Click on a link below to go directly to that section of the handbook:
GUIDELINES FOR ADMISSION
The opportunity to attend Precious Blood Catholic School is to be
extended first to Catholic students who are members of a family
registered and supportive of the parish (A supporting family is defined
as an active, contributing member of the parish). The prime objective
of this parish school is to assure a Catholic education for Catholic
children of the area and for non-Catholic students whose parents desire
the influences of a Catholic education. Precious Blood maintains a
policy of limiting non-Catholic enrollment. Precious Blood makes every
effort to limit the class size to 25 students.
New students are admitted in the following order:
A. Families having children in the school (including
Kindergarten) the previous year
B. Catholic children applying for admission
C. Non-Catholic students applying for admission
The admission process includes the following:
The admission committee will make the final decision on the admittance of all students. The date of application will be considered in the case of enrollment capacity being reached. Separate waiting list for Catholic and non-Catholic students will be maintained where necessary.
In no case will a family be excluded from the school in order to make room for new students from the parish. However, continued non-support or non-payment of school fees and assessments will make a family liable for dismissal from the school, except in hardship cases, which are given special consideration by the pastor.
KINDERGARTEN AND FIRST GRADE
Precious Blood Catholic School uses the state regulations in requiring
that all kindergarten students be five years old on or before September
30. All first grade students must be six years old on or before
September 30. Early admission through testing may be permitted at the
discretion of the principal.
FAITH COMMITMENTS
Precious Blood families are expected to act always in ways that display
the virtues of Faith, Hope, and Charity. This includes, but is not
limited to, attending mass at least once a week (non-Catholic students
are expected to attend their church services weekly also), supporting
the parish through tithing and volunteering, engaging in community
service projects as provided by the school, and acting charitably
towards faculty, staff, and other families.
TUITION
Parents are responsible for the timely payment of tuition. There are
three methods of tuition payment as described on the Tuition Calculation
Sheet provided by the Parish Business Office. There are some financial
aid opportunities for parents. The parish business office will publish
pertinent information. The appropriate application sheets must be
completed to be considered for financial assistance. The parish staff,
as directed by the pastor, determines the total amount and distribution
of aid.
LATE OR DELAYED PAYMENTS
Parents should keep current with tuition payments. Failure to keep
current with tuition payments will result in your child being excluded
from school and/or the report card being withheld at the end of the
year. In order to register for a new school year, all past year
balances must be paid. Students who leave or transfer from the school
will not have any academic records sent until all past balances are
paid in full.
MISSING CHILDREN LAW/CHILD CUSTODY
According to Ohio State Law, Section 3313.672, a pupil at the time of
his/her initial entry to a public or non-public school shall present to
the person in charge of admission a copy of the original certificate of
the child's birth certificate and copies of those records maintained by
the school that the child most recently attended. If copies of the
items mentioned above are not presented, the principal of the school
will notify the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction in the area.
Where applicable, parents are required to provide the school with the
custody section of any divorce decree.
RECORDS
Access to Precious Blood students’ records must be limited to authorized
school personnel presently working with the student. Parents and
students over 18 years of age have the right of access to their
records. Prior to release of these records, a form must be signed by
the parent or student over 18 years of age. Records must be released
within a reasonable time. A fee may be charged for the reproduction
costs incurred by the school.
NEW STUDENTS
Parents of students entering the school for the first time may be
required to sign an initial agreement, which gives the student nine
weeks to adjust to the school. After nine weeks, the principal,
teachers, parents and student will assess the progress made and/or any
additional help, which may be needed. This applies to students in
grades 1 - 8. The school must be given access to previous school
records and psychological information when applicable.
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY
The parish school of Precious Blood admits students of any sex, race,
color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, and
activities generally accorded or made available to students at the
parish school. It does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race,
color, or national origin in administration of educational policies,
athletic, and other school-administrated programs and in hiring
teachers. Precious Blood School will make every possible effort to
educate students with special needs.
STUDENT IMAGES
Pictures and video representations of students may be acquired
throughout the school year for use in various public relations material.
Families agree to allow use of student images unless specified in
writing prior to publication of material. Student full names will
typically not be posted on the school web site without parental
permission.
EXTENDED LEARNING PROGRAM/KINDERGARTEN CARE
Precious Blood offers a morning and an after-school monitoring program
for students of the school in grades kindergarten through eighth.
Extended Learning opens at 6:30 A.M. for those parents who need to get
to work at an early hour and closes at 6:00 P.M. For information
parents may contact Mrs. Cindy Bernsten at (937) 277-2291.
PRESCHOOL
Precious Blood operates a preschool and early learning center for
children 3 and 4 years old. Additional before and after school care is
available for families of the preschool. For information parents
should contact Mrs. Joan Amos, Preschool Director at (937) 854-7173.
One of the primary goals of Precious Blood School is the pursuit of academic excellence. Teachers work towards helping students form good study habits, tapping each student's potential so that each one enjoys a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. All of this is done is a loving, caring, Christian environment
Curriculum is based on the Graded Courses of Study, which includes all major subject areas as well as religion, art, music, and physical education. Computers are incorporated on all grade levels in a variety of subjects.
The course of study offered to your children has been approved by the state of Ohio through the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Precious Blood Catholic School is state certified, and faculty members are qualified to teach in their specific academic areas.
The Archdiocese of Cincinnati establishes our religious curriculum. The Dayton Catholic Schools Office works directly with the school to assure that the religious standards follow the doctrine of the Catholic Church. Non-Catholic students are expected to participate in the religious programs.
In September/October, students in grades 2, 4, 6 and 8 take the standardized Terra Nova tests. Parents receive a copy of the Terra Nova scores of their children.
GENERAL GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES
Homework grows out of class work and builds responsibility. It is
reinforcement of what a child learns during classroom time and, neatly
completed, helps a child develop a sense of responsibility toward
completing tasks. Parents are encouraged to show an interest in their
child's work. Be advised that parents/guardians of students in grades
5-8 should check the homework card attached to the student’s planner.
If homework is not turned in on time, points will be deducted from the
grade for that assignment. Homework requests must be made
through the school office by 10:00 A.M.
ASSIGNMENT CARD
Parents are able to see if their student is turning work in on time by
checking the white assignment card which is stapled on the inside of the
student’s planner. (Grades 4-8) When an assignment is missing, the
teacher will write down the date, the missing work, and initial the
card. Parents should check the assignment card daily to see that their
student is keeping up with assignments. By using this system, we are
trying to keep you immediately informed of missing homework.
Parents/guardians of students in grades 1-4 should review the homework policies with individual teachers.
Homework is not to be excessive, nor should it be used as a punishment. Teachers shall try to coordinate assignments so as not to have excessive amounts on any particular evening.
The following is a guideline for the amount of time students should
spend each evening on homework:
PRIMARY (grades 1 - 3)
1/2 hour
INTERMEDIATE (grades 4 - 5) 45 minutes
JUNIOR HIGH (grades 6 - 8) 1-3 hours -- be sure the student takes
short breaks during this
time.
Report cards are distributed after each quarter ends. Interim reports or mid-term reports are distributed to each parent of students in grades 4-8. Parents/Guardians of students in grades 1-3 should review grade update procedures with individual teachers. Report cards, interim reports and primary packets are all indicators of a child's strengths and/or weaknesses in school and should be read carefully. Please sign the reports and return them to the teacher with one week.
GRADES 1 - 3
S--Strong progress
P--Satisfactory progress
N--Needs time/experience/improvement
U--Unsatisfactory Progress
GRADES 4 - 8
A--93 – 100 4 Honor Points
B--85 – 92 3 Honor Points
C--77 – 84 2 Honor Points
D--70 – 76 1 Honor Point
F--Below 70 0 Honor Points
(Teachers may assign a + or – to a grade to give an indication of the
student progress.
EFFORT
G--Good
S--Satisfactory
N--Needs improvement
EXPLANATION FOR SPECIFIC MARKINGS
INC--Incomplete or insufficient amount of work to determine a grade.
Work must be completed with two weeks after the report card is
distributed or the "INC" becomes a failing grade.
N/A--Not applicable
*--Indicates student working on an adjusted work level. Parents will be notified if this is necessary.
KINDERGARTEN
Kindergarten students receive report cards at the end of each semester
and have grades that are explained on the card.
HONOR ROLL
Precious Blood School has an honor roll. The criteria for achieving
honors are as follows:
(SUM OF ALL HONOR POINTS)/(NUMBER OF CLASSES)
DISTINGUISED SCHOLAR 4.0
FIRST HONORS 3.6 OR BETTER
SECOND HONORS 3.0 OR BETTER
Students failing two subjects for the year may be required to attend summer school or tutoring only after conferencing with the parents/guardians, teachers, school psychologist, and the principal. The administration of the school reserves the right to deny admission to any student for unacceptable academic progress made in the previous year. Students may be placed on ACADEMIC PROBATION throughout the year and may be asked to withdraw from school for failing to make acceptable academic progress as determined by the school.
Under the guidelines set down by the State of Ohio, no child is to be excused from attending school unless there is a death in the family, the student is ill, exposed to a contagious disease, or upon parental request, excused for a limited amount of time for a medical examination, an emergency, or an educational trip which enhances the educational or cultural growth of that child.
ABSENCE PROCEDURE
If it is necessary for your child to be absent from school, please
follow these procedures:
1. On the first day, call the school office before 9:00 A.M. or send
a note with another child, giving the reason for absence. If a note is
sent, it should be turned in to the office.
2. If the nature of the illness is such that it will necessitate
several days of absence, you need only call on the first day.
3. After 3 consecutive days sick, a student must have a written
note from the doctor. This note should include the child's name, date
of absence, reason for absence, and signature of the parent. The
homeroom teacher keeps these written notes on file.
4. When appointments during the school day are necessary, a parent must sign the child out and back in at the office.
5. Any pupil who is unexcused absent more than 5 times in a quarter will be reported to the Montgomery County Juvenile Court Truancy Program. The parent will be sent a letter from the school first to serve as a warning before being reported to the court truancy program.
Excessive absences may prevent student promotion. A family conference may be necessary for students with excessive absences.
PARTIAL-DAY ABSENCES
1. Parents must sign in and pick up their child at the office if
leaving during the school day. No child will be released directly from
a classroom. The child will be released from the office to a parent or
person designated by the parent.
2. Please try to make doctors' and dentists' appointments before or
after school.
3. If your child becomes ill during the school day, you (or a person
you have listed on the emergency form) will be notified, and your child
will wait in the clinic or the school office.
4. Children are considered absent one-half day when coming to school
after 10:00 A.M. or missing two hours in a school day.
TARDINESS
When students arrive at school on time, they derive maximum benefit from
instruction, as well as developing self-discipline, responsibility, and
punctuality.
A student is tardy if he/she is not present in homeroom when the 7:55 bell rings.
1. An excused tardy is given for doctors’ appointments, late buses, inclement weather conditions, or other conditions as decided by the school administration. All other tardiness is unexcused.
2. For every 4 unexcused tardies, the student will be recorded as one day unexcused absent.
3. Students arriving after 10:00 AM will be recorded as a half day unexcused absent. After 9:00 AM, parents are required to sign their child in at the office.
4. Students who are dismissed earlier than 1:00 PM will be recorded as a half day absent.
5. Any student who accumulates 15 or more unexcused tardies will be reported to the Montgomery County Truant Officer.
IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT THAT STUDENTS ARE ON TIME FOR SCHOOL!
TRUANCY
The school is obliged to contact the Montgomery County Truant Officer if
unexcused absences or tardies are excessive.
VACATIONS DURING SCHOOL YEAR
Parents are advised to think seriously before taking children out of
school for a family vacation. Notify the teacher for such
cases two weeks in advance. Students on academic probation should
definitely not be put at risk of losing instruction time due to family
vacations.
BUS RIDERS
l. Our children are transported to and from school by several different
public school districts. The location of your home determines which bus
picks up your child. The school sends a list of students to the public
school whose busing director arranges the routes. Bus routes are posted
by the school secretary in the school lobby before the beginning of the
school year.
2. Student misbehavior on the bus will be handled by the principal and the bus driver. Parents will be notified as to the misconduct. Students who receive three written disciplinary notices will be suspended from bus privileges for one to three days, depending on the severity of the behavior. Repeated misconduct on the bus will result in loss of bus privileges. The first two written disciplinarian notices are subject to discipline/notice.
3. Students may ride only assigned buses. Children not assigned to a bus are not permitted to ride home with friends who ride a bus from another district. Approval to change buses comes from the Transportation Department of your district and not from Precious Blood School.
4. Students who are changing their normal routine regarding buses, walking, or car riding must have a note from their parents explaining the change in routine. This note must be signed by the secretary and given to the person involved in the routine change.
5. For information concerning the transportation of your child, please call the public school district which serves your child.
CAR RIDERS
l. Parents should bring students to the front of the school for morning
arrival. Drop students off directly in front of the main school doors.
Parents may park and escort students to the sidewalk. Do not
allow your student to cut through traffic unattended.
2. Car riders should not be brought to school before 7:45 A.M. Students arriving at school by car before 7:45 AM must be dropped off at the Extended Learning entrance under the underpass. Students arriving at Extended Learning prior to 7:45 AM will be billed for the time they are in the care of Extended Learning.
3. Car riders are to be picked up for dismissal at the underpass at 2:55 P.M. Safety demands orderly dismissal. Please use caution through the underpass. School faculty members will monitor the children's dismissal.
CHILDREN SHOULD NOT BE PICKED UP FROM THE LOBBY AT DISMISSAL TIME.
4. For early dismissals, parents should park their cars in the front parking lot and come to the office to pick up students. The school secretary will call the student from the classroom. DO NOT DRIVE TO THE BACK OF THE SCHOOL AND ONTO THE PLAYGROUND. It is best to call the school secretary so that your child can be informed of the early dismissal or send a note.
5. We do not recommend that children ride their bicycles or walk to school.
Parents who drive their children to school are to drop them off by the curb at the front door of the school. Should it be necessary to park and unload bulky items (band instruments, science fair projects, etc.), parents should escort their children through the parking lot to the sidewalk. School doors open at 7:45 A.M. Students arriving by car before this time must be dropped off at the Extended Learning Program, and parents will then be billed for this service. School buses unload in the rear parking lot, and students enter the building through the rear cafeteria door.
Parents who pick up their children are to enter the rear parking lot via Salem Ave. and form two traffic lines at the school underpass. At 2:55 P.M., faculty members will dismiss students as their parents’ or authorized driver’s car pulls into the underpass area. Exit through the front parking lot via Denlinger Road. As the last car leaves the underpass, students who have not been picked up will be escorted to the Extended Learning Program to wait. Students who have not been picked up by 3:10 P.M. will be sent to the Extended Learning Program, and parents will be billed for this service. School buses board at 2:55 P.M. in the rear parking lot.
School Lunch Program
The purpose of the school lunch and breakfast program is to provide your
child with a nutritious and well- balanced meal each day at minimum
costs. Our school offers meals that have been planned to meet at least
two-thirds of a child’s nutritional needs. Every effort is made to
provide reasonable choices and still meet the constraints of budget and
acceptability. We would like to encourage your child to select these
balanced meals. If a student plans to eat from the school cafeteria
menu and has a food allergy, the cafeteria staff should be informed in
writing at the beginning of the school year. We would also like to meet
that child and have a recent photo. Monthly lunch menus are sent home
with the students and are now posted on the website.
Lunch & Breakfast Options
When your child does purchase a lunch, he has the option known as offer
versus serve, a strategy that is intended to reduce plate waste.
Students have the option of choosing at least 3 of the 5 meal
components. The 5 components are a serving of meat,
fruit/vegetable choices, a bread or grain serving, and milk. We
would prefer students to select all 5 components since each provides
specific nutrients important to health and growth. Students have a
choice of the main entree each day. (Please see monthly menu).
Ala-carte items are also available.
Breakfast is offered every day. The breakfast menu is posted on the lunch menu. This is ordered the previous day. Children who have ordered a breakfast will be charged from their accounts, unless absent.
Lunch Payment Information
The cafeteria has a computerized debit system that will keep track of
every student who comes through the lunch line for the school lunch and
breakfast. The system uses a student ID number (PIN number) that stays
with the student throughout the school years. Each student will have
his or her own account, regardless of free, reduced, or paid status.
The system will only work for the students if they pre-pay money into
their accounts. All checks/cash should be sent to school with the
child’s name and pin number on the front. Credit card payments may be
made only on the school web site for student accounts. Any money that is
left at the end of the school year will be transferred to the following
year. If your child forgets his lunch money or fails to bring in a
packed lunch, he/she may charge a lunch for that day. All charges are
to be paid the following day. If the charge has not been paid, the
student’s parents will receive a letter stating the amount their child
owes. If the charge has not been paid after 3 notices have been sent
home, the charges will then be sent to the principal for collection.
Students will only be permitted to charge three lunches. After the
student has charged three lunches, he/she will no longer be able to
charge and will receive a peanut butter sandwich.
Forgotten or special lunches must be brought to the school office before the scheduled lunchtime for your child. Please have the child’s name and homeroom on the lunch. Do not take lunches directly to the classroom.
Free and Reduced lunches are available to families who qualify. Applications are sent home to each family at the beginning of the school year. If an application is needed, contact Linda Gibson in the Cafeteria at 293-8217, ext. 285.
Nutrition Advisory Council
The Nutrition Advisory Council (NAC) is made up of currently 5-8th grade
students. They provide an opportunity for students to learn about
nutrition and health. It also involves students in making the
school food service program more responsive to their needs. The
students serve as a communication bridge between students,
administrators, school food service personnel, faculty, and community.
Cafeteria Behavioral Expectations
Students are expected to act with appropriate manners at all times in
the cafeteria. Students should follow all directions of the
cafeteria staff in a timely and respectful manner. Cleaning up of
personal space as well as surrounding areas is the responsibility of
each student.
Wellness Policy
A Wellness Policy was implemented for nutrition education, physical
education, and nutrition guidelines for all foods sold on campus, not
just in the cafeteria.
Parents who wish to have lunch at school with their children need to notify the office 24 hours in advance.
CONFERENCES
Formal conferences are held in first and third quarters. Parents
and/or teachers may request conferences at other times throughout the
year.
Teachers may be reached by email or telephone. Email addresses are posted on the school website .If you wish to set up a phone conference with a teacher, please call the school office, and the secretary will leave a message for the teacher to call you. Please indicate a time that would be best for you. The school office is open from 7:30 A.M. through 3:45 P.M.
Parents should not expect teachers to have a conference during morning or afternoon homeroom periods or during the school day without making an appointment.
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER/FAMILY ENVELOPE
Tiger Times is the school's monthly newsletter and is sent home
with students during the first week of each month in a brown envelope,
which is to be signed and returned to your child’s homeroom
teacher the following school day. This newsletter acts as
a major source of information for parents.
TELEPHONE USE
Students are not permitted to use the telephone during the day, except
in emergencies. Parents should give messages for their children
through the school secretary to keep from interrupting classes.
School business hours are between 7:30 A.M. through 3:45 P.M. If
you wish to speak to a faculty member, please leave your name and
number, and the school secretary will place your message in the faculty
member's mail slot.
Students will not be permitted to call home for non-emergency items (i e. books, assignments, lunches, PE clothes). Any other calls will be permitted only at the discretion of the school.
Cell phone use by students is not permitted during school hours or during Extended Learning. (PB will not be responsible for lost, broken, or stolen cell phones.) Any cell phone being used during prohibited time will be confiscated and require parent to pick up phone in the school office.
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
Precious Blood School will close/keep open regardless of what Trotwood,
Northmont, and/or Dayton decide to do. This will allow the
principal to make the decision earlier so as not to risk the safety of
our students. Please look and listen for Precious Blood on TV and radio
stations if our school is open or closed. Listen to WHIO-TV (Channel 7)
or WDTN-TV (Channel 2) for school closing information. If any school
district has an early dismissal, Precious Blood School students who use
that transportation will be dismissed. Please talk with your
child/children about a plan for these situations for any early
dismissals.
Parents and other visitors are required to register in the school office and wear a school visitor pass. Do not go to any classroom without permission from the school office. This regulation is meant to keep "unwanted" visitors out of the school and is in accordance with Section 2917.211 of the Ohio Revised Code, and this applies to all visitors. If visiting a classroom, please observe the following considerations: Please make an appointment a heard of time with the teacher before visiting the classroom. This is not the time to have a discussion with your child or with the teacher. Please wait until after school to talk with the teacher or make an appointment.
The school strives to educate children in practicing virtues that create habits that ultimately lead to self-mastery in accordance with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Students are always expected to be respectful, courteous, and act in ways that ensure the dignity of every member of the community as human persons.
Parents will be informed when a certain problem needs attention. Your cooperation is vital to effective discipline. If you do not understand measures used with regard to your children, please contact the teacher involved. If, after discussing the situation with the teacher, you feel that further action is necessary, contact the principal. Students are expected to follow classroom and playground policies and procedures for each teacher.
GENERAL BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS:
Christian language and behavior are expected.
Students must respect the adult on supervision whether that person is a
regular teacher or a volunteer.
Personal music devices, electronic games, or other expensive toys are
not permitted in the school.
Behaviors found not in accordance with the expectation of students at
Precious Blood or determined not to be appropriate may result in the
following:
DISCIPLINE CARD
The discipline card, which is stapled to the inside cover of the
student’s planner, is marked by the teacher when a student’s conduct
warrants a checkmark, either for a classroom rule or a school rule.
Every three checks on the card will result in a detention; however, some
behavior may require an immediate detention. Students can also earn
plusses on their discipline card for positive and responsible behavior.
We believe it is essential to recognize positive and responsible
behavior as well as monitoring and correcting negative conduct. Please
know that a lost card will result in a detention. This
policy is needed to deter students from purposely discarding their
discipline card. This card is in effect in grades 5-8 and may be used
in grades 3-5 if so desired by homeroom teacher.
If a student receives three detentions, parents will be notified for a mandatory conference.
PRIMARY (K, 1, 2, 3)
Primary students are not ordinarily involved in detentions; however,
detentions can be given. Primary students lose their snack recess and
spend that time in the “quiet room” for misbehavior, not completing
assignments, or not doing homework assignments. Parents are notified if
this becomes a frequent occurrence for a child.
PROCEDURES REGARDING DETENTIONS:
1. Notice to parents in the form of a conduct report will be sent home
and/or mailed to the parents. 2. Conduct reports must be signed by (a)
the teacher, (b) the student, and (c) the parent. As a matter of record
and proof of receipt of notification, the student must return the
form signed by the parent within two days.
3. The time and date of the detention will be written on the conduct
report under the heading, “Action Taken.”
4. Detention is held once a week on Tuesdays from 2:55 to 4:00 P.M..
5. Parents must pick up their child promptly at 4:00 P.M. Otherwise,
the student is sent to our Extended Learning Program, and the parents
will be billed accordingly.
SUSPENSION PROCEDURES:
1. Administered only by the principal or the assistant principal.
2. Child is given an explanation of the reason for the suspension.
3. Child is given a chance to explain his/her side of the story.
4. Parents are given an explanation of the reason for suspension.
5. Suspension will last no longer than ten days.
6. Child is responsible for all work missed.
7. Child will not be permitted on parish grounds, except for religious
services.
8. Suspended child may not participate in any related school activity,
including after school extra-curriculars, until he/she returns to
school.
EXPULSION PROCEDURES:
1. The decision of the principal is final and binding.
2. Child is given an explanation of the reasons for the expulsion.
3. Child is given a chance to explain his/her side of the story.
4. Parents are given an explanation of the reasons for expulsion.
5. Child must remove all personal belongings and leave the premises
immediately with his/her parents.
6. Child will not be permitted on parish grounds, except for religious
services.
The seriousness or frequency of the action will determine the consequence. Typically, actions of disrespect or repeated minor inappropriate actions will result in detentions. More serious infractions such as fighting, cheating, bullying, or harassment of any kind may result in parent conferences and/or suspensions. The determination of the consequence for actions always rest with the staff and with the principal.
Actions that threaten, possession of anything commonly considered a weapon, possession or use of tobacco, alcohol or any controlled substance, dishonesty or any sacrilegious behavior are all cause for immediate Out-of-School Suspension or Expulsion.
Faculty and staff reserve the right to determine if actions are inappropriate to determine punishment. The principal also reserves the final determination in the application of discipline not stated in the handbook.
Attending Precious Blood Catholic School and participating in any or all related or sponsored activities is a privilege that can be revoked by either the principal or the pastor.
Student behavior outside of school that harms the school in any way may result in student suspension or withdrawal. Students with pending legal cases may be prevented from attending school.
THE SCHOOL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO AMEND THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES OUTLINED IN THIS HANDBOOK. NOTIFICATION OF CHANGES WILL BE GIVEN TO PARENTS.
Field trips for students are educational tours, which enhance the curriculum either as an introduction, maintenance, or culmination of a unit of study. Advance notice of field trips, mode of transportation and cost, if any, will be sent home to the parents.
A written permission slip will be sent home for each individual field trip. This slip must be signed by the parents and returned. All field trips are supervised by teachers and/or parent chaperones.
If the student is not permitted to participate in the field trip, he/she is still required to be at school on time for that day. Assignments for work and supervision will be made by the teacher.
All school sponsored extra-curricular activities will abide by school policies.
ILLNESS AT SCHOOL
If a student becomes ill during the school day (develops a fever or is
vomiting), parents will be contacted. Arrangements will need to be made
to pick up your child and take him/her home or to the doctor. School is
not the place for sick children. Students who have a fever should not
be sent to school until the fever has subsided for 24 hours, without the
aid of fever reducing medications.
It is important for us to know where we can contact parents or someone delegated to act "in loco parentis" (in the parents' place). The information parents give to us via the emergency cards and emergency medical forms will be followed.
Please make sure that any person who is coming to pick up your child has been identified. No student will be permitted to leave unless we know who is calling for the child.
The following students should not be sent to school:
1. Students with a temperature of 100 degrees or more in the last
24 hours.
2. Students with diarrhea or a vomiting incident in the previous
24 hours.
3. Students with an undetermined rash.
4. Students with a severe cough or cold symptoms.
5. Students with head lice or pink eye.
IMMUNIZATION
In accordance with the Ohio revised code section 3313.671, Precious
Blood School requires all students to be properly immunized in order to
enter school, stay in school, or progress to the next grade level.
Students will be excluded after day fourteen of the new school year if
the school does not have proper documentation of the required
immunizations. Exceptions related to medical concerns can be made after
discussion of the child’s condition with the physician, principal, and
school nurse. Immunization can be obtained at your family physicians
office, or at the county health department. Once your child has been
immunized, please provide the school with a copy of the original or an
immunization record that provides the dates and is verified by a
physician or nurse. This will be placed in the child’s health folder.
The principal or school nurse will contact you if there is a problem
with your child’s record.
HEALTH PHYSICAL
It is strongly recommended to schedule a complete physical for your
child prior to school. This is to ensure the overall health care
of your child and to identify any possible health concerns.
HEALTH SERVICES
Under the Ohio Revised Code 3313.672, “prior to the first day of
November of the school year in which a pupil is enrolled for the first
time in either kindergarten or first grade, the pupil shall be screened
for hearing, vision, speech, communications, and health or medical
problems and for any development disorders.” Health or medical
problems are identified by your or your physician when completing the
School Health History Form. If a medical concern is identified,
the school nurse will contact you in order to address possible medical
needs to enhance the child’s education. A letter will be sent out
each year regarding kindergarten screenings.
After reading the following screening requirements (hearing, vision, scoliosis, heights/weights), if there is any reason why these tests should not be done, please provide the school with a written statement. If you choose to take your child elsewhere for the following screenings, please provide the school with the results from the physician’s office.
HEARING SCREENING
Hearing Screening is performed in grades kindergarten, first, third,
fifth, all new students, those referred by a teacher, specialist, or
parent, those who failed a hearing screening within the past year, those
absent during previous hearing screenings, and those at risk for noise
exposure.
Hearing screening will be performed using an audiometer. Any student who fails will be re-screened four to six weeks later. If the child fails two screenings, four to six weeks apart, a referral letter along with a Hearing Report Form will be sent home to the parent(s) and an examination by a physician and/or audiologist is recommended.
VISION SCREENING
Initial
screenings will be performed on students between the ages of three and
five. The initial vision screening will consist of distance visual
acuity, ocular muscle balance (near and far), and color perception.
Distance visual acuity test will be performed in grades kindergarten,
first, third, fifth, seventh, all new students, those students referred
by a teacher, specialist, or parent, and annually with those identified
as hearing impaired. If a student fails the first screening, a second
screening will be scheduled within a week or two. If the student fails
the second screening within that month, a referral letter along with an
Eye Specialist Form will be sent home to the parent(s) and an
examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist is recommended.
POSTURAL SCREENING
Postural screening is performed in order to identify
spinal deviation at an early stage of development (scoliosis). Postural
Screenings will be performed for girls and boys grades in grade 6. A
consent letter will go out to all parents/guardians prior to the
screening. A referral letter along with a Report From the Physician
will be sent to the parent(s)/guardian for those students who are
identified with a possible spinal deviation, and an examination by your
family physician is recommended.
PEDICULOSIS (HEAD LICE)
Precious
Blood follows a “no lice and nit free” policy regarding Pediculosis in
order to prevent the spread of head lice. Screening will be done
as necessary to ensure the health of all students and staff members.
If it is determined that a student has head lice or nits (lice eggs),
the student will be excluded from school and may not return until
treatment is judged to be effective and no nits are visible. A
letter for treatment and recommendations will be sent home with the
child and any question can be directed to the school nurse.
MEDICATION GUIDELINES
Please try to make arrangement for students to receive his/her medicines
at home, or parents may come to school to administer medication to
students as necessary. If this schedule does not work and
medication does need to be given at school, please be advised that
non-nursing personnel may be giving your child medication. The
school cannot assume responsibility for giving medicine to
students.
Liquid forms of medication should be avoided; however, if your child is unable to take any other form of the medication and liquid is the only option, please send an accurate measuring device such as a syringe or medicine cup obtained from the physician’s office or pharmacy. Liquid medication cannot be given without the appropriate measuring device.
If your child has been identified as having severe allergies or a history of asthma, epi-pens and inhalers are encouraged to be kept at school for an emergency situation. The school nurse or office staff may monitor the self-administration of epinephrine and inhalers.
The school will not assume the responsibility for administering injections, ear or eye drops, applying ointments, or changing dressings.
Students may not keep medicine in their possession. This includes such things as aspirin, Motrin, and cough drops. The only exception (under the Ohio revised code section 3313.716) would be inhalers and epi-pens with the written permission of the child’s physician, and the parent states that the child is capable and understands the appropriate procedure for self-administration of this medication. The child must be able to properly demonstrate the administration of the medication, and a back up inhaler/epi-pen is strongly recommended for the clinic. A medication form is also required to be completed for the school. If your child does fall under this category, it is extremely important and necessary to communicate this information to staff members, principal, and school nurse to ensure the health of your child.
Administration of any drug by school personnel without the order of a physician and the permission of the parent/guardian could be interpreted as practicing medicine and is prohibited by law (Ohio Revised Code Section 3313.713). To insure the full protection of school personnel and the physical well being of students in need of medication during school hours, please follow the guidelines listed below:
MEDICATION GUIDELINES:
1. Written request
must be obtained from the physician and the parent/guardian before
school personnel can give any medication. Medication forms are located
in the main office. This also includes those medications that a child
may carry with them (inhalers/epi-pens).
2. Parents must submit a revised statement signed by the physician and parent if any directives are changed. A new request form must be obtained each year, if there is a new medication dosage and for the discontinuation of a medication.
3. Medication containers must have the affixed label as was prescribed by the physician and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist.
4. Medication must be brought to school by a parent or adult. Medication forms can be brought in or faxed from the physician’s office.
5. The school nurse or appointed staff member supervises the dispensing and the storage of student’s medication. Medications will be kept locked in the clinic. All left over medication will need to be picked up at the end of the school year (last day of school). If it is not picked up, it will be disposed of appropriately. The school will not be responsible for storing medication during summer break. If a medication is discontinued during the school year, the old medication will need to be picked up, or it will be disposed of on the last day of school.
6. A daily record of medication administration is kept and placed in the student’s health record at the end of the school year.
7. Office personnel are authorized to distribute oral medications, unless an emergency situation does exist. Medication, such as eardrops, eye drops, ointments, and injections (with the exception of epi-pens for anaphylactic shock), are not given by school personnel.
Students are required to participate in physical education classes unless a physician exempts them. If, for an appropriate reason, your child is unable to take a gym class for a period of time, a note should be sent to the office. If further exemption is required, a doctor's note will have to be given to the principal. Students in grades 1-8 must wear the appropriate PE uniform. Only approved Precious Blood PE uniform items will be permitted.
Precious Blood Parish has the services of a full time Director of Religious Education. The DRE works with the principal and the teachers to create an excellent religion program that reinforces and formalizes the basic groundwork, which parents have imparted on children in the environment of your Christian home. Being aware that religion by its nature is not something to be taught alone, the total living of religion is experienced in the environment of a Catholic Christian community. In addition to the formal religion classes taught in school, the students are able to participate in large and small group liturgies. Students share in the planning and preparation of Mass. Other prayer services, including Reconciliation services and religious talks, are facets of a student's religious experiences.
School masses for all students are once a week—usually on Friday. Holy Day or holiday schedules may be different. Masses begin at 8:30 A.M., and liturgies are prepared by each grade level on a rotating basis. Parents are invited to attend mass and sit with their children. The masses are a celebration of our Lord in our parish community.
All students are required to participate in weekly religion instruction and liturgies.
First Reconciliation and First Communion instructions and preparation are given in the second grade. Parents and guardians are involved in this very beautiful program. Shortly after the school year begins, details of these events will be distributed to you.
Confirmation is administered through the parish Director of Religious Education (DRE). Arrangements for your child's Confirmation should be made with the DRE at 277-2454. Questions regarding this policy should be directed to the pastor at the rectory or to the DRE.
Basically, our total religion program aims at imparting the message of Jesus by making this message alive through the experience of Christian community and service.
The following services are provided to the students of Precious Blood Catholic School through the school's involvement in both state and federal programs:
l. School Psychologist--testing and evaluation of
student growth and performance.
2. Remedial Reading/Math Teacher--students who need special
help in academic areas.
3. Learning Disability Tutor--students with learning
difficulties who qualify for special help.
4. Speech/Hearing/Language Therapist--provides special help
for students with any type of communication problem.
Available resources may limit the scope of services provided.
The identification of students for the Students’ Tremendous Enrichment Program (STEP) is a multi-factored process involving several steps. This program is an academic enrichment program supported by the school administration and the parents of the students involved in the program. Initially, students are referred by teachers to be evaluated at the beginning of third grade and at any point in grades 3-5. Generally the student should score at the 95th percentile or above in at least one area of the Terra Nova Test of Achievement and InView Test (cognitive test). Teacher recommendations are highly considered, as well as the test grades. Parents and students are then notified of the eligibility of the student before entrance into the program.
All textbooks and related materials that are the property of Precious Blood Catholic School, or loaned to Precious Blood through State and/or Federal Programs, must be taken care of by students who are assigned the current replacement value of that book. If a student withdraws from school, all books and materials belonging to the school must be returned to the school before the student leaves. Student records will not be transferred until all books and materials are returned or current assessed value has been paid to the school.
Each student and parent/guardian is required to read and sign the Precious Blood School Acceptable Use of Technology Agreement. If this agreement is not signed, the student is not permitted to use the technology resources at Precious Blood School. This agreement outlines the responsibilities of the parent/guardian, the school, and the student with regard to technology use. In addition to the use of technology, students are responsible for the care of the technology that they use while at Precious Blood School. If the students are found to be responsible for any loss or damage to any piece of technology, the family of that student is responsible for any repair or replacement cost incurred by Precious Blood School. If payment for these repair or replacement costs is not received, Precious Blood School reserves the right to hold any and all of the student’s records, including report cards and transcripts until restitution is rectified.
BOYS/GIRLS:
Shirts White only; polo or oxford style (standard collar for both styles); short sleeve or long sleeve; turtle neck; no ornamental trim or ties.
Slacks Khaki or black: Slacks may be worn throughout the school year; however, they must be worn from the first week of November through the last week of March. Uniform pants are defined as solid in color; slack style; regular-fit; have belt loops; twill and/or cotton; have two front pockets and one or two rear pockets; not corduroy; not cargo; not form-fitting.
Shorts Khaki or black (may only be worn from August—October and the last week of March—June) Shorts are defined as solid in color; regular-fit; have belt loops; twill and/or cotton; have two front pockets and one or two rear pockets; not cargo.
Socks Navy blue, black, white socks or anklets must be worn with pants. White socks or anklets must be worn with shorts.
Undershirts If worn, it must be solid white only (no lettering or pictures). Long sleeve t-shirts are not permitted under short-sleeve uniform shirts.
Sweatshirts Grey with Precious Blood emblem - This item can be purchased through Casual Image or AppleHeart. \ A uniform shirt or turtleneck must be worn under the sweatshirt. Spirit-wear sweatshirt/t-shirt is not to be worn as part of the school uniform.
Sweater Maroon with Precious Blood emblem/logo. This item can be purchased through Casual Image or AppleHeart. A uniform shirt or turtleneck must be worn with the sweater.
Shoes Shoes should be either athletic or casual dress style. Athletic shoes are required for physical education class. Boots, sandals or open-back shoes may not be worn.
ADDITIONAL UNIFORM
POLICY NOTES:
1. Uniform skorts are acceptable; however, they must
be purchased from a uniform company. They must be khaki or
black
2. Jumpers are no longer a part of the uniform.
3. Shirts
should always be worn tucked in. (exception: PE uniform shirt worn for
PE class) The belt must be visible.
4. All uniform clothes
must fit and be worn appropriately.
5. Students in grades 4-8 are
required to wear a solid black or solid brown belt. All belts are to be
free of ornamental designs or additional ornamentation. Belts
must have a “standard” buckle.
6. As a matter of safety, hoop earrings are not permitted,
and necklaces need to be worn under the shirt.
7. Shorts and skorts should be no shorter than 3 inches
above the knees nor go below the
knees.
8. Student appearance should always be neat and modest.
Inappropriate hairstyles, dress, or adornments, as determined by the
administration, are not permitted.
The Precious Blood School Advisory Council enables lay representatives of the parish to work cooperatively with the pastor and the principal in the affairs of Catholic education as advocated in several declarations of the Second Vatican Council. Working with the pastor, principal and staff, the School Advisory Council members provide leadership to the wider school community.
The primary purpose of the School Advisory Council is to promote an effective program of religious, intellectual, cultural, social, and physical education for the students of Precious Blood School by providing advice and counsel to the pastor and principal of the school and to serve as an appropriate channel for the parish community to communicate interest, concern and suggestion regarding school policy and direction.
During the course of the school year, the Home and School Association tries to prepare educational programs for the benefit of parents, students, and teachers. We know your time is precious, but we do hope that you take the time to attend the meetings. This is a way to meet other parents and school personnel. The connection between home and school is vital.
All parents with children in the school are automatic members of the Home and School Association. A donation of $5.00 is requested each year to help finance the many programs for our school.
Home and School fund raisers throughout the year include: Book Sale, Market Day, Skating Parties, Sweatshirt Sale, and other approved programs.
A “regular volunteer” as defined by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati “Decree on Child Protection” means a catechist, scout leader, coach, server coordinator, etc. who functions in a regular, significant relationship with children. This includes, interns, student teachers, and others in a similar capacity. Moreover, any volunteer who works with children more than three (3) hours a month or who works with children more frequently than once a month should comply with the diocesan policy. It does not include the occasional volunteer such as a driver or chaperone for individual activities.