unite a parent and child in the
designated command center.
If it
should be necessary to close the school or dismiss early because of weather
conditions, an announcement will be made over local television stations. If
the Portland Public Schools are dismissed or closed due to inclement
weather, St. Brigid School is also closed. Please use your own judgment and
caution when driving in from outlying areas as different conditions exist
outside of Portland.
CAR POOL / DRIVE-THROUGH
All cars must have a number clearly displayed in the front windshield on the driver’s side of the car. Numbers are assigned by the school. Students will be called to the appropriate pick-up area by their number. It is important that students are aware of their carpool number.
The drop
off and pick up area of the the drive through is located by entering Elmwood
St from the Stevens Ave. side of the Father Hayes Center building, and
PULLING OUT OF THE SECOND GATE ALONG THE SCHOOL PRIMARY WING HEADING FOR
FOREST AVENUE.
Parents are asked to
remain in their cars and to proceed through the regular drive-through
process.
During the
morning drop off time before morning prayer, student greeters and a parent
volunteer will help direct students to their classrooms.
The gates close before morning prayer.
Parents are
asked to pay close attention during the carpool process. It is recommended
that cell phones not be used at this time.
Please follow the traffic directions given by the teachers and
volunteers on duty.
It is the responsibility of the parent to contact car pool members and after school care agencies when a child is absent, leaves school early, or needs other arrangements to be made.
Homeroom
teachers should be advised in writing if a child is to go home in a
different car pool or by a different means on a given day.
The Parish Playground is supervised by staff during school hours.
Students participating in the after-school program are supervised by
staff when on the playground.
Students wishing to use the playground before and after-school hours should
be under the supervision of and accompanied by their parent.
St. Brigid School
reserves the right to amend this Handbook.
Notice of amendments will be sent to parents via the Friday folder.
