Bishop Guilfoyle Regional Catholic School
Handbook
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ADMISSIONS
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional Catholic School admits student of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all of the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate based on race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of education policies, admission policies, athletic programs or other school administrated programs. We give preference in admission to Catholic students living within the regional boundaries of Bishop Guilfoyle Regional, to siblings and family members of students enrolled at Bishop Guilfoyle; then to Catholic students living outside of the parish boundaries; and finally to non-Catholics. Transfer students are accepted in grades K-8 after receipt and evaluation of their most recent report card and other pertinent official school records. Students transferring may be administered a Placement Assessment Test by a staff member of Bishop Guilfoyle. An evaluation of placement will be made at that time.
Age Requirements:
Preschool children must be 3- or 4- years old on or before September 30 for admission into the
Pre-K 3 or Pre-K 4 year old programs.
Kindergarten students must be 5 years old on or before September 30 as per Diocesan Policy. Therefore, no exceptions to this policy can be made.
Arrival
All car riders in grades K-8 will be dropped off between 8:10- 8:25 along Holly Ave. They are to proceed to the gym. No student may enter the gym before 8:10. Please do not leave your car parked by the drop off walkways on Holly Ave.
Athletic Association
This organization sponsors a variety of activities in conjunction with the Gloucester County Catholic Athletic League. It should be emphasized that any organized sports or activities sponsored by this association are a joint endeavor among the parents, school administration, Athletic Association members and coaches for the benefit of the children.
Attendance
School hours are as follows: Full Day Session 8:25AM – 3:00PM
Half-Day Session 8:25AM – 12:00PM
When a student will be absent, a parent /guardian must phone the school office before 9:00AM to give notice of the absence. A phone call is expected each day that the student is absent.
When a parent/guardian knows in advance that a student will be absent, a written notice of the upcoming absence is necessary. A written note signed by a parent/guardian, explaining the reason for the absence is required upon the student’s return to school, even though the phone call was made. If your child comes without the note, you will receive a reminder from the nurse and a note will be expected the following day.
When a student is absent for three (3) consecutive days or more due to illness, i.e. a communicable or infectious illness, disease or condition, a physician’s note/re-admission slip must accompany the student on his/her first day back.
Following an illness and upon the child’s return to school, he/she is expected to join in all activities, unless the physician’s note specifies otherwise. This includes going outdoors at playtime. If the child is not well enough to go outside, then the child should remain at home for another day or so. Supervision is not available for one (1) or two (2) pupils to remain in the classroom.
It is the student’s responsibility to see that work missed during an absence is made up within a week of his/her return to school. Work that is not completed in the required time will not be graded and will affect the student’s academic progress.
The request for work assignments when a student will be home sick must be made when the student is called in sick, by 9:00AM. Only requests made by a parent/guardian will be acknowledged. The requested work will not be ready for pick up until dismissal of the students on that day. Any work requests made after 9:00 AM will not be ready that day. Work that is requested and not completed will not be graded. If you have requested work, please make every effort to pick it up as you requested.
Absences due to vacation are not encouraged. If, however, a vacation is planned during the school year, schoolwork assignments and books will not be sent with the child. All missed work is to be made up after the vacation in the period stated above.
IOWA testing is now scheduled for one week only in March; no make ups will be given so it is vital that the students in grades 3-8 are in school daily for this important standardized testing time.
Absences, which total 18 days or more, constitute a serious obstacle to promotion. Students will be required to make up any days missed over 18. Schedule to be decided by the Principal.
Bus Riders
The school office is supplied with bus application forms in the early spring from the local sending school districts. When these applications are sent home, they should be completed and returned as soon as possible. If your district does not receive an application for your child on time, your child will not have a seat on the bus, and therefore, will not be covered by bus insurance.
If your district usually reimburses you in lieu of offering your child transportation, neglecting to return an application on time will affect your reimbursement.
Any child in K - 8 who will not be five (5) years old by the last day of September will automatically be ineligible for bus transportation.
Bus Regulations
Transportation is provided in accordance with NJ State Law for children living in remote areas from the school, or paid public expense.
Children are entitled to this transportation, provided they do not infringe upon another child’s rights.
Misbehavior, therefore, must be punished, since the safety of all children riding the school bus is of the utmost concern.
In view of the above, the following policy shall be adhered to with regard to behavior on the bus:
1. Children, upon boarding the bus shall immediately be seated.
2. Children shall, immediately upon being seated fasten their safety belt, and keep it
fastened until the bus comes to a complete stop at their destination.
3. Children shall, at all times, keep their entire body within the bus.
4. Children shall remain seated until the bus has come to a complete stop the destination.
5. Students shall treat each other and the bus driver with respect at all times.
6. Unnecessary noise or shouting shall not be permitted.
7. At no time is a student permitted to ride a school bus other than his/her assigned bus. If a
student is not assigned a bus by their district, a bus shall not be boarded for any reason.
Please do not send a note to the school requesting this. All questions, comments,
requests are to be handled between the parent/guardian and their own school district.
8. Students needing to have a special pick-up or drop-off spot for babysitting purposes
should have this pre-arranged with the district. If a bus stop must be changed in the
middle of the year due to babysitting purposes, call or visit your public school districts
transportation office.
If a student is assigned a bus by their district, this is the only bus that may be boarded. Please do not send a note to the school requesting a temporary change in a bus, or for another child to ride the bus home with your child. Once again, all questions, comments, and/or requests are to be handled between the parent/guardian and their own School district.
Any infractions of the above shall be punished in the following manner, as per Law 18A: 25 – 2:
1. 1st offense – letter sent to the parents by the bus driver and the Principal, stating the date and
nature of the offense and that future occurrence shall be punished by excluding the
student from riding the school bus. This letter must be signed by the parent/guardian
and returned to school the next day.
2. 2nd offense – exclusion from riding the bus for five (5) school days. Parents will be notified with a
written report, which must be signed and returned to school on the next day.
3. 3rd offense – excluded from riding the bus for a period of time depending on the severity of the
report. Parents shall provide transportation to and from school during the period
of such exclusion.
Final decision on bus conduct and penalties are determined by the Principal.
Birthday Parties and Invitations
In the event you will want to invite classmates to help celebrate your child’s birthday, or any other occasion, it is the policy of Bishop Guilfoyle that invitations are not brought to school for distribution. Invitations should be distributed off the school premises. Invitations that are brought to school will be held in the Principal’s office until the end of the day, they will be returned home. Please contact your child’s room parent for a list of students.
Birthdays at school
When your child celebrates a birthday, it is OK to send a treat that is easy to share with classmates, i.e. cupcakes, brownies or cookies, along with napkins. Do not send drinks, cups, hats, etc. these will not be distributed, but will be returned home. Please send a notice to the teacher at least two (2) days ahead of time, stating that you will be sending a snack to the office first thing in the morning, or requesting a response letting you know a good time to bring it in. The teacher will handle the distribution of treats and the short celebration. It is our policy that any other form of celebration, i.e. flower or balloon deliveries, be saved for after school (at home).
Cell Phone Policy
Students who have after school activities may have a cell phone in their book bag. It must be turned off during the day and may never be taken out on the playground nor seen in a classroom. Cell phones are important means of communication between students and parents and we understand the need to have access after school with your child. However, cell phones used in an unauthorized manner will be confiscated, returned to parents and the privilege will be revoked for that student immediately. A further incident will result in immediate suspension.
Change of address, phone number and/or employment
Please notify the School Office in writing, at once, when a change occurs.
Communication
A “communication” envelope is no longer sent home each Wednesday. All current school information is posted weekly on the school website www.bgrcs.org. The website contains new information, important upcoming dates, and the monthly lunch menu. PTA posts a newsletter monthly.
Parish organizations are welcome to submit prepared flyers to be included on the website. All materials must be received in the school office, by Tuesday at 12:00 Noon.
Curriculum
Religion……………………………………………………………………………….…Grades K – 8
Mathematics…………………………………………………………………………… Grades K – 8
Language Arts…………………………………………………………………………. Grades K – 8
Reading………………………………………………………………………… Grades K – 8
English………………………………………………………………………….. Grades K – 8
Handwriting…………………………………………………………………….. Grades K – 8
Spelling…………………………………………………………………………. Grades 1 – 8
Library……………………………………………………………………………Grades K – 8
Social Studies………………………………………………………………………….. Grades K – 8
Science…………………………………………………………………………………..Grades 1 – 8
Art………………………………………………………………………………………...Grades K – 8
Music……………………………………………………………………………………..Grades K – 8
Physical Education…………………………………………………………………….. Grades K – 8
Computer Education…………………………………………………………………….Grades K – 8
FLES (Introduction to a foreign language-Spanish)…………………………………Grades K – 8
Infusion Curriculum for Italian Enrichment Program (non graded) K-8
All students must participate fully in all aspects of Religion Curriculum, including Sacramental Preparation.
Pre-School Program is available to young children three (3) or four (4) years of age. We offer full-time and part-time schedules. Children may attend Monday through Friday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Tuesday & Thursday. The Pre-school follows the same school calendar as Grades K – 8, and uses the same emergency closing numbers as K – 8, which is # 896. If Bishop Guilfoyle Regional has an emergency closing during a school day, the Pre-school will close also.
The program is designed to develop an interest and a love of learning in the pre-school aged child. The alphabet is introduced by sight and sound, along with basic writing skills through our games, activities and crafts. Socially, the child learns to interact appropriately with both peers and teachers. Completion of the program should aid in making the transition to more formal learning in Kindergarten a smoother, more successful one for both parent and child.
Kindergarten Curriculum is a readiness program. Children learn through activity and experience, which prepare them for the elementary school discipline and educational programs. Most of the textbooks at the Kindergarten level are of the same series as the curriculum in Grades 1 – 8.
Our Kindergarten Program provides for:
-Growth in awareness of God’s love as experienced in family, parish and community.
-Development of a positive self-image.
-Development of social inter-dependence among adults and with peers.
-Experiences which will enable the child to communicate effectively with others.
-Development of those motor skills, which will lead to proficiency and coordination in action and movement.
-Development of skills, which will enhance Reading Readiness.
A Readiness Inventory is administered at the beginning of the school year. This is an informal inventory, which will assess readiness in the areas of auditory, visual, language and quantitative concepts.
Demerit Infractions
1. Any violation of the dress code.
2. Failure to have books covered.
3. Consistent failure to have necessary class materials.
4. Disregard for lunchroom rules.
5. Chewing gum.
6. Running or misbehaving in the hallways or stairwells.
7. Disregard for playground rules.
8. Inappropriate behavior during assemblies or prayer gatherings.
9. Classroom disruptions.
10. Any other behavior judged as unbefitting a Bishop Guilfoyle Regional Catholic School student.
Detention
An automatic Detention may be issued by any teacher or by the Principal for a variety of infractions. Some examples are:
1. Showing lack of respect for a teacher, staff member or a fellow student; this includes
bullying, hitting, pushing, touching, verbal abuse and defiance of authority.
2. Profane, abusive, disrespectful or discriminatory language, signs or communications.
3. Misuse of any technology equipment including Internet services and we sites.
4. Stealing or taking the property of another individual or the school.
5. Defacing or damaging the property of a student, teacher or the school.
6. Dishonesty or cheating in any manner or form.
7. Possession of beepers cell phones, audio/visual equipment.
8. Leaving the playground or jumping the fence without permission.
9. Failure to report to a scheduled detention will result in a second (2nd) detention or suspension.
10. Any other inappropriate behavior judged as requiring disciplinary action by the faculty or administration.
The detention notice is sent home at least one (1) day in advance of the detention, and must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned on the next school day. Close cooperation between home and school should render detention unnecessary. Any student who is detained must have his own transportation home. Parents are responsible for picking their child(ren) up at the assigned time for dismissal from detention. This time will be noted on the detention notification. There is no need to ring the doorbell when you arrive. Please wait at your automobile. Your child will be dismissed when detention is over.
Accumulation of thee (3) detentions will result in a parent conference with the Principal and homeroom teacher.
Discipline
Order is essential to the effective management of any school. It is maintained by the cooperation of the teaching staff, administration, parents and good educational programs that foster the development in the child of rational self-control.
The purposes of discipline are:
a. To teach respect for the rights of others.
b. To cultivate good character traits.
c. To give ample opportunity for the development of leadership.
d. To form the true Christian citizen.
e. To provide an atmosphere for intellectual activities.
f. To produce order, not regimentation.
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional Catholic School will employ various disciplinary measures, including detention, suspension and expulsion for behavior that is not consistent with the proper atmosphere for a Catholic school. This section of the handbook explains the types of disciplinary action typically imposed for various types of misconduct and prohibited behavior. Please be aware that similar disciplinary action may be taken for violations that are not listed here if the conduct or behavior is harmful to the good order and discipline of the school, its religious mission or its educational objectives. In addition, while this section explains typical disciplinary procedures, the principal and the board of pastors have the authority to alter these procedures as they determine is warranted in a particular situation.
Please note: every parent and student is expected to read this handbook. Your signatures verify that you have read and that you understand the contents of this handbook and agree to follow all the rules and regulations.
Discipline policy demerits will be cumulative throughout the school year.
Accumulation of three (3) demerits will result in a detention.
Dismissal
Students are to exit the building in an orderly fashion each day. They will proceed as instructed by the Principal and the supervising teachers, according to their transportation home. Students are to remain in assigned line positions until dismissed by the supervising teachers. Parents or guardians may not move students from their line prior to dismissal, under any circumstances. Parents or guardians, etc. must remain at their car during dismissal. Please advise anyone authorized to pick up your child of these regulations. This will allow for a smoother dismissal and is for your child’s protection!
If your child’s normal dismissal instructions must change on any given day, a signed and dated note, which includes a number where you can be reached, must be sent to the office in the morning plainly indicating the change of instruction. This note will be reviewed, signed and copied, then sent back to the teacher, if there are any questions, you will receive a call. Phone calls to the school requesting a change are discouraged, but if this is necessary, please call before 1:00 PM.
The school building will be closed by 3:30 PM.
Dress Code
Parents will be called if the student is not in proper uniform. Appropriate items must be brought in at that time.
THE OFFICIAL UNIFORM COMPANY IS:
Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Co. (several locations) 1-800-441-4122 (Main #)
School Shoe Policy for ALL students K – 8: Student choices are limited to black, dark blue, or dark brown flat heel, rubber-soled shoes, Hushpuppies (tan) with a flat rubber heel and sole, or saddle shoes with a flat heel and sole (flat, meaning no chunky-style heels and soles). Plain (i.e. Keds,) white sneakers with white crew socks may be worn only when a student wears the summer-uniform. Shoes and sneakers may not have insignias, logos, designs or decorations. Students are NOT to wear sandals, boots, boot-type, party-type, patent leather, open toe or open back shoes, but only the shoes described above.
If your child comes to school wearing inappropriate shoes, you will be called to come and make the correction immediately.
Gym Uniform- boys & girls, K-8
(start up and ending dates to be announced)
Students will wear the Navy Blue Bobcat T-Shirt and Bobcat Mesh Shorts (available in our school store) during Summer Uniform season. Students will wear a Navy Blue Sweat Suit (shirt and pants) during Winter Uniform season. Students will always wear a safe pair of sneakers with white socks on their gym day. The Navy Blue Sweat Suit may be purchased from any Flynn and O’Hara store. Students are to come to school wearing their gym suit on their gym day. The first gym day of the school year will be announced in a September newsletter. Summer and winter uniform starting and ending dates will be announced in the newsletter.
Fall/Spring (Summer) Uniform- boys & girls, K-4
(Beginning first day of school. Future ending and start-up dates to be announced.)
*Optional for Boys and Girls White Golf shirt, no tie
Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Navy Blue Shorts,
White Crew Socks, School Shoes or Plain White Sneakers
Or (with shorts only)
Boys K – 4 Short-sleeved, White Oxford-Cloth Shirt with Tie, or White Golf Shirt without tie, Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Navy Blue Long Pants, Dark Socks, School Shoes.
Girls K – 4 Short-sleeved, White Oxford-Cloth Blouse (button-down, pointed or Peter Pan collar, Uniform Jumper, Navy Blue Knee Socks, School Shoes.
Or
White Golf Shirt with Flynn & O’Hara Girls Navy Blue Long Pants, Dark Socks, School Shoes.
Fall/Spring (summer) Uniform-boys & girls 5 – 8
(Beginning first day of school. Future ending and start-up dates to be announced.)
*Optional for Boys and Girls White Golf Shirt
Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Khaki Shorts or Khaki Skort
White Crew Socks, School Shoes, or Plain White Sneakers
(with shorts only)
OR
Boys 5 – 8 Short-sleeved, White Oxford-Cloth Shirt, with Tie, or White Golf Shirt without tie, Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Khaki Long Pants, Dark Socks, School Shoes.
Girls 5 – 8 Short-sleeved, White Oxford-Cloth Blouse (button-down, pointed collar), white-banded bottom golf shirt, Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Skirt or Skort, Navy Blue Knee Socks, School Shoes.
OR
White Golf Shirt with Flynn & O’Hara Girls Khaki Long Pants, Dark Socks, School Shoes.
Winter Uniforms-boys & girls K-4 (dates to be announced)
Boys Short- or long-sleeved White Oxford-Cloth Button-Down Collar Shirt with Flynn & O’Hara School Uniform Tie OR Plain White Turtleneck Shirt (no mock turtlenecks) or long sleeve White Golf shirt, Flynn & O’Hara Navy Blue Uniform Long Pants, Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Navy Blue Sweater (button down with pockets), Dark Socks, Belt, School Shoes. Short-sleeve shirt may be worn all winter as long as the sweater is worn.
Girls Short- or long-sleeved White Oxford-Cloth Button-Down Pointed-Collar Blouse OR Plain White Turtleneck Shirt (no mock turtlenecks), Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Jumper OR Flynn & O’Hara Girls Navy Blue Long Pants, Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Navy Blue Sweater (button down with pockets), Navy Blue Knee High Socks, School Shoes. Short sleeve shirt may be worn all winter as long as the sweater is worn.
Winter Uniform-boys & girls, 5-8 (dates to be announced)
Boys -- Short- or long-sleeved White Oxford-Cloth Button-Down Collar Shirt with Flynn & O’Hara School Uniform Tie OR Plain White Turtleneck Shirt (no mock turtlenecks) or long sleeve Golf Shirt, Flynn & O’Hara Khaki Long Pants, Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Navy Blue Sweater (button down with pockets), Dark Socks, Belt, and School Shoes. Short-sleeve shirt may be worn all winter as long as the sweater is worn.
Girls --short- or long-sleeved White Oxford-Cloth Button-Down Pointed-Collar Blouse, White Banded bottom Golf Shirt OR Plain White Turtleneck Shirt (no mock turtlenecks), Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Skirt, Skort, or Khaki long pants, Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Navy Blue Sweater (button down with pockets), Navy Blue Knee High Socks, School Shoes. Short-sleeve shirt may be worn all winter as long as the sweater is worn.
Boys K - 8 – The sweater is to be worn at all times during the Winter Uniform Period. A belt is to be worn at all times with shorts and pants. The Dress and Grooming Code is to be followed at all times.
Girls – Jumper and skirt length must NEVER be shorter than the TOP of the knee. The length must be adjusted after growth spurts. Rolling of the skirt waist is never acceptable. The sweater is to be worn at all times during the Winter Uniform Period.
Uniform pants, instead of a jumper or skirt, are optional. A belt must always be worn with pants. During cold weather these are the ONLY acceptable pants. Pants are never to be worn during the school day under the jumper or skirt for any reason.
The Dress and Grooming Code is to be followed by all students at all times. No exceptions.
Early Dismissal
Please make every attempt to schedule medical or dental appointments during non-school hours. If an emergency occurs either:
-Send a note to the homeroom teacher listing the date and time of pick-up.
-Call the school office in advance, notifying of pick-up time.
This courtesy is requested due to the difficulty of removing a child from class without advance notice. Person who comes for the child must meet the child at the school office, and also must sign the child out. The child will be notified in advance that he/she will be picked up early, but will actually be called to the office when the person picking him/her up arrives.
Emergency Closing
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional emergency closing number is “Salem County- # 896”. Listen to KYW-Philadelphia 1060 AM on your radio or watch channel 3, 6, &/or 10. Announcements regarding closings begin at 6:00 AM during inclement weather conditions. Please check the BGRCS website for up to date school closing information.
As a courtesy, we will notify the Head Room Parent and he/she will in turn try to contact each room parent, who will in turn call each parent on his/her class list. This “phone chain” begins as soon as the decision to close the school takes place, but because there is still a chance that all of our parents cannot be contacted, we advise you to tune into KYW 1060 AM or TV Channels 3, 6 or 10 or the BGRCS website.
Emergency Dismissal
Emergencies may arise during the course of the school day, which would necessitate a decision for early dismissal. The school will send a form home in September for the purpose of your instructions in the event of an unexpected early closing. The school office, and/or room parents will try to make the contacts you request according to the information supplied to them on this form. Please be as concise and as complete in your instruction as possible, as this will help to ensure a safe dismissal for your child.
Enrollment Requirements
The registration of new students for the following school year takes place in the early spring. Registration will take place in mid May. Dates and hours of in person registration are announced in the parish bulletins and local newspapers several weeks in advance.
Expulsion
When a serious offense does occur and expulsion is being considered, the following procedure will take place:
a. The student will be suspended first, and the parents will be personally notified and the situation explained by the principal.
b. The student’s pastor will be informed. In the case of non-Catholic students, the presiding Pastor will be informed and will conference with teacher, parents and principal.
c. There will be a conference with the pastor, principal, parents, and teacher.
d. The decision as to whether the student will be finally readmitted to class or whether expulsion will occur remains with the Board of Pastors.
e. The principal will send a written report of the case to the Superintendent of Schools, and a copy will be sent to the Board of Pastors.
f. Once expelled, a child may not be re-admitted to the school.
Field Trips
Diocesan policy requires that ALL field trips be of a religious or educational nature.
Field trips are a part of the educational process for the student. Such trips require parental request for participation. When these trips are planned, a permission slip will be sent home to be signed by the parents. No student will participate in a field trip without a signed permission slip. If your child has a special health concern, a parent should contact the teacher well in advance of the trip. Students will be asked to defray the cost of the trip.
School field trips are a privilege. The privilege of attending a field trip may be revoked at the discretion of the teacher or principal for disciplinary reasons, etc.
Fire Drills
Fire Drills are conducted regularly throughout the school year. Students are expected to leave the building quickly and quietly for their own safety, as well as the safety of others. Any adult in the school building at the time of the drill must also leave the building quickly and quietly by the nearest exit. No one should enter the building for any reason during a fire drill, as no business will be conducted at this time.
Forgotten Books, etc.
The school building will be closed by 4:00PM. No one may enter the building in the evening to retrieve forgotten books even if activities are going on—students may not wander the building alone at any time.
Government Funded programs
The government provides funds each year to help defray textbook costs. A form is sent home annually, in the spring, for the parent to formally request the purchase of the texts used by our school children, by applying their signature.
Government programs are funded either by Federal grants or by the State of NJ. Federal grants, which are available to us, are now combined into the No Child Left Behind. This program incorporates the following
TITLE I – This is provided through the sending townships. This funding is used for the purchase of
Remedial Reading, Math and Basic Skills Instructional Materials.
TITLE II A & D – This is also known as the block grant. It provides us with some instructional
materials, i.e. computer software and visual aids and workshop training for teachers.
TITLE IV – These funds are used for implementing Anti-Drug, Alcohol and
Tobacco Programs within the school.
TITLE V – This grant provides for the purchase of teaching aids to be used
With the Math and Science curricula.
Grooming Code
Hair
Boy’s hair must be neat and clean, as well as worn in a reasonable style. Boy’s hair must stay above the ear and above the collar.
Girl’s hair must be neat and clean, as well as worn in a reasonable style.
Inappropriate hairstyles are never acceptable for both boys and girls. The principal will make decisions regarding what is inappropriate.
Health Services
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional avails itself of the Chapter 226 Law, which entitles us to a School Nurse part time.
- All new registrants must comply with guidelines set down by the state. These guidelines for
immunizations are used by the School Nurse and Admission Records must reflect proper
immunization.
- The School Nurse will check the height, weight, vision, and hearing of all students in Grades
K – 8.
- In Grades 4 – 8 students are examined (with parental permission) for Scoliosis.
- No medication will be administered without a “Medication Form” completed by the parent
and the student’s doctor. This includes “over-the-counter” as well as prescription medication.
- If a child must take medication during the school day, the following procedure applies in all
cases:
1. Written notification from the doctor, on a form provided by the school, giving the
name of drug with clear instructions as to administration of the drug.
2. For safety purposes, ALL medications are to be brought into the school by a
parent/guardian, and given to the School Nurse, Principal or secretary.
3. Under no circumstances is a child permitted to keep medication on his/her person,
book bag or purse.
Homework
Homework is assigned regularly to reinforce content of lessons presented in class. Homework is an opportunity for the student to master the material being taught. The assigned work is both written and study and may also take the form of long-range projects. Completion of all homework is the “responsibility” of the student, as is the budgeting of time required to complete long ranged projects. Students are responsible for submitting the homework to their parent/guardian for their approval. Parents should check homework for neatness and thoroughness on a daily basis. A student, therefore, would not expect to be able to turn in incomplete or careless homework assignments. Parents can easily assess the student’s quality of academic performance by the quality of their homework.
The following is recommended time allotment for homework:
Kindergarten……………………………………………………………………10 – 15 minutes
Grades 1 – 2……………………………………………………………………30 – 40 minutes
Grades 3 – 5……………………………………………………………………45 – 70 minutes
Grades 6 – 8……………………………………………………………………70 – 120 minutes
The value of homework to a student depends upon their interest in continuing with learning experiences. A student gains values from homework when the student understands these facts:
-Homework has a definite function in enriching and extending what was learned in the classroom.
-There is a purpose for homework.
-Homework provides practice on the skills learned in school that day.
-Homework is a review of class work in both the written and the study form.
-Homework is a preparation for the next day’s activities and preparation to share with others what was discovered, read or learned.
Parents/guardians have the responsibility to provide a place that is conducive to study and to exhibit a real interest in the accomplishment of their child’s assignments. When a child experiences frustration or anxiety about a homework assignment that goes beyond the recommended time allotment for his or her age group, please write a note to the teacher explaining the situation. The teachers can help and review the work with your child.
Honor Roll (Grades 4 – 8)
Principals List All A’s/A+’s, with an S, G, or O in all other areas.
First Honors 4 A’s and the remainder B+’s, with an S, G, or O in all other areas
Second Honors Any other combination of A’s and B’s and/or +’s, with an S, G, or O in
all other areas.
Jewelry
-Absolutely No Facial Piercings
-A RELIGIOUS medal (small) may be worn, but only one (1) medal at a time.
-ONE (1) small ring may be worn and a watch may be worn.
Girls with pierced ears may wear one (1) pair of small, plain, stud earrings, but only one (1) pair at a time. Hoop earrings pose a safety threat to the child when playing in-group activities. Therefore, hoops should not be worn.
-Boys are not permitted to wear earrings of any kind.
-No other jewelry may be worn.
Latch Key - AM
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional students who walk to school or are driven and arrive before 8:10 AM are to be enrolled in our Latch Key – AM Program. Enrollment forms are available in the school office, along with specific details regarding the program. The Latch Key – AM Program is available from 7:00 – 8:10 AM. The child must be walked into the Latch Key room by an adult, and signed in. As usual, always use extreme caution when operating a vehicle around school property. Students in K – 8 will be released from Latch Key care at 8:10 AM, when they will proceed to their classroom. Your charges will be tabulated daily, but you will be billed monthly for this service.
Latch Key - PM
This program is available to all of our students, Grades K – 8, from 3:00 – 5:45 PM. On scheduled early dismissal days, the program begins at 12:00N until 5:45 PM. Lunch must be sent, along with a change of clothes for early dismissal days. Your child must be pre-registered in order to use this program. Enrollment forms are available in the school office, along with specific details regarding this program. If your child will not use this service every day, but will use it at random, please send a signed and dated note on the days he/she will attend. Your child must be picked up by 5:45 PM, and you must sign your child out, as well as record the pick up time. No one else may pick your child up from Latch Key unless you have indicated them on your registration form, and they must show picture I.D. Your charges will be tabulated daily, but you will be billed monthly for this service.
Lateness
All students must be in their homerooms by 8:25 am or they are considered late. All late students must report to the school office for a late slip.
Being late for school impacts on a child’s learning. A student who is late 10 minutes every day will miss 30 hours of instruction during the course of the year. Your child’s success in school depends on having a solid educational background, which will be helped through regular school attendance.
Chronic lateness will be dealt with on an individual basis among the parents, teacher and principal.
Lateness due to scheduled medical or dental visits is not encouraged. Please try to schedule appointments after the school day is through, or on a day when school is closed.
Lunch
Nutri-serve is now our Lunch Program Provider. Students may pre pay or buy each day from several menu choices. A menu is available at the start of each month and students may buy in the morning. The homeroom teacher will collect lunch money and check orders. Each family receives the Nutri-serve information in a timely fashion. Snacks may be purchased also. Separate accounts for snacks are available for each child. Snacks are healthy and can be curtailed if you wish.
Ordering is optional. Many students prefer a packed lunch from home. Students are not allowed to have soda in school, nor may they have glass bottles.
Free and Reduced Lunch is available to students also.
All students in Grades K – 8 are expected to follow Lunchroom policy and to use common courtesy while in the lunch line, at the lunch table and anywhere else in the lunchroom.
Makeup
-Makeup is never permitted with the school uniform.
-Nail Polish (unless clear or sheer) is never permitted with the school uniform, nor is it permitted while representing the school in any extra-curricular activities. Only clear or sheer nail polish may be worn!
-False nails and nails of extreme length are never permitted with the school uniform. Nails are to be neatly manicured.
All students in grades K-8 must adhere to the grooming policies at all times. Failure to do so will result in detention.
Make-up Work
The student is responsible for the making up of missed schoolwork. All work must be made up within one (1) week of the student’s return to school. Work may be requested for the student when the student is home sick, but must be requested by 9:00AM, and cannot be picked up until dismissal time. Work that has been requested and picked up, but not completed with in the proper time will not be accepted or graded.
Tests or quizzes, which were missed during the time of absence, will be made up at the convenience of the teacher. It is not the policy of the school to re-test for improved grades or to permit “extra credit” assignments to increases grades.
Absence due to vacation is not encouraged by Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School. Class and homework assignments will not be sent with the student, and Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School textbooks and workbooks may not be taken on the trip. It will be the parents’ responsibility to make sure students learn any missed skills. At the discretion of the teacher, the student may be asked to keep an itinerary (log diary) or photo album of the trip.
Organizations
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School Board
- Our School Board is an advisory body to the Pastors and the Principal of Bishop.
Guilfoyle in the areas of financial management, long range planning and development.
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School P.T.A.
- The Bishop Guilfoyle P.T.A. meets throughout the year as a means to bring parents
and teachers together to provide beneficial programs for the benefit of the children.
- The P.T.A. coordinates many activities throughout the school year. These assist in the
financial support of programs and provide direct services to the school.
- One parent is expected to be present at each meeting.
- Parents are expected to fulfill their PTA Contract Agreement in regards to fund raising.
- Every family must pay annual P.T.A. dues at $5.00 per family.
Parents Conferences
During the school year, one required in-person parent/teacher conference would be scheduled. The purpose is to inform the parent of the student’s performance and to provide parent/teacher input, which is desirable for the growth of the child. This conference will be scheduled at the time of either a report card or an interim progress report. The date will appear on the annual calendar received at the beginning of the school year, and a notice will also be sent home as the time approaches. Conferences are by appointment.
Additional conferences may be requested by the teacher or the parent throughout the school year. The procedure is to send a note to the parent/teacher and the teacher will arrange a mutually convenient time. Conferences do not take place during instructional time. If a parent has a concern, which relates to a specific class, child or teacher, the situation must be addressed, first with the teacher. The principal may offer to be present for a second conference. In grades 5 – 8, where instruction is departmentalized, it is urged that any request for a parent conference be specifically addressed to the teacher of the particular subject area of concern. However, if a conference is requested, all departmental teachers may attend. A reminder—Please do not call a teacher at home; all communication will be through school.
Physical Education Class
It is a requirement of Physical Education Class that all students, in grades K – 8, be in the proper gym uniform on gym day. Please see the section on Dress Code. This rule also applies to any student excused from “active participation”
All students, grades K – 8, are required to participate in the planned Physical Education Class, unless a written excuse from a physician is submitted to the school office for that particular day. If a student is to be excused for more that one (1) day, a written excuse is required from the student’s physician, to the office stating the specific reason for exclusion, as well as the dates the student may resume active participation.
If a student is excused from active participation, then under the direction of the Physical Education teacher, he/she will participate in some capacity, which does not require physical exertion (i.e. score keeper) or exposure to inclement weather. This will allow the student to participate, without endangering his/her health, and to fulfill the Physical Education requirements for promotion and/or graduation.
Health and Safety Classes will be held on the last week of the month on the regular Gym day. Students may wear gym uniforms. The nurse and guest speakers such as policemen, fire personnel, doctors and nutritionists teach health and Safety classes.
Private Information
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional personnel do not have the authority to disclose the address and phone number of any of our students or their families to anyone other than our faculty. The only time a phone number will be disclosed is to the Room Parent with a signed permission slip from a parent/guardian early in the school year. Parents may ask the Room Parent for student’s names only regarding the exchange of greeting cards, etc.
Progress Reports
Deficiency Notices are mailed to parents in grades 3-8 whose child is progressing poorly or not passing in one or more subject areas. Notices are sent home mid way through the marking period.
Registration requirements:
-State Birth Certificate (original)
-Baptismal Certificate and proof of other sacraments received (if Catholic)
-Current Immunization Records (according to the State of NJ requirements-the requirements are on file at school office)
-Social Security Number
-Physical (check-up) Form completed by Doctor (students entering Preschool, Kindergarten,
Grades 3 & 6 and those coming from out of state)
-Processing Fee
-Miscellaneous fees
Report Card
In accordance with Diocesan Policy, report cards are issued three (3) times during the school year to students in Grades K – 8. The distribution dates are published on the annual calendar. The report card grades are the result of test grades, class participation and the quality of written and study homework. The use of Diocesan Report Card grades are as follows:
A+ - 97 – 100 B+ - 89 – 92 C+ - 81 – 84 D+ - 74 – 76 F – below 70
A 93 – 96 B 85 – 88 C 77 – 80 D 70 – 73
It is not the policy of the school to re-test for improved grades or to permit “extra credit” assignments to increase grades.
Retention Policy
Prior to an anticipated retention, a conference will take place.
Kindergarten, Grades 1 & 2: Discussion between teacher and parents based on the individual needs
of the child.
Grades 3 through 8: A failing average in a major subject can result in a student’s retention.
If a student fails a major subject for the year the student will need to attend an approved summer school program or be tutored by a certified teacher and receive a passing grade in order to be promoted.
School Emergency form
A School Emergency Contact Form is distributed. This form, for all of your school children, must be completed and returned to the school office on the very next school day. In the event any of this information changes during the school year, please send a note as soon as the new information is available. It is imperative that you complete this form accurately and completely.
School Insurance
All students are covered by the Diocesan School Insurance Plan during school hours.
School Pictures
Individual and group student pictures are taken in the fall and individual spring pictures are also taken. The purchase of these pictures is strictly optional. Notification regarding the pictures, i.e. date, will be sent home at least one (1) week in advance.
School Property
Students are expected to treat ALL school property with respect. Replacement of property which is damaged, destroyed or lost, including books, is the responsibility of the student and/or his/her parents or guardians. Financial compensation will be determined by the administration. Students should not be on school property during non-school hours unless on extra curricular activity approved by the principal and/or the pastor.
School Office
The school office and the school building will close by 3:30PM. Any office business after the closing must be handled on the next school day.
Suspension
Suspension from school will be determined by the Principal in collaboration with the classroom teacher. A suspension may be issued for any serious offense. The duration will be specified according to the individual case, and the procedure will be at the Principal’s discretion. The Principal will notify parents of any such action. A failure in the conduct grade on the Report Card is the usual consequence of suspension.
Following a suspension where the student is removed from the school community a parent interview must take pace before the student can be readmitted. Parents will sign a formal agreement in which they signify their understanding of the problem and agree to assume responsibility for the student’s future behavior.
Some serious offenses are:
Truancy
Leaving school grounds without permission
Destruction of school or church property
Continued neglect of academic work
Continued disregard of the school discipline code
Abusive or obscene language or actions
Continued lack of cooperation with school personnel
Dishonesty or theft
Behavior that is injurious to others
Possession of any item which is harmful to the safety of others
Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School reserves the right to dismiss a student for:
Grave infractions of the school regulations
Undesirable conduct that is detrimental to the moral or physical safety of others
Continued disrespect for authority
Continued neglect of academic work
Smoking
Possession or use of drugs
Possession or use of alcohol
Possession or use of a weapon
Any other serious reason as determined by the Principal and/or Pastor
Sacramental Programs
We are a Regional School, therefore all Sacraments are to be performed in your home parish.
(1st Communion, Confirmation etc)
Baptism
An official record of the reception of Baptism is a registration requirement for Catholics and is recorded on the school’s Permanent Record.
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Children are eligible in second (2nd) grade, or after two (2) years of formal religious instruction.
Requirements
1. Parents attendance at parish preparation sessions as scheduled.
2. Parents assume the responsibility for the home preparation of the child.
3. Completion of the proper forms.
Sacrament of Holy Eucharist (First Holy Communion)
Children are eligible in second (2nd) grade, or after two (2) years of formal religious instruction, to make the sacrament in their home parish.
Requirements
1. Regular attendance at Sunday Mass.
2. Parents attendance at scheduled meetings.
3. Parents cooperation in preparing the child.
Sacrament of Confirmation
Children are eligible after two (2) years of Confirmation preparation, to make the sacrament in their home parish. Preparation, beginning in the sixth (6th) grade, introduces the sacrament and reviews the basic teaching of the Church.
Student Requirements
1. Regular attendance at Saturday/Sunday Mass and reception of the sacraments.
2. Attendance at Workshop/Commitment Ceremony.
3. Attendance at Confirmation Retreats.
4. Completion of interview to determine readiness for the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Parent Requirements
1. Attendance at scheduled parent’s sessions.
2. Cooperation with preparation of the candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Telephone
The telephone in the office is for business use only. It is not to be used by any students without the approval of the classroom teacher and/or principal. Students will not receive permission to use the phone to tell someone that they have forgotten an assignment, homework, lunch, etc. Children must assume responsibility for their work and accept the consequences for forgotten assignments.
Telephone Conferences
If you wish to speak with a teacher by telephone, please call the school and leave the teacher a message, or write the teacher a note requesting a call. The teacher will call you. Please do not call teachers at home. You may e-mail the teacher or the school office to request a conference.
Transfer-in student requirements:
-Transfer Card from present school
-Most recent report card
-Standardized Test results
-Completion of a Placement Assessment Test as determined by the principal
-Immunization Records, Physical, Certified State Birth Certificate, Sacramental information (if applicable), and fees.
Transfer-out student requirements:
-A transfer card must be issued by Bishop Guilfoyle Regional Catholic School to be presented at the student’s new school. This card will be issued to the parent after all school property is returned in good condition, and when it has been determined that the tuition account and all other fees are current. The principal will sign this card.
Tuition
Tuition is based on the budgetary needs of the upcoming school year. Tuition rates are not always available for the following year at springtime registration. It is advisable to expect at least a “cost of living” increase annually. A variety of payment features/options are as follows: Tuition payments may be paid in 2 installments by Sept 1 and Feb 1 or by using the Smart program. This program is an automatic withdrawal of tuition funds from an authorized bank account monthly. The business office provides all information pertaining to tuition and fees for each family account outlined in the school contract.
-It is the responsibility of the parent/guardians of the student(s) to see that the tuition payments are made on time. If a tuition payment is delinquent, the parents/guardians must contact the Business office immediately, regarding payment.
-If the business office is not informed and tuition payment is delinquent, the parent/guardians will be informed that the child will not be admitted to school until the delinquency is satisfied.
Visitors
All visitors (parents, volunteers, etc.) wishing to enter the school building must report to the school office before proceeding with any business involving the school, faculty, or staff. The teachers do not have permission to speak with parents or any other visitor during school hours. There will be no exceptions to this rule. Under no circumstance will a teacher or staff member conduct a meeting or business with an unauthorized person. For a conference, please send a note to the teacher, and the teacher will contact you with an appointment.
After-school visitors-After school visits of any nature by a parent, etc. must be by appointment only. The school building will be closed by 3:30 PM.
Walker / Riders
Children (in all grades) who are walk/car riders to and from school may not exit the building until dismissed by the supervising teacher. Walker/riders must obey the rules for pedestrians. For your child’s safety, this includes crossing the street at the corner, walking against traffic, and using the sidewalks where they are provided. Drivers are to wait at their automobile until your child is dismissed from the gym at 3:00. Please make every effort to be on time when picking up your child.
Drivers are expected to show courtesy to other drivers in the school area and to teachers on duty. Please do not park on the school lot during the school day. Please park on Georgetown Road and enter the main doors.
Important Notice
The principal has the absolute discretion to interpret and apply any and all of the rules and provisions in this handbook in the manner the principal believes to be correct. Nothing this handbook says limits the principal’s authority to interpret and apply the rules.
Even though this handbook explains penalties that can be imposed for certain types of misconduct or prohibited behavior, parents should be aware that the principal has the right and the authority to impose different or additional penalties and to impose penalties for offenses that are not specifically listed in this handbook. If the principal concludes that the conduct or behavior is harmful to the good order and discipline of the school, its religious mission or its educational objectives, penalties may then be imposed. This includes disciplinary action for conduct that occurs on the school premises or at other school related functions off-site.
Superintendent’s Announcement
The former Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Camden, Monsignor McIntyre, in conjunction with the Diocesan School Board formulated a Parent Policy. The current Superintendent, Miss Mary Boyle, has requested annual publication. The policy is as follows:
“Parents must weigh seriously their obligation to educate their children in an atmosphere which emphasizes message, community and service.” Parents can assist our educational partnership by:
- Attending weekly Mass and significant religious services with their children.
- Assisting their children in academic and moral development by reviewing report
cards carefully, supervising home study and cooperating with the school concerning
activities, recreation and discipline.
- Talking about school with their children.
- Providing a suitable time and place for homework.
- Monitoring television viewing.
- Reading aloud to children.
-Attending school programs.
-Sharing hobbies and interest with their children.
-Trying to discover the children’s interests and talents so that they can be developed
in cooperation with classroom teachers.
-Taking an active role in the Parent/Teacher Association.
Principal’s Right to Amend
The Principal of Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School reserves the right to amend this School Handbook, and the policies and procedures without prior notice. Every effort will be made to advise students and parents of such changes.