ST. GREGORY THE GREATCATHOLIC SCHOOL

323 FORDING ISLAND ROADBLUFFTON, SC 29909

(843) 815-9988(843) 815-6137 (FAX)

2014-2015SGGCS

PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

ST. GREGORY THE GREATCATHOLIC SCHOOL

VISION STATEMENTTOGETHER WE PROVIDE AN EDUCATIONAL

ENVIRONMENT WHERE CHILDRENGROW IN FAITH;

DEVELOP SKILLS THAT PROVIDE THEM FOR LIFEIN A TECHNOLOGICAL SOCIETY;

FORM A SPIRIT OF CHRISTIAN SERVICE ANDRESPECT FOR HUMAN LIFE THAT REACHES OUT

TO THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY

MISSION STATEMENTSt. Gregory the Great Catholic School is dedicated to the spiritual, cultural, social, moral, and intellectual development of students of all faiths. As a Preschool through 6th grade ministry of Saint Gregory the Great Parish, in

collaboration with our families and faith community, we offer a challenging curriculum in a nurturing, Christian environment, rooted in Catholic tradition.

ACCREDITATIONSt. Gregory the Great Catholic School is accredited through the

SACS/AdvancED Accreditation Commission and Board of Trustees and is an active member of the National Catholic Educational Association.

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insert school calendar that is attached to this email – 2014-2015 SGGCS Calendar

SCHOOL HOURS:7:50AM – 2:45PM: PRE-K-6TH

EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM UNTIL 6:00 PM

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STAFF DIRECTORY 2014-2015

SAINT GREGORY THE GREAT CATHOLIC SCHOOL323 Fording Island RoadBluffton, SC 29909

Msgr. Ronald R. Cellini, PastorMr. Christopher A. Trott, Principal ct@sggcs.orgMrs. Maggie Cyr, Administrative Assistant/Bookkeeper mc@sggcs.orgMrs. Sandy Bougus, Secretary/Receptionist sb@sggcs.orgSister Agnes Marie, Secretary/Receptionist am@sggcs.org (843) 815-9988 - Phone(843) 815-6137 - Fax

School Faculty List/Email (if available)

Mrs. Beth Kelley, Pre-K Teacher/Assistant Principal ek@sggcs.orgMrs. Angela Wyman, Pre-K Assistant/Extended Care Coordinator aw@sggcs.orgMrs. Amanda Pope, Kindergarten Teacher ap@sggcs.orgMrs. Susan Smith, Kindergarten Assistant sms@sggcs.org Sister Jacqueline, Resource Assistant sz@sggcs.org Ms. Victoria Anania, 1st Grade Teacher va@sggcs.org Mrs. Maria Robertello, 1st Grade Assistant mr@sggcs.org Ms. Julie McGrath, 2nd Grade Teacher jm@sggcs.org Mrs. Pati Arseneau, 2nd Grade Assistant/Art Teacher pa@sggcs.orgSister Judy, 3rd Grade Teacher sj@sggcs.orgMrs. Maura Peirce, 3rd Grade Teacher mp@sggcs.org Mrs. Barbara Pittman, 4th Grade Teacher bp@sggcs.orgMrs. Amanda Keefer, 4th Grade Teacher /Science Lab Coordinator ak@sggc.orgMr. Aaron Mau, 5th Grade Teacher/Athletic Director ajm@sggcs.orgMrs. Karen Floyd, 6th Grade Teacher kf@sggcs.orgDeacon Walt Hollis, 4th/5th Grade Religion Teacher wh@sggcs.orgMr. Rich Fagon, 6th Grade Religion Teacher rf@sggcs.org Fr. Renuard West, Parochial Vicar, LatinMrs. Ann Caruso, Librarian ac@sggcs.orgMrs. Mary Bedient, 1st – 5th Spanish Enrichment mb@sggcs.orgMrs. Linda Burkett, Music Teacher lb@sggcs.orgMrs. Jan Sakada, Communication Specialist js@sggcs.orgMrs. Sandy Koepke, Guidance Counselor sk@sggcs.orgMr. Jim Ewing, Computer Teacher je@sggcs.org Mr. Gordon Atkisson, Maintenance SupervisorMr. David Clark, Maintenance Assistant

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WHERE FAITH AND SCIENCE EXCELS!Welcome to Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School! In

choosing St. Gregory the Great Catholic School, you have demonstrated a commitment to the values and philosophy of a Catholic education. The Catholic School difference is reflected in the philosophy that permeates the total educational program and the lives of faculty and students. Not all students who come to Saint Gregory are Catholic, but all share experiences of faith and values. Values, which promote understanding and service to the needy, are an important part of the learning experience.

The home and school have important functions to serve in educating your child. Guiding the development of your child is a co-operative endeavor. The quality of the teacher-parent relationships during this period will have an influence upon your child throughout the formative years. We encourage parents/guardians to be as active and involved as possible in the school. Volunteering your time and talent will mean something special to your child.

With warm regards and blessings,Mr. Christopher A. Trott, Principal

HISTORYSt. Gregory the Great Catholic School started in 2006 at St.

Andrew’s Hall with grades Pre-K and Kindergarten under the direction and leadership of founding principal, Sister Canice Adams, SSCM, PhD. In 2007, St. Gregory the Great Catholic School moved to its permanent location next to St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church and became Pre-K through Grade 5. Grade 6 was added in 2008, Grade 7 in 2009 and Grade 8 in 2010 with the first graduating class receiving diplomas in 2011. With the opening of John Paul II Catholic School in Ridgeland in 2013, the 7th and 8th grades officially moved to the new location. St. Gregory the Great Catholic School opened its 2013-2014 school year with Pre-Kindergarten through 6th grades and continues this tradition in the 2014-2015 school year.

DIOCESAN GOALS AND MISSIONOF THE DIOCESE OF CHARLESTON

To ensure the proclamation of the message of the Gospel in every elementary and secondary school of the Diocese of Charleston.

To encourage the building of a faith community among students, faculty, administration, parents and parishioners.

To instill the importance of service to one another as an obligation of living in a Christian community.

To develop in students the principles of peace and justice.

To assist and support the schools in their endeavors to be education institutions of academic excellence and centers for moral formation.

To assure quality Catholic education by maintaining high standards in teaching and learning.

PHILOSOPHY

We believe that Saint Gregory the Great School is a Catholic community dedicated to the mission entrusted by Jesus Christ to the Church. Our community provides an environment that helps to instill sound ideals, morals, and values guided by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

To bring this about, we work towards developing a program that will acknowledge and accept responsibility to nurture the academic, spiritual, cultural, and physical growth of each student while allowing him/her to advance according to his/her own unique and personal talents.

With God’s grace, our students will continue to enlighten their faith through personal prayer and Christian attitudes.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES1. To be attentive to the needs of our students, guided by

the Gospel message;

2. To encourage students growth in faith as directed by our Lord, Jesus Christ to love God and one another;

3. To help each student mature in the life of his/her faith through personal prayer;

4. To provide students with a variety of group and individual learning experiences designed to help develop a positive self-image;

5. To encourage respect, courtesy and a caring attitude in each student;

6. To help each student to develop intellectually in order to meet the demands of society and to make valid choices based on Gospel values;

7. To provide a strong instructional program while permitting each student to develop his/her unique talents;

8. To initiate meetings and other programs to make parents more conscious of their role and to enhance partnership in education.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY AND PROBATIONAll students are to display moral and ethical academic

integrity at all times. Cheating of any type will not be tolerated. Students who choose to cheat may be subject to serious penalties such as a failing grade for the assessment, detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. A student who is involved in cheating or whose average is an F will also be unable to participate in sports/extracurricular activities for a period determined by the administration or until the grade has improved to a passing grade. Students are representatives of St. Gregory the Great Catholic School and are expected to uphold the morals and values of the community both inside and outside of the school.

Students may be placed on academic probation at any time by the principal if they are considered to be seriously neglecting school responsibilities. Failure of a student to show improvement can result in the request/recommendation that parents withdraw the student from the school.

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ADMISSION1. A pre-school child must be four years of age by

September 1st of that school year.

2. A kindergarten child must be 5 years of age by September 1st of that school year.

3. A first grade child must be six years of age by September 1st of that school year.

4. A parent/guardian must present an original birth certificate, baptismal certificate (for Catholic children), S.C. immunization document, and the stated school registration fee for that year.

5. Students currently enrolled are asked to re-enroll for the following academic year. This re-registration process takes place prior to the open registration period. Students not re-registered during this time are considered for enrollment, as are new students, on a space available basis.

6. It is expected that parents who seek to enroll their children in Saint Gregory be committed to the philosophy and values of the school.

7. All new students are accepted to Saint Gregory the Great School on a one-quarter trial basis. At the end of the quarter, the student’s performance will be evaluated by the teachers and/or principal. This evaluation is to determine if Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School is the best place for this student.

8. Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, color, religion, or national origin.

The education of a student is a partnership between the parents/guardians and the school. Just as the parent/guardian has the right to withdraw a child if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require the withdrawal of a student if the administration determines that the partnership is irretrievably broken.

1. Special arrangements for grading, promotion and graduation should be developed and described within the annual agreement.

2. Failure of the student or his/her family to abide by the terms of the annual agreement (including but not limited to any financial requirements) shall be grounds for dismissal or expulsion.

3. “Inclusion” as used herein contemplates including the student in a normal classroom and classroom activities.

4. Some consideration of partial inclusion may be appropriate. Where some special services are available without charge to the family from the public schools or other sources (such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, etc.), these services might be coupled with part-time inclusion in our school.

Allergy Policy

St. Gregory the Great Catholic School recognizes that allergies are important conditions affecting some of our school children.

This school encourages children with allergies to achieve their potential in all aspects of school life by having a clear policy that is understood by school staff and pupils. Teachers and new staff are also made aware of the policy. All staff who come into contact with children with allergies are provided with training on allergies. Training is updated as needed.

Asthma MedicationImmediate access to reliever inhalers is vital. Parents are

asked to ensure that the school is provided with a labeled spare reliever inhaler. All inhalers must be labeled with the child's name by the parent.

The School EnvironmentThe school does all that it can to ensure the school

environment is favorable to children with asthma or allergies. As far as possible the school does not use chemicals in science and art lessons that are potential triggers for children with asthma. Parents must make teachers aware of potential triggers.

Food Allergy PolicySt. Gregory the Great Catholic School recognizes that life

threatening food allergies are an important condition affecting some school children and positively welcomes all pupils with food allergies. In order to minimize the incidence of life threatening allergic reactions, St. Gregory the Great Catholic School will maintain a system-wide procedure for addressing life threatening allergic reactions and maintain an Medical/Allergies File for any student(s) whose parent/guardian, and physicians have informed the school in writing that the student(s) has a potentially life threatening allergy.

ClassroomsTeachers must be familiar with the Emergency Action Plan

of students in their classes and respond to emergencies as per the emergency protocol documented in the Emergency Action Plan.

In the event of a suspected allergic reaction (where there is no known allergic history), the school nurse will be called and the emergency medical services will be called immediately.

The classrooms have easy communication with the health room and main office.

Information will be kept about students’ food allergies in the classroom and in the substitute emergency folder, accessible by teachers, substitutes or other responsible adults.

All teachers and substitutes will be educated about the risk of food allergies.

A parent or guardian of a student with food allergies is responsible for providing all food for his/her own child. Snacks will be kept in a separate snack box or chest provided by the parent or guardian.

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Tables will be washed with soap and water or cleaning wipes following any food related events held in the classroom during the school hours.

Proper hand cleaning techniques will be taught and encouraged before and after the handling/consumption of food.

ASSIGNMENT BOOKSAll 1st – 6th grade students must write daily homework

assignments in their Assignment Book. Parents/Guardians are asked to check the assignment book every night. The assignment book is given at the beginning of the year. A parent/guardian should sign the book after reviewing his/her child’s work.

ATTENDANCEThe school calendar is provided in the spring prior to the

start of the academic year for the convenience of planning medical appointments and vacations. Please use the school calendar when planning so there are not conflicts with school days. Lengthy, unexcused absences (i.e. vacations) from school may seriously interfere with the student’s academic success. Students miss valuable teacher-student instruction and may experience negative results (i.e. test/quiz grades, missed class work, etc.) upon arrival back into the regular classroom. In consultation with the principal, the teacher may provide missed assignments to a student and only accept them for partial to no credit based on the teacher’s timeline. (See Vacation During the School Year.)

The school will notify parents/guardians of excessive absences from school. Make up work is required. Absences can affect academic standing. Students who miss school 20 (twenty) days or more are subject to retention of grade or disenrollment for the next school year. The school may also contact the Department of Social Services because of a concern regarding student attendance.

Once a student has reported to school, he/she must be present at all assigned classes. No student is excused from class without obtaining permission from a duly authorized person from the School Administration. Failure to comply with this policy will result in disciplinary action. Only for exceptional reasons may students be picked up at the school office and signed out by a parent or a pre-registered authorized person. (See Leaving Early Policy under Tardiness.)

BIRTHDAYS

Invitations may only be given out at school if every child in the classroom is receiving one. Cookies or individual serving ice-cream cups are the only acceptable treat to be sent in on a child’s birthday. The treat will be given out at lunchtime. Drinks, cup cakes, cakes, candy etc. are not acceptable treats for a child’s school birthday. Please do not bring party bags. Please do not have gifts delivered to school i.e.: flowers, balloons, etc. A child’s party cannot be celebrated at school.

BLOGSEngagement in online blogs such as, but not limited to,

MySpace.com® and Facebook®, etc. may result in disciplinary actions if the content of the student or parent’s

blog includes defamatory comments regarding the school, the faculty, other students or the parish.

BULLYINGIt is the policy of St. Gregory the Great Catholic School that

all of its students and school employees are provided an educational setting that is safe, secure, and free from harassment and bullying of any kind. St. Gregory the Great School does not tolerate bullying and harassment of any type. This includes physical, verbal, and cyber bulling. Incidents of bullying will result in appropriate disciplinary actions determined by the school administrator.

Bullying means systematically and continually inflicting physical pain or emotional pain on someone. It is also defined as unwanted and repeated written, verbal, or physical behavior, including any threatening and insulting gestures, by a student or adult that is severe enough to create a hostile educational environment.

Bullying may involve but is not limited to:

- Teasing- Social Exclusion- Threats- Intimidation- Stalking- Physical violence- Theft- Sexual, religious, or racial harassment- Public humiliation- Destruction of property

Bullying and harassment also includes retaliation against a student or school employee by another student or school employee for asserting or alleging an act of bullying. Reporting an act of bullying or harassment that is not made in good faith is considered retaliation.

“Cyber-bullying” is bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writings, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electric or photo optical system, including, but not limited to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages, or facsimile communications. Cyber-bullying also includes the creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person.

St. Gregory the Great Catholic School has the flexibility to add additional specific categories to which bullying and harassment is prohibited in additional of what is listed. St. Gregory the Great Catholic School expects students to conduct themselves appropriately. Since students learn by example, administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers will demonstrate appropriate behavior; treat others with respect, and refuse to tolerate bullying. St. Gregory the Great upholds that bullying or harassment of any student or school employee is prohibited:

1) During any education program or activity conducted by St. Gregory the Great School;

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2) During any school-related or school-sponsored program or activity;

3) On a school bus;4) Through the use of data or computer software that is

accessed through a computer, computer system, or computer network of St. Gregory the Great Pre-K -6.

At St. Gregory the Great, the principal or the principal’s designee is responsible for receiving complaints alleging violations of this policy.

Bullying and or cyber-bullying are intolerable. Just as SGG is a smoke free school, it is to be a No Bully School. The person or persons bullying will be subject to disciplinary action ranging from warnings and detention to, but not limited to, suspension or expulsion.

BOOK BAGSAll students must carry a book bag. The book bag must be

labeled with the child’s name. There are to be no trinkets hanging from the bag. (Please make sure the book bag is not bigger than the child). Rolling book bags can only be used if a note is written by a doctor stating that this is a must. Classrooms do not have storage space for rolling book bags.

CAR POOL – DROP-OFF/PICK-UP1. Drop-off (7:30 am to 7:50 am) and pick-up (2:45 pm to

3:00 pm) zone is at the front of the school. The faculty and staff will be on duty a.m. and p.m. to assist the children. Children in all grades should be picked up and dropped off there every day. No child will be dismissed to any other area.

2. In order to avoid confusion, we ask that you do not stand in the hall outside your child’s classroom before dismissal time. The end of an academic day is very important. It is at this time that last minute review and instructions are given to all students.

3. We ask that you remain in line, in your car, and wait for your child to come to the car at 2:45 p.m. We will not let your child walk through the parking lot to get to your car. Everyone’s time is valuable and if you stay in your car and move through the line, it will be better for all involved.

4. To avoid congestion on 278, please pull into the Saint Gregory parking lot and precede single file to the front of the school. Adults will be on duty to assist your children.

5. At the end of PM car pool, if your child has not been picked up, he/she will be sent to Extended Day. When you arrive, please go to the Extended Day room and sign out your child. Extended Day fees will imposed for the time spent in the program.

6. If you are meeting with your child’s teacher directly after school, please do not come into the building until all students have been dismissed.

7. Studies have found that close to 4,600 accidents are caused each and every day by people who are distracted. That’s 20 to 30 percent of accidents that occur. There are many distractions in car pool so please do not use your cell phone in car pool line use this time to converse with your child.

8. All students will be placed in the back seat of cars when loading them at the afternoon car pools.

9. Parents should not come across the carline in order to retrieve their children. Also, students are not to be permitted back into the building once officially picked-up to retrieve forgotten items unless explicit permission is given by the administration or teacher-in-charge.

CELL PHONES Parents should not use cell phones in the carpool lines. They are a hazard to the students and staff. If a student needs a cell phone after school due to entering a house where no one is home, or attending sport practices or games, he/she should bring the cell phone to the office upon arrival in the morning to park the cell phone in the off position for the day. The cell phone may be picked up by the student at dismissal. At no time during the day should a cell phone be in a student’s locker or in his/her possession. Items taken away from students will be returned to the parent(s)/guardian(s) at the principal’s discretion.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND/ORPHONE NUMBERS

A change of address and/or telephone number (home or work) should be reported to the School Office. This would include new addresses for parents who separate or divorce (please see Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents).

CHILD ABUSE LAWSSt. Gregory the Great Catholic School abides by the Child

Abuse laws of the State of South Carolina. This law mandates that all cases of suspected abuse and/or neglect be reported to Child Protective Services.

CLASSROOM MANNERSA child is expected to conduct him or herself according to

Christian principles so as not to disturb the academic atmosphere of the classroom or school. A student of Saint Gregory the Great School will:

1. Be on time.

2. Speak to the adult in the room;

3. Upon entering the classroom, go directly and quietly to the assigned seat and prepare for work.

4. Be courteous at all times.

5. Share the responsibility for keeping the classroom clean.

COMMUNICATIONOpen communication and respect for confidentiality are

the foundations of a healthy, happy and productive school community. Though these goals may seem paradoxical, they are, in fact, complimentary.

Office communication takes place with the “Weekly Envelope.” This envelope will be sent home with your child every Thursday of each week. It may contain important information that parents need to be aware of. Parents should check the contents and return any forms requiring signature,

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as well as the plastic folder the following day. The main office/principal will also send Weekly Announcements or Updates via email.

Most communications are delivered in the first person. Please contact your child’s teacher if you are in doubt or have questions about your child. In an emergency, please call the school directly and speak to the front office staff who will provide assistance.

CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE In accordance with the stated philosophy of the school,

which emphasizes deep respect for the human dignity and uniqueness of every individual, each student will be considerate of the rights of others in all interactions. All students are expected to cooperate with the spirit and policies of the school which are designed to foster mature development and personal responsibility. This requires courtesy in all personal relationships, promptness in fulfilling obligations, concern for the environment, and many other factors which the students’ sense of appropriateness will indicate to them.

The Principal or Assistant Principal reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of an action if any doubt arises.

Items such as, but not limited to, questionable books and pictures, knives, guns, matches, cigarettes, radios, toys, trading cards, pagers, cell phones (see Cell Phone), laser lights, palm pilots, CDs, iPods or other mp3 players, cameras, or anything that will detract from a learning situation are not allowed at school at any time. Key chains and toys may not be attached to student backpacks.

The school Administration, in accordance with state laws, will determine the appropriate disciplinary measures to be taken concerning the presence of these items in the school. Items taken away from students will be returned to the parent(s)/guardian(s) at an appropriate time. In the event of a serious concern (i.e. weapon), law enforcement will provide direction and support.

St. Gregory the Great Catholic School complies with the diocesan discipline regulations. The classroom teacher encourages the students to develop Christian habits of conduct, and, when slight infractions of school discipline occur, corrects in a positive manner, which encourages acceptable behavior. Should disciplinary measures be required, students will be issued detention notices. If a student acquires a repeated number of detentions, a conference with parents/guardians will be required with both the teacher and the principal. During this time, the student may be placed on a probationary contract and/or suspended. Failure to honor this contract may result in dismissal from the school. The administration reserves the right to determine the seriousness of an incident. Conduct detrimental to the student body, to the faculty/staff, to the school, or to the parish, including public displays of inappropriate activity not in line with the morals and values of the Catholic faith, are subject to penalty.

Detention

Lunch Detention may be issued for missed homework or violating a classroom rule. Lunch Detentions are served the day of the offense. Habitual offenses leading to Lunch Detentions will result in a meeting with the Teacher/Principal, parent(s), and child.

After School Detention may be issued for a breach of classroom and/or school rules. Parents are provided notification of the detention. The day, date, and time of the detention are at the discretion of the Teacher/Principal who monitors the detention. Detention takes precedence over appointments, practices, lessons, tutoring, ballgames, etc.

CONTACTING TEACHERSWe encourage communication with your child’s teachers. In

fact, when either you or your child has a classroom- related issue, we ask that you contact the teacher(s) directly involved first. Please make every effort, however, to reach teachers at school during school hours. If a teacher is in class, please leave a message and your call will be returned as soon as possible. Please allow for an appropriate amount of time for a return call or email as teachers have limited availability between 7:30 am and 3:00 pm.

COUNSELORCertified Language and Guidance counselors serve the

needs of students and parents through class and individual consultation. Additional resources/contacts through the community or diocese are available in order to assist a child/family in need of services.

CRISIS PLANSt. Gregory the Great School has a “crisis plan” in case of a lockdown emergency. All teachers and staff are aware of the procedure to follow to keep your child safe. Emergency drills (i.e. fire, tornado) are performed on regular interval.

CUSTODIAL AND NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS Divorced or separated parents are asked to file a copy of the custody section of the Divorce Decree with the school office. The school must have a copy of any court order involving a school child in matters of custody and contact. The school will not take sides in domestic disputes but will follow any court ordered procedure. The school’s primary concern is the well-being of the child. If called to testify in a domestic dispute, staff members will respond to a subpoena and give testimony in an objective manner.

DISMISSALOrderly dismissals are necessary to ensure safety and well-

being for all children. For the safety of the children, parents may not go directly to a classroom to ask for a child to be released.

DRESS CODE GENERAL EXPECTATIONSThe Dress Code of the school requires that students wear

the prescribed school uniform every school day. If it is

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necessary to wear corrective shoes, please inform the school office with the medical note. Failure to adhere to the uniform policy will result in a uniform violation, contacting home, and/or consequence (i.e. detention). Parents are responsible to ensure that their child is properly uniformed each day.

1. All students are expected to dress and groom themselves neatly. Cleanliness is understood to be basic.

2. Shoes should be sturdy. The color should be appropriate for school, solid navy blue, black, brown, or white. Shoelaces should be navy blue, black, brown, or white, no psychedelic/bright colors laces. Open-toe shoes are not allowed. Shoes with lights on heels and/or soles are not permitted. Shoes with wheels are not permitted.

3. Girls are not permitted to wear make-up including colored nail polish.

4. Boys are not permitted to wear any type of earring.

5. “Fad” haircuts or colored altered hair for either boys or girls are not permitted.

6. Boys hair must be off the collar and above the ears and eyebrows. No shaggy cuts, frizzy hair, or dreadlocks/tails. No unusual cuts which draw attention.

7. Girls with pierced ears may wear one stud only in each ear lobe.

8. Wearing necklaces, bracelets and rings is not allowed. Religious necklaces should be worn inside a student’s shirt or blouse.

9. Any watch that is a “fad” or “trend” is not allowed. A basic watch is all a student needs at school.

10. Items such as hair ribbons and barrettes worn by girls must be simple. The colors are limited to the uniform colors (plaid, navy, white, gray, or burgundy). Holiday bows/pins will be permitted on designated days only.

DRESS CODE—DAILYUniforms must be purchased from Stitch Designs

Please see attached Dress Code Sheets

DRESS CODE – PHYSICAL EDUCATIONGrades PK through 6th

Tennis shoes with (laces or velcro) must be worn on PE days.

Girls in 1 – 2 should wear shorts and/or slacks on PE days, according to what is permissible at that time of year. School t-shirts may be worn only on PE days.

Grades 3rd through 6th SGG P.E. shorts, SGG T-shirt (this must be worn

during P.E. class), & tennis shoes (with laces or velcro) must be worn during P.E. Class. In cold weather, SGG sweat pants are worn during P.E. class for grades 3 thru 6. Pants must have SGG logo. The principal determines the dates when the “cold weather” uniform starts and ends.

PE bags: Students in grades 3 thru 6 must bring P.E. clothes in P.E. bags labeled with his/her name.

DRESS UP/DRESS DOWN DAYS Certain days of the year are designated for dress up or

dress down days. Students who wish to participate may pay a predetermined amount to dress up or dress down, depending upon the administration’s decision. On these days, students may wear street clothes, but they are reminded that neat, modest attire will be expected. Dress down day rules will accompany these announcements and must be abided by. All uniform regulations and guidelines are subject to the discretion of the principal.

EARLY ARRIVALA teacher is on duty at 7:30 a.m. No child is to be dropped

off at school before this time. The school will not be responsible for a child until 7:30 a.m. The official door will open at 7:30 a.m.

School begins at 7:50 a.m. School dismissal is at 2:45 p.m. Extended Care is available for a nominal fee, from 2:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Morning Drop off—students are to be dropped off in the front of the school. Students in Pre-K through Grade 6 are to enter the building and go directly to the school library or designated spot determined by the school staff. There is no supervision in the school before 7:30 a.m. and students should not be left unattended.

All outside doors will be locked during school hours for the safety of everyone in the building. Please use the buzzer system located at the main door entrance during school hours for admittance.

EDUCATIONAL ASSESSMENT AND PLACEMENTThe faculty of Saint Gregory the Great is committed to

providing quality education in the most appropriate academic setting for each student. At times, educational and/or psychological testing may be recommended to enable the teacher to better assist the student.

In the event that Saint Gregory is unable to adequately meet the special needs of a student, this will be communicated to the parents and suggestions for tutorial help or alternative placement will be made. The parent’s cooperation in matters of testing, extra assistance, and alternative placement is expected.

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION CARDAn emergency card for each student must be completed

each year by parent/guardians. The card contains information about the child’s physician and telephone numbers of person(s) to contact should an emergency arise. Completion of this card is mandatory during the first week of school.

ESSENTIAL RULES1. MANNERS ARE A MUST AT SGG

When responding to an adult you must answer by saying “Yes, Ma’am” or “No, Sir”. “Yes, Sister” or “No, Sister”.

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Always make eye contact when talking to someone or when someone is talking to you and always face that person giving him/her your full attention.

When someone asks you a question, you should answer with a question, such as, “Hi, John. How was your weekend? You should answer, “Fine thank you. How was yours?

Greet adults by name, if you know it, otherwise “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon”.

NEVER show disrespect by rolling your eyes, tsk (clucking your tongue), or other gestures.

Cover your mouth with your arm and turn your head when you sneeze, cough, or burp. Then excuse yourself.

2. GOOD SPORTS ARE A WINNER If someone wins a game, clap and congratulate

that person. When you win or do something well, do not brag. If you lose, do not show anger or sarcasm, such

as “I wasn’t playing that well” or “The teams weren’t divided evenly”. This only shows your weakness. Instead, say “I really enjoyed the competition, and I look forward to playing you again.”

3. Respect each others comments, opinions, or ideas. When possible, make statements like, “I agree with you, and I also feel…” or “I disagree with Sarah. She makes a good point, but I feel…

4. Say “Thank You” when you are given something. When given something by someone, never insult

the gift or the person giving it. Never ask for a gift or a reward.

When offered food, just take your fair share. Never look for the larger piece to grab.

5. Surprise others by performing random acts of kindness. Remember, you will never know how many people this will affect.

6. Homework must be turned in everyday by every child. When homework is assigned there is to be no moaning or complaining, or it may be doubled.

7. No one is to leave his/her seat without permission in any room. No one is to talk unless he/she has raised his/her hand and is called upon or if the teacher asks a question.

8. Use the restroom properly. ALWAYS wash your hands with soap.

9. We are all members of the SGG family and must treat each other with respect and kindness. Remember your manners during lunch: no elbows

on the tables, place a napkin in your lap and one as your place mat, never talk with food in your mouth.

Clean up after yourself (table & floor).

10. When you are on a field trip, make sure to thank the person for inviting you. Also be sure to thank your chaperones, bus driver, and teacher for the field trip.

11. If someone drops something, pick it up and return it to that person. Also, as you approach a door, hold it open

for the next person. If someone bumps into you or you into them, say, “Excuse me”.

12. Enter all buildings silently. Walk down the hall in single file without any talking.

13. If someone is bothering you, let your teacher know. He/She can not stop the behavior if she/he is not aware of it.

14. If you feel strongly about something, nicely express your opinion. These opinions, however, should align with Catholic morals and values.

15. Accept that you are going to make mistakes and learn from them. Always be honest. Be the best person you can be everyday.

EXTENDED DAY PROGRAMAn Extended Day Program is available for after-school

hours. Grades Pre-Kindergarten – 6th Extended Day hours begin at 2:45 p.m. The Extended Day Program is available each day until 6:00 p.m. Please see Extended Day Program handbook for further details.

FIELD TRIPSA Field Trip is designed as a school-sponsored activity

supervised by school personnel and/or adult volunteers, which occurs off campus. A Field Trip is a privilege extended to each student. However, if the Principal or Teacher determines a child should not attend the trip due to improper behavior, missing assignments, failing grades, etc. the student will remain in school.

Field trips are re-evaluated each year to determine the trips compatibility with curricular goals. There are no “traditional” field trips. Class participation in a particular field trip over consecutive years does not mean that this trip has become a school tradition. All grades do not always have the same number of field trips. Parents may refuse to permit their child from participating in a field trip by stating so on the proper form. Students who do not attend a field trip by parental choice will remain at home with the parent and will be marked absent for the day. All monies collected for the field trip are non-refundable.

Each student participating in a field trip must have a Permission Slip signed by his/her parent or legal guardian. A telephone call or fax in lieu of the written signed permission form is NOT acceptable. A student is expected to wear full dress uniform on field trips unless otherwise told. Chaperones are not to use cell phones on field trips except in case of emergency.

Chaperones are not permitted to take pictures with their cell phones of students who are not their own and put them on a social media site. Each child has a publicity form on file in the main office which is maintained by the administration. Posting another student’s picture on a personal social media site violates the publicity agreement and could potentially endanger the child and/or family. Only designated photographers and/or school employees under the direction of the administration are permitted to take photographs during

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a school sanctioned field trip.

Persons volunteering to drive for a Field Trip must furnish the school with the following information:

1. A valid driver’s license.

2. A valid registration for the vehicle.

3. Proof of insurance for the vehicle for at least $100,000 per person/ $300,000 per occurrence.

4. Have not been involved in any car related accidents or citations for reckless driving in the past 3 years.

5. Must have attended the Virtus Workshop and have been properly background screened by the school/diocese.

Drivers for a Field Trip are responsible to see that each student being transported is wearing a seat belt. They must follow the preferred route to and from the designated field trip (no stopping except where the destination is or better known as “frolic and play”). They are responsible to see that they all have all of the information necessary on the student assigned to his/her car. Drivers must also have their vehicles fueled/filled prior to departure from school grounds.

Parents/guardians who are not “official” chaperones (identified by the school) may not drive their car to a field trip destination with the intent of accompanying the class on the field trip. Our risk management insurance company insures the “official” chaperones and participation by unofficial chaperones jeopardizes the protection for our students and all other “official” adults on the trip.

FIRE DRILLSFire drills are held monthly during the school year to ensure

that each student is aware of the fire exits and alternative exits. Exit routes are posted in each room and students are instructed in proper procedures so that they can leave the building in a quiet and orderly manner. Additional emergency drills are conducted throughout the year (i.e. earthquake drills, tornado drills).

FUND-RAISINGRevenue from fund-raising goes to purchase items for the

school that the budget is not able to cover. Therefore, all families of children enrolled in the school are expected to support fund-raising efforts.

GRADING SCALE –GRADES 1 - 6A+ = 98 – 100 C+ = 80-82A = 95 – 97 C = 77 – 79A- = 92 – 94 C- = 74 – 76B+ = 89 – 91 D = 70 – 73B = 86 – 88 F = Below 70B- = 83 – 85 Unsatisfactory

HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONThis organization has been formed to provide

parent/guardians an opportunity to improve parenting skills; to coordinate activities for the enrichment of their families; to

assist in fundraising activities and to provide input from the home concerning school affairs. Parent participation is expected and essential for both the organization and the school.

Every parent and guardian at Saint Gregory the Great is a member of the Home School Association (HSA). The HSA is a partnership between our school and the parents/guardians of our children. The primary functions of our HSA are to organize activities and events that bring members of the SGG family together, to raise funds, and to keep the lines of communication open between our families and our school-related issues. Your HSA is comprised of elected officers and all parents/guardians.

The HSA is proud to represent a group of dedicated people who give so much of their time and talent to enhancing our children’s educational experience. Since SGG does not have a mandatory volunteer program, we strongly encourage all to get involved.

The success of our school depends on the many contributions and countless hours of volunteerism that our parents dedicate on behalf of our children. As parents of currently enrolled students, we encourage you to learn about the many ways that your family can become involved. The SGG Handbook provides much information about the various volunteer opportunities available to you.

GIFTSStudents should not exchange individual gifts at school. This gesture only creates hurt feelings among other students.

GUMStudents should not chew gum in school or on school premises, unless explicit permission is received from the administration. This includes before school, during school, and after school. Disciplinary action will occur for student’s chewing gum during the course of the school day or during carpool.

HOMEWORKHomework is assigned as a reinforcement or extension of

the daily program. When assigned, homework should be completed and returned the day it is due. Some parental supervision is expected. Parents should emphasize that study is as essential as written work.

If a parent/guardian recognizes that his/her child

consistently spends more than the suggested time for homework, the parents should contact the teacher directly. Homework will not be given over the weekend for grades 1-5. No tests will be given for Mondays. Weekends should be dedicated to church and family activities.

As grade 6 is a transitional year, reflecting on proper preparation and habits for the Junior High, 6 th grade students can/will be given weekend assignments as determined by assigning teacher to ensure appropriate advancement through the subject material.

At all grade levels, homework is included in determining the subject area grade on the report card. Failure to complete

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homework in the appropriate manner will result in a lower grade on the report card. It is the parent’s responsibility to check and sign/initial the child’s homework assignment book.

If a child is not in school by noon, his/her homework will be sent to the office to be picked up after the completion of the dismissal routine at (3:00 p.m.) by the parent. If the parent does not pick up the homework by 4:00 p.m., it will be sent back to the classroom teacher. No telephone calls to the office will be necessary to ask for the homework.

HONOR PledgeStudents at Saint Gregory the Great are expected to show

integrity and respect. The Honor Code must be memorized by all students:

“As a SGG student,

I will do my best to be the best.

I will listen.

I will follow directions.

I will honor my work and the work of others.

I will respect the rights of others.

I can learn.

I will learn.

I will treat all I meet with the kindness of Jesus”.

HONOR ROLLAn Honor Roll system is in place at Saint Gregory the Great

School to challenge students in Grades 3 – 6 to continue to strive for excellence in all phases of their development.

Criteria for honors are as follows:

PRINCIPAL HONORS: Students must acquire A+ or A in all subjects (and S in minor subjects)

FIRST HONORS: Students must acquire A+, A, or A- in all major subjects and S in minor subjects.

SECOND HONORS: Students must acquire B+ or B in all major subjects and S in minor subjects.

RATIONALE: Marks for report cards are not determined from major tests alone. There are 45 days in a marking period. It would be unfair to consider the 4-6 major tests given in each subject as the only criteria used for a report card grade. In music, art, physical education, foreign language and technology, a student’s effort, cooperation, and preparation for class are important to obtain S. (Satisfactory).

To receive an S in character development and application a student’s cooperation in the classroom, library, hallways, lunchroom, playground, etc. as well as use of study time will be considered. It is important to remember that to be considered an honor student; one must exhibit self-discipline

as well as consideration for others.

ILLNESS AND INJURYIf your child is ill with a fever he/she must be fever free,

without the help of aids, for 24 hours before they can return to school.

In the case of injury, the school will take appropriate steps to ensure student safety if parents cannot be contacted. Emergency cards must be completed and updated. Parents/guardians will be asked to come to school for their child if illness or injury makes it necessary.

IMMUNIZATIONS All health records are maintained and kept up to date in the school/health office. According to Diocesan Policy #5070, schools will cooperate with the State Department of Health and the local health agency in their particular communities by carrying out their recommendations and Diocesan Policy #5072, no Superintendent of any institution of learning and no school board or principal of any school in this state shall admit as a pupil any child or person who cannot produce satisfactory evidence of having been vaccinated or immunized as often as directed by the State Board of Health. Records of proper immunization must be on file for each student.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control has declared the following schedule of required vaccinations, screening and immunizations necessary for a child to be admitted to any public, private, or parochial school, grades Kindergarten through twelve (K-12), or any child development program under the control of the State Department of Education.

Immunization Records must be provided within 30 days of enrollment. All immunization records must be on file prior to school starting and be compliant with DHEC regulations. Unless otherwise noted by DHEC, the:

Minimum Requirements for Kindergarten – 6th grade:

*Four (4) doses of any combination of DPT, DT, DTP-Hib, DTaP, or Td vaccine at least one (1) dose received on or after the fourth birthday. If 4 doses before age 1, then 5 th

dose after 4th birthday.

*Three (3) doses of any combination of oral or inactivated Polio vaccine with at least one (1) dose received on or after the fourth birthday.

*Two (2) dose of Rubeola (Measles) vaccine received on or after the first birthday. Two (2) doses of Rubeola (measles) vaccine with both doses received on or after the first birthday and separated by at least one month.

* One (1) dose of Rubella (German measles) vaccine received on or after the first birthday.

* One (1) dose of Mumps vaccine received on or after the first birthday.

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* Three (3) doses of Hepatitis B vaccine for all children.

*2 doses of varicella are now required for all 5K students. The first dose of varicella must be received on or after the first birthday. The second does must be separated from the first does by 12 weeks (for children <13 years of age) or 4 weeks (for children >13 years of age). If a child has a positive history of disease, they are exempt from this requirement.

Minimum Requirements for Pre-K:

All of the above, in addition to:

HIB – age 15-59 months. 1 after 15 months of age.

INSTAGRAM® Photos and captions on a student or parent’s Instagram® account or similar social media site that depict the school, the faculty, other students, or the parish in a defamatory way may result in disciplinary action.

INSTRUCTION – CURRICULUM Students receive instruction in the areas of: Religion, Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Art, Music, Physical Education, Library, Technology, Science Lab, and Spanish or Latin. Time allotment is governed by diocesan guidelines. The Diocese of Charleston guidelines and standards are utilized in the St. Gregory the Great School academic and religion program. Additional resources such as national or state standards are consulted by the faculty for professional discussion and discernment.

INTERIM (PROGRESS) REPORTS Interim reports will be given to students who are not

working to his/her ability.

LABSStudents are exposed to the latest technology available

today through experimentation and exploration in our fully equipped Science and Technology Labs maintained on school grounds.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTERThe library is a facility that all students learn to use.

Classes make weekly scheduled visits to hear books read, choose library books, work on directed research projects, and learn the basic library skills. The library is computerized, and has a collection of books, DVDs, e-readers, video, cassettes, and a variety of magazines.

In an effort to teach our students responsibility for returning library books on time, a fine will be assessed for overdue books. If your child is absent on his/her library day, please remind him/her to return the book on the first day back to school. If a student loses or damages a library book, the student is responsible for damages and/or losses.

End of the year report card will not be given to a child if a book (s) is due in the library. A book fee will be assessed.

LOCKERS Each student is assigned a locker or cubby in which to store clothing and textbooks. In order to maintain a quiet atmosphere for class, students are allowed to go to their

lockers only at specified times. The school reserves the right to inspect lockers at any time. Lockers may not be decorated inside or out. Appropriate locker shelves may be added by the student as deemed necessary for personal organization.

LUNCHLunch bags and boxes should be clearly marked with the

student’s name and grade. No glass containers should be brought to school. No candy should be brought to school. Children are encouraged to bring a nutritious lunch to school each day. No “ fast foods ” are to be brought to lunch at anytime. Do not send these to school. Fruit Roll-ups and cheese strings are too time consuming for school lunches. Please do not send these to school. If a child forgets his/her lunch, the school will provide for the child. Habitual offenders who have forgotten their lunch will have a conference with the principal.

A thermos of juice or milk may be brought from home. No sodas may be brought for lunch. The lunch period is not long enough for school staff to take time to microwave lunches for children. Please do not send items that need to be microwaved. Hot lunches will be available for an extra charge.

MAKE – UP WORKMake-up work due to illness or other causes is the

responsibility of the child. Parents should see that the child satisfactorily completes the make-up work.

MEDICATION POLICYMedication may be administered to students during school

hours by School Nurse, the Administrative Assistant, staff designee, or the Principal if the following guidelines are met.

All medication must be brought to the school office by the parent/guardian at the beginning of the school day. Under no circumstances will students be allowed to keep medication with them during the day.

Children should be made aware of the need to report to the health room to take their medicine. Parents of young children need to send a note to the teacher or Extended Day personnel in the event that the child should forget to come to the office. It is extremely difficult to track down the children to remind them about their medicine, as they are moving from class to class, and building to building.

Medication may be given at school only under the following conditions:

1. If medication is needed in order for the student to remain in school, a Medication Permit Form must be completed by the parent/guardian, signed by the physician, and returned with the medication to the school office.

2. All medicine, including “over the counter” must be prescribed by a doctor or dentist and must be in the original, unopened container and labeled with a current pharmacy prescription label. The pharmacy can supply two labeled bottles for this purpose. Medications sent in baggies or unlabeled containers or previously

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opened will not be given.

3. The parent is responsible to bring all medication to the office and to pick up the unused medicine or it will be destroyed.

4. Antibiotics will not be given at school by school personnel. If the parent feels the antibiotic must be given during the school day, the parent may come to the office and administer it.

5. All medication WILL be kept in a locked cabinet/drawer in the school office/health room.

6. Only an authorized school representative and/or the parent may perform nebuilizer treatments in school. Non-medical school personnel are not permitted to administer the treatment.

7. NO cough drops are allowed at school.

MEDICAL APPOINTMENTSParents are urged to make doctor and dental appointment

at times which will not interfere with the academic day.

MESSAGESAll after school arrangements should be made prior to the

child coming to school. Please refrain from calling the office to give your child a message.

MISPLACED AND FOUNDTo avoid losses, especially of uniform articles, students’

clothing should be clearly marked. Articles not claimed in the first semester will be given to the needy in December. Articles not claimed in the second semester will be given away in June. Students will be responsible to check for any items they may have lost. The school is not responsible for lost possessions

NEWSLETTERA class newsletter will be sent home the first of each

month. It is essential that parents keep these for reference during the month.

OFFICE RECORDS Parents/Guardians are requested to notify the School Office in writing of any change of address, home telephone numbers, cell phone numbers, business phone numbers, e-mail addresses and/or phone numbers of emergency contacts. This will guarantee that office records are accurate, complete, and up-to-date.

PARENT CONFERENCESAll parents/guardians are required to meet with the teacher

during fall and spring conferences. All other times, conferences can be requested by parents/teachers with advance notification.

Parents/guardians are welcome to discuss the progress of his/her child with the teacher at anytime during the school year. However, please make an appointment and have it confirmed by the teacher.

Any parent/guardian who has an issue related to the child’s performance, behavior etc. is to adhere to the following procedure:

1. Discussion with the teacher (s) involved; conversations will be professional and focused solely on the individual child. Hearsay and gossip as well as talking about other children will not be considered during conversation.

2. The principal will be consulted should a resolution not be found in the initial meeting between parent and teacher.

Please refrain from discussing your concerns with friends or other parents.

PARENTS AS PARTNERS St. Gregory the Great Catholic School recognizes parents as the primary educators of their children. St. Gregory the Great Catholic School strives to assist parents in the academic and Catholic formation of their children. Therefore, it is important that a mutual attitude of respect and support be shown between home and school. Parents are expected to support the school’s mission, philosophy, and policies outlined in the handbook; support the educational programs of the school; and be involved in the religious instruction of their children.

As partners in the educational process at St. Gregory the Great Catholic School, we ask parents:

To set rules, times, and limits so that your child:o Gets to bed early on school nights;o Arrives at school on time and is picked up on

time at the end of the day;o Is dressed according to the school dress

code; ando Completes assignments on time.

To see that the student pays for any damage to school books or property due to carelessness or neglect on the part of the student;

To notify the school with a written note when the student has been absent or tardy;

To notify the school office of any changes of address or important phone numbers;

To meet all financial obligations to the school;

To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well-being, safety, and health;

To complete and return to school any requested information promptly;

To read school notes and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education;

To support the religious and educational goals of the school;

To attend Mass and teach the Catholic faith by word and example;

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To support and cooperate with the discipline policy of the school;

To treat teachers with respect and courtesy in discussing student problems.

PARENT’S ROLE IN EDUCATIONWe, at St. Gregory the Great Catholic School,

consider it a privilege to work with parents in the education of children because we believe parents are the primary educators of their children. Therefore, it is your right and your duty to become the primary role models for the development of your child’s life---physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. Your choice of St. Gregory the Great Catholic School involves a commitment and exhibits a concern for helping your child to recognize God as the greatest good in his/her life.

Good example is the strongest teacher. Your personal relationship with God, with each other, and with the Church community will affect the way your child relates to God and others. Ideals taught in school are not well rooted in the child unless these are nurtured by the example of good Catholic/Christian morality and by an honest personal relationship with God in your family life.

Once you have chosen to enter into a partnership with us at St. Gregory the Great Catholic School, we trust you will be loyal to this commitment. During these formative years (Pre-K to 6), your child needs constant support from both parents and faculty in order to develop his/her moral, intellectual, social, cultural, and physical endowment. Neither parents nor teachers can afford to doubt the sincerity of the efforts of their educational partner in the quest of challenging, yet nourishing, the student to reach his/her potential. It is vital that both parents and teachers remember that allowing oneself to be caught between the student and the other partner will never have positive results. To divide authority between school and home or within the home will only teach disrespect of all authority. If there is an incident at school, you as parents must make investigation of the complete story your first step. Evidence of mutual respect between parents and teachers will model good mature behavior and relationships. Talking negatively about a child’s teacher at home will only create an attitude of distrust toward the teacher, the school, and the parent.

Students are naturally eager to grow and learn. However, sometimes in the process of maturation new interests may cause them to lose focus. As this natural process occurs, the student needs both understanding and discipline. At times, your child may perceive discipline as restrictive. However, it is boundaries and limits which provide a young person with both guidance and security.

It is essential that a child take responsibility for grades he/she has earned and be accountable for homework, long-term assignments, major tests, service projects, and all other assignments. Parents are encouraged to let their child experience a logical consequence for an inappropriate action or behavior. This responsibility also extends to times of absence and a child inadvertently leaving an assignment or other school items at home.

Together, let us begin this year with a commitment to partnership as we support one another in helping your child to become the best person he/she is capable of becoming.

P.E. DAYS (Also see Dress Code)Grades 3-6 must bring SGG gym shorts or SGG blue sweat

pants and the ash color t-shirt with the SGG name, on P.E. days. All gym clothes must be brought to school in a gym bag. All students must wear tennis shoes on P.E. days. Your child will be told the day of the week that he or she has P.E.

Girls in Pre-K -2nd grade should wear school shorts/skorts and or slacks on P.E. days, according to what is permissible at the time of year. Grades 3-6 wear SGG P.E. shorts and SGG T-shirt during P.E. classes. School T-shirts may be worn only on P.E. days (for 1st/2nd grades).

PROMOTION/RETENTIONFailure in one major subject requires summer school;

failure in two major subjects requires repetition of the grade. Students who successfully complete the curriculum for a particular grade will be promoted to the next grade level. A student will be retained in a grade level if the child has not successfully mastered the curriculum content and only if the child would substantially benefit from the opportunity to repeat the current grade.

The decision of promotion, conditional promotion, and retention are made by the principal and student’s teacher in consultation with the parents. The decision of the principal is final and binding. Retention decisions will be carried over into alternate school placement, if applicable.

Major Subjects - Grades 1-3Reading, English, Math, Spelling, Religion

Major Subjects – Grades 4 - 6Reading, English, Math, Spelling, Religion, Science, Social Studies

RE-ENROLLMENT & REGISTRATION FEERe-enrollment/Registration fee is approved by Saint

Gregory the Great Finance Council annually. Re-enrollment / Registration money is non-refundable.

RELIGIONReligious education is the primary focus of Catholic education. Non-Catholic students are required to attend all religion classes and religious activities with the exception of receiving the Sacraments. Religion is not only taught as a daily subject but also is integrated into each curriculum to form a total program of Christian education. Sacraments at St. Gregory the Great Catholic School are Reconciliation and Eucharist. First Confession and First Holy Communion are typically made by Catholic students in the 2nd grade. Students attend Mass on Fridays at 8:30 am and on Holy Days of Obligation. Parents and families are welcome and encouraged to attend.

RECORDSThe 1975 Family Education Rights and Privacy Act

(Buckley Amendment) gives parents and students the right of access to records. Parents can request to see his/her child’s

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school records. All requests must be in writing and will be handled by the school office personnel. Under the Confidentiality Act of South Carolina, only authorized school personnel will be permitted access to the student records. Records must be retained at school and viewed at school.

The school will require the parent or guardian to sign a Student Record Release form to release school records to be sent to another school. All forms should be submitted to the school office for distribution. Completed forms will be sent via the U.S. Mail. SGGCS abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding the child. If there is a court order specifying that no information be given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order. A copy of the child's report card and other school-related information will be sent to the non-custodial parent only upon written request by the non-custodial parent, provided that no court order to the contrary has been issued and received by the school. If a student transfers, records will be sent within ten (10) business days after the records release is received. All financial obligations must be met prior to the release of records.

REPORT CARDSReport cards are given four times during the school year.

Regular grade reports (i.e. returned tests, assignments, etc.) will be given between issuance of report cards to alert the parents as to whether the child is doing satisfactorily or not in both academics and behavior.

SAFETY AND WELFARESafety is the concern of all involved in the school. Parents

must obey the safety rules for the arrival and dismissal of the children. Anyone visiting the school must sign in at the school office and pick up a visitor’s pass.

SCHOOL ADVISORY BOARDThe purpose of the school board is to advise the Principal

and the Pastor on the educational needs of the school. The School Advisory Board is consultative in nature. It operates in the policymaking process by helping to formulate and recommending policy to the Pastor and Principal. Regular meetings are held September through May. Major responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Acting as a liaison with appropriate public authorities.2. Promoting understanding and support of Catholic

education in the community.3. Determining local policy relating to planning, operating,

and maintaining of facilities and equipment.4. Aiding in the preparation and implementation of the

school’s operating budget in coordination with the School and Parish Finance Committees. (This includes recommending tuition rates.)

5. Assisting local committees in the planning and building of new educational facilities.

Core committees of the School Advisory Board include: Facilities, Finance/Development, Marketing/Enrollment, and

Safety. The Pastor or Principal may create ad hoc committees at any time for a specific need. The Pastor, Principal and Board may invite members outside of the advisory board to serve on a standing or ad hoc committee.Personnel and individual student(s) are never addressed at the board meetings.

SCHOOL EXPECTATIONSSchool expectations regarding behavior are in effect for all

school functions.

SCHOOL HOURSSchool begins at 7:50 a.m. and dismisses at 2:45 p.m. for

grades PK – 6. Children may not be left at school before 7:30 a.m. Supervision of children begins at 7:30 a.m. Students not picked up by 2:55 p.m. will be sent to Extended Day with appropriate fees applied.

SCHOOL INFORMATIONIn an effort to keep communication lines open and to keep

parents informed, a newsletter/calendar is sent home. In order to be certain that all families receive the newsletter and other information, the youngest child will be given the information in an envelope. Parents are requested to read the enclosed information and to return the envelope to school the next day.

SCHOOL PARTIESThere will be three class parties during the school year –

Halloween, Christmas and Valentine’s Day. These parties are to be scheduled at the end of the school day.

SCHOOL PROPERTYWith the goal of educating the child to be a well-rounded

individual, respect for property is required at all times. Any willful damage done to school property will be repaired or replaced at the expense of the offender and family. Parent’s cooperation is definitely needed in order to teach the child respect for school property, books, material, furnishings, equipment, and the building itself.

SEARCH The school reserves the right to search anything brought on school property. This includes cell phones and other electronic devices.

SERVICE PROJECTS Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School provides many opportunities for the students to participate in outreach service projects which helps to deepen their understanding of the Catholic Faith.

SPORTSA student whose academic performance indicates serious

deficiencies, he/she may be placed on academic probation. Students on academic probation will be placed on a two week improvement plan. At the end of the two week period, the student’s academic progress will be assessed. Any student whose average is a C- in any subject or has an Unsatisfactory in any subject will not be allowed to participate in any sport or academic competition. Eligibility checks are made every week. When a student is ineligible, he/she may not attend practice or suit up for any sporting event during

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the time of ineligibility. Ineligibility starts immediately and he/she is not eligible to play or attend practice for seven days. A student will be dropped from the team if he/she becomes ineligible five times during one sport for the remainder of that season.

Sports available to students are based on the Athletic Directors discretion, with the principal’s approval, and are based on student interest as well as number of available and eligible players.

STUDENT DIRECTORY Within the quarter of the school year, each family will receive a Student Directory listing students’ and parents’ names, addresses, home telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses.

The Student Directory should be used to acquaint parents with the names of their children(s) classmates and parents. These directories are not to be used or sold for other purposes. Misuse of the directory may result in a meeting with the principal with further actions and/or consequences.

STUDY HALLA structured study hall program for students in Grades 1 –

6 is held Monday – Thursday. Students attending the Extended Day Program must attend study hall from 2:45 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Students not in the Extended Day Program may sign up for this study hall. Fees for this program may be found on the Extended Day fee sheet. Students in this program will do homework during this hour. They will be supervised by professionals and assisted by school and parish volunteers.

SUPPLIES Parents are required to purchase student supplies according to the supply lists sent home with their final report cards. Supply list items are used by your child and in their classroom, such items include (but are not limited to) pencils, notebooks, crayons, markers, paper, etc. There may be additional costs for special project/activities throughout the year.

Students must have all supplies on the first day of school.

SUSPENSIONS/EXPULSIONA child may be suspended from school for serious

breaches of discipline. Serious breaches of discipline may include but are not limited to any of the following:

1. Conduct endangering fellow students, teachers, and or school personnel.

2. Fighting.

3. Damaging or destroying school property.

4. Insubordination.

5. Smoking or possession of cigarettes; possessing drugs and/or alcohol at school or at any school functions.

6. Lying to the principal, teachers, or staff.

7. Cheating, including plagiarism.

8. Bringing a weapon on campus.

9. Bullying another student.

Whenever an incident occurs that may lead to suspension, the principal shall investigate the alleged offense. The investigation shall include a discussion with the involved student and the student will be given the opportunity to be heard with regard to the alleged offense.

Expulsion is an extremely serious matter. Students who pose a threat to themselves or to others may be expelled from St. Gregory the Great Catholic School. Students who have been expelled will not be allowed to return to the school without prior permission from the principal. Students whose parents have violated the Parents as Partners agreement in this handbook may also be excluded from St. Gregory the Great Catholic School.

TARDINESSStudents who arrive in the building after 7:50 a.m. are

considered tardy. A parent/guardian must sign the child in at the office if he/she is tardy. Habitual tardiness could result in after school work. Two or more tardies will keep a student from receiving perfect attendance at the end of the year.

Tardy Policy:A student acquiring 3 tardies in the 9-week grading period

must serve a 30 minute detention.

Detention will increase by 30 minutes for every tardy thereafter. A student who obtains 6 tardies during the 9 week period will serve Saturday School. The Saturday school will be served from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

“Leaving Early” Policy At the same time, students whose parents/guardians have formed a habit of signing the child out of school early are endangering a student’s academic success. Seven unexcused “leaving early”/signed out, no matter how early or late in the school day, for the quarter will result in a 30 minute detention for the student and a parent-principal conference.

TECHNOLOGY Access to the Internet is available throughout our School. The Internet offers vast, diverse and unique resources directly applicable to our educational programs. Our goal is to promote academic excellence at SGGCS by encouraging students, teachers and staff to make innovative and resourceful use of the Technology.

The operation of the Internet depends on its users adhering to a set of strict protocols, standards and guidelines. This means that students must not only abide by technical standards, but also ethical and courteous conduct.

Internet ResourcesThe internet enables students to explore thousands of libraries, data bases, web sites and bulletin boards while exchanging messages with Internet users throughout the world. SGGCS students and teachers will have access to materials, work, discussion boards, blogs, and information from around the world. With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the

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context of the school’s setting. However, on the global interconnected network, it is impossible to control all materials and controversial information that can be found. Questionable material is not casually available but must be sought and may be unearthed by a determined user. We firmly believe that the valuable information and interaction available on this worldwide network and the development of the skills necessary to find and utilize it far outweigh the possibility that a few users may obtain material inconsistent with the objectives of SGGCS.

Internet Terms and ConditionsIf a user at SGGCS violates any of these provisions, his or her future access will be denied. The signatures on the Technology Acceptable Use Agreement are legally binding and indicate the parties who signed have read the terms and conditions carefully and understand their significance. If a parent or guardian is uncomfortable with the option of his or her child(ren) accessing the Internet, the student(s) may be assigned a different activity when classmates are using the Internet.

Acceptable Use

Each person using the Internet is expected to use it in support of educational and research activities consistent with the educational objectives of SGGCS.

Privileges The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. Each

person using the Internet will be instructed in the proper use of the network. Inappropriate use will result in termination of privileges. The school will determine what is inappropriate use and the decision to terminate privileges is final.

General Prohibitions

Students Agree Not To:

1. Reveal his/her personal address or phone number or those of others.

2. Use the network in ways that would cause disruption of the use of the network by other users.

3. Use the computer to create, use, or download materials which would not be permissible in SGGCS classrooms in any other form (i.e. obscene, profane, pornographic, violent, or racist materials).

4. Use the computer, programs, or files without permission.

5. Delete programs, systems, or data files without permission.

6. Log in to the computer or programs as any other person or allow anyone to log in with your account.

7. Deliberately tamper with a computer system (examples: personalizing screens/screensavers, switching cables, disabling fans, introducing a virus, removing or changing keys, putting magnets on the computer, changing passwords, etc.).

8. Steal or vandalize any part of the computer or network.

9. Use the computer to tamper with, change or alter records or documents of the school.

10. Use the SGGCS computers for personal use or gain, product advertisement or political lobbying.

11. Use public domain software and shareware beyond the provided evaluation period without properly registering and paying for same or violate copyright restrictions.

Other TechnologyOther technology not specifically mentioned or approved

by the Principal is not allowed in school. The school has one class set of tablets that it will assign at the beginning of the school year as well as additional tablets for student use. All students are to respect school property and are responsible for lost or damaged technology/devices. Additional technological devices are available in the media center for student use.

Liabilities SGGCS makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. Use of the information obtained from the Internet is at your own risk. SGGCS cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through Internet services. Please note that the internet is an association of diverse communication and information networks. The school will take reasonable steps to avoid access to inappropriate material and does not encourage such access; at the same time, prevention of access cannot be absolute.

Texting/Messaging Students should at no time be involved in texting during the course of the school day. Students involved in texting at school face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. Students involved in possession or transmission of inappropriate photos on their tablets, cell phones or other electronic devices face suspension and/or expulsion.

Virtual Reality Sites Virtual reality sites pose a developmental and moral risk to the life of a student. Parents are cautioned to be aware of the online sites visited by their children, knowing that often predators are not living in a neighborhood, but within the home via a computer. Students whose avatars depict other students, teachers, or parish staff in a defamatory light face detention, suspension or expulsion.

TELEPHONE School telephones are business telephones and office personnel make emergency calls. As much as we prioritize open communication with parents, it is extremely difficult to give personal messages to children on a regular basis. Students may not make phone calls for forgotten homework, lunches, P.E. or athletic clothes, etc. Parents are encouraged to let their child experience natural consequences should these situations arise.

Students and teachers cannot be summoned for incoming calls during class time.

TESTING (STANDARDIZED)Students in grades 1 – 6 are given the Iowa Test of Basic

Skills in the fall.

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TEXTBOOKSTextbooks are supplied to students for their use during the

school year. Books are rented and must be returned prior to the last day of school. All textbooks must be covered with brown paper; workbooks should be covered with contact paper. No book socks (fabric).

Books damaged or lost will be replaced at student’s expense. A student will not receive their final report card unless all textbooks are returned to the school.

TORNADO DRILLS Tornado drills will each be conducted no less than twice a year. A drill is to test the ability of students and staff to act in the event of a real tornado.

TRANSFER OF STUDENTS Notice of withdrawal of a student should be made by the parent in writing to the Principal in advance of the withdrawal date. This enables the school to prepare necessary information and settle accounts. No student records will be forwarded to another school until all Business Office accounts have been settled. No records will be released to a parent; only to the new school of record.

TUITION AND FEESTuition rates are approved by the SGG Finance Council

annually. For registered, contributing members of SGG Church, an adjustment is made for tuition by a parish subsidy. Tuition fees are non-refundable

VACATION DURING THE SCHOOL YEARA child who is taken out of school to accompany parents on

business trips or to take vacation will received an un-excused absence. An unexcused absence is defined as any situation that can be avoided, such as family vacations, business trips etc. Teachers are not required to give make-up tests or assignments for absences due to vacations or business trips with parents. No assignments will be given in anticipation of these trips.

VISITORS/VOLUNTEERS/ VIRTUS® School visitors must come to the main office. For safety and security reasons, each person is required to sign in at the office when entering the building. Visitors may be asked to show identification in the form of a driver’s license or other government issued identification.

All volunteers, parents, student volunteers, community members, relatives, etc., are required by Diocesan policy to complete an application, which includes a criminal background check, and attend a VIRTUS® training session. There are no exceptions to this rule. Once the volunteer process is complete, a person may volunteer at the school. Volunteers must sign in at the main school office and wear I.D. badges at all times.

VIRTUS®--this program empowers organizations and people to better control risk and improve the lives of all those who interact with the Church. For more information, visit www.virtus.org.

WEATHERParents should watch TV or listen to the radio for school

cancellations. If school is announced closed in the morning,

the Extended Day Program will not be held that day. Saint Gregory the Great will follow Beaufort County, SC for any closings or early dismissals.

WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS OBJECTSAccording to diocese policy #5053.1, there are two specific situations, which may call for immediate expulsion:

1. When the moral or physical well being of the student body or faculty is endangered (such as by bringing any firearm or other weapon to school.)

2. When there is any positive promotion against religion or faith.

To insure the physical safety of the students, faculty and staff, students are not to bring toys, materials or weapons to school that appear to be or are dangerous to themselves or others. Should an incident occur that involves the above-mentioned items, the following directives will be followed:

the principal notified

the principal or the teacher will remove the toy, material or weapon from the child’s possession

the child’s parents will be notified

an incident report will be filed in the child’s school record

the child will receive an in school/or out of school suspension until a conference is held among child, parents, teacher, principal or pastor

If the weapon is a firearm, the police will be called (as firearms must be legally licensed) and the student will be placed in immediate suspension pending expulsion.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES – See Volunteer Handbook

*ST. GREGORY THE GREAT RIGHT TO AMEND St. Gregory the Great Catholic School reserves the right to amend this Handbook. Parents will be promptly notified in writing of any changes.

© 2014 St. Gregory the Great Catholic School. All Rights Reserved.

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Extended Program

The Extended Day Program is a service available to children enrolled in SGG School. The program is subject to the philosophy and guidance of Saint Gregory the Great School and its Administration.

PHILOSOPHYThe philosophy of the Extended Day Program is to enhance

the self-worth of participants by offering them opportunity to have fun and feel good about themselves. The program is recreational in nature. The program strives to compliment the child’s day, rather than duplicate it.

GOALSTo provide a safe, supervised Christian environment for

school-aged children during after school hours or on school holidays when this is feasible. To provide structured study hall program for students in Grades 1 – 6 Monday – Thursday.

BILLINGExtended Day payment is due by the 10th of each month. If

you have questions regarding the amount charged, please contact the School Office. Extended Day rates are published on the rate sheet available in the school office.

CLOTHESPreschoolers and kindergarteners should have a change of

clothes in case of emergencies. Please mark all clothing.A child must be responsible for his/her items.

CODE OF CONDUCTSince the Christian spirit is one of peace, brotherhood, love,

patience, and respect for others, the challenge of a student is to explore ways in which he/she can learn the needs of one another and the community. In fulfilling these goals, a student of Saint Gregory the Great is expected to:

1. Respect parents, teachers, school personnel and fellow students.

2. Treat others as Jesus would treat us.3. Follow the expectations of the school and home, and

the laws of the state and nation.4. Strive to be honest with him/her and others.5. Use language appropriate to a Christian.6. Develop good study habits and work to the best of

his/her ability.7. Maintain high standards of good sportsmanship.

CONFERENCES21

If requested, or if necessary, a conference may be set up with the Extended Day Coordinator and the parents and/or the child. It is best to have a specific time set aside for addressing concerns so that the Extended Day Teacher may give parents her undivided attention.

DISCIPLINEAll children in the Extended Day Program are expected to

follow school expectations.

HOURS2:45 pm – 6:00 pm...................Regular School Days

In the event of inclement weather, the Extended Day Program will be closed if the school is closed.

LATE FEESThe Extended Day Program closes promptly at 6:00 pm. If

you are late, a staff member will remain with your child in the office until you arrive. There is a $5.00 late charge for picking up between 6:00 pm and 6:15 pm. AFTER 6:15 pm, there will be an additional $1.00 charged for every minute after 6:15 pm.

Late fees are charged on any bills not paid by the due date on the invoice. There will be a 15% late charge added to each overdue account and reflected on the monthly statement.

MEDICATION / ILLNESSExtended Day will follow the guidelines that are listed

earlier in the handbook.Emergency phone numbers should be given to the office to

be kept in your child’s personal file. Please notify the staff immediately of any changes in work phone numbers or emergency contacts.

In the event that your child becomes ill, we will notify you immediately. A child with a fever needs to be taken home.

In the event of a medical emergency, the Extended Day Staff will immediately contact the parents or guardians of the child. If neither parent is available, the Staff will attempt to contact those persons listed in your child’s file. If this is unsuccessful, we will contact the proper Emergency Personnel. No Extended Day Staff member will transport a child in her personal vehicle. Parents must assume the payment of an emergency vehicle if this is needed.

PICK UP PROCEDURESAll children who are present in Extended Day must be

signed out by the authorized person picking them up.If anyone other than the parents or legal guardians is to

pick up your child, a note needs to be sent to the office to that effect. Please fill out the Parent Authorization Form, which provides a list of names of those people authorized to pick up your child. If this list changes at anytime, you should notify the school immediately.

The Extended Day Staff receives the right to request to see identification of any person picking up a child.

SCHOOL’S RIGHT TO AMENDThe Extended Day Program reserves the right to amend

the handbook for just cause. Parents will be promptly notified in writing.

SNACKSAn afternoon snack is provided during Extended Day to all

children. Please notify us of any food allergies your child may have. If you feel your child needs an extra snack, you may

send in fruit only for this purpose. Also, if your child has any allergies, he/she should bring in his/her own snack for Extended Day.

STUDY HALLStudents in grades 1 – 6 who remain after school will have

a mandatory study period. During this time, students will make every effort to complete all homework assignments, which will be checked by the teacher on duty. After Study Hall, students will have free play. All parents should review and sign child’s planner.

TOYSToys may be brought only on Fridays. All students must be

responsible for whatever they bring to Extended Day.

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