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ST. DAMIEN SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK Celebrating Diversity and Inspiring Creativity Address: 3619 - 28 Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2B 2J1 Principal: Mrs. S. Griffin-White Assistant Principal: Ms. D. Legge Phone Number: 403 500 2073 Fax Number: 403 500 2273 Website: http://www.cssd.ab.ca/stdamien/ This student handbook belongs to: Student Name: __________________________________________________ Grade: _________________________________________________________ Homeroom Teacher: ______________________________________________ Please contact the Principal if you have any questions or concerns regarding this handbook. I have read, understood and am fully aware of the information and expectations outlined in this handbook. Student Signature: _______________________________________________ Parent Signature: ________________________________________________ Date: __________________________________________________________
community and to journey in faith with God, through Christ, in the Spirit.
WELCOME Welcome to St. Damien School! At St. Damien, it is our belief that the best education students receive is achieved through ongoing cooperation and mutual respect between home, school and parish.
PATRON SAINT – ST. DAMIEN Joseph de Veuster was born January 3, 1840 in Tremeloo, Belgium. Upon entering the seminary he took the name of Damien. He traveled to Hawaii as a missionary brother in 1863. Ordained a priest in Hawaii in 1867, Father Damien was sent to the leper colony on the island of Molokai, remaining with the lepers of Molokai for 16 years. He provided them with food, clothing, medical care, education and spiritual comfort. He eventually contracted leprosy himself at the age of 49 and died in 1889. He was declared Venerable in 1977 and was beatified on May 15, 1994. He is now referred to as St. Damien de Veuste.
Please read this handbook carefully with your child to become familiar with many of the routines and expectations that we have at St. Damien. It also contains important information for parents and students about programs, procedures, requirements and services at our school. By referring to these pages regularly and using this agenda to communicate daily with your child’s teacher, we hope to make this year a successful one! Should you have any questions or require additional information, please contact the school at 403 500 2073 or in person.
St. Damien was the first priest to volunteer for a threemonth rotation on the island of Molokai. Once there however, he knew this was to be his life work and he remained for 16 years. During his time on this island he transformed the place into a viable community that was visited by royalty and the bishop. He petitioned the Board of Health for lumber and built 300 houses for the sick. He laid pipeline to a distant spring to supply water to the settlement. He also dug graves, built coffins and held funeral masses. It is estimated that he built more than 1600 coffins during his years in Molokai. In addition, he organized processions for the feast days and formed a choir and a band who performed for visitors. The state of Hawaii has honoured his work with a statue that stands in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capital Building.
ST. DAMIEN SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY Celebrating Diversity and Inspiring Creativity St. Damien School aims to promote development of the "whole" child, by fostering their spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional and physical growth. In partnership with home and church, St. Damien School strives to develop the necessary attitudes, skills, knowledge and values that will enable them to function as Catholic citizens in our community.
Here at St. Damien School...
Catholic gospel celebrated.
The teaching and learning environment is positive, safe and caring. The diversity of all learners is accepted, facilitated and celebrated. Leadership is shared within a collaborative environment. Risk-taking and innovation are valued and supported by current research to promote best practice. Students are encouraged and challenged to reach their individual academic potential. Healthy active lifestyles are promoted and practiced.
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CATHOLIC COMMUNITY OF CARING St. Damien is proud to be a Catholic Community of Caring School. This philosophy embodies everything that we do as followers of Jesus Christ. The six core values include Caring, Respect, Responsibility, Trust, Family; all of which are embedded in the Catholic Faith. They are incorporated within school plans, curriculum integration, conflict resolution and resiliency programming. Routines, events, school awards, extra-curricular activities, Big Family Group (BFG) lessons and celebrations will be scheduled throughout the year for the purpose of strengthening the Catholic culture and climate within our school community. We also try, through our CCC, to be responsive to families in our area who may be in need.
DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT Living and Learning in our Catholic Faith Calgary Catholic School District is a learning organization that empowers students to reach their full potential, to meet the challenges of life, to serve their 2
remain indoors if weather conditions reach -18o C, including wind chill. All decisions about going outside will be made by administration prior to recess/noon break. Please ensure that students are dressed appropriately for the weather as they will be outside for recess and at lunch.
BELL TIMES Grades 1 - 6 Breakfast Club
8:00 am
First AM Entry Bell
8:25 am
Classes Begin
8:30 am
Recess
10:15 am - 10:30 am
Lunch
12:00 pm
PM Entry Bell
12:38 pm
Classes Begin
12:43 pm
Dismissal
2:45 pm
Early Dismissal
11:30 am
At noon, all students will participate in Reverse Lunch. It involves changing the order of the lunch recess; with the free play portion happening first and the lunch second. In practical terms, students will be dismissed at 12:00 pm to go outside for free playtime. A bell will ring at 12:18 pm to signal students’ return into the school. Students then enter the school, gather their lunches from lunch bins and eat in the gym in class groupings, from 12:18 pm - 12:38 pm. At 12:38 pm, the afternoon entry bell sounds and students are collected from the gym by their teachers.
(Christmas/Easter) The supervision during lunch hour is a service that is provided partially by St. Damien staff and partially by a paid noon-hour assistant. The cost for our noonhour assistant is outlined in the school fees and is payable online.
Kindergarten AM Only Breakfast Club
8:00 am
First AM Entry Bell
8:25 am
Classes Begin
8:30 am
Dismissal
11:08 am
All students remaining for lunch are required to remain on school grounds during the lunch break. No students will be granted permission to leave school grounds without a parent.
Kindergarten PM Only PM Entry Bell
12:00 pm
Classes Begin
12:04 pm
Dismissal
2:45 pm
SCHOOL PATROLS Patrols operate before school beginning at 8:05 am and after school starting at 2:45 pm for fifteen minutes. There will be no patrol - assisted crossings during the noon hour. Please review how to safely cross the street with your child.
BREAKFAST CLUB
When the temperature drops below -18°C (with or without the wind chill factor), patrols will not be sent outside. This could happen without notice at any time of the day when the temperature reaches this level.
Students are invited to join staff members and fellow students for breakfast each morning in the gym. Drop in between 8:00 am and 8:25 am for toast, fruit, juice, cereal and sometimes a hot meal.
SCHOOL BOUNDARIES
Breakfast Club ensures that all students at St. Damien will be learning on a full tummy. We know how rushed some mornings can be for families, so please encourage your child to take part in our Breakfast Club on a drop-in basis. It’s free!
St. Damien School serves Catholic students from the communities of Dover and Erin Woods. For Junior High, students from St. Damien will often choose to attend Holy Cross Elementary/Junior High located at 3719 - 26 Avenue S.E. In addition to Holy Cross, parents may consider programs of choice, which include Fine Arts programs at St. Alphonsus or St. Augustine as well as Late French Immersion at St. Rose of Lima. Each of these schools will offer Program Information Open Houses so parents and students can make informed decisions for Grade 7.
RECESS & REVERSE LUNCH BREAKS All children are to go outdoors at recess and during the lunch recess, except during inclement weather. Inclement weather is when outside conditions are extremely cold, extremely windy, or when there is a heavy rainfall. District policy stipulates that they will 3
The SRT helps teachers work with students who have unique learning, emotional and/or behaviour needs. In cooperation with the requesting teachers, the team works in a structured process of conceptualizing and defining the problem, brainstorming solutions, planning, interventions and evaluating the outcomes. Throughout the process, the SRT maintains clear documentation and teacher support.
SCHOOL PARISHES St. Damien School is part of the Holy Trinity and Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish communities. Holy Trinity is located at 1525 - 45 Street S.E. and the telephone number (403) 562 2103. Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish is located at 247 - 25 Avenue N.E. and the telephone number (403) 277 7228. All sacramental preparation for First Communion, Reconciliation and Confirmation is done primarily through the parishes with the support of the school.
DIVERSE LEARNING TEACHER This position supports classroom teachers and students in Grades 1-6 identified by Alberta Education coding. Support is provided in conjunction with the homeroom teacher and within the framework of the Alberta Education Program of Studies.
We will try to keep you apprised, through our newsletter, of sacramental preparation programs at each of each of these parishes.
CORE PROGRAM
A key component of this support is the development and implementation of the Learner Support Plan (LSP), which guides teachers, parents and the Diverse Learning Teacher during the year as they deliver the instructional program. The LSP, developed each fall with parental involvement and student input, is intended to be a working document that is consulted, evaluated and adapted on an ongoing basis throughout the school year. Consistent and ongoing evaluation of the LSP determines whether a need exists for adjustments, revisions and/or additions to the intended goals and outcomes.
St. Damien School follows the Alberta Education Program of Studies. Specific curricular topics can be found on the Alberta Education website: http://education.alberta.ca/parents/resources/summaries.aspx
LEARNING COMMONS To support students with the Learning Commons Policy and Learning Commons Guidelines approved in 2014, St. Damien’s school library has evolved. In addition to providing information to students, it now prepares them to be engaged critical thinkers, evaluators, ethical users and entrepreneur creators of information and knowledge.
DISTRICT SUPPORT SERVICES The Instructional Services Department in our District has a number of consultants available to assist schools with a variety of services such as instructional support for teachers and program planning.
Our Learning Commons supports and promotes quality teaching, inquiry-based learning, information literacy, collaboration and access to technology. It truly models a student-centered approach that emphasizes active and collaborative engagement while encouraging the co-creation of knowledge by all learners.
In addition, the Instructional Support Team includes a consultant for behavioural issues, consultants for students with diverse needs, psychologists, family support workers and social workers. Please speak with your child’s classroom teacher or school administration if you feel you or your child would benefit from any of these support personnel.
SCHOOL RESOURCE TEAM (SRT) The School Resource Team (SRT) is a school based teacher support and problem solving system. SRTs are based on current research, which supports the belief that teachers have the expertise to work together using a problem solving process. It is a District expectation that schools will have regularly scheduled SRT meetings. The team includes classroom teachers, diverse learning teachers and administration. The SRT team may consult with personnel from the District’s Instructional Support Team.
HEALTH SERVICES A Public Health Nurse has been assigned to St. Damien School for one half day every two weeks. The nurse’s responsibilities are to promote the physical, emotional, and social well being of the school community through a variety of preventative and protective health programs. Additionally, the school nurse will also be coordinating the Grade 5 Hepatitis B and HPV vaccination programs and checking the 4
vaccination status of Kindergarten and Grade 1 children. The public health nurse works with the school community to provide the following services: Control of Communicable Disease Referral and Consultation Health Education Health Promotion
worker who will follow up. Notes and phone calls must be specific as to the reason for absence. Families are encouraged to take family holidays during regularly scheduled school holidays. Vacations are unexcused absences. Please make every attempt to have your child at school on time. If for any reason your child is running late, phone the school to make us aware.
Parents can consult with the nurse to request a referral assessment of health-related concerns.
Any student who arrives at school late is to report to the school secretary and receive a stamp in their agenda before going to class.
INSURANCE COVERAGE The District carries limited basic coverage for students while they are on school premises or involved in travel to and from the school. The limited basic coverage is also carried on any school activity approved and supervised by proper school authority. In the fall, Voluntary Student Accident Insurance forms will be sent home for parents who wish to purchase additional insurance for their children.
ILLNESS & EMERGENCY PROCEDURES If your child becomes acutely ill or is seriously hurt at school, a staff member will make every effort to contact you at home or at work. If we evaluate the situation as serious enough, we will call 911 and have your child transported to the hospital. In the interim, your child will be attended to in the school health room by a certified first aider.
SCHOOL FILE UPDATES
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION
Student files are updated on an ongoing basis so it is extremely important that the office is notified immediately regarding changes and/or updates. Please ensure that current phone numbers, emergency contacts and email addresses are up kept up-to-date.
Administration of medication to students can only be facilitated under the authority of the attending doctor and parents and with the appropriate documentation in place. Forms are available at the office and circumstances should be discussed with school administration.
ABSENCES AND TARDINESS
EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Parents are requested to contact the school before the entry bell whenever a student is late or absent. Before school hours our answering machine is on. Please leave a message on our answering machine reporting your name, your child’s name and homeroom class, the date and reason for being late or absent.
It is very important that parents inform the school and update the student demographic form on existing medical conditions and allergies. In some instances, a medical response plan is prepared by the school. Allergies – Though we encourage families to not send food items including nuts or peanuts, it is not possible to ensure that we are a peanut or nut free school. It is important that students with severe allergies practice safe habits regarding their allergic condition.
Regular attendance is expected of all students and is vital to the academic success of our students. It is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian to provide a specific reason by note or phone call to the school office for his/her child’s lates or absences.
ENTRANCE & EXIT DOORS
Our computerized School Connect system will automatically call to follow up on all absences not called in by 9:00 AM. This automated system will call the home number first. If someone picks up, it will not call your other contact numbers. If no one picks up on the home contact number, the system will continue to phone all numbers on file. Habitual absences deemed unexcused will result in the development of an Attendance Improvement Plan. If that doesn’t help, your child may be referred to a social
We ask that students use their class’ designated door to enter and exit the school. It can get very congested at the office, so unless your child is with you, we ask that he or she go around to the back door. Parents who are taking their child during the school day are required to sign out and sign in (if returning) the child at the office.
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AFTER SCHOOL PICK-UP ROUTINE
Please be sure to review the following guidelines with your child: Designate a regular meeting place and time. If your child feels uncomfortable waiting past 2:45, he/she should report to the office. Your child should not change the plans without parent’s permission. If a child misses the bus, he/she should return to the school office to phone a parent to be picked up.
Supervision of bussed students is provided until all buses depart. There is no supervision for students on school grounds after school.
BUSING Students must be within the school boundaries and live at least 1.2 kilometers from the school to be eligible for charter busing. District policy states that students must have paid or have made arrangements with the school for payment before they will be permitted to ride the bus. Inquiries regarding busing should be made to the school office.
GENERAL ACADEMIC INFORMATION LEARNER ASSESSMENTS Over the past two years, the Alberta Government has replaced the Provincial Achievement Tests in Grade 3 with Student Learner Assessments (SLAs). These tests will occur in the fall for Grade 3 in the areas of Language Arts and Math. The intention is that the results of this diagnostic testing and continuous assessment for learning would support teachers implementing the strategies needed for the student to be successful.
Charter bus students are not to switch buses for any reason or to invite “non-charter” students to ride with them. Parents are requested to contact the office whenever students aren’t taking the charter bus. This is for safety purposes.
In February 2015, the Alberta Government decided that the Grade 6 Provincial Achievement Tests (PAT’s) must go ahead in May and June in 2015 as well as 2016. Grade 6 students will be assessed in Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies.
BUS BEHAVIOUR EXPECTATIONS Students riding the bus must remember that they are accountable to the bus driver and through him/her to the principal of the school. Continued violation of any of the following rules may lead to the loss of riding privileges or to suspension from school.
showing consideration for the comfort and safety of others. Scuffling, fighting and the use of obscene language on the bus are prohibited. Students must not distract the bus driver with portable radios, musical instruments or unnecessarily loud conversation. Students causing wilful damage to a bus will be held fully accountable. Students may not eat or drink on the bus. When leaving the bus, students must observe the instructions of the bus driver. They should not cross the road without having a clear view in both directions. If a student has missed the bus, he/she should return to the school office to phone a parent to seek further direction.
Students in Grade 5 will participate in District Religion Assessment in May. This assessment includes project based assessment as well as a written component.
The driver is in full charge of the bus and his/her directions must be obeyed. The driver will report any misconduct to the principal of the school concerned, who will take appropriate action. The driver may assign specific seats to students at any time. While the bus is in motion, students must not extend arms or heads out of windows, try to get on or off the bus, or move about within it. Students must not throw paper or other waste materials on the floor or out of the windows of the bus. While on the bus students must conduct themselves in a quiet and courteous manner,
Students in Grade Four will write the Canadian Cognitive Ability Test (CCAT) by mid-November. School staff review (CCAT) results in conjunction with classroom assessments and observations to better understand the learning profile of each individual student.
REPORTING PROGRESS There will be an oral reporting conference held by appointment with parents in September. Following this, there will be two formal written Progress Reports coinciding with Parent/Teacher Conferences in 6
November and March. The fourth and final written Progress Report will be issued in June at year's end.
More information and instructions will be sent home prior to each conference session.
HOMEWORK SUCCESSFUL PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
“Homework is any task assigned by teachers that students complete during non-school hours.” (The Canadian Council on Learning: A Systematic Review of Literature Examining the Impact of Homework on Academic Achievement, 2009. P. 5)
The first reporting session will be an Oral Report. It is designed as an information sharing session. The following are guidelines that you can use in preparation for this Oral Report. Be as open as possible in discussing your child.
The Calgary Catholic School District recognizes meaningful, carefully planned homework can support student success and be a complementary part of a student’s overall learning program. The sections listed below are taken from the Calgary Catholic School District’s Homework Policy, which can be accessed in its entirety through: www.cssd.ab.ca.
PREPARE FOR THE MEETING Check with your child to see if there is anything he or she would like you to discuss with the teacher. Jot down your own questions. INFORMATION THAT YOU CAN SUPPLY
Types of homework: Practice – reviews & reinforces skills and concepts already taught. Completion – work assigned during the school day that is not completed in class. Enrichment – extends learning beyond curriculum expectations; through activities such as completing research related to a student’s interest. Project – when additional time outside of the school day is required to complete an extensive assignment.
How the child finds school Any health problems or special sensitivities (such as weight or speech difficulties) How the child behaves at home What the child's responsibilities are at home What discipline he/she seems to respond to best The child's favourite pastimes Problems that the child has and special areas where the child needs help Strengths that the child shows at home The child's future plans Any usual events or incidents that have occurred at home which may be contributing to a problem at school
Scheduling and Quantity Considerations: Designed & differentiated to meet students’ learning needs. Engages students. Links to work undertaken in class. Recognizes the importance of family time.
Formal Parent/Teacher Conferences are held after the 2nd and 3rd reporting periods. It is an essential and valuable opportunity to learn how to support your child. Here are some helpful suggestions to make both formal and informal conferences more meaningful to your child's success.
Time Guidelines: When using the guidelines listed below, it is important to keep in mind that the same homework assignment may require different amounts of time to complete, depending on each student’s abilities and skills.
ASK QUESTIONS
Kindergarten-Grade 3 (Division I) No formal homework, but 5-10 minutes of activity per school night with a focus on literacy, numeracy, language and learning tasks that occur in meaningful contexts; for example reading or discussion of experiences.
If you have any concerns, mention them. Now is the time to get all the facts about a school situation you may only know second-hand. INVOLVE YOUR CHILD Be sure to discuss the meeting with him or her. Stress the positive points the teacher made and discuss the teacher's suggestions for improvement.
Grades 4-6 (Division II) Formal assignments in various subject areas will not exceed 10-30 minutes per school night, with a continued focus on reading and meaningful review. It is important to recognize that teachers, students and parents have roles and responsibilities inherent
CONFERENCE SCHEDULING 7
to ensuring that homework is meaningful and carefully planned through its primary purpose to support student success. Homework suggestions:
sexual or any form of psychological harassment or abuse will not be tolerated. Parental involvement is a required component of serious corrective actions. When disciplinary action is necessary, the focus of the discipline is on the student’s actions and how that student will grow from the experience. Appropriate consequences for students who do not follow the Code of Conduct guidelines include the following progressive discipline process:
1. Help schedule a time to do homework. Show that homework is an important priority and that you value it. 2. If possible, provide a quiet corner for your child to work. 3. Help set up this area so that there is good lighting and appropriate materials to work with (pencils, a ruler, a dictionary). 4. Let your child work independently, but let him/her know that you are available to help. 5. Be aware that there is a difference between being a resource and consultant and hovering over a child with constant advice. 6. Be available to check work, if needed, and to check whether the assignment has been completed. 7. If possible, help your child see how this particular assignment or skill relates to everyday life and life skills. 8. Remember, nothing can help your child as much as a hug, a smile and a few words of approval. Be encouraging, positive and supportive. Your attitudes are contagious. 9. Sign the agenda to indicate homework is completed.
Informal discussion with appropriate staff member When a situation arises, the student will be asked to explain the event at hand. Staff members will also encourage the student to explain why the behaviour was wrong by using the Community of Caring values as a guide. Students will be asked to brainstorm possible solutions/alternatives for more appropriate behaviour. Conference with the staff member If the situation recurs, it is important to have the student explain the reasoning behind the behaviour and reflect. This may be done through writing so that it may allow a clearer picture of the situation and confirm the child is aware of his/her participation in the situation. Parents may be asked to sign the child’s written reflection and it is also important for the staff member to stress the seriousness of the situation and its impact on everyone: the individual, the class, the school, other students…etc. At this stage, it is made clear that more serious consequences will be in place for continued negative behaviours (e.g. lunch detention, missed recess, community service).
SCHOOL ACT Section 12 of the School Act, Province of Alberta outlines the following code of conduct for students: “A student shall conduct himself/herself so as to reasonably comply with the following code of conduct: a) be diligent in pursuing his studies; b) attend school regularly and punctually; c) co-operate fully with everyone authorized by the board to provide education programs and other services; d) comply with the rules of the school; e) account to his/her teachers for his/her conduct; f) respect the rights of others.”
Restriction of privileges If the situation persists, students are denied the opportunity to participate in recess or lunch and are assigned a detention or some form of community service. Depending on the circumstances of the situation, other preventative measures that involve school or district resources may be implemented. At this stage, staff members will consult with administration to discuss an appropriate course of action. Parents will be contacted and a Conduct Report form will then be sent home to document this behaviour.
PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE PLAN/ BEHAVIOUR EXPECTATIONS
Parent Conference For serious or repeated offences, a conference may be held with the student, parent, and teacher. During this conference, an agreement must be reached as to how the behaviour will be corrected. In addition to meeting with parents, consequences may also be given, which may include restriction of privileges as noted above. At this point the option of a behavioural referral may be explored.
The school’s primary goal is to educate, NOT TO DISCIPLINE. However, when the behaviour or action of an individual student comes into conflict with the rights of others or themselves, and when individual students refuse to comply with defined expectations, corrective actions are necessary for the benefit of that individual and for the benefit of the school as a whole. Pursuant to School Board Policy, physical, racial, 8
Cyberbullying: use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature
Behavioural Referral Students who continue to exhibit poor behaviour at school will be referred to our school district’s behaviour team to determine if they qualify for extra support such as personalized program or teacher aid time.
ST. DAMIEN SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT
Suspension Suspension from school is the final action available and occurs only after all else has failed or if a serious transgression occurs. Students will be given either an in-school suspension or an out-of-school suspension at the discretion of administration. The need for an expulsion can only be discussed between the principal and the area superintendent.
As members of our Catholic Community of Caring, we believe that the values of Caring, Respect, Responsibility, Trust, Family and Faith are the foundation on which responsible decisions and behaviours are based. This code of conduct applies to all members of our school community. As a teacher, I will… Come to class prepared to teach. Provide an environment conducive to learning. Help each child grow to his/her fullest potential. Provide meaningful and appropriate homework activities. Enforce school and classroom rules fairly and consistently. Maintain open lines of communication with students and his/her parents. Seek ways to involve parents in the school program. Demonstrate professional behaviour and a positive attitude. Show respect for each child and his/her family.
In accordance with School Board Policies and regulations, students may be suspended by the principal for the following reasons: open opposition to authority wilful disobedience habitual neglect of duty the use of improper or profane language other conduct injurious to the moral tone or wellbeing of the school (e.g. fighting). For an out-of-school suspension the student will be sent home for a period of time, not exceeding five days. Parents will be contacted in the event of a suspension. It is the responsibility of the parents to arrange supervision of their child when suspended out of school.
As a student, I will… Come to school regularly, on time and prepared to learn. Try my best at all times. Work cooperatively with my classmates. Show respect for myself and other people. Obey the school and bus rules. Take pride in my school. Come to school prepared with my homework and supplies. Believe that I can learn and will learn.
Although the intent is to always deal with poor student choices in a progressive manner, serious concerns may necessitate skipping some or all of the previous steps in order to facilitate a safe environment for others. Bullying occurs when: A person is the target, over time, of repeated negative actions One person has more power, so the person being victimized cannot defend him/herself A person, who is the target, may feel embarrassed, hurt, scared and/or angry
As a parent/guardian, I will… See that my child attends school regularly and on time. Provide a home environment that encourages my child to learn. Insist that all homework assignments are completed and returned on time. Communicate regularly with my child’s teachers. Support the school in developing positive behaviors.
Unacceptable bullying behaviours include the following: Physical Aggression: pushing, shoving hitting, spitting, punching, kicking, or threatening Verbal Aggression: mocking, taunting, use of inappropriate language, verbal threats of aggression Indirect/Psychological: gossiping or embarrassing someone, rumours, stealing, playing mean tricks, purposely excluding from group, witness bystander
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Talk with my child about his/her school activities every day. Encourage my child to learn at home. Show respect and support for my child, the teachers, school administrators and staff members.
BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS & SCOOTERS Students who ride bicycles to school do so at their own risk. These items need to be locked on the racks outside. Students should wear a helmet and have a bicycle lock for their own safety and security. Students are to walk their equipment on school property.
STUDENT DRESS AND APPEARANCE As a Catholic School District, the goal of our Dress and Appearance code is to provide a positive and safe learning environment that will reflect our virtues of decency, modesty and respect. Students’ dress and appearance shall be appropriate for educational activities and not cause a disruption to the educational process. Specifically, but not limited to: Emblems, printing/writing on shirts, jackets and headwear shall be in harmony with Catholic values and beliefs. Shorts and skirts shall be in good repair and of appropriate length. Appropriate footwear shall be worn at all time. Clothing, jewelry or accessories that create a safety or health concern, or cause, or threaten to cause disruption to the educational process are prohibited. Midriff shirts, halter tops, spaghetti straps and muscle shirts are prohibited. Heads should not be covered with anything (ie: ball caps, bandanas, handkerchiefs)
SAFETY POLICIES & PROCEDURES FIRE DRILLS, LOCKDOWNS & EVACUATIONS A fire drill is held each month and we have at least two lockdown practices per year to ensure awareness of emergency procedures. Teachers will make students aware of proper procedures so evacuation of the school becomes an orderly, panic-free exercise. DROPPING OFF AND PICKING UP STUDENTS Please drop off and pick up your student on the front street rather than in our tiny parking lot. Also, we have two busses dropping off and picking up students in front of the school. Please leave enough room for these busses and do not park on the crosswalks. Keeping children safe is ALL of our responsibility! SCHOOL ACCESS FOR STUDENTS For the safety and protection of students, all school doors will remain locked throughout the day while classes are in session. There is a new buzzer at the front doors. The boot room entrances will be opened at 8:00 am, at recess and during the lunch hour. If your child arrives late, he/she must enter through the front doors and check in at the office. While we recognize that these door closures might cause some inconvenience, we feel that the security benefits for your child are well worth it.
Students not complying with the Dress and Appearance Code will be asked to change into more appropriate attire. It will be viewed as defiant behaviour if the student repeatedly violates the Dress and Appearance Code. Consequences, as outlined in our school’s Progressive Discipline Plan shall range from a verbal reminder to a suspension from school.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION ATTIRE
SCHOOL VISITORS AND VOLUNTEERS Volunteers are an integral part of the school community and we appreciate your time! Those people visiting the school or volunteering must sign in at the office and receive a visitor tag. This tag is to be worn until the visitor/volunteer signs out at the end of his/her stay. This is to ensure everyone’s safety. All volunteers must have a Volunteer Orientation and are requested to kindly follow these guidelines: Stop at the main office to sign in and put on a volunteer tag. Respect your child's freedom while volunteering. Refrain from discussing students and their problems outside the school environment. Confidentiality is essential.
For safety, hygiene and appearance reasons, proper physical education attire is compulsory for all students in Grades 4, 5 and 6.
FOOTWEAR Students are expected to have a pair of runners for school indoor use only. This contributes greatly to the cleanliness of our school and safety during physical education classes.
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A monthly newsletter will be distributed, either by email or in hard copy, to all families of St. Damien School at the beginning of each month. Parent-Teacher Interviews will be regularly scheduled. We encourage parents who have computers to use Conference Manager on the school’s website to book a time. Otherwise, please call the school to book and appointment.
Make child care arrangements for your younger children while you are in the school. Abide by the School District's no smoking policy. Parents seeking meetings with teachers; however short in length, are to phone ahead or email to request an appointment.
PLAYGROUND SAFETY
Parents are encouraged to contact the school regarding any item of concern. If parents wish to speak with a teacher, they are asked to contact the teacher through the agenda, by telephone or email.
Following are a number of safety guidelines the District has outlined for elementary playgrounds: GENERAL RULES 1. No pushing. 2. No running on playground equipment or when conditions are unsafe. 3. Take turns and be polite. 4. No fighting or physical contact. 5. If someone is injured, report this to the playground supervisor immediately. *DO NOT MOVE THIS PERSON. 6. No throwing of stones, sticks, snowballs or other objects that may cause injury. 7. No chewing gum or eating food during active play (choking hazard). 8. Follow safety directions given from supervising staff. 9. Do not carry toys, skipping ropes, etc. while playing on playground structures.
PAYMENT OF SCHOOL FEES In September, a Fee Schedule will be distributed to all students. Included will be fees for such things as resource materials, presentations, and celebrations. Parents are requested to pay all school fees either on-line, or cash or cheque made payable to: St. Damien School.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Teachers will send home grade-specific, individual supply lists that will also be posted on our website. Please use the list when purchasing supplies. Students are provided with textbooks on a loan basis. We ask all students to refrain from writing in the textbooks or damaging them. Parents must pay for any lost or damaged books.
LUNCHROOM EXPECTATIONS
INTERNET USE
Students must abide by the following lunch hour rules: 1. Students must remain seated. 2. All garbage and recycling must be discarded properly. 3. Noise must be kept to a reasonable level. 4. We have a reverse lunch; students play outside and eat their lunches afterwards. 5. Students are expected to place their lunches in their classroom bin that will be transported to the gym. 6. Students are expected to remain on school property for the duration of lunch hour.
All students and staff are required by the Calgary Catholic School District to sign and follow the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) before gaining computer access. This form is available in the opening day start-up package.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES It is recommended that students refrain from bringing personally owned devices (POD’s) such as i-pods, tablets, etc. to school. If students choose to bring their POD’s to school to assist in their learning, it is the student’s responsibility to take care of it and keep it safe. Cell phone use in school is prohibited. Although cell phones are an effective tool in monitoring child safety, they are not allowed out of a student’s backpack during school hours unless specifically instructed by the teacher.
SCHOOL AGENDAS Every student in Grades 1 - 6 will be provided with an agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to facilitate communication. Please check and sign your child’s agenda nightly.
COMMUNICATION
SCHOOL INTERNET ACCESS 11
to join and carry their commitment throughout the school year. Listen to our daily school announcements and read the school newsletters for opportunities to participate in activities that you are passionate about.
Username: ______________________________ Password: ______________________________
LOST AND FOUND SCHOOL COUNCIL
Sweaters, jackets, school bags, lunch kits and other items may be claimed from the lost and found box located outside of the Division 1 portables. The contents of the lost and found box will be on display at various times throughout the year. It really helps if you can put your child’s name on their clothing, backpacks and lunch kits.
Each year, we invite parents to join our School Council meetings. School Council includes parents, teachers and administration. The main purpose of the council is to provide support for the school’s goals. Parents are invited to actively participate in the activities of the School Council. They serve as an advisor to the Principal and the school.
FIELD TRIPS
FUNDRAISING
We believe field trips are an amazing opportunity to enrich and extend curriculum. It is our hope that every student participates in field trips. If your child is unable to attend, please communicate this to the teacher.
The School Council of School Staff plans and executes fundraising activities to promote community and raise funds to enhance programs at St. Damien. Your participation in encouraged and very much appreciated.
SCHOOL CLUBS A variety of Student Leadership Clubs will be offered throughout the course of the school year. Some clubs revolve around specific seasons. Examples of clubs offered may include: Art Club, Games Club, Computer Club, etc. Club opportunities will vary from year-to-year and students are encouraged to participate in as many clubs as possible. These opportunities contribute greatly to the very fabric of our school community.
ASSEMBLIES AND LITURGIES Assemblies will be held on a regular basis. They provide an opportunity to bring our school community together to pray, view presentations, ask questions, share information and celebrate achievements of students. In addition, assemblies help us further build upon the family atmosphere, which is a valued characteristic at St. Damien School.
Notice to Parent or Guardian: Student Groups & Human Sexuality Topics
School Liturgies will be celebrated at various times throughout the year. Liturgies are led by the students and will be celebrated for our School Opening, Thanksgiving, Remembrance Day, Advent, Ash Wednesday, Lent, a Marian liturgy and Year End celebration. Parents are invited to attend our liturgies. Details are provided in our newsletter.
Over the year, our school may establish a student group, which engages in discussion and activities related to diversity and justice issues, including support for students belonging to sexual minorities. In particular, within our Religious Education and Family Life Catholic Community of Caring program, students may provide leadership and receive support to continue to build inclusive communities, aligned with our Catholic social teachings. If you wish further information, please contact the principal. ** Added September 2015.
PRAYER TO ST. DAMIEN Oh St. Damien, enlightened by the Holy Spirit and moved by the sorrows of the poor, you dedicated yourself tirelessly to the service of the lepers and became one like them. In doing so, you enhanced their God-given dignity to the last minutes of your priestly life, regardless of many trials and sufferings. Since then, your name has become a great inspiration for countless people throughout the world. We, touched by your self-sacrifice, beseech you to help us follow your footsteps in sharing our time, energy, talents and other God-endowed gifts with our brothers and sisters in the Lord. Now you have been
STUDENT LEADERSHIP Student Leadership provides an opportunity for students to share their gifts and talents in a way that supports our school community. Students are invited 12
glorified with Jesus Christ in the Heavenly Kingdom. We ask you to continue interceding for us before our loving and caring God, that we may have the gift of faith in Him, the humility and the courage to bring love and healing to our poor brothers and sisters in the world. Amen
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ST. DAMIEN SCHOOL 2015 – 2016 CALENDAR * Dates occasionally change due to special circumstances. Please refer to the monthly newsletter or the school website to confirm event dates.
Date
Event
Thurs., August 27 Fri., August 28 Mon., August 31 Tues., September 1 Mon., September 7 Thurs., September 17 Fri., September 18 Mon., September 21 Fri., October 9 Mon., October 12 Mon., November 2 Wed., November 11 Thurs., November 26 Fri., November 27 Mon., November 30 Fri., December 18 Mon., January 4 Fri., January 22 Wed., February 10 Thurs., February 11 Fri., February 12 Mon., February 15 Tues., February 16 Thurs., March 17 Fri., March 18 Thurs., March 24 Fri., March 25 Mon., March 27 Mon., April 4 Mon., April 25 Fri., May 20 Mon., May 23 Tues., June 28 Wed., June 29
Teacher Organization (am) / District Mass (pm) Teacher Organization Day Teacher Organization Day First Day of Classes Labour Day Meet the Teacher (Evening) Oral Report – Parent Teacher Meetings Professional Development Day Professional Development Day Thanksgiving Day Faith Day Remembrance Day Parent Teacher Conferences (Evening) Parent Teacher Conferences Professional Development Day Christmas Break Dismissal at 11:30 Classes resume Professional Development Day Ash Wednesday Teachers’ Convention Teachers’ Convention Family Day Professional Development Day Parent Teacher Conferences (Evening) Parent Teacher Conferences Easter Break Dismissal at 11:30 Good Friday Easter Sunday Classes resume Professional Development Day Professional Development Day Victoria Day Last full day of classes Teacher Organization (a.m. only)
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