Student Handbook

Humphrey St. Francis Student Handbook

TABLE OF CONTENTS ELEMENTARY

I. STUDENT RELATED INFORMATION Absences 1 Accidents 1 Admission 1 Birthdays 1 Communication 1 Current Periodicals 1 Doctor and Dental Appointments 1 Emergency Dismissal 2 Field Trips 2 Fire Drills 2 Gift Exchange 2 Grading System 2 Gum 2 Home and School Association 2 Hot Lunch Program 2 Insurance 3 Library 3 Lost or Stolen Articles 3 Personal Property at School 3 Progress Reports, Conferences, and Meetings 3 Promotion Policy 3 Religious Education 3 Reporting to Parents 3 Retention 3 Room Mothers 4 School Office 4 Sending Money To School 4 Snowstorm 4 Telephone 4 Testing Program 4 Textbooks 4 Tornado Preparedness 5 Transcripts and Records 5 Transportation 5 Tuition 5 Visitors 5 Withdrawals 5 II. STUDENT CONDUCT

Disciplinary Performance Standards 6 Specific Offences and Disciplinary Actions 6 III. REGULATIONS

Activities Forbidden By Law 8 Birth Certificate 8 Firearms, Weapons, Explosives, And Material That Can Be Ignited 8 Dress Code 8 Drugs and Alcohol 9 Health 9 Immunizations and Physicals 9 Jeans Day 9 Medication 10 Nebraska‚s Child Abuse Reporting Law 10 Physical Education 10 Playground 10 Search and Seizure 10 Technology 11 Tobacco 11

IV. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE 11

Pastor/Board Approved ˆ June 8, 2005

FORWARD

This Parent/Student Handbook is provided to give information, regulations, and policies to parents and students of St. Francis Schools.

This Parent/Student Handbook is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contractual agreement between St. Francis School and any student or any parent of any student.

The information contained in the Handbook provides a general description of rules and regulations. The school reserves the right to add to, to modify or abolish any of the Handbook provisions without notice.

Non-enforcement of any of the rules or regulations does not serve as a waiver of their future endorsement.

This Handbook does not create any restriction upon St. Francis School‚s right to institute any course of disciplinary action which, in St. Francis School‚s sole discretion, it believes is necessary and consistent with its‚ Catholic educational mission.

FAMILY SCHOOL AGREEMENT

Our school is a family with a common goal and purpose. We share a very responsible commitment of educating young minds and developing a spirit of leadership, responsibility, and maturity in young people. It is our goal that their education process will strengthen their faith, our community, and this great nation.

In order to accomplish this task, teachers, students and parents must work continuously to establish a good relationship assuring the best possible learning conditions. We need to agree on standards of academic performance. The diploma should represent a valid document of credits earned by the students. We also need to agree on conditions of discipline to maintain good order in our school to allow the students the opportunity to learn.

Recognizing our common goals, each parent and each student (4th grade and above) to be enrolled at St. Francis is required to read and sign the last page of this handbook which indicates your acknowledgement of the provisions herein and the authority of St. Francis administration to enforce these regulations.

It is your child‚s privilege to attend Humphrey St. Francis. As such, you and your child agree to abide by policies and procedures in this Handbook and to uphold good faith in your actions toward teachers, administration, and peers.

A CATHOLIC EDUCATION

The primary objective of a Catholic Education is to assist the student to attain the end for which God created each individual.

MISSION STATEMENT

St. Francis Schools will provide a faith-based environment for all students to achieve academic excellence and spiritual growth based on Gospel values and Catholic traditions. BELIEFS

We believe in: -the concept that all students can learn. -modeling and teaching Christian values and Catholic doctrines. -fostering responsibility and respect for all. -developing self-esteem by providing positive reinforcement, strong motivation and a caring attitude. -supporting the family as the primary educators of their children. -maintaining a positive learning atmosphere in the classroom. -encouraging creativity, analytical thinking and problem solving. -encouraging all students to develop their individual talents. -supporting and encouraging continuous staff development. -regularly assessing our curriculum in order to adjust and improve. -developing effective citizens with strong Catholic/Christian values who will be prepared to live in a diverse world. -education and Christian values as the foundation of our democratic system. -incorporating technology in the educational process. -life-long learning.

SCHOOL BOARD

The School Board of St. Francis makes recommendations for all regulations and policies for the school to the pastor/president. The School Board sets the general goals and objectives for the educational process and provides the resources, funds, and materials. They entrust the principal or his delegated authority with the operation of the school.

After the Pastor/President and Principal, it becomes the specific responsibility of the Teachers to implement the program of education as outlined for St. Francis Schools. It is their responsibility to see that the curriculum and the overall internal functioning of the school within the classroom are carried out.

SCHOOL BOARD POLICIES

Policies passed by the St. Francis School Board are available in the Principal‚s office or from any Board Member.

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION

Humphrey St. Francis Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, marital status, disability, religion, or age in admission or access to its programs, activities, or treatment of employment.

ST. FRANCIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK

I. STUDENT RELATED INFORMATION

ABSENCES If a child will be absent from school, parents must call school as soon as possible after 8:00 a.m. on a daily basis. If a child‚s parent does not call, the school secretary will call the parent after 9:00 a.m. Arrive 8:00-8:45 Tardy Arrive 8:45-9:30 π day absent Arrive 9:30-11:30 Π day absent Leave 11:30-1:30 Π day absent Leave 1:30-2:45 π day absent Leave 2:45 on No count

If a child is to leave during the day, a written permission slip must be brought to school or the parent must call the school. Parents of students having excessive absences (10 excused or unexcused) will be contacted on a written form.

Children who are absent will be held responsible for the schoolwork they missed. Students who do not have schoolwork made up by the designated time must complete work during recess breaks or after school. ACCIDENTS In case of an accident at school, emergency first-aid will be administered and parents or guardians will be notified. If we are unable to reach parents or guardians, emergency family numbers will be used. The rescue unit will be called only in extreme cases.

ADMISSION A child must be five years of age on or before October 15th to enter Kindergarten. Registration for Kindergarten and other new students is held in spring and confirmed in August at the school registration. BIRTHDAYS Birthday treats may be brought to share with individual classes. The treats will be distributed during the final minutes of the school day. Please inform the classroom teacher ahead of time. Party invitations may only be passed out in class if all students in the class are invited. We request that students who bring birthday presents to school keep them in their lockers during the school day.

COMMUNICATION St. Francis Elementary uses the following forms of communication: 1. Monthly newsletter which will be sent home with the youngest family member 2. Monthly calendar which is attached to the newsletter 3. The weekly parish bulletin 4. The local diocesan newspapers

CURRENT PERIODICALS Primary grades will be using the „Weekly Reader‰ and the intermediate grades will use „Scholastic News.‰ Other student periodicals subscribed to are in the library magazine rack. These include „World‰, „My Friend‰, Cobblestone‰, „Ranger Rick‰, „Highlights‰, and „Sports Illustrated For Kids‰. DOCTOR & DENTAL APPOINTMENTS Parents are requested to have appointments after school. Many times this is inconvenient for students and doctor. If a student must be out, parents are asked to send a note to the school office or call the office indicating the time of the appointment. -1- EMERGENCY DISMISSAL At the time of an emergency dismissal, students will be advised. Students will remain in their classrooms until notified through the office of their dismissal. During such emergencies, parents may request special dismissal arrangements for their children. The parents will be notified if the buses will not be operating their regular routes. The school calling line and the radio stations in Columbus and Norfolk will be used for relaying information to the parents.

FIELD TRIPS The principal shall be responsible for determining the educational value of all field trips. Field trips shall not be taken without the approval of the principal. The value of each field trip shall be based on the following criteria: a. Does it meet the philosophy and objectives of the school? b. Does it support the objectives of the subject being taught? The sponsor of approved field trips must have a signed parental consent form before allowing students to participate in field trips. Students must travel to and from such trips in school-approved transportation. FIRE DRILLS Fire drills are conducted monthly for all students and school personnel. 1. Observe the directions posted in each room. 2. Observe quiet and order during the drill. 3. Leave the building quickly and orderly. 4. Remain in place outside the building until a general signal is given to return to the building. GIFT EXCHANGE Exchange of gifts at Christmas is prohibited during school hours among students.

GRADING SYSTEM The school uses the A, B, C, method of grading and the E, S, I, and N method in areas difficult to mark for grading. Teachers will use the following code: A ˆ 93-100 D ˆ 70-77 E-Excellent N-Needs Improvement B ˆ 86-92 F ˆ below 70 S-Satisfactory C ˆ 78-85 I ˆ Incomplete I-Improvement Shown

GUM Gum chewing is not allowed at school. Students caught chewing gum may be given a detention and/or be required to remove gum from school property.

HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION All parents of St. Francis students are urged to become members of the Home & School Association. The purpose of this organization is to plan wholesome opportunities for social interaction, to provide funds for school needs, and to promote open communication with faculty, parents, students, and the entire community.

HOT LUNCH PROGRAM St. Francis provides an approved hot lunch program. Parents are encouraged to pay for their children‚s lunches on a monthly basis on the 1st day of the month. A form for payment is included with the monthly newsletter. Make checks payable to St. Francis Cafeteria. The .25 cents for extra milk (Kindergarten) may be paid with the same check. Children are required to eat lunch provided by the St. Francis cafeteria unless a special diet us necessary as prescribed by a doctor‚s note. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. -2-

INSURANCE St. Francis School offers a student health and accident policy. This insurance is a voluntary plan. It is suggested that all students be covered either by their family plan or by the insurance offered through the school. LIBRARY All students have the opportunity to check out books from St. Francis Library. The fine for overdue books is 5 cents per day. The person responsible must pay for any damaged or lost books. Fines must be paid by the end of the current quarter.

LOST OR STOLEN ARTICLES The school is not responsible for lost or stolen articles. PLEASE LABEL ALL ITEMS INCLUDING CLOTHING, BOOK BAGS, PENCIL CASES, ETC. Parents and children are encouraged to check in the office for lost items.

PERSONAL PROPERTY AT SCHOOL Children are discouraged from bringing extra money, radios, toys, or other objects from home unless the teacher has given them permission. Items that are brought from home should be marked so that they can be easily identified. The school cannot assume responsibility for the loss or breakage of things brought from home. Also, the items may be a distraction from the learning environment.

PROGRESS REPORTS, CONFERENCES, AND MEETINGS Progress reports will be sent home at the mid-point of 2nd and 4th quarter. The purpose of the progress reports is to inform the parents of the progress of their child. The progress reports are to be signed and returned at the time of your conferences or by the student. If a student begins to fail or show poor performance, the teacher will notify the parent prior to the conferences.

PROMOTION POLICY At the end of the second grading period, if a student fails 2 or more subjects (reading, spelling, math, science, and social studies) a letter is sent to the parents by the teacher involved. The teacher schedules a conference. All teachers who teach the student must be present at the conference. The student in question will then be expected to improve his/her grades during the 3rd and 4th quarters so that he/she has a passing grade. If the above criteria are met, the final decision will be left to the discretion of the principal and teacher. Parents who refuse retention for their child must sign a statement to that effect and have it attached to the child‚s cumulative folder.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION All students at St. Francis have religion classes daily. Grades 1-6 attend Mass 2 times a week on Tuesdays and Fridays. Kindergarten students attend Mass on Fridays after All Saints Day, November 1. Grades 4-5 students will plan the liturgy for Tuesdays on a rotating basis while grade 6 students will plan the liturgy for Fridays.

REPORTING TO PARENTS Report cards on students‚ progress are sent home at the end of each nine-week quarter for grades K-6. Parent-teacher conferences are held during the 1st and the 3rd quarters. Teachers will confer with parents in person or by phone whenever a student is experiencing difficulty in school.

RETENTION Students who are unable to meet class requirements of a particular grade level will be recommended for retention. The student will not be kept in the same grade for more than 2 years. Retention will be determined on school performance, teacher recommendation, and the student‚s potential for success at the next grade level.

-3- ROOM MOTHERS Room mothers are selected for each grade K-6. These mothers take care of a simple treat for Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine‚s Day, the teacher‚s Christmas gifts, and help with field trips and the school picnic at the end of the year.

SCHOOL OFFICE The school office is open from 7:40 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Parents are encouraged to call the Principal for an appointment if they wish to have a conference. The school number is 923-0611.

SCHOOL PICTURES School pictures are taken each year. The pictures are not mandatory. Students need not wear uniforms on picture day.

SENDING MONEY TO SCHOOL Whenever sending money to school, it should be enclosed in an envelope with the child‚s name, grade, amount, and reason for the money on the envelope.

SNOWSTORM During the winter months, it may be necessary to dismiss school because of the weather. The following procedures will be used: 1. In most weather-related dismissal, St. Francis and Humphrey Public Schools will dismiss at the same time. 2. Parents will be notified through the radio stations and by telephone using the school-closing list. 3. The office will announce procedures for dismissal. 4. Whenever school is dismissed due to weather, all activities, including practice sessions, will be cancelled at the discretion of the administration.

TELEPHONE The school telephone is a business telephone. Students may not use the telephone to have forgotten assignments delivered from home or to make arrangements between students for social activities after school. Messages received in the office will be delivered to the teachers. Students are called to the phone only for emergency cases.

TESTING PROGRAM St. Francis School provides the following tests for the students: 1. ITBS achievement tests Grades 3-6 Fall 2. Cognitive Abilities Test Grade 4 Fall 3. Criterion Referenced Writing Test Grades 5, 7 Spring 4. Teacher-made tests Grades K-6 All Year 5. Archdiocesan Standards Assessments: Religion Grades 2, 5 Math Grades 2, 5 Science Grades 2, 4, 6

TEXTBOOKS The school provides books on a rental basis. Students are responsible for all textbooks and other materials supplied by the school. If lost or damaged, the student must pay the full replacement cost. Books are to be covered at all times. Book bags are recommended to help protect against moisture, damage, or loss.

-4- TORNADO PREPAREDNESS The following procedure will be followed in the event of a tornado warning: 1. Quiet notification of teachers 2. Warning ˆ administration announces that a tornado has been sighted. 3. Students to designated shelter areas and kneel or squat on floor with hands covering heads a) Kindergarten restrooms b) Student and faculty restrooms c) Lower level lobby area d) Lower level hallways 4. Custodian shuts off gas and electricity 5. Teachers keep an account of all students 6. No dismissal until notified by principal

TRANSCRIPTS AND RECORDS When a student transfers to another school, the principal will furnish the new school with the student‚s academic records upon receipt of a written request (with the parent‚s or guardian‚s signature) from the new school. TRANSPORTATION Bus transportation is available to any student within the district. Families should contact the Humphrey Public School for this service. TUITION The School Board sets tuition in the spring of each year for the following term. As parents, you may pay monthly, quarterly, by semesters, or yearly. Tuition should be turned in to the church office. No student will be denied the opportunity to enroll as a student at St. Francis Schools due to the inability to pay tuition. Approval and arrangements are to be made directly with the pastor. All past tuition must be paid, or arrangements made with the pastor, before a student can enroll for the next school year. Routine tuition payments must be paid prior to receiving tuition assistance. St. Francis Schools reserves the right to pursue other means of collecting outstanding tuition. There are tuition assistance funds available for families in financial need. Families may apply for this through the pastor. Eligible families may also qualify for Children‚s Scholarship Fund tuition assistance.

VISITORS Visitors are very welcome at St. Francis Elementary. Upon arrival, visitors should enter through the South doors and check in at the school office (main floor ˆ middle on east side of hallway). Everyone visiting the school should follow the same rules in effect for the rest of the school. STUDENT VISITORS from other school systems will be welcome as guests in our classroom providing the following conditions apply to the visitation: 1. The student who will be visiting should be of the appropriate age for the classroom he/she will be attending; 2. It is understood by the visiting student that they will be expected to do the same assignments and classroom projects as the student whom they are visiting; 3. The student from our school must be willing to act as the escort for their guest and see to the needs and companionship of their friend during the time they are visiting in our school; 4. It is our policy that we be notified a day in advance of the visitation so that we may have books and materials ready, and notify teacher(s), for another student on that day.

WITHDRAWALS When a child is to transfer to another school, the parents should notify the principal and teacher so that all records and accounts are in order.

-5- II. STUDENT CONDUCT

DISCIPLINARY PERFORMANCE STANDARDS The smooth running of any school depends in part on the clear understanding and support of the school rules by the students, faculty, and parents. Discipline is necessary to protect the individual rights of the student as well as the rights of all in the school system. We will have 2 forms of discipline at St. Francis ˆ detentions and referrals. Detentions are for minor violations of our disciplinary code which will be administered by the teachers. Parents will not normally be contacted by the school for detentions unless the student is asked to spend time after school. Consequences for detentions can range from loss of recess time to time spent with teachers after school. Referrals will be issued for more serious offenses. These offenses are listed below. It should be noted that this list is not exclusive and is given as a guideline for the students to follow. If a student commits a particular offense and it is not listed below, the administration will determine if a referral is warranted. All referrals will be „written up‰ on a referral form. This form is a written statement of

observed infractions. Teachers and administration will use this form whenever disciplinary action is needed. The referral form consists of 3 copies. The teacher or administrator in giving a referral give 2 copies to the student and 1 copy to the principal on the day of the observed behavior. The pink copy is turned in to the principal and white and yellow copies are given to the student. The student is to have their parents sign the white copy and return it to school the following day. The yellow copy is for the parents‚ records. The student will stay after school the day following the referral. Participation in activities will not excuse a student from staying after school the following day. A student who fails to return the referral form will be given one day to do so and Π hour will be added to the time after school. A student who fails to report after school will add Π hour to their time the following day. Repeated failure to report after school will be considered a serious offense.

SPECIFIC OFFENSES AND DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

One Referral Offenses These are some examples of offenses that have an automatic Π hour detention to be served the following day after school in the office or on a supervised work detail. No exceptions. a) Disrespect or disobedience in language or behavior toward a staff member. b) Being off limits (unsupervised rooms, halls, faculty room) c) Behavior in any area of building which disrupts the teaching activity of any class or disrupts good order and safety in any area in which the students are gathered for lunch, study, etc. d) Abusive language and/or conduct toward another student e) Defacement of buildings or grounds (defacement to be removed as part of discipline) f) Improper use of technology g) Failure to report after school at teacher‚s request h) Offensive language or gestures i) Truancy (skipping school) j) Cheating

If a student receives a 3rd referral during the school year: a) The principal calls a meeting with the student and parents through a written letter (student may request advisor or counselor to be present). The meeting is optional if parents want to handle the problem at home, but parents must state this intention when conferring with the principal.

-6- b) The conference will focus on a statement of the rules, the handbook agreement, the necessity for discipline, and procedures to be followed if a change is to be effected. c) All teachers receive notice of 3rd referral and a further update if the behavioral problems continue. d) Student will receive a 1-day in-school suspension.

If a student receives a 5th referral during the school year: a) Principal invokes an automatic 3-day in-school suspension and calls a 9:00 a.m. conference the following morning with student, parents, and Pastor.

If a student receives a 6th referral: a) Principal sends home warning letter that the 7th referral carries an automatic expulsion from St. Francis for 1 full semester with readmission subject to review of attitude and interim behavior. b) Student is not allowed further participation in athletics or other school activities for the remainder of the academic year.

If a student receives a 7th referral: a) Principal expels student on grounds that the student is failing to take responsibility for self-discipline and behavior after repeated warnings. The student is detrimental to maintenance of a favorable learning atmosphere in the school for self and other students. MORE SERIOUS OFFENSES For a student with no referrals ˆ receives 3 referrals For a student with 1 referral ˆ moves to 4th referral level For a student with 2 referrals ˆ moves to 5th referral level For a student with 3 or 4 referrals ˆ moves to 6th referral level For a student with 5 or 6 referrals ˆ expulsion Serious Offenses: a) Any serious act of disobedience or disrespect to a staff member ˆ threats, abusive language, physical aggression (short of bodily harm of injury), refusal to comply with a direct request. b) Vandalism to buildings or grounds, theft or damage of school or student property; penalty as indicated along with repayment, repair or replacement of stolen or damaged property. Serious vandalism could result in dismissal. c) Refusal to accept referral from teacher d) Repeated failure to report after school for referral detention e) Public behavior at school activities or disruption of activities at other schools at which St. Francis is officially involved. Nebraska School Activities Association requires our support in this area. f) Possession or circulation of indecent literature on school grounds g) Reckless driving in school parking lot h) Use of firecrackers in and around school building i) Fighting

Behavior requiring automatic 3-day in-school suspension or expulsion: a) Possession or use of alcohol or drugs on school premises or at any school function (at St. Francis or elsewhere); coming to a school activity at St. Francis or elsewhere after using alcohol or drugs. b) Causing physical harm or injury to any teacher or student or endangering the safety of others in the building by tampering with fire extinguishers, fire alarms, stored chemicals, etc. c) Causing a fire, bomb threat, explosion, or possession of a weapon d) Serious vandalism to the school buildings or grounds

A 3-day in-school suspension counts as 3 referrals. -7- III. REGULATIONS

ACTIVITIES FORBIDDEN BY LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEBRASKA OR THE UNITED STATES Students, as citizens of the United States and the State of Nebraska, are to obey all laws established by these respective governmental agencies. Students who violate these laws during school hours or at school-sponsored events may be disciplined by the school in addition to any action taken by law enforcement agencies. BIRTH CERTIFICATE In order to be admitted to St. Francis Elementary, pupils must submit a birth certificate according to Nebraska State Statute.

FIREARMS, WEAPONS, EXPLOSIVES, AND MATERIAL THAT CAN BE IGNITED The above-mentioned items are prohibited on school property or at school-sponsored events unless authorized by proper school authorities. A student shall not knowingly possess, handle, or transmit any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon.

DRESS CODE St. Francis School has a dress code for the following reasons. First, how a person dresses will reflect on how that person feels about himself and how others will feel about him/her. Secondly, as part of the school‚s mission of preparing our students for the future, determining what is appropriate dress in the workplace is part of the learning process. Thirdly, a dress code offers a sense of equality and uniformity among the student body. And fourthly, a dress code instills discipline. Boys and Girls: -Black or navy slacks are required. -White only, fold down collared shirts or blouses are allowed. -Shirts and blouses must be tucked in at all times. -White turtleneck shirts are allowed. -Mock turtlenecks are not allowed. -Socks are to be worn. -Black or brown belts are to be worn by the boys starting in 1st grade -St. Francis sweatshirts are allowed. They must be purchased from the office. Sweatshirts shall not be altered from their original appearance. -Black or navy walking shorts ordered from the Dennis Uniform Company are allowed. -Navy Skorts are allowed for the girls. -School activities, such as sporting events or academic contests, are an extension of the school day and appropriate attire is required. Clothing that promotes alcohol or drugs or have sexual overtones are not be worn. -Facial makeup and/or nail polish are not permitted. Notes: -Students not following dress code may have to stay Π hour after school the same day. -The principal reserves the right to judge if a student is dressed appropriately or not. -The shorts may not be altered unless you have permission from the administration. -The Dennis Uniform tag must not be removed from any Dennis Uniform clothing. ITEMS THAT MUST BE PURCHASED FROM DENNIS UNIFORM *Navy and Black Shorts *Navy Skorts The principal may waive the dress code policy due to weather or special school events at his discretion.

-8- DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ˆ STANDARDS FOR STUDENTS It shall be the policy of St. Francis Schools, in addition to standards of student conduct elsewhere adopted by board policy or administrative regulation to absolutely prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol on school premises or as a part of any of the school‚s activities. This shall include such unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by any student of St. Francis School during regular school hours or after school hours at school sponsored activities on or off school premises. Conduct prohibited at places and activities as hereinabove described shall include, but not be limited to, the following: 1. Possession of any controlled substance, possession of which is prohibited by law. 2. Possession of any prescription drug in an unlawful fashion. 3. Possession of alcohol on school premises or as a part of any of the school‚s activities. 4. Use of any illicit drug. 5. Distribution of any illicit drug. 6. Use of any drug in an unlawful fashion. 7. Distribution of any drug or controlled substance when such distribution is unlawful. 8. The possession, use, or distribution of alcohol.

It shall further be the policy of the school that violation of any of the above prohibited acts will results in disciplinary sanctions being taken within the bounds of applicable law, up to and including short term suspension, long term suspension, expulsion, referral to appropriate authorities for criminal prosecution.

HEALTH Good health is essential to good education. St. Francis Schools provide an annual check-up through ESU #7 in regard to vision, hearing, teeth, and tonsils. If a student has any particular type of health problems, it should be make known to the administration at the earliest convenience.

IMMUNIZATIONS AND PHYSICALS According to State Law, all students entering Kindergarten must have up-to-date immunizations and a physical to attend school. Immunizations standards: 3 doses of DtaP, DTP, DT, or Td vaccine, one given on or after the 4th birthday; 3 doses of Polio vaccine; 2 doses of MMR vaccine, given on or after 12 month of age and separated by at least one month; 3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine beginning in the 2001-01 school year. Chicken Pox vaccine (Varicella) for student entering Kindergarten and 7th grade. Immunizations may be waived ONLY for medical (requiring a physician‚s signature) or religious (requiring a signed affidavit) reasons and a written statement of such refusal must be submitted to the school office.

JEANS DAY Periodically throughout the school year, a „Jeans Day‰ will be permitted. This is essentially a day when students do not need to be in uniform. The regulations for „Jeans Day‰ are as follows: Ø No Cut Off or Athletic Shorts Ø No Wind Pants or Sweat Pants Ø No Shirts with inappropriate or offensive language Ø No Tank tops, bare midriffs, or form fitting shirts Ø No Skirts Ø No Thong or Flip Flop Style (Beach) Sandals Ø Tops Must Overlap Pants/Shorts

-9- MEDICATION The faculty of St. Francis will not administer medication to students without a written notice from the parents. If it is necessary for any child to take medicine during school hours, please inform the teacher. All medicine is dispensed through the school office. Only a 1-day supply should be brought to school each day. St. Francis School procedures regarding the exclusion of students for health reasons are as follows: a temperature of 100 degrees or more; vomiting; severe headaches; skin rash, etc. No student will be sent home until a parent of responsible adult has been contacted. It is important for teachers and parents to always be alert for possible contagious diseases. A complete list of communicable diseases is available in the school office.

NEBRASK‚S CHILD ABUSE REPORTING LAW When any physician, medical institution, nurse, school employee, social worker, or any other person has reasonable cause to believe that a child or an incompetent or disabled person has been subjected to abuse or neglect, or observes such person being subjected to conditions or circumstances which reasonably would result in abuse or neglect, he/she shall report such incident or cause a report to be make to the proper law enforcement agency or to the Department of Public Welfare.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION All students are expected to take part in the physical education program to the best of their ability. The teacher will advise the P.E. instructor if there is a reason why any child cannot participate in the program. The children should wear appropriate shoes on the days they have physical education.

PLAYGROUND All students have recreation on the playground after lunch (weather permitting). Grades K-3 have a short break in the morning and afternoon. Please have your children wear proper clothing for the cold weather. Playground rules: 1) Students should always ask permission of the supervising teacher when it is necessary to go inside school during recess. 2) Students will be allowed to retrieve balls, etc., off the cafeteria roof only with teacher supervision. 3) War ball will not be allowed. 4) Students taking equipment out are responsible for bringing it back in. 5) Grades 4-6 play kickball only on the grass field ˆ not on the cement. 6) In winter months, hats and gloves are a must. If students don‚t have them, the teacher may, at her discretion, send them inside. 7) Students are not dismissed from the lunchroom until the teacher is ready. 8) Students must stay within the assigned playground areas. 9) Take all equipment for recess with you to lunch. Students will not be allowed to go back in for forgotten equipment. 10) All students will stay off the grass in front of the cafeteria and both schools. 11) Nerf and soft balls only are to be used around buildings. 12) Jump ropes are to be used to jump rope. 13) To remain inside at noon or recess, a written excuse stating the reason must be received from the parents. SEARCH AND SEIZURE Students possess the right or privacy of person as well as freedom from unreasonable search and seizure of property guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution. This individual right, however, is balanced by the school‚s responsibility to protect the health, safety, and welfare of all its‚ students. School employees may conduct searches when they have reason to suspect that the health, safety, or welfare of student may be in danger. Any school employee making a search or a seizure will follow these guidelines: -10- a) General searches of school property (including personal items found in school property) may be conducted at any time when there is reasonable cause for school employees to believe that something, which violates a law or school rule, is on school property. This search of school property may be made without the student being present. b) Illegal items (firearms, weapons, drugs, etc.) or other possessions reasonably determined to be a threat to the safety or security of others, or might possibly interfere with school purposes may be seized by school employees. c) Items, which are used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process, may be temporarily removed from a student‚s person. d) A student‚s person may be searched by school employees when there is reasonable cause to believe that the student has on his/her person illegal items or other items that may interfere with school purposes.

TECHNOLOGY Access to the Internet and other resources at St. Francis Schools is a privilege and, as such, can be revoked when a student misuses the resources. The principal will determine any action beyond revocation of access privileges.

Abuses include, but are not limited to, the following: -Accessing, downloading, or distribution of information that is not appropriate in a school setting. Inappropriate accessing will include displaying and/or printing profanity or disparaging messages of images. -Undocumented use of other individual‚s intellectual files. -Disrespect toward secured, protected files. -Accessing personal e-mail accounts.

The student and his/her parents accept responsibility for their student‚s on-line actions. All other discipline policies of St. Francis Schools apply to the use of technological resources.

Teacher supervision is required whenever a student uses the Internet.

TOBACCO Students may not smoke or use any form of tobacco or substance resembling tobacco in school, on school grounds, or at school-sponsored activities. Students under the age of 18 years are not to possess on their person or use any form of tobacco or substance resembling tobacco in school, on school grounds, or at school sponsored activities.

IV. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

Parents having a grievance or complaint against the St. Francis administration or staff are to follow this procedure. a) Initiating party is to contact the administrator or teacher and request a personal interview to discuss the grievance or complaint. b) If the initiating party is not satisfied with the results of the first meeting, they may request a meeting with the principal. The people present at this meeting will depend on the request of the initiating party. c) If the initiating party is not satisfied with the results of the second meeting, they may request a meeting with the Pastor/President. People present at this meeting will depend on the request of the initiating party. d) The initiating party may, after having visited with the Pastor/President, submit a request to the President of the School Board to be heard by the entire board in either regular or executive session. The grievance process does not preclude St. Francis authorities from invoking penalties and consequences for improper behavior. -11-

TABLE OF CONTENTS HIGH SCHOOL

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

Accidents 1 Assemblies 1 Bus Service 1 Cars 1 Counseling Service 1 Course Description Handbook 2 Doctor And Dental Appointments 2 Dress Code 2 Emergency Procedures 3 Faculty Supervision Of Students 4 Field Trips 4 Fund Raising 5 Gift Exchange 5 Grievance Procedure 5 Grooming And Personal Appearance 5 Health 6 Home And School 6 Hot Lunch Program 6 Insurance 6 Jeans Day 6 Leaving The Grounds 7 Living The Faith 7 Lockers 8 Lost And Found 8 Married Students 8 Newsletter 8 Parent/Teacher Conferences 8 Pregnancy 8 Publications 9 Radios, Tape Players, Cameras 9 School Hours 9 School Pictures 9 School Song And Colors 9 Technology 9 Telephone 10 Textbooks 10 Transfer Students 10 Transportation 10 Tuition 10 Visitors 10

II. RELIGIOUS FORMATION

Campus Minister 10 Liturgies 10 Sacramental Preparation 11 Service Program 11 III. ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Academic Performance Standards 11 Cheating 11 Grading 11 Graduation Requirements 13 Honor Roll 13 Late Assignments 14 Library 14 Progress Reports 14 Registration 14 Shared Time 14 Transcripts 14 Work Release And College 15

IV. ATTENDANCE

Absence 15 Admission Of Students 15 College Visitation Day 15 Make Up Work 15 Tardiness 16

V. STUDENT CONDUCT

Disciplinary Performance Standards 16 Specific Offenses And Disciplinary Actions 17 More Serious Offenses 17 Drug And Alcohol Policy 18

VI. STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Activity Fee 19 Activities 19 Election Of Class Officers 20 School Funds 20 Student Council 20 ST. FRANCIS JUNIOR-SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

ACCIDENTS Teachers are required to file a written report in the Principal‚s office of all accidents that take place in school and at school sponsored activities. School personnel will care for students injured. In case of emergency, the school reserves the right to call the rescue unit for emergencies. In emergencies, parents will be notified as soon as possible.

ASSEMBLIES School assemblies afford an opportunity for a variety of educational opportunities. Proper conduct is expected in keeping with the type of program and cultural level.

BUS SERVICE The public school district provides transportation to and from school. All routes, schedules and bus policies are determined by the public school and must be followed. If policies are not followed, District #67 or St. Francis Schools has the right to eliminate the service to a family.

CARS No student is permitted the use of a car during the school day. Permission must be obtained from the office to move a car between the time of arrival at school and the end of the school day. Violation of this rule will make it necessary for the student to turn in his or her car keys at the beginning of the day, and the key will be returned at the end of the day. Student should not park in the East parking lot when you know you will have to leave school early or immediately after school dismisses. Parking is available on the street West of the school for students not involved in activities.

COUNSELING SERVICE

GUIDANCE/COUNSELING DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY The counseling program at St. Francis is available to assist students, parents, and teaches in developing positive learning experiences in their spiritual, intellectual, cultural, physical and emotional education. The program involves various services and activities including the following: individual and group guidance, information services, referral assistance to other programs, and student evaluation. The guidance program is directed toward the growth and improvement of all pupils in the school. The school counseling program is preventive rather than remedial in nature complementing core instructional offerings. It reflects cooperation among the counselor, administrators, and classroom teachers. All students must attempt to master the basic competencies to the best of their abilities for the good of self, society, and Church. Learning is a lifelong process, and all individuals should realize that they must strive to understand as well as apply Christian values to our ever-changing world. Therefore, the guidance program is comprehensive and addresses the issue of growth and development as an on-going process for all individuals of St. Francis Schools.

Academic Counseling: The counselor will assist all students who request help with decisions on which high school courses to take to prepare them for college, trade school, or a job. The counselor will also assist students who have received poor grades or who need to work on developing effective study skills. He/she will help students with the interpretation of standardized tests (ACT, PSAT, ITBS, ASVAB, etc.). The counselor is the person to see about talking to a college representative and about taking a trip to see a college.

-1- Career Counseling: The school counselor will help students who request assistance with career awareness. This will include providing information about different careers and talking about interests, abilities, schooling, and other preparation needed for a career. Students may also talk to the counselor about job-seeking skills, including how to find job openings, how to apply, and how to prepare for an interview.

Personal Counseling: The counselor will be available to talk with a student about their strengths and limitations, decision-making, self-image, drugs and alcohol, family problems or anything that concerns the student‚s well being in or out of school. He/she will also be a source of information for students. Pamphlets and books are available for students who wish to „read up‰ on something of concern, and referral to outside agencies can be given to students who ask for or require such services.

The Guidance Office is the place for you to come when you need help and when you feel you have been mistreated, why you can‚t seem to do your best, or when you are happy and want to share it with someone. The Guidance Office is for YOU. It is up to YOU to use it.

Statement on Confidentiality: The school counselor may only share information gained in the counseling process for essential consultation with those appropriate persons specifically concerned with the counselee. Confidential information may be released only with the consent of the individual, when required by court order, or when the welfare and/or safety of self or others are at stake.

COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK A Course Description Handbook is available to parents and students. This handbook gives a brief description of the course offered, their credits and textbooks used.

DOCTOR & DENTAL APPOINTMENTS Parents are requested to have appointments after school. Many times this is inconvenient for students and doctor. If a student must be out, parents are asked to send a note to the principal‚s office or call the office indicating the time of the appointment.

DRESS CODE St. Francis High School has a dress code for the following reasons. First, how a person dresses will reflect on how that person feels about himself and how others will feel about him/her. Secondly, as part of the school‚s mission of preparing our students for the future, determining what is appropriate dress in the workplace is part of the learning process. Thirdly, a dress code offers a sense of equality and uniformity among the student body. And fourthly, a dress code instills discipline.

Boys and Girls: -Black, navy or khaki slacks are required. *Khaki slacks must be purchased from Dennis Uniform Co. -Sweatpants, stirrup pants and tight leggings are not allowed on casual days -White only, fold down collared shirts or blouses are allowed. -Shirts and blouses must be tucked in at all times. -White turtleneck shirts are allowed. -Mock turtlenecks are not allowed. -Socks must be worn every day. -Sandals must have a strap that wraps around the heel. -Black or brown belts are required for the boys. -St. Francis sweatshirts are allowed. They must be purchased from the office. Sweatshirts shall not be altered from their original appearance. -The dress code shall be suspended at the discretion of the principal.

-2- -Black, navy or khaki walking shorts ordered from the Dennis Uniform Company are allowed. -School sports jerseys may be worn on game day, if approved by school administration. -School activities, such as sporting events or academic contests, are an extension of the school day and appropriate attire is required. Clothing that promotes alcohol or drugs or have sexual overtones are not be worn. Notes: -Students not following dress code may be required to stay Π our after school the same day. -The principal reserves the right to judge if a student is dressed appropriately or not. -The shorts may not be altered unless you have permission from the administration. -The Dennis Uniform tag must not be removed from any Dennis Uniform clothing.

ITEMS THAT MUST BE PURCHASED FROM DENNIS UNIFORM *Navy and Black Shorts *Khaki Slacks and Shorts EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Bomb Threat: In case of a bomb threat, students will be removed from the building and taken by class to the public school. Teachers will be expected to accompany students to the public school, take roll, and return with students to the high school building when notified. Under no circumstances are teachers to dismiss students without administration authority.

Fire: Fire drills are conducted periodically during the school year for all occupants of the building: 1. Observe the directions posted in each room. 2. Observe quiet and order during the fire drill. 3. Leave the building quickly and in an orderly fashion. 4. Remain in an appropriate place outside the building until a general sign to return is given. 5. Students leaving from the west door are to go across the street to the sidewalk.

Snowstorm: During the winter months, it may be necessary to dismiss school because of the weather. The following procedures will be used: 5. In most weather-related dismissal, St. Francis and Humphrey Public Schools will dismiss at the same time. 6. Parents will be notified through the radio stations and by telephone using the school-closing list. 7. The office will announce procedures for dismissal. 8. Whenever school is dismissed early due to weather, all activities, including practice sessions, are cancelled. Tornado: 1. Tornado watch ˆ notification of teachers. 2. Tornado warning ˆ administration announces over the intercom that a tornado has been sighted. Students are to begin moving to shelter areas. 3. Shelter area ˆ locker rooms under stage. 4. Dismissal procedures: Girls locker rooms ˆ Room 114-110-106-102-Library-101-103-109 proceed down the corridor, past trophy case into gym area and down to locker rooms. Boys locker rooms ˆ Art Room-112-108-104-105-107-111 proceed down corridor and use first door into gym and down to locker rooms.

-3- Diagram:

FACULTY SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS

Classroom ˆ Each teacher is responsible for his or her own classroom. Teaches are not to leave their rooms unattended without notifying administration of teacher next door. Teachers are to be in their classroom when the bell rings and not leave before the end of a period.

Halls ˆ All teachers are responsible for students in the hallways.

Cafeteria ˆ Combined Lunch Program (7-12) 1. Lunch Schedule: ŒA‚ Lunch=11:55-12:25, ŒB‚ Lunch=12:40-1:10 The class that eats first for „B‰ lunch is responsible for cleaning the cafeteria. 2. Students must remain in the cafeteria until a teacher is in the gym/lobby for supervision.

Use of gym: 1. Materials provided ˆ basketballs/volleyballs 2. Supervisors responsibilities: -Be physically present on both sides of gym. -Supervise off-limit areas ˆ stage, weight room, locker rooms. -Dismissal to high school by permission of supervisor.

Study Halls ˆ Teachers are to treat Study Hall like their own classrooms. The proper atmosphere and conditions for effective study can be maintained only through the cooperation of the entire faculty. The following regulations are written for study hall supervisors: 1. Assign seating arrangements. 2. Student may not be dismissed without written permission of teacher requesting to see a student. 3. Students may be dismissed to the library after roll. Students are not to be dismissed to the library when the Librarian is out of the building. 4. Library schedule will be arranged each year. 5. Study halls are to be a quiet area of study. 6. Students are to come to study hall prepared to study.

Lavatories ˆ Occasionally, teachers are to check the lavatories.

Access Time ˆ Access time is designed for students to visit with teachers that they need more direct assistance from. Passes will be given at the discretion of the teachers. All class and organizational meetings will take place during this time in addition to all visits by trainers and recruiters. Procedures will be communicated clearly and failure to comply may result in a detention.

FIELD TRIPS The principal shall be responsible for determining the educational value of all field trips. Field trips shall not be taken without the approval from the principal. The value of each field trip shall be based on the following criteria: -4- 1. Does it meet the philosophy and objectives of the school? 2. Does it support the objectives of the subject being taught?

The sponsor of approved field trips must have a signed parental consent form before allowing students to participate in field trips. Forms must be turned in to the principal‚s office the day of the field trip. Students must travel to and from such trips in school-approved transportation.

Teachers planning a field trip for their class must: 1. Make arrangements with the principal at least 2-3 weeks prior to the trip. 2. Have the principal‚s approval. 3. Make financial arrangements with the principal. 4. Have written permission from parents. The permission slips should explain destination, means of transportation, cost of the trip (gas, food, lodging, extra spending money), time of departure and return. The permission slips are to be kept by the individual teacher for 1 week after the trip before being destroyed. 5. Field trips are to be scheduled prior to April and May, if possible.

FUND RAISING Any fund raising activity must be approved through the office. Students may not sponsor fund raising projects other than those that provide a service, such as breakfasts, car washes, etc.

GIFT EXCHANGE Exchanging gifts is not school-sponsored. It is something that is done between the students themselves. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Parents having a grievance or complaint against the St. Francis administration or staff are to follow this procedure. a) Initiating party is to contact the administrator or teacher and request a personal interview to discuss the grievance or complaint. b) If the initiating party is not satisfied with the results of the first meeting, they may request a meeting with the principal. The people present at this meeting will depend on the request of the initiating party. c) If the initiating party is not satisfied with the results of the second meeting, they may request a meeting with the Pastor/President. People present at this meeting will depend on the request of the initiating party. d) The initiating party may, after having visited with the Pastor/President, submit a request to the President of the School Board to be heard by the entire board in either regular or executive session. The grievance process does not preclude St. Francis authorities from invoking penalties and consequences for improper behavior.

GROOMING & PERSONAL APPEARANCE Students are expected to be clean and neat. Due to the number of students involved in athletics, it is important that students take time to care for their personal hygiene. Following P.E. classes, boys and girls alike will be expected to shower. Time and space is available for students to shower before returning to next class. Well-groomed hair is expected with lengths not to exceed the eyebrows or extend past the collar of the shirt for male students. Unnatural hair colors are not permitted. Facial hair and sideburns below the ear are not permitted. All tattoos are to be covered during school hours and all school activities. Exposed body piercing is not permitted during school hours or at any St. Francis event in which the student is participating other than earrings for girls.

-5- HEALTH Good health is essential to good education. St. Francis High School provides an annual checkup through Educational Service Unit #7, in regard to vision, hearing, teeth, and tonsils. If a student has any particular type of health problem, that problem should be made known to the administration. This should be done at the earliest convenience so this can be taken into consideration. 1. School office must be notified of students with illness that may result in any type of seizure. 2. School office must be notified when it is necessary for a student to take prescription drugs. 3. School will not dispense aspirin tablets to the students without parent permission. 4. Students entering the 7th grade must have a physical. 5. Immunization and health records will be kept in the school office. 6. Students participating in athletics must have physicals and the Athletic Director will keep such records. Students may not start the first day of practice without a physical.

HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION All parents of St. Francis students are urged to become members of the Home & School Association. The purpose of this organization is to plan wholesome opportunities for social interaction, to provide funds for school needs, and to promote open communication with faculty, parents, students, and the entire community.

HOT LUNCH PROGRAM St. Francis provides an approved hot lunch program. Parents are encouraged to pay for their children‚s lunches on a monthly basis on the 1st day of the month. A form for payment is included with the monthly newsletter. Make checks payable to St. Francis Cafeteria. The 20 cents for extra milk (Kindergarten) may be paid with the same check. Children are required to eat lunch provided by the St. Francis cafeteria unless a special diet us necessary as prescribed by a doctor‚s note. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

INSURANCE 1. St. Francis School provides the opportunity for the parents to purchase insurance through a plan offered by Student Assurance Services, Inc. At the beginning of each year, applications are provided to each family for this insurance. 2. A special Football Coverage Plan is offered. 3. All students participating in Athletics must have insurance. Parents will be required to sign a form indicating that they will purchase the plan offered by the school or state the name of the insurance company that covers the student. 4. All students, K-12 will be charged a fee for Catastrophic Insurance. For an explanation of the Catastrophic Policy, contact the high school principal.

JEANS DAY Periodically throughout the school year, a „Jeans Day‰ will be permitted. This is essentially a day when students do not need to be in uniform. The regulations for „Jeans Day‰ are as follows: Ø No Cut Off or Athletic Shorts Ø No Wind Pants or Sweat Pants Ø No Shirts with inappropriate or offensive language Ø No Tank tops, bare midriffs, or form fitting shirts Ø No Skirts Ø No Thong or Flip Flop Style (Beach) Sandals Ø Tops Must Overlap Pants/Shorts -6- LEAVING BUILDING Students may not leave the high school grounds without permission of the principal. Before such permission is granted, the principal will call the parent for permission. If parent cannot be reached and an emergency arises, the principal may assume responsibility and dismiss the student.

LIVING THE FAITH Being a student at a Catholic school, our students have a responsibility to take the goals and values that are taught in our classrooms and practice them in our community. Our students should not be practicing Christians from 8:00 to 3:10 exclusively. They should be practicing their faith every day of their lives. The Living the Faith program at St. Francis is designed to give our students the opportunity to practice their faith by doing acts of Christian charity. It is the hope of St. Francis Schools that the good works that the students do during their school years will be continued into their adult lives. Another goal of the program is to teach our students that they do not need to receive monetary rewards for doing good deeds, that what really matters is their love and service of God and neighbor. Each student of St. Francis Schools will be required to serve 50 hours of Living the Faith during their four high school years. This service shall take place outside of the home. The students need to go beyond the home and help out with the needs of the community in which they live.

GUIDELINES FOR LIVING THE FAITH 1. To graduate from St. Francis, each student must complete 50 hours. 2. The number of service hours required each year is as follows: 9th grade 5 hours 10th grade 10 hours 11th grade 15 hours 12th grade 20 hours 3. No grade will be given. 4. Students will be required to complete a form indicating the work they did or the activity they participated in. An adult must sign the form. The forms must be turned in to the religion teacher or the principal within a week after the work activity. 5. Participating in Youth Ministry programs may earn service hours. These will vary according to length of program. Tentatively the following guidelines will be used: Length Hours Credited Example 3 days 10 T.E.C. 2 days 7 Quest 1 day 5 30-Hour Famine Students need to check with their religion teacher before the program to determine how many hours of service will be permitted. 6. Students cannot receive any financial benefits for service hours. 7. No hours of service may be accumulated during normal school hours.

Students cannot accumulate more hours than is required in any particular year, except for seniors. For example: a freshman can‚t accumulate 50 hours as a freshman to be used for the remainder of his/her high school career.

LIVING THE FAITH OPPORTUNITIES (If the job or activity is not listed, the student must check with the religion teacher or principal prior to doing the service)

-7-

Assist Knights of Columbus Open Door Mission in Omaha Assisting teachers outside of school hours P.R.E./C.C.D. helper Bazaar committee work/general worker Parish dinners C.R.O.P. Walk Parish fundraising work Campus Ministry activities Parish Masses (lector, song leader, servers,‚ Community Club service organist, etc.) Church/school cleaning Park/highway cleanup Coach any youth league Planting trees (Earth or Arbor Day) Parish collects coats for less fortunate Public library aide Committee member Recycling Center Elderly care-visits/errands Right to Life 4-H helper Senior Citizen Center entertainment School activities helper (timer/linesman) Serving the sewing ladies Service to non-Catholic churches Sports assistance (not student manager) Give blood or help at Bloodmobile at camps (even during school hours) Student tutoring Habitat for Humanity Toys for Tots House painting for disabled/others Nursing Home/hospital visitations Humane Society Life Chain

LOCKERS Each year students are assigned lockers for their personal use. These lockers are school property and not the property of the students. The school administration has the right to search lockers at any time. The administration will use this right only when it is reasonably necessary to do so. Following guidelines are to be followed: 1. Lockers are to be closed at all times. 2. Students are not to jam lockers open. 3. Students may paste pictures on the inside. Signs are not to be offensive. Sign referring to the use or sale of alcohol or tobacco products are not permitted. 4. Pop and food are not to be kept in lockers. 5. Failure to follow the above guidelines may result in a detention.

LOST & FOUND Material left in the building may be claimed in the Principal‚s office. Materials left over a year will be donated to the annual Thanksgiving clothing drive.

MARRIED STUDENTS Students married in the Catholic Church may be permitted to attend regular classes and take part in formal graduation. However, they will not be permitted to participate in extra-curricular activities or school organizations.

NEWSLETTER Each month, the school will publish a Newsletter. This newsletter will include a calendar for the upcoming month, a lunch payment sheet, and a summary of events that occurred during the previous month or will occur in the following month.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCE During the first and third quarter, the school will have Parent/Teacher Conferences for the purpose of discussing accomplishments or problems relative to student‚s academic development. Parents are recommended to contact the school at any time concerning academic or behavior problems. PREGNANCY St. Francis students involved in pregnancy (boy and girl) may be permitted to attend and graduate from St. Francis High School (including the graduation ceremony).

-8- 1. Students involved must accept a program of counseling as prescribed by the Omaha Archdiocese and prescribed by the student‚s pastor. 2. Students involved will be eliminated from all school activities and organizations during the time of pregnancy. After pregnancy, students may be allowed to participate in all school activities except the National Honor Society, and may not be eligible as candidates for attendance or royalty in Hearts, Homecoming and Prom. In order to be reinstated, students must have the approval of the administrator, counselor, pastor and parent. 3. Students knowingly involved in the deliberate termination of a pregnancy will be suspended from St. Francis High School until the student can demonstrate that he/she can uphold the morals and values of he Roman Catholic Church and St. Francis High School.

PUBLICATIONS St. Francis High School has two main publications, the school Yearbook, the monthly newsletter. They are published by the students under the direction of the yearbook sponsor.

RADIOS, TAPE PLAYERS, CAMERAS Radios, tape players and cameras are not allowed to be used in the school building, classes or hall during the regular school day, unless for academic purposes.

SCHOOL HOURS School doors are open at 7:30 a.m. and close between 3:30 and 4:00 p.m. Students may not be in the building without an adult sponsor.

SCHOOL PICTURES School pictures are taken each year. The pictures are not mandatory. Students need not wear uniforms on picture day. SCHOOL SONG & COLORS School Song: Dear old St. Francis, Dear old St. Francis, My Alma Mater, Humphrey‚s pride. In song and story, we sing thy glory, You teach us always what is right. Join Sis and Brother, there‚s not another, Like you, as years go fleeting by. Keep up the singing, Keep home bells ringing, Hip, Hip, Hooray for dear St. Francis High! School Colors: Royal Blue and White TECHNOLOGY Access to the Internet and other resources at St. Francis Schools is a privilege and, as such, can be revoked when a student misuses the resources. The School Principal will determine any action beyond revocation of access privileges.

Abuses include, but are not limited to, the following: -Accessing, downloading, or distribution of information that is not appropriate in a school setting. Inappropriate accessing will include displaying and/or printing profanity or disparaging messages of images. -Undocumented use of other individual‚s intellectual files. -Disrespect toward secured, protected files. -Accessing technology without proper permission or supervision. -Playing game son the computer without permission.

The student and his/her parents accept responsibility for their student‚s on-line actions. All other discipline policies of St. Francis Schools apply to the use of technological resources. Teacher supervision is required whenever a student uses the Internet.

-9- TELEPHONE Use: Students may make calls from the principal‚s office, with permission. Cellular phones are not allowed in the school building without permission of the administration. Messages: Parents may leave messages in the office for their children. Students will not be taken out of class for a message. Only in case of emergency will students be taken from class for a message. TEXTBOOKS Students are responsible for their textbooks. The school provides books on a rental basis. If damaged or lost, the student must pay the full cost of the book replacement. Books are to be covered at all times. TRANSFER STUDENTS Students transferring to St. Francis must have written parental consent and furnish a copy of their past records. Graduation requirements will be determined by the year in which they enter St. Francis. TRANSPORTATION All students traveling to and from out of town school sponsored activities must be transported in school-approved transportation with an adult driver. Directive: Parents may personally request from the chaperone that their son or daughter accompany them to or from a school sponsored activity.

TUITION The School Board sets tuition in the spring of each year for the following term. As parents, you may pay monthly, quarterly, by semesters, or yearly. Tuition should be turned in to the church office. No student will be denied the opportunity to enroll as a student at St. Francis Schools due to the inability to pay tuition. Approval and arrangements are to be made directly with the pastor. All past tuition must be paid, or arrangements made with the pastor, before a student can enroll for the next school year. Routine tuition payments must be paid prior to receiving tuition assistance. St. Francis Schools reserves the right to pursue other means of collecting outstanding tuition. There are tuition assistance funds available for families in financial need. Families may apply for this through the pastor. Eligible families may also qualify for OAEF (7-12) tuition assistance.

VISITORS 1. Parents planning on visiting the high school should notify the principal in advance. If a parent wishes to visit a classroom, arrangements must be made through the principal‚s office. 2. Student Visitors: Student visitors are to have permission of the principal the day before visitation. Teachers will be notified a day in advance of the visitation. Teachers are not required to admit visitors to class.

II. RELIGIOUS FORMATION

CAMPUS MINISTER The campus minister will be responsible for organizing and supervising all religious activities outside the classroom. Such activities shall include but not be limited to: small and large group liturgies, faculty and student retreats, monthly prayer services, para-liturgical services for Lent and Advent, Christian Service Program.

LITURGIES Small and large group Liturgy will be celebrated once a month. Small group liturgies will be during Religion class period. Large group will include grades 7-12. Mass is also available daily in the chapel at 7:30 a.m.

-10- SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION Campus Minister will be responsible for preparing the students for the Sacrament of Confirmation. SERVICE PROGRAM Students are encouraged to extend their faith into service for the community. Students wishing to perform such service for credit may do so. The Campus Minister is responsible for organizing and monitoring the program.

III. ACADEMIC INFORMATION

ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE STANDARDS Applicable to all high school students (7-12) enrolled at St. Francis. Some students fall behind an acceptable pace of progress toward graduation due to lack of ability, poor attitude or motivation, and other problems. The effort to make up lost ground often causes frustration and anxiety, resulting in attitude and discipline problems. The standards below are intended as indicators of acceptable progress toward the completion of graduation requirements. This agreement is a series of measured challenges and corrections to keep your student(s) making effective progress through the demands of a high school education.

Incentive I Students will be monitored on a week-to-week basis. If a student is failing two or more (7th-8th) or one or more (9th-12th) subjects at the end of any particular week, they are put on probation. If they are still down in two or more subjects (one for high school) the following week, they are not eligible to participate in any activities scheduled during the following week. As a result of this academic probation, the student will be required to see the teacher during access time or at another time arranged by the teacher or be placed in a tutoring program. Guidelines for the tutoring program will be as follows: 1. The counselor will supervise tutoring program. 2. Tutors will be selected by the counselor from a list of volunteers. 3. Weekly progress will be monitored by a grade to be given by the teacher to the counselor. 4. Counselor will meet once a week giving students the grade. 5. Individual teachers will be responsible for preparing the students.

Incentive II Any student failing 1 subject in one quarter will be ineligible the following quarter. Junior high students will not be included in this incentive. (Junior high students will be eligible on a week-to-week basis)

CHEATING Students cheating on assignments and/or testing will be given a „0‰ for the assignment and/or test and receive a referral.

GRADING 93 ˆ 100 = Superior 86 ˆ 92 = Above Average 78 ˆ 85 = Average 70 ˆ 77 = Below Average Below 70 = Failure Incomplete

The grade 93-100 is distinctly an honor grade and represents work of superior quality. In order to obtain a 93-100 student must: 1. Have all assignments completed on time and in a creditable manner. 2. Make a real contribution in class. -11-

3. Have a good record of attendance. 4. Have all written work neatly done. 5. Evidence ability to apply principles. The grade 86-92 represents work of excellent quality. It is given to those who do work which is clearly above average grade level. A student receiving a mark 86-92 must: 1. Show mastery of a major portion of assigned work. 2. Contribute regularly in class. 3. Have all written work neatly done. 4. Evidence ability to apply principles. 5. Require no urging to have work done on time.

The grade 78-85 represents work of average grade level and is earned by students who do work that is considered average for their grade level. An honest effort in attempting to meet the requisites of the class and having work done on time will merit this grade.

The grade 70-77 is a danger signal, but passing. Work is regarded as passing according to the minimum requirements of the course.

The „I‰ mark means incomplete and indicating that the student has been doing passing work, at least earning a grade of 70, but still must meet certain requirements before his/her grade can be determined. The „I‰ is given when a student has been absent from an examination or when some important assignment has not been handed in before the grades are turned in to the office.

When an „incomplete‰ is turned in for any student for a grade report period, that mark will appear on the report card submitted to the parents. The responsibility for removing the „incomplete‰ rests with the student. A student who received such a grade in any subject must see his/her instructor within a week after the report and arrange to earn a passing grade. The student has 2 weeks to change the „I‰ to a passing grade. If not removed in 2 weeks the grade becomes an „F‰.

Only semester grades are recorded on a student‚s permanent record. The semester grade is an average of the first 2 quarters. For Alternative Grading: 1. Alternative Grading will be available to students in grades 7-12. 2. Alternative Grading will be a method of grading students using 60% as a passing grade. 3. Alternative Grading will use a letter grade to distinguish it from regular grading which is numerical. 4. Alternative Grading will not be counted in the student‚s Grade Point Average. 5. Alternative Grading will be counted fully toward graduation requirements. 6. Students approved for Alternative Grading cannot be recommended for a four-year college. 7. Criteria to be used for students on Alternative Grading: a. Evidence of academic difficulty. b. Student is below 50% on SRA Achievement Tests. c. Student is recommended for Alternative Grading by the faculty. d. Student‚s parents sign approval form. e. Student will be tested by the school psychologist should difficulty arise concerning eligibility for placement in the program. 8. Alternative Grading will utilize the following grading scale: A ˆ 90-100 B ˆ 80-89 C ˆ 70-79 D ˆ 60-69 Below 60% will be failing -12-

Rank in Class Beginning with the 1998-99 school year, rank in class will be determined by the total cumulative average a student receives after each semester. Pass/fail courses will not be included in determining a student‚s G.P.A. and class rank. Retaking Classes Students must retake all required classes that they fail. They also can retake a class that they receive a ŒD‚ in. Both grades will be figured in to their cumulative GPA.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Load: There are 4 periods in the school day. A student may take up to 80 hours of credit in a year. Requirements: A total of 250 semester hours is required for graduation. Ten hours per semester are given for courses offered five times per week.

St. Francis High School has determined the following subjects required for Graduation: 40 hours of Religion, 40 hours of English, 30 hours of Mathematics, 30 hours of Science, 30 hours of Social Studies, 10 hours of Business, 15 hours of Physical Education/Health, 10 hours of Fine Arts. Post High School Education Requirements: Students who intend to enter college or other schools of higher education should carefully check the requirements of admission. Early Graduation: Students may apply to graduate early. Requirements for early graduation are contained in School Board Directive #5200. G.E.D.: Students unable to meet the academic requirements may make application to the School Board through the principal to remain in school and take the G.E.D. The student making such application must: 1. Maintain a full academic load. (80 hours per year) 2. Follow discipline policies as established in the Student Handbook. 3. Complete G.E.D. tests by May 1 of his/her graduation year. If all requirements are fulfilled, the student will be allowed to graduate with the class.

HONOR ROLL Honor Roll ˆ In an effort to recognize the high level of scholastic achievement, an Honor Roll will be published at the end of each 9-week grading period.

Determining Honor Roll - There will be 1 Honor Roll with 3 divisions. „All A‰ Honor Roll: Student earning all A‚s with no B's. Average must be 93 or above. „A Average‰ Honor Roll: Student earning all A‚s and B‚s with no C‚s. Average must be 93 or above. „B Average‰ Honor Roll: Student earning A‚s and B‚s with no C‚s. Average must be between 86-92. The grades from the following classes are not averaged in the Honor Roll: Junior High ˆ Art, Music, PE Senior High ˆ All PE classes

Students must pass all classes to be on the Honor Roll.

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LATE ASSIGNMENTS Students handing in late assignments will not be given full credit for their assignments. Only exception will be students out because of illness. Students leaving school the periods before scheduled tests must take the test their first day back.

LIBRARY Since the library is essentially a place of research and study, students are to speak quietly and may lose library privileges if their behavior becomes disruptive to the atmosphere. Permission to go to the library does not include permission to go elsewhere. Students may be denied library privileges for misbehavior for a time period to be decided upon by the librarian and the administrator. Books may be checked out for a period of two weeks and may be renewed once for an additional two-week period. The book should be presented to the Librarian for renewal. For overdue books a student pay a fine of 5 cents per day when returning the book. No general reference books or books belonging to a set may be taken from the library without the Librarian‚s permission, they may NEVER be taken out of the building without the permission of the Librarian or Administrator. If needed for class use, they may be checked out for a class period and returned to the library at the close of the period. Periodicals (except for current issues) may be checked out overnight or used in the library. Please return to the charging desk all books, magazines, pamphlets, etc., that have been checked out. Do not put them on the shelves. All damaged or lost materials must be paid for. The library is a place for quiet browsing, reading, and research work. Respect the right of your fellow students by avoiding all disturbances. If you need help, do not hesitate to ask the Librarian.

PROGRESS REPORTS Mid-quarter Progress Reports are given to all students. These progress reports are given directly to the student. On the progress report is recorded the grade for mid-quarter and a space provided for any comments by the teachers. These reports are to be given to the parents by the student, signed by the parents and returned to the school office within a week after they have been issued. REGISTRATION Each spring, the counselor will register students for the coming school term. The counselor will meet with each class and hand out a registration form. Teachers will be asked to cooperate in registration by recommending and not recommending students for various courses. Following registration, students will be scheduled and given a copy of their schedule. This is done to avoid conflicts at the start of the school year. Students may not drop a class after its first meeting without administrations approval of „special circumstances.‰ SHARED TIME Students attending Humphrey St. Francis may enroll in course at Humphrey High School. Starting time, class and lunch periods are coordinated with Humphrey High School to allow for this arrangement. Once in HHS, students are under the jurisdiction of HHS Administration and Faculty. St. Francis students may not enroll in a Humphrey High School course if that same course is offered at the same time here at St. Francis.

TRANSCRIPTS Students may see their transcript of credits by making a request of the counselor or principal. Graduates requesting a copy of their transcript must have a signed release form granting permission to the school to release their transcripts. Form reads as follows:

-14- SIGNATURE IS REQUIRED OF PARENT OR STUDENT. IF UNDER 18, A PARENT MUST SIGN THIS REQUEST TO RELEASE TRANSCRIPT.

PARENT SIGNATURE _______________________________________

STUDENT SIGNATURE ______________________________________

Students transferring to another school must also have parent‚s signature on a „release form‰ giving permission to release transcript.

WORK RELEASE & COLLEGE To be eligible for work release or college the second semester, seniors must meet the following conditions: 1. Maintain average grades 2. Leave school (no earlier than 11:10 a.m.) and report to work or college 3. Have parent‚s permission 4. Be on track to graduate on time.

IV. ATTENDANCE ABSENCE Education is the primary responsibility of parents. However, since parents send their children to school to take care of this responsibility, they should make every effort to assure the school of their fullest cooperation by making sure they have a reasonable excuse before allowing their child to miss class or school. In case of illness or unforeseen absences, the school should be notified before 8:10 a.m. If school is not called, the school will call the parents‚ home. If a parent calls in, there is no need to bring a written excuse. If the sickness continues, the parent is asked to call school each day the student is ill. If it is a long absence due to hospitalization, the parent needs to call only once indicating the anticipated time of the absence. A student missing 6 class sessions per semester may be dropped from the course and lose all credit. Students out for a prolonged period must bring a doctor‚s excuse to be readmitted to class. Students will not be excused from school to attend school activities in which they are not participating. For example: students will not be excused to attend track meets if they are not out for track. The only exception to this would be state tournaments (example: state wrestling or state track meet). Absences that occur while a student is participating in a school-sponsored event will not count. Also, seniors are permitted two days for a college visit without being counted absent.

ADMISSION OF STUDENTS Admission to St. Francis Schools is open to all students of St. Francis Parish and others who request admission. Students belonging to St. Francis Parish shall not be denied admission due to a lack of ability to pay tuition.

COLLEGE VISITATION DAY Seniors may use two days a year as a college visitation day. This day will not be counted as an absence toward their 6-class session per semester absence limit (see previous page). Parents need to notify the office either in writing or by phone when the student will be taking a college visitation day. Students also need to make arrangements with the counselor.

MAKE UP WORK Students absent from school due to a school-sponsored activity are not recorded as absent. Students missing school due to a school-sponsored activity or illness: 1. Student is responsible for making up all subject matter covered in class 2. Assignments due the day of the activity must be handed in before departing. Late assignments will be subject to % deduction in grade 3. Missed tests must be made up the day following the activity.

-15- Absent part of the day: A parent who requests their child to be dismissed part of a day is to call school before 8:10 a.m. or have the student present a note before 8:00 a.m. Names of students absent part of a day will be printed on the daily bulletin. Students leaving the building will be asked to check out and back in if they return to the building.

School Activities and Absence from School: A student, in order to be eligible to practice and participate in activities that day, must be in school by 9:30 am. The student‚s presence in school is an indication of the parent‚s approval to the coaches that the student is healthy enough to participate. If an activity is scheduled for Saturday and the student is absent on Friday, the student‚s presence at the activity on Saturday is an indication to the coach of the parent‚s approval of participation. Absence due to school-sponsored activities shall be called non-instructional time absence. Non-instructional time activities may include but not be limited to: 1. Conference Sponsored Activities 2. NSAA Activities 3. Academic Contests

Student absence for non-instructional time shall not exceed 8 days or 32 blocks. A record of absences for activities will be maintained for each student in the principal‚s office. Non-instructional time absences are not a part of a student‚s permanent record and have no relation to student absences due to sickness or parent request.

TARDINESS A student tardy for the first block class is to report to the office for an admit slip. Students tardy the other blocks of the day are to report directly to their class. Their names will be reported to the office at the end of the day. A student receiving 5 tardies during the semester will receive a detention. For each tardy after 5 in a semester, the student will receive a detention that must be served by the end of the next day. If the problem persists, further disciplinary action will be taken.

V. STUDENT CONDUCT

DISCIPLINARY PERFORMANCE STANDARDS The disciplinary system depends on a clear understanding and support of specific rules by students, parents, and teachers for the maintenance of an appropriate learning atmosphere. Discipline is not intended to be punitive but rather to help assure good order and protect the rights of all in the school community. The Principal and Faculty reserve the right to apply judgment in dealing with families concerning specific disciplinary situations that may or may not be specifically stated in this agreement (which does not attempt to include all the possible situations or appropriate methods of correction which may occur.) All major discipline problems will be „written up‰ on a referral form. This form is a written statement of an observed infraction. Teachers and administration will use this form whenever disciplinary action is needed. The referral form consists of 3 copies. The teacher or administrator in giving a referral gives 2 copies to the student and 1 to the principal on the day of the observed behavior. The pink copy is turned into the principal and the white and yellow copies are given to the student. The student is to have the parents sign the white copy and return to school the following day. The yellow copy is for the parent‚s records. The student will stay after school the day following the referral. Participation in activities will not excuse a student from staying after school the following day. A student who fails to return the referral form will be given one day to do so and Π hour will be added to their time after school. A student who fails to report after school will add Π hour to their time the following day. Repeated failure to report after school will be considered a serious offense.

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SPECIFIC OFFENSES AND DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

One Referral Offense: These are some examples of offenses that may have an automatic Π hour detention to be served the following day after school in the office or on a supervised work detail. No exceptions. a) Disrespect of disobedience in language or behavior toward staff member b) Being off limits (unsupervised rooms, halls, Faculty Room) c) Behavior in any area of the building which disrupts the teaching activity of any class or disrupts good order in any area in which the students are gathered for lunch, study, etc. d) Abusive language and/or conduct toward another student e) Defacement of buildings or grounds (defacement to be removed as part of discipline) f) Failure to report after school at teacher‚s request g) Sexual harassment of any kind (can also be classified as a serious offense) h) Offensive language or gestures i) Misuse/abuse of technology j) Truancy (Skipping School) k) Cheating

If a student receives a 3rd referral during school year: a) The principal calls a meeting with the student and parents through a written letter (student may request advisor or counselor to be present). The meeting is optional if parents want to handle the problem at home, but parents must state this intention when conferring with the principal. b) The conference will focus on a statement of the rules, the contract agreement, the necessity for discipline, and procedures to be followed if a change is to be effected. c) All teachers receive notice of 3rd referral and a further update if the behavioral problems continue d) Student will receive a 1-day in-school suspension.

If a student receives a 5th referral during the school year: a) Principal invokes an automatic 3-day in-school suspension and calls a 9:00 a.m. conference the following morning with student, parents, and Pastor.

If a student receives a 6th referral: a) Principal sends home warning letter that the 7th referral carries an automatic expulsion from St. Francis for 1 full semester with readmission subject to review of attitude and interim behavior. b) Student is not allowed further participation in athletics or other school activities for the remainder of the academic year.

If a student receives a 7th referral: a) Principal expels student on grounds that the student is failing to take responsibility for self-discipline and behavior after repeated warnings. The student is detrimental to maintenance of a favorable learning atmosphere in the school for self and other students. MORE SERIOUS OFFENSES For a student with no referrals ˆ receives 3 referrals and 1-day in-school suspension. For a student with 1 referral ˆ moves to 4th referral level For a student with 2 referrals ˆ moves to 5th referral level For a student with 3 or 4 referrals ˆ moves to 6th referral level For a student with 5 or 6 referrals ˆ expulsion -17- Serious Offenses: a) Any serious act of disobedience or disrespect to a staff member ˆ threats, abusive language, physical aggression (short of bodily harm of injury), refusal to comply with a direct request, refusal to attend referral detention at a specified time b) Vandalism to buildings or grounds, theft or damage of school or student property; penalty as indicated along with repayment, repair or replacement of stolen or damaged property. Serious vandalism could result in dismissal. c) Refusal to accept referral from teacher d) Repeated failure to report after school for referral detention e) Public behavior at school activities or disruption of activities at other schools at which St. Francis is officially involved. Nebraska School Activities Association requires our support in this area. f) Possession or circulation of indecent literature on school grounds g) Reckless driving in school parking lot h) Use of firecrackers in and around school building i) Fighting j) Theft

Example of some behaviors requiring automatic 3-day in-school suspension or expulsion: a) Possession or use of alcohol or drugs on school premises or at any school function (at St. Francis or elsewhere); coming to a school activity at St. Francis or elsewhere after using alcohol or drugs. b) Causing physical harm or injury to any teacher or student or endangering the safety of others in the building by tampering with fire extinguishers, fire alarms, stored chemicals, etc. c) Causing a fire, bomb threat, explosion, or possession of a weapon d) Serious vandalism to the school buildings or grounds

A 3-day in-school suspension counts as 3 referrals.

DRUGS AND ALCOHOL Board Policy Relative To Standards Of Student Conduct Pertaining To The Unlawful Possession, Use, Or Distribution Of Illicit Drugs Or Alcohol On School Premises Or As A Part Of Any Of The School‚s Activities

It shall be the policy of St. Francis School, in addition to standards of student conduct elsewhere adopted by board policy or administrative regulation to absolutely prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol by any student of St. Francis School during regular school hours or after school hours at school-sponsored activities on school premises, at school-sponsored activities off school premises. Conduct prohibited at places and activities as hereinabove described shall include, but not be limited to, the following: a) Possession of any controlled substance, possession of which is prohibited by law. b) Possession of any prescription drug in an unlawful fashion. c) Possession of alcohol on school premises or as a part of any of the school‚s activities. d) Use of any illicit drug. e) Distribution of any illicit drug. f) Use of any drug in an unlawful fashion. g) Distribution of any drug or controlled substance when such distribution is unlawful. h) The possession, use, or distribution of alcohol.

-18- It shall further be the policy of the school that violation of any of the above prohibited acts will results in disciplinary sanctions being taken within the bounds of applicable law, up to and including short term suspension, long term suspension, expulsion, referral to appropriate authorities for criminal prosecution. It shall be the policy of St. Francis School to provide each student of St. Francis a copy of the standards of conduct for student behavior which prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on school premises or as a part of any of the school‚s activities. Such standards of conduct and the school‚s policy of disciplinary sanctions that may be taken for violation of such standards of conduct shall be given to each student. Such policies will be a part of the Student Handbook. It shall be the policy of St. Francis School to provide information to all students concerning available drug and alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs. Information concerning such resources shall be presented to all of the students. In the event of disciplinary proceedings against any student for any school policy pertaining to the prohibition against the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol, appropriate school personnel shall confer with any such student and his or her parents or guardian concerning available drug and alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs that appropriate school personnel shall consider to be of benefit to any such student and his or her parent or parents or guardian. Tobacco will be considered a drug in all St. Francis Schools policies and handbooks. VI. STUDENT ACTIVITIES

ACTIVITY FEE At the beginning of each school year, as activity fee is collected as a part of their tuition bill. This activity fee covers the cost of financing each class‚s activities. This fee eliminates the need for fundraisers. Only fundraisers approved are those that provide a service or something for the Church, such as breakfasts and car washes. Door to door soliciting is not allowed. All fund raisers need to be approved by the administration. ACTIVITIES Since Co-curricular activities are valuable aids in the intellectual, moral, social, and physical development of the students, St. Francis High School endeavors to offer a well-rounded program of such activities. Students should select their activities with a view to their abilities, needs and interests. It is the hope of the school administration that every student will be active in at least one co-curricular activity. Following activities are offered:

Boys Girls Football Volleyball Basketball Basketball Track Track Wrestling Golf Golf

Other Activities: Student Council Class Offices National Honor Society Youth Ministry Speech Drama FBLA Teens For Life

-19- Events: Religious Social Class Retreats Homecoming Search Hearts Quest Prom Class Mass Achievement Banquet School Mass Advent Prayer Service Lenten Prayer Service Sacrament of Reconciliation T.E.C. (Teens Encounter Christ) J.C. Camp All co-curricular activities will be under the direct control of the school administration and shall be supervised by a member of the faculty. The school will in no way be responsible for the students or their conduct after the close of any activity or dismissal by the supervisor. Students who participate in extra-curricular activities represent St. Francis High School to the public and to other schools. They should, therefore, exemplify certain religious, scholastic, and social qualities identifying them as worthy of a Catholic School. Each activity may establish and publish its own rules for eligibility, subject to the approval of the administration.

ELECTION OF CLASS OFFICERS The selection of class officers will take place during the first week of school. Students nominated for office must possess these qualifications: 1. A cumulative GPA above 74. 2. Cooperative with students, faculty, and administration. 3. Be willing to serve the interests of the class.

SCHOOL FUNDS All funds that are part of the student activities are to be turned in to the school secretary. Class Treasurers will be responsible for recording all money earned. Money turned in to the school secretary will be re-counted and deposited. Each Class will be expected to keep an account of their own expenses and income. The school secretary will keep the official book. Materials purchased are to be approved first by the class and secondly by the class sponsor. All purchases must be made on purchase order forms available in the principal‚s office.

STUDENT COUNCIL The most important student organization is the Student Council. It represents the official voice for the student body in reflecting their points of view and for the overall internal control and discipline of the student‚s activities. The Student Council functions within the framework of the Constitution. To be a member of the Student Council, a student must uphold all the ideals of our school, and must meet the eligibility requirements of the Student Council.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY

Philosophy And Principles 1 NSAA Guidelines For Eligibility 1 Philosophy For Junior High-Junior Varsity Athletics 3 Philosophy For Varsity Athletics 3 Cut Policy 3 Suspension From Co-Curricular Activities 3 Transportation 4 Awards 4 Curfew 4 Absence From School 5 Coaches That Are Not Faculty Of St. Francis 5 Communication With Coaches 5 Non-High School Competition 5 Sportsmanship Policy 6 ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY HANDBOOK Philosophy and Principles: The Athletic/Activity Department is an integral part of St. Francis High School and is under the immediate supervision of the Athletic Director appointed by the principal. Students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities to promote the observance of true sportsmanship and gentlemanly/ladylike conduct in all contests, and to secure courteous treatment of visiting teams and officials by school coaches, players, performers and spectators. Principles to be followed: 1. The entire interscholastic athletic program is under the immediate direction of the Athletic Director appointed by the principal. 2. The athletic program is not maintained primarily for presenting public entertainment. 3. Written training rules and policies may be devised by individual coaches. The rules and policies will correspond with the training rules and policies given in this handbook. 4. Players must remember their conduct both in and outside of the school reflects their own personal worth, the worth of the school, and the worth of the Church that sponsors the school. Therefore, no player is to enter any controversy whatsoever with game officials, opposing players, coaches or spectators. Any friction caused by opposing players should be referred to the coaches who will discuss the matter with the Athletic Director. Violation of this rule may bring immediate withdrawal from the game. 5. Any display of temper, disgust, or other unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of a participant will not be tolerated. 6. Rebellious talk or conduct on the part of a participant will suspend him/her from further participation until such time as the coaches, Athletic Director and/or principal agrees that the attitude has been corrected. 7. A player guilty of profanity or obscene speech in practice or in games shall be disciplined by the coaching staff at their discretion. 8. Athletic equipment and recreational areas should be given proper care. Any abuse in this matter will require restitution on the part of the offender. 9. Participants in athletic contests must carry insurance. 10. Use of alcoholic beverages, smoking in public places, lack of proper respect for school officials, or continuous disciplinary abuses will not be tolerated and will require proper disciplinary action to be taken by the coaching staff and school officials in unison. 11. Eligibility in extra activities is set forth in the Student Handbook.

Sportsmanship Policy: Please see at the end of this section.

Nebraska Schools Activities Association Policies ˆ Guard Your Activities Eligibility: In order to represent a high school in interscholastic athletic competition, a student must abide by eligibility rules of the Nebraska School Activities Association. A summary of the major rules in given below. Contact the principal or activities director for an explanation of the complete rule. 1.2.1 Student must be an undergraduate. 1.2.2 After a student‚s initial enrollment in grade nine, he/she shall be ineligible after eight semesters of school membership beginning with his/her enrollment in grade nine. 2.3.1 Student is ineligible if nineteen years of age before August 1 of current school year. (Student may participate on a high school team if he/she was 15 years of age prior to August 1 of current school year.) -1- 2.4.1 Student must be enrolled in some high school on or before the eleventh school day of the current year. 2.5.1 Student must be enrolled in at least twenty hours per week and regular in attendance, in accordance with the school‚s attendance policy at the school he /she wishes to represent in interscholastic competition. 2.5.2 Student must have been enrolled and received twenty hours in school the immediate preceding semester. 2.6.2.1 Guardianship does not fulfill the definition of a parent. If a guardian has been appointed for a student, the student is eligible in the school district where his/her natural parent(s) have their domicile. Individual situations involving guardianship may be submitted to the Executive Director for his review and a ruling. 2.6.3 A student entering grade nine for the first time after being promoted from grade eight of a two-year junior high, or a three-year middle school, or entering a high school for the first time after being promoted to grade ten from a three-year junior high school is eligible. After a student makes an initial choice of high schools, any subsequent transfer, unless there has been a change of domicile by his/her parents, shall render the student ineligible for ninety school days. If a student has participated on a high school team at any level as a seventh, eighth, or ninth grade student, he/she has established his/her eligibility at the high school where he/she participated. If the student elects to attend another high school upon entering ninth or tenth grade, he/she shall be ineligible for ninety school days.

Student eligibility related to domicile can be attained in the following manners: 2.6.9.1 If the change in domicile by the parents occurs during a school year, the student may remain at the school he/she is attending and be eligible until the end of the school year or transfer to a high school located in the school district where the parents established their domicile and be eligible. 2.6.9.2 If the parents moved during the summer months and the student is in grade twelve, the student may remain at the high school he/she has been attending and retain eligibility. 2.6.9.3 If a student has been attending the same high school since initial enrollment in grade nine, he/she may remain at that high school and retain eligibility, or he/she is eligible at a high school located in the school district where his/her parents established their domicile. 2.6.10 If the parents of a student change their domicile from one school district that has a high school to another school district that has a high school, the student shall be eligible immediately in the school district where the parents established their domicile. 3.1 Once the season of a sport begins, a student shall compete only in athletic contests/meets in that sport which are scheduled by his/her school. Any other competition will render the student ineligible for a portion of, or all of, the season in that sport. The season of a sport begins with the first date of practice as permitted by NSAA rules. The fall sports season begins August 18, 2003, and ends with the state meets in the fall sports. The winter sports season begins November 17, 2003, and ends with state meets in the winter sports. The spring sports season begins March 1, 2004, and ends with the state meets in the spring sports. 3.5.1 A student shall not participate in sports camps or clinics during the season of a sport in which he/she is involved, either as an individual or as a member of team. 3.6 A student shall not participate on an all-star team while a high school undergraduate 3.7 A student must maintain his/her amateur status. 3.9.1 A student shall not participate in a contest under an assumed name.

Compliance with the rules will prevent your team, school, or community from being penalized.

-2- PHILOSOPHY FOR JUNIOR HIGH ˆ JUNIOR VARSITY ATHLETICS It is the belief of the St. Francis Athletic Department that our junior high and junior varsity programs are to prepare the student-athlete for varsity competition. Winning is still an objective, but it is not the main objective. The main objective is to teach and develop the necessary skills through practice and games to be a productive member of the varsity team. The amount of playing time will be determined by the work ethic of the student-athlete, attendance at practices, academic performance, and by the discretion of the coach assigned to the activity. Every student-athlete that practices satisfactorily will get to participate in each contest in which they suit up for.

PHILOSOPHY FOR VARSITY ATHLETICS The purpose of the St. Francis Athletic Department is to develop the individuals and teams to compete at the highest competitive level. Playing time will be determined by ability, attitude, work ethic, academic performance, and the discretion of the coach. Being on varsity does not guarantee playing time. CUT POLICY Cutting athletes is never a pleasant situation. However, if the numbers on any particular team become too high, the quality of the overall team suffers due to practice time that is taken away from the athletes who would contribute in the actual games. Also, it is the belief of the school that if students know that there is cut policy they will be challenged to find other school activities to channel their energies. The maximum number of participants for each athletic team is as follows: 1) Football No limit 2) Volleyball 28 3) Boys Basketball 28 4) Girls Basketball 28 5) Wrestling No limit 6) Golf 14 7) Boys Track No limit 8) Girls Track No limit

(Note: There will not be a cut policy in junior high activities. Also, if the situation arises where there is only one student to be cut, that student athletic will not be cut.)

SUSPENSION FROM ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES Any student involved in any St. Francis activity and caught by high school administration, faculty, or police with drugs or alcohol will be suspended from the following activities: 1) Volleyball 4 games 2) Football 2 games 3) Girls Basketball 4 games 4) Boys Basketball 4 games 5) Wrestling 2 meets 6) Track 2 meets 7) Golf 2 meets 8) Other To Be Determined

Participating student‚s caught being involved in criminal activity will have a discipline plan arranged by the administration. Junior high suspension will be determined on a pro-rated basis from the high school suspension schedule due to shorter seasons. Students caught will be confronted and questioned by the coaches. Those who lie and are later determined to be guilty by the administration will have their suspensions doubled.

-3- Suspension will begin immediately after the violation has occurred and suspension may carry over into another sport. Example: athlete caught and suspended during last game in football and first game in basketball. During suspension student may not suit up for games but must practice with team. The suspended athlete must finish the season in which he/she is suspended in good standing. If a person doesn‚t finish the season in good standing, the suspension will start over in the next athletic season. Students caught twice during their high school years will be suspended from all athletic practice and competition until a meeting is held with parents, high school administrator, counselor, and coaches. Decisions will be made at that meeting concerning the future of the athletic competition. Second offenses will require the student to meet regularly with the school guidance counselor for a specified period of time. If a person is caught three times during his/her 9-12 career, he/she will not be allowed to participate on any athletic team for the remainder of his/her career at St. Francis This is a year-round policy.

TRANSPORTATION All students traveling to and from out-of-town school sponsored activities must be transported in school-approved transportation with an adult driver. If a parent wishes to take their child home after an activity, a note must be given to the sponsor of the activity and a verbal verification given before the child will be released.

AWARDS The athletic letter of St. Francis High School is an emblem sanctioned by the school for athletic achievement. To be awarded a letter is a sign that a student has conformed to school regulations, has observed training rules, has manifested a correct attitude toward teachers, school regulations, and has shown true Catholic sportsmanship. Recipients of award letters shall be determined by criteria set in advance of the season by head coaches in addition to the above statements. A student shall be awarded a letter the first time he/she earns one in any sports, thereafter he/she shall be given a certificate for each additional letter. A student is to be given a letter his/her senior year for 4 years of participation, if they finish in good standing. Lettering guidelines for each sport: 1) Football Π of regular season 2) Volleyball Π of regular season 3) Boys Basketball Π of regular season 4) Girls Basketball Π of regular season 5) Girls & Boys Track Score 10 points and equipment turned in 6) Wrestling Π of varsity meets and/or medal in a major tourn. 7) Golf Medal at invitational *All letters are awarded at the discretion of the coach.

CURFEW During a particular athletic season, student-athletes need to abide by the following schedule to be enforced by parents: 1) Sunday through Thursday, home by 10:00 p.m. 2) Friday and Saturday, home by 1:00 a.m. 3) Two days before a game the athlete must be home by 10:00 p.m. 4) With games played during the week, athletes will be allowed 45 minutes to get home following a home game or arrival of the team bus in Humphrey from an away game.

Parents are requested to inform the coach when their son/daughter breaks curfew. Punishment for breaking curfew will be determined by the coach. -4- ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL A student, in order to be eligible to practice and participate in activities that evening, must be in school by 9:30 am of the day in which they plan to participate. The student‚s presence in school is an indication of the parent‚s approval to the coaches that the student is healthy enough to participate. If an activity is scheduled for Saturday and the student is absent on Friday, the student‚s presence at the activity on Saturday is an indication to the coach of the parent‚s approval for participation.

COACHES THAT ARE NOT FACULTY OF ST. FRANCIS Coaches that are not member of the faculty of St. Francis will be under the same guidelines as those that are members of the faculty.

COMMUNICATION WITH COACHES Communication between parents and coaches is strongly encouraged. However, it is important that both parties handle this communication with courtesy and respect. Coaches will conduct Parent Meetings prior to the start of their season. Attendance is mandatory. Philosophy and expectations will be discussed. Sportsmanship will also be discussed. Parents are encouraged to contact coaches to discuss concerns, however, parents are not to address coaches at any time during or right after a contest. Arrangements should be made through the office to come in and visit with coaches.

NON-HIGH SCHOOL COMPETITION Due to the fact that the number of out-of-school activities continues to rise, it is important that there is a spirit of communication between the parents, student-athletes and the coaches of St. Francis. At the pre-season meeting of parents and coaches, the coaches will present what activities and club activities are allowed during their particular season. The coach‚s guidelines will need to be approved by the administration of St. Francis. St. Francis School‚s Sportsmanship Policy

St. Francis Schools recognize the value of extracurricular activities as part of the educational process and the values that students may develop when provided the opportunity to participate in organized activities outside of the traditional classroom. Student participants and school appointed sponsors involved with school board and/or school approved extracurricular activities are expected to demonstrate the same level of responsibility and behavior at practice, competitions, and extracurricular events as is expected in the classroom. School representatives and students are responsible for maintaining sportsmanlike behavior, exhibiting ethical conduct, and demonstrating integrity. The school board further encourages the development and promotion of sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity in all phases of the educational process as well as segments of the community. This includes administration, coaches, participants, adult supervisors, parents, fans, spirit groups, and support/booster groups. Spectators are permitted to attend co-curricular activities only as guests of the school. As a condition of this permission, they must comply with the school‚s rules and policies. Spectators, like the student participants, are expected to display mature behavior and sportsmanship. The failure of spectators to do so is not only disruptive but it is also embarrassing to the students, the school, and the entire community. The School Board of St. Francis Schools hereby adopts the following Spectator Code of Sportsmanship Behavior, Ethics, and Integrity: It is the responsibility of the spectator to: 1. Keep cheers positive. There should be no degrading language or gestures. 2. Avoid actions that offend visiting teams or individuals. 3. Show appreciation of good play by both teams. 4. Learn the rules of the game in order to be a better informed spectator. 5. Treat all visiting teams in a manner in which you would expect to be treated. 6. Accept the judgment of officials and coaches. 7. Encourage other spectators to participate in the spirit of good sportsmanship. 8. Obey the instructions of school employees and officials supervising the co-curricular activity. St. Francis School authorities shall have full authority to invoke penalties such as removal from the premises and/or suspension from future St. Francis activities for flagrant or repeated violation of the behavior expectations of this policy. We are blessed to be able to provide a variety of activities for our students to use their God given talents in His service. Let us all recognize these efforts by promoting a positive, supportive, and Christian environment.