Parent Student Handbook

This handbook has been prepared for the parents/guardians and the students of Holy Cross Catholic School. It presents guidelines and directions which will help to answer some of the questions you may have regarding our school. Please read the information carefully and keep this booklet for reference. The practices and procedures outlined are presented in the best interest of all members of our school family. This handbook is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contractual agreement between Holy Cross Catholic School and any student, or any parent/guardian of any student. The school reserves the right to add to, modify, or abolish any of the handbook provisions without notice.

The mission of Holy Cross Catholic School is to ensure a faith-filled, nurturing environment, which promotes enthusiasm toward Christian service and academic excellence.

Reaching out with Christ, Holy Cross students are equipped with the skills necessary to lead successful, productive lives, to engage in Christian service and to maintain their Catholic faith throughout their lifetime.

1. We believe that our students will develop a personal relationship with God by witnessing their faith through participation in the sacraments, community worship, and service.

2. We believe that our students will have the skills necessary to reach their academic potential.

3. We believe that our students will become critical learners who have also developed a joy of learning.

4. We believe that our students will be adequately prepared to utilize technology and adapt to its changes.

5. We believe that, through the infusion of the DWP Skills into the curriculum and school environment, the students will become productive citizens and contributing members in an ever-changing global society.

Each member of the school community is a person created in the image of God with infinite dignity and

self-worth and each has the desire, the capacity, and the responsibility to learn. Holy Cross Catholic School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. The faculty, parents/guardians, and the parish share responsibility for providing learning opportunities for each child and each child has the responsibility to take advantage of those opportunities. The faculty and staff are responsible for providing a positive, affirming environment for learning that challenges every student and offers every individual the opportunity to experience success and God’s love. The parent/guardian is responsible for supporting the school program, ensuring family participation in parish life, and providing time and encouragement for home study and independent reading. The parish is responsible for providing the school with spiritual resources and guidance and for adequate financial support to make quality Catholic education economically feasible for all parishioners.

The pastor has the ultimate authority for all educational operations in the parish. He delegates the administrative responsibilities of the school to the principal.

These responsibilities include, but are not limited to, operation of the school program and plant, management of staff members (employment, supervision, professional development, and evaluation), establishment of educational programming, the management and evaluation of student behavior, and spiritual leadership.

The School Board is an advisory group to the pastor and members are recommended by the existing board and then approved by the Pastor. Its role is to assume consultative responsibilities in the areas of planning, policy formation, finances, development (including public relations and marketing), and evaluation of the general educational program. It operates in the policy-making process by formulating and adapting policies as needed. (The pastor enacts policies and the principal implements them). Policies are broad, direction-setting guides for discretionary action by the principal. Individual matters of resolution of specific problems after the fact are not matters to be handled by the Board, but are the responsibility of the principal.

School Board meetings are held at 7:00 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in St. Edward’s Hall. For the 2009-2010 school year, the School Board will meet each month except December 2009, July 2010, and August 2010. These meetings are open to all parents, staff, and parishioners. A teacher representative will attend each School Board meeting.

The Home and School Association is the organization that maintains good communication between the home and school, provides a vehicle through which parents/guardians can provide service to the school, offers a mechanism for parent/guardian education, organizes fundraising activities, and serves as a structure for political action. Membership is open to all parents/guardians of school children and meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month during the school year at 7:00 p.m. in St. Edward’s Hall.

Kindergarten		Use the east doors of the primary building
	First grade		Use the east doors of the primary building
Second and third grade		Use the front doors of the main building.
Fourth grade		Use the northwest doors of the main building.
Fifth and sixth grade		Use the northwest doors of the main building
Seventh and eighth grade		Use the northeast doors of the main building

Students should time their arrival so that they do not arrive before 8:05 a.m. The school staff is involved in morning preparations for the day or in meetings so members cannot assume responsibility for the supervision and safety of students arriving before indicated times. If a student needs to arrive before 8:05 a.m. or cannot be picked up until after 3:25 p.m., the family must register the child for the Extended Care Program.

Pastor	Rev. Carl Salanitro
Principal	Mrs. Julie Prusa
Secretary	Mrs. Robin Jones
Kindergarten Teacher	Mrs. Lynn Sobczyk	KA
First Grade Teacher	Mrs. Jill Engelbert	1A
Second Grade Teacher	Mrs. Mary Jo Bassett	2B
Second Grade Teacher	Mrs. Rita Adams	2A
Third Grade Teacher	Mrs. Cecelia Crown	3B
Fourth Grade Teacher	Mrs. Roberta Coolon	4A
Fourth Grade Teacher	Mrs. Mary Kaschmitter	4B
Fifth Grade Teacher	Mrs. Kathy Neville	5A
Fifth Grade Teacher	Ms. Maureen Vesely	5B
Sixth Grade Teacher	Mrs. Kathy Justice	6A
Sixth Grade Teacher	Mrs. Susanna Henkel	6B
Junior High Teacher	Mr. Joe Fisher	7A
Junior High Teacher	Mrs. Heather Edinger	7B
Junior High Teacher	Mrs. Carolyn Taylor	8A
Junior High Teacher	Mrs. Angela Cunningham	8B
Art Teacher	Mrs. Mischka Levandowski
Music Teacher	Mrs. Marianne Hall
P.E. Teacher	Mr. Michael Kroupa
Media Coordinator	Mrs. Pam Smith
Resource Teacher	Mrs. Cathy Potter
Computer Teacher	Mrs. Christi Krist
Preschool Teacher	Mrs. Marci Bonnemier
Kindergarten Aide	Mrs. Mary Gonderinger

Preschool Aide	Mrs. Linda Mach
Extended Care Director	Mrs. Janelle Jensen
Technologist	Mr. Jason Stickney
Hot Lunch Coordinator	Mrs. Mary Kay Mueller

Truancy is a violation of Nebraska’s Compulsory Attendance Law. Therefore, attendance data is a part of every student’s permanent record. In addition, the school feels that a student’s attendance in class is extremely important to the learning process. Because of this philosophy, the following attendance policy has been developed.

Once arriving at school, a student may not leave or be sent from the parish grounds without parent/guardian permission or notification. If a student is to leave school before dismissal, a parent/guardian is to send a signed note or make a telephone call to the office giving the time the student is to leave and the reason for early dismissal. The student must be checked out at the office by a parent/guardian before leaving the building. If for any reason a student leaves school and returns (i.e. medical appointment) and is absent from school for a time equal to one-half day of school (3 ½ hours or more), his/her absence will be counted as a half-day absence.

When a student is going to be absent or tardy, a parent/guardian is to telephone the school office (551-3773) by 8:25 a.m. This is necessary for safety reasons as well as record keeping. An answering machine is connected outside office hours to make calling more convenient for parents/guardians. When leaving a message, please give the following information: Your name, student’s name, homeroom teacher’s name, reason for absence or tardy, expected time of arrival, and whether or not your child(ren) will order A or B lunch for that day. If an absence occurs without a parent/guardian reporting it, school personnel will notify the parent/guardian or the emergency contact person as soon as possible. Parents/guardians can save the office a great deal of time by remembering to call in an absence.

When an absence is planned, teachers need to be notified in advance. This allows adjustments to be made and completion of some work before the absence. Every effort should be made to schedule family vacations during normal school breaks.

Please work with your family to avoid tardiness. Children who come late interrupt the flow of instruction many times requiring the teacher to re-teach what has already been covered. Tardiness not only affects your child, but also robs other children of valuable instruction time. While we do realize that on occasion lateness cannot be avoided, to continually allow it to happen sends a negative message to your child and to us.

All students are expected to be at school on time. Students arriving at school after the 8:25 a.m. bell has rung

will be marked tardy. All tardy students must report to the office for a pass for admission to the classroom. Students who are tardy will be issued a tardy slip before going to their classroom. On Mass days, tardy students are still required to report to the office before going to the Church. If a student has five or more unexcused tardies in any quarter, parents/guardians will be contacted.

Each morning the lunch count is placed by 9:00 a.m. If a student is tardy, arrives past 9:00 a.m., and has not made arrangements to order lunch for that day, he/she will be unable to order hot lunch. The student must bring a sack lunch.

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY FOR PARTICIPATION IN HOLY CROSS SPORTS

Extra-curricular activities are privileges afforded to students. No student has the absolute right to an activity. Students can be denied participation if they fail to meet academic, behavioral or Mass participation requirements.

To emphasize the importance of academics to students participating in Holy Cross Booster Club sponsored sports, the following guidelines have been issued. These are the minimum requirements that a student must earn to be eligible to participate in sports for Holy Cross School.

· All students, grades three through eight, who participate in Holy Cross Booster Club sponsored sports (compete against other schools) during the calendar school year, are included in this policy.

· A student is ineligible if he/she receives an F on a Progress Report or Report Card, regardless of the overall grade point average for that grading period.

· A student also becomes ineligible if he/she receives less than an average of C- on a Progress Report or Report Card. This is a weighted average of all subjects. The subjects will be averaged to correspond to the number of class meetings per week.

· The teachers and the principal reserve the right to amend this policy on an individual basis, taking into account the student’s ability to reach these standards.

· A student may become ineligible if his/her behavior has not met the standards of Holy Cross School.

· A student may become ineligible if his/her participation in Mass is not consistent with Holy Cross School’s expectations of singing out and responding in such a manner that is audible to the entire congregation.

The principal will be supplied with a list of all students who are participating in sports. When Progress Reports or Report Cards are sent home, the principal will notify the student and his/her parent/guardian of any ineligibility. The principal will also notify the coach or coaches of the number of affected students. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to notify the coach of their child’s ineligibility within 72 hours.

During the ineligibility period (2 weeks) the student will not be allowed to practice or participate in any games.

The student will remain ineligible for a period of two weeks. If at the end of that two-week period the student’s grades are within the guidelines of this policy, the student may return to the team. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain written acknowledgement from the teacher and principal that the grades have improved and that he/she has met the established guidelines. However, if a student has not raised their grade point average to the minimum standard, the two-week ineligibility period starts over again. In the case of ineligibility because of behavior or lack of acceptable Mass participation, the student must obtain a written statement from the teacher or the principal indicating improvement. In each case the student will then present the written acknowledgement to the corresponding coach.

In case of an accident or illness at school, the student will be sent to the office where care will be given and a parent/guardian notified. If a parent/guardian cannot be contacted, the person the parent/guardian listed on the emergency contact card will be called. Current information on the card is extremely important. If professional assistance is needed, the Rescue Squad will be summoned and they will provide transportation to UNMC if necessary. The costs will be the parent/guardian’s responsibility.

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, passed in 1987, requires all public and private schools to inventory and inspect all buildings for asbestos containing materials. This inspection was most recently completed at Holy Cross in February 2009. All asbestos areas will continue to be inspected on a regular basis as required by law, and procedures implemented to assure no health hazards are present. We have had one project (the extraction of the old boiler) that involved removing asbestos. The job was inspected and approved by the Department of Environmental Services. All materials containing asbestos are sealed and in good condition and will be kept that way. The management plan has been filed with the Nebraska Department of Health and is on file in the office of the school’s maintenance engineer/asbestos program manager. The plan is available for public inspection by contacting him (phone #553-7500). Copies of the management plan will be provided to requesting parties for the cost of reproduction.

Catholic schools, both accredited and approved, should be prepared to implement an emergency treatment plan, known as a protocol, anytime a student or staff member experiences a life-threatening asthma attack or systemic allergic reaction.

The school’s EpiPen and Albuterol do not replace a child’s own prescribed medications for asthma/allergy control and management. Parents/guardians of students with known diagnoses related to asthma and allergies are expected to ensure their children continue to have medications available. Parents must provide to the school staff for students having a known allergic condition or asthma the following:

Music in Catholic Schools provides band opportunities for students in fifth through eighth grade. This is a service offered to families at cost and is coordinated by an employee of the Archdiocesan Department of Education. Holy Cross Catholic School provides a location for lessons and permits students to be excused from classes twice per week for 30-minute sessions. All costs, personnel, and arrangements are under the control of the Music in Catholic Schools coordinator.

For safety reasons, the riding of bicycles, skateboards, roller skates/blades, or scooters is not permitted on school grounds before school, during school hours, or at dismissal time. Storage of these items would be difficult at school and riding them on crowded sidewalks on the way home would pose a danger.

Students may bring simple treats to school to share with classmates for their birthday if they wish. We ask that you avoid food items that could be problematic for students who have food allergies (such as peanuts). Please try and provide a healthy treat. Pop is not allowed.

Cheating is defined as representing another’s work as your own, manipulation of information to gain an unfair advantage, and enabling others to use your work as their own. This includes, but is not limited to the following:

- Providing or obtaining answers to test/quiz questions or class assignments from sources other than those allowed by the instructor.

- Appear to be providing or obtaining answers to test/quiz questions or class assignments from sources other than those allowed by the instructor.

- Plagiarizing any portion of reports, essays, papers and other assignments/projects.

In cases when cheating has been determined, the student will receive a zero for the test, quiz, assignment or project. The parent/guardian will be notified by the teacher or the principal and additional disciplinary action may be taken.

Whenever the structure of the family changes, school personnel wish to remain sensitive to the needs of individual family members. In the event that a separation or divorce occurs, the principal should be notified immediately. Every effort will be made to assist the student in whatever manner is appropriate. Holy Cross School requires that a court-certified copy of the legal custody document that sets forth the rights and restrictions pertaining to each parent’s rights must be on file in the school office. Unless such rights are restricted by a legally binding instrument or court order, the non-custodial parent:

· May attend regularly scheduled parent/teacher conferences or have a separate conference

If the parents are separated and neither is designated the legal primary custodian of the child, the school may release the child to either parent or his/her designee unless the school has evidence of a legally binding instrument or court order of the contrary. A child may not be released during the school day to anyone except the custodial parent unless permission is provided in writing by the custodial parent.

If a parent/guardian has a concern regarding a situation at school, the following steps are recommended:

· Contact the student’s teacher to discuss the situation and work with the teacher to arrive at a possible solution.

· If the concern cannot be resolved with the teacher, the parent/guardian should then schedule a conference with the principal.

· If the parent/guardian still feels the problem has not been resolved, the pastor should be contacted.

If parents/guardians choose not to withdraw their child(ren), and as a result of irreconcilable differences demonstrate counterproductive or disruptive behavior, the administration may exercise the right to discontinue enrollment of the child(ren).

Formal parent/teacher conferences are held twice a year in late October and again in February. Conferences are scheduled in advance for students in grades K – 5. Grades 6 – 8 conferences are not scheduled. Parents are encouraged to come during the designated times to the gym where they can visit with the 6^th - 8^th grade teachers. Parent or teacher-initiated conferences may take place at other times throughout the year.

Each student attending Holy Cross Catholic School has a cumulative folder which is kept on file in the school office. The folder is the property of Holy Cross Catholic School. Parents/guardians may view the contents of their child’s cumulative folder in the presence of the administration upon written request. Information may not be released from the cumulative folder without the written consent of the parents/guardians.

If a student transfers, the contents of the cumulative folder are sent directly to the new school following receipt of a written request from the parent/guardian. A form for this purpose must be signed by the parent/guardian and sent from the new school. Cumulative folders are not directly released to anyone other than school officials. Some information remains with Holy Cross Catholic School for verification of years attended and grades/test scores achieved.

Each year a Curriculum Night(s) is held in September. This provides an opportunity for parents/guardians to meet the teachers and learn about their child(ren)’s curriculum in their classroom(s).

Deliveries addressed to students will be refused at the school office. For example, floral, balloon, food deliveries, etc., are not allowed.

The main focus of the discipline policies and procedures at Holy Cross Catholic School is the development of self-discipline skills by all students and staff. Fifteen skills are identified in the “Discipline With Purpose” program and they form the basis of our discipline program. They are:

Basic Skills (Prompt from birth through kindergarten: internalize in kindergarten through third grade)

Constructive Skills (Prompt in kindergarten through third grade; internalize in third through seventh grade)

Generative Skills (Prompt in kindergarten through third grade; internalize in seventh through twelfth grade)

We believe that these skills are developmental in nature and can be taught using a variety of techniques. Inappropriate behavior will be confronted in the context of teaching these skills, but the main focus is development of the skills in all students and staff. We will actively seek opportunities to teach and practice these skills.

Holy Cross Catholic School has adopted three guidelines for success. When a student chooses not to follow these guidelines, the teacher will implement the classroom discipline cycle. If the classroom discipline cycle does not remedy the situation, a Four Step Discipline Cycle may be put into action.

Occasionally, serious infractions occur that threaten the safety of our students. These infractions include but are not limited to physical/psychological danger, severe disrespect, and out of control behavior. In such cases, the teacher or other supervising adult will remove the student from the situation.

If possible, the adult who removed the student will work quickly to help the student regain self-control. If this happens, the two parties can continue to work together to redirect the inappropriate behavior. If the student does not regain his or her self-control or if the action warrants more significant attention, the student will be sent to the principal’s office and a four-step school Discipline Cycle will be set in motion.

FOUR STEP SCHOOL DISCIPLINE CYCLE

Step 1: The student and principal develop a personal plan for the student to use in changing inappropriate behavior.

II. The student will complete the bottom part of the referral with assistance if necessary.

III. The student will inform a parent/guardian of the incident by phone or by a signature on the form.

IV. The student, teacher and principal will meet to discuss the implementation of the plan.

In situations where there has been damage that needs to be cleaned up or repaired, the student may be required to stay (normally not to exceed 45 minutes) after school. With verbal notification and permission of the parent/guardian, this can be done the same day; with written notification and permission, this will take place the following school day.

Step 2: If a student is sent to the principal a second time within a one-month period

II. A conference with the teacher, parent/guardian, student and principal will be scheduled.

III. A plan may be drawn up by the principal listing actions that will be taken by each participant in the conference and a date set for review.

Step 3: If a student is sent to the principal a third time within a two-month period or in extreme cases (such as dangerous and abusive behavior) when the principal determines the seriousness of the action warrants starting at Step 3:

III. The student notifies the parent/guardian that a suspension of up to three days has been earned. The exact length and type of suspension will be determined by the principal.

IV. Schoolwork missed must be completed and is due upon return to school. The work missed will be graded according to established late work grading procedures.

V. A conference will be held with a parent/guardian, teacher(s), student and principal to write a plan with measurements for progress to assist the student in developing

VI. A recommendation may be made to have a family visit with a counselor or other specialist.

VII. A probationary period to monitor and review progress will be set once the student is ready to return to class.

Note: Step 3 can be repeated as long as a student is able to demonstrate that progress is being made, and is willing to contribute to a positive learning environment. When little or no change is evident and school personnel have exhausted all available means to effect change, the student will move to Step 4 of the cycle.

Step 4: The principal will recommend alternative schooling. The Discipline cycle may begin at Step 4 if the principal determines that the seriousness of the action warrants starting at Step 4:

I. The decision to terminate a student’s enrollment rests with the principal and pastor.

II. If termination is decided upon, the student’s parent/guardians will be notified in writing. The reasons for dismissal will be given.

There are actions that require the immediate removal of a student from the classroom. These include, but are not limited to, major incidents where there is:

3. UNREASONABLE behavior – out of control or unwillingness to gain self-control despite requests to do so (an example would be a student not responding to a teacher using their classroom discipline cycle).

Dangerous Behavior

Abusive Behavior

Unreasonable Behavior

· Fighting and rough play

· Sexual assault or attempted sexual assault

· Leaving school without permission

· Tampering with protective fire equipment, violating fire codes or emergency system

· Possession, use, sale, or distribution of alcohol, tobacco, prescription and illegal drugs and inhalants

· Gang expressions and/or affiliation

· Physical or psychological threats, intimidation, force or injury

· Using a normal object in a dangerous way

· Bringing weapons such as knives or guns to school

· Verbal or sexual harassment

· Bullying

· Any form of obscene or vulgar language or action

· Theft

· Vandalism

· Disrespect or defiance in action, speech, or gesture after correction

· Public indecency

· Truancy

· Failure to follow the terms of the Internet Access Policy

· Willful misbehavior toward a teacher, school personnel or volunteer

· Unwilling to listen or follow instruction

· Repeated violations of classroom rules

· Repeatedly out of uniform

Students are forbidden knowingly and voluntarily to possess, handle, transmit or use any instrument in school, on school grounds, or at school events that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon.

Any object which could be used to injure another person and which has no school-related purpose will be considered a weapon for purposes of this code.

The following are examples of instruments ordinarily or generally considered weapons: knives of all types, guns, lead pipes, chains, chuck-sticks, throwing stars, darts, metal knuckles, blackjacks, unauthorized tools, fireworks, explosives, lighters, matches, or other chemicals.

Police will be contacted when there is a suspected violation of criminal laws concerning weapons.

A first offense in violation of the weapons policy will result in immediate suspension and may result in expulsion. A second offense in violation of the weapons policy will result in immediate expulsion.

Dismissal is at 3:15 p.m. Drivers must pick students up on either the East or North sides of the school. No cars are allowed on the parking lot during dismissal. Students should not be waiting in the teacher’s parking lot for rides. There is no adult supervision in the teacher’s lot and this could be dangerous for the students.

Violation of the school uniform policy will be handled on a school-wide basis. Written violations will be sent home when necessary. All notices must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to school the next day. If students continuously violate the uniform policy, a meeting with the parent/guardian may be necessary. Students in grades 5 – 8, who continuously violate the uniform policy may have to serve an after school detention in the homework room.

Occasionally Holy Cross students are given the opportunity to participate in “Dress Down Days”. Although these are considered times when the Uniform Dress Code is not being followed, “Appropriate Dress” is still required. Disregard for the “appropriate” dress code will result in the individual calling home for a change of clothes and possibly losing the privilege to participate in future dress down days.

· Shorts/Skorts (the first six weeks of the school year and the last six weeks of the school year)

Tobacco: State laws and school policy strictly prohibit students from carrying and/or using tobacco products on school property or at school-sponsored activities. Students who violate this policy may be suspended. Repeated violations of this rule may result in expulsion.

Alcohol: State laws and school policy strictly prohibit student possession or use of alcoholic beverages on school property or at any school-sponsored function. Students who violate this policy may be suspended, referred to legal authorities, and/or required to participate in a counseling program at the expense of the parent/guardian. Repeated violation of this rule may result in expulsion.

Drugs: State laws and school policy strictly prohibit the use, evidence of use, or possession and/or transfer of narcotics, depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, look alike pills of any type, or possession of drug-related paraphernalia anywhere on school property or at any school-sponsored activity. Students who violate this policy may be suspended, referred to the appropriate legal authorities, and/or required to participate in a counseling program at the expense of the parent/guardian. Repeated violation of this rule may result in expulsion.

EARLY DISMISSAL OF A STUDENT

Whenever possible, appointments (medical, dental, etc.) should be scheduled outside of school hours. However, if it is necessary for a student to be excused during the school day, a note from a parent/guardian stating the exact time for leaving and the reason must be given to the student. The student must give the note to the homeroom teacher who in turn will send it to the office.

Instead of a note, a parent/guardian may telephone the school office to notify the school that a student needs to be excused during the school day. Parents/guardians will need to stop in the office and sign the student out before the student leaves. These measures are in place to ensure the safety of each student.

If for any reason a student leaves school and returns (i.e. medical appointment) and is absent from school for a time equal to one-half day of school (3 ½ hours or more), his/her absence will be counted as a half-day absence.

We recognize the right and responsibility of parents/guardians to keep children at home when school is in session if they believe that bad weather poses a safety threat. The student will be counted absent if school is in session. Please call the school to inform us of such a decision. If weather is questionable, please listen to the radio for word of school closing.

The superintendent of the Archdiocesan schools usually makes such a decision and announcements are made on the radio beginning at 6:00 a.m. 1110 KFAB is the primary radio station for this news.

If school closes during the day, we will follow the instructions you gave on your child’s emergency card. For that reason, please be sure to notify us of any changes of address, phone numbers, and/or emergency contact persons.

Those students enrolled in the after-school Extended Care Program will report to the Extended Care facility until someone arrives to pick them up. The Extended Care Program will remain open until 6:00 p.m. on days when the students are scheduled to be dismissed at Noon and on early heat dismissal days.

If there is an early dismissal of Holy Cross Catholic School due to severe winter weather, the Extended Care will also close, please make plans accordingly.

An evacuation plan has been developed by our Safety Committee in the event that the entire student body needs to evacuate the school buildings and reassemble at an alternate site. The alternate site is Holy Cross Church or Mercy High School. Depending on the situation, parents/guardians would be notified either by a phone call or through the media. 1110 KFAB is the primary station for this news. If there should ever be an occasion to utilize this plan, please be advised that students will not be released to anyone except their parents/guardians and those listed as an Emergency Contact on the student’s census card. Parents/guardians or Emergency Contact persons will need to come to Holy Cross Church or Mercy High School where they will be asked to sign out their child(ren). We pray that we will never have to initiate this procedure, but we realize preparation is essential.

The Extended Care coordinator and staff offer supervision before and after school for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. This is a pre-pay program that requires registration rather than drop-in service. Registration materials including information about costs may be obtained from the school office. Care is available before school from 7:30 a.m. - 8:10 a.m. and after school from 3:15 - 4:30 p.m. or 3:15 - 6:00 p.m. Aftercare for preschool students begins at 7:30 a.m. and may be used as late as 6:00 p.m. Since this care goes beyond the educational mission of the parish and is offered as an additional service, the parish cannot subsidize this program. It will be offered as long as it is economically viable.

The Extended Care Program will remain open until 6:00 p.m. on days when the students are scheduled to be dismissed at Noon and on early heat dismissal days. If there is an early dismissal of Holy Cross Catholic School due to severe winter weather, the Extended Care will also close, please make plans accordingly. The disciplinary policy of Holy Cross Catholic School applies to the Extended Care Program.

It is possible that children will have the opportunity to move beyond the classroom and into the community for educational study trips. Permission slips for these trips will be sent home. A parent/guardian must sign the permission form in order for the child to participate in the field trip experience. Adult drivers and/or volunteer participants must also complete information forms for insurance purposes. Parents/guardians need to have taken the Safe Environment Training in order to volunteer.

The school has clear signals for fire drills, tornado drills, and building evacuation drills as well as clear signals for actual warnings. Students have regular drills to be certain that they recognize those signals and know how to react.

Involvement of students in fund raising activities is discouraged. They are permitted only when it serves an educational purpose, it uses limited school time, record keeping is kept to a minimum, and permission of the principal is obtained. Money may not be solicited from any student for any purpose without the permission of the principal.

Please be advised that it is the policy of our school that if your child has earned an F for both semesters in one or more subjects, he/she will not participate in the graduation ceremony. Failure for two semesters means that the student has not met the requirements in that subject.

Students are given all the assistance needed to be successful, whether it be extra tutoring from a teacher(s), or from outside help, staying in the Homework Room to complete work, or redoing work to be certain students have understood the concepts taught. Failure in a class would only result from a lack of cooperation in completing assigned tasks.

Parents/guardians should be aware from first semester and then third quarter grades if their son/daughter is in jeopardy. Frequent communication between parents/guardians, teachers, and students will occur during the fourth quarter to help students achieve passing grades.

Student offensive conduct or harassment on the basis of a person's gender, sexual orientation, race, color, age, religion, national origin, marital status, or disability is prohibited. Repeated incidents of offensive conduct directed to the same person or group of persons constitutes harassment. Offensive conduct or harassment may result in suspension or expulsion.

Examples of offensive conduct which when repeated constitute harassment include, but are not limited to, the following:

(2) Name calling or taunting on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, or disability.

(3) Language of any kind, including graffiti, epithets, vulgar or profane jokes, which is disparaging or demeaning to others on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, or disability.

School health screening is not diagnostic nor is it intended to replace regular preventive health care. The goal is to assist parents/guardians in the identification of potential health problems so they may seek appropriate medical evaluation. Annual health screenings are as follows: First Grade: Height, Weight, Blood Pressure, Vision, Color vision (if not done in kindergarten), Hearing and Oral Exam. Second Grade: Height, Weight, Blood Pressure, Vision, Hearing and Oral Exam. Third Grade: Height, Weight, Blood Pressure, Hearing and Oral Exam. Fourth Grade: Height, Weight, Blood Pressure, and Oral Exam. Fifth Grade: Height, Weight, Blood Pressure, Vision, and Oral Exam. Sixth Grade: Height, Weight, Blood Pressure, Vision, Hearing, Scoliosis (Girls only), and Oral Exam. Eighth Grade: Height, Weight, Blood Pressure, Vision, Scoliosis (Boys and Girls), and Oral Exam.

Annual hearing testing will be performed for students who exhibited abnormal hearing screening results during the previous year.

The “Annual Student Health Update” is sent home at the beginning of the school year with the registration materials. It is important that it be completed and returned to school as soon as possible so the school is aware of your child’s health status. It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to notify the school office if health changes occur. A Health Record Card is on file for each student. Please help to keep this card up-to-date by reporting to the school any booster shots, new glasses or any other pertinent health information.

When the predicted temperature for the next school day is 90 degrees or higher, Holy Cross School will close at noon on that day. Parents/Guardians will always be notified the day before an early heat dismissal day. On early heat dismissal days, the Extended Care will remain open until 6:00 p.m. It is only available to students who are registered in the program. On early heat dismissal days, hot lunch will not be served. Students going to Extended Care will need to bring a sack lunch and drink (no soda). Afternoon preschool class will be cancelled on early heat dismissal days.

Teachers may assign special projects or individual activities to engage the interest of students or to supplement assigned class work. Parents/guardians are encouraged to set aside time each evening for skill practice - approximately three to four minutes per year of age is a good rule of thumb. During skill practice time, children should read, write, draw, or do homework.

If a student has not handed in assigned homework on the day that it is due, the student will be required to stay in the homework room after school that day.

Homework room is scheduled from 3:15 – 3:45 p.m. for students in grades 5 and 6 and from 3:15 – 4:00 p.m. for students in grades 7 and 8. Homework room is available every day after school except Wednesdays when teachers have meetings. When homework is late on Wednesdays, students will be required to stay in the homework room the following day. The student will notify a parent/guardian when they are in the homework room.

Holy Cross Catholic School offers internet access for student and faculty use. This provides students and faculty a variety of Internet resources available for educational purposes. In order for students to use the Internet, students and their parents/guardians must first read and understand the following acceptable use policies:

1. Access to the Internet must be related to the user’s work responsibilities, for the purpose of education or research, and be consistent with the educational and religious objectives of the school.

2. The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use, whether in school or outside of school, may result in a cancellation of those privileges, disciplinary action (up to and including suspension or expulsion) and/or appropriate legal action. Whether the use is considered inappropriate or violates this policy is a matter within the discretion of the principal, and his or her decision is final.

· Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any U.S. or State law;

· Unauthorized downloading of software, regardless of whether it is copyrighted;

· Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, threatening, racially offensive, harassing, or illegal material or other information and/or materials that are inconsistent with the objectives and/or teachings of the school;

· Using school equipment to create a website or to transmit a photograph, image or likeness of one’s self or of any other employee, student, parent, or parishioner on any Internet or web-based site, or in any electronic communication, is prohibited, except with the express permission of the principal.

4. The school reserves the right to monitor employee and student use of school computers. Thus, employees and students have no expectation of privacy in their use of school computers, the Internet, or email.

All students and their parents/guardians are required to sign a copy of the Internet Acceptable Use Policy prior to using the Holy Cross computer network.

Students may not deliver any type of invitation to other students during school hours or while on school property.

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade have a scheduled weekly library period. During this time they learn library skills and have the opportunity to check out books.

Books may be checked out for one week at a time by students in kindergarten through fourth grade and for two weeks by students in fifth through eighth grade. Kindergarten and first grade students may check out one book per week; second through fourth grade students may check out two books per week; and fifth through eighth grade students may check out three books per week. Check out privileges exist as long as books are returned on time. Parents/guardians of students with overdue books will be notified. A fine of two cents per day is charged to fifth through eighth grade students for overdue books. Lost or damaged books are paid for by the child and/or parent/guardian.

For students or families who wish to contribute money toward the purchase of a book in honor of a birthday, a Birthday Bookshare Program has been established. The birthday person’s name is recorded in a new library book and it is added to the collection. Contact the library coordinator for participation or any additional information.

Participation in parish liturgies, especially Mass, is the primary reason that we gather as a community.

We offer our praise and thanks for the unfathomable gift of Christ’s sacrifice for us and offer His sacrifice on our behalf to the Father. Our God seeks intimacy with us, an intimacy that we find in the Mass.

Regular and full participation in the Mass is essential for the health of the Christian’s soul. We believe that full participation is indispensable for the growth of faith.

Each Catholic family has an obligation to attend Sunday Mass each week, preferably at Holy Cross. Families of other faiths should seek full communion with their own religious communities. All students attending weekday Mass at Holy Cross need to participate fully by actively responding in voice and song and assuming reverent postures. Students do have different responses to God’s call to worship. Nevertheless, sullen and rebellious attitudes toward participation disturb the worship of others and the entire community. Therefore, all students are required to participate so as to join with the parish in the praise of God. Students will be notified and counseled if their reluctance to participate is disturbing and will be encouraged to find how they can fully participate. If the behavior remains rebellious, disciplinary actions may result and the parent/guardian will be contacted. Expulsion from the school is possible with continued defiance.

Students are asked not to bring unnecessary items to school. Lost or damaged personal items cannot be replaced by the school. If your child loses an article, please have him/her check the lost and found located near the school office. Items not claimed in a timely manner will be donated to charity.

The school lunch period is time for eating lunch at home or at school. If a student is to eat at home, written permission from a parent/guardian is needed to allow that student to leave the school grounds. Students are not permitted to eat at local restaurants on their own or to order food for delivery. Fast food delivery by parents is not allowed. Students may not bring pop/soda to drink with their lunch.

Our hot lunch program is a satellite operation, which means that the meals are prepared at another site and transported to our cafeteria daily. Tickets may be purchased for the program. Milk tickets are also available with ten or twenty punches. Milk can also be purchased daily with cash.

If a student plans to bring a cold lunch and forgets it, or if a student is tardy (arrives past 9:00 a.m.), and has not made arrangements to order lunch for that day, a piece of fruit and milk are always available. Fruit is provided, and a carton of milk can be purchase on credit at a cost of twenty-five cents (25¢). This ensures nourishment to any tardy student or one who forgets a lunch.

When a late arrival (tardy) is planned please contact the school office before 8:25 a.m. at 551-3773. An answering machine is connected outside office hours to make calling more convenient for parents/guardians. If it is necessary to leave a message, please give the following information: Your name, student’s name, homeroom teacher’s name, reason for tardy, expected time of arrival, and whether or not your child(ren) will order lunch A or B for that day.

Each morning the lunch count is placed by 9:00 a.m. If a student is tardy, arrives past 9:00 a.m., and has not made arrangements to order lunch for that day, they will be unable to order lunch that day. It is then the parent’s responsibility to provide lunch for their child.

Since we participate in the federal government subsidy program, free and reduced prices for lunches are available to children whose families meet the income guidelines. Applications are available at registration or at any time in the school office. All information is confidential and much care is taken to ensure that students receiving aid are not made to feel or appear different from any other lunch purchaser. Any family that qualifies for this assistance is encouraged to participate.

Even if you qualify, but do not wish to participate, we encourage you to apply due to the fact that the number of families in the area who qualify for free and reduced lunch determines the number of other services made available to our community schools, public and parochial, such as Title I services.

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Students in grades 1 – 4 will attend mass on Friday mornings at 8:30 a.m. Students in grades 5 – 8 will attend mass on Wednesday mornings at 8:30 a.m. Parents are encouraged to attend these liturgies. Throughout the school year, All-School Masses will be celebrated on designated days. Please refer to the calendar for these dates.

Medication, prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), must be kept in the school office and must be taken under the supervision of a staff member. For safety reasons a student may not carry any medication in school. Prescription and OTC medications must be in the original container and labeled with the student’s name. Prescription medications must also have the prescription label from the pharmacy on it (including doctor’s name and medication name). Medications that are not in the original container or labeled improperly will not be administered. Please do not send any medication in a baggie. ALL medications (including OTC and cough drops) must be in the original container and labeled with the student’s name. Medications not properly labeled will be sent home with the student at the end of the school day with a note to the parent/guardian on the requirements for giving medication.

Directions for administering all medications must appear on the original container. A form must be completed and signed by the doctor and parent/guardian, detailing the instructions for administering all prescription medications, including reasons the medication is needed. (These forms must be obtained from the school office.) A note from a parent/guardian must be sent to the office when a parent/guardian wishes to have their child take OTC medicine, including cough drops.

No other over-the-counter medications will be kept in the office unless forms are filled out or a note from a parent/guardian has been received in the school office (as described above).

Active participation by parents/guardians of Holy Cross Catholic School students is expected and needed. Volunteers are a strong part of our educational program and show students the commitment of parishioners to our school. Their work also allows us to keep the cost per pupil at an affordable level.

Some activities performed by volunteers include serving hot lunches, playing musical instruments at Mass or in assemblies, helping with enrichment activities, serving as a room parent, collating materials for Take Home Tuesday, helping with field trips, and coaching athletic and/or academic teams.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to join the Home and School Association. Active participation will allow parents/guardians to become more informed about school programs and will give them an opportunity to become acquainted with other parents/guardians. Anyone wishing to volunteer at the school must be Safe Environment trained.

Common sense and consideration is the best guide in determining whether or not to bring personal possessions to school. In general, students should not bring toys or unusual items to school unless they are intended for a specific purpose in the classroom. Electronic devices are not permitted in school. If a teacher finds it necessary to confiscate any item, it will remain in the teacher’s possession until a parent/guardian has the opportunity to pick it up.

Nebraska School Law requires all students entering kindergarten, seventh grade, or transferring from an out-of-state school have a physical examination by a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner within six (6) months prior to the entrance of school. A dental examination is recommended at this time. A vision examination is required for all students entering kindergarten.

Nebraska School Immunization Rules and Regulations require that all immunizations for students be up-to-date before a child attends classes for the current school year.

Progress reports are sent to parents at mid-quarter. These grades or comments are not permanently recorded but are used as informal indications of progress to that point.

The school day provides the framework necessary to develop good reading skills, which are essential to so many school tasks. However, the development of good reading habits should be encouraged at home. Reading at home is necessary for every student. Parents/guardians are encouraged to set aside reading time in their homes and to provide a rich reading environment.

The school has resources available for loan to help any parent/guardian with questions about appropriate reading materials, reading methods, or study habits. Contact the school office for assistance.

The main reason for our school to exist is to help parents/guardians pass the faith to their children. This mission is taken very seriously. Teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church are integrated into all subjects and daily prayer is an integral part of the school day. Students use both formal and spontaneous forms of prayer several times daily. A morning prayer or reflection is read daily over the intercom.

Second grade students receive special preparation for reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation in the fall and the Holy Eucharist in the spring. Eighth grade students are prepared to receive the sacrament of Confirmation in the spring.

All students in grades one through eight and their teachers have the opportunity to attend Mass during the school day at least once a week. Kindergarten students participate in special liturgies planned for them as well as joining some All School celebrations. Religion classes are taught daily in all grades. Special activities and All School Masses are planned for Advent and Lent, as well as for Holy Days and special feasts. Traditional practices such as Stations of the Cross and recitation of the Rosary are also studied and experienced. Opportunities for reception of Reconciliation are scheduled for all students who have received the Sacrament.

Parents/guardians, the primary teachers of the faith to their children, must also grow and develop in faith.

Sacramental review programs for parents/guardians as well as adult education programs planned by the parish staff help this growth. Regular participation in the weekend parish liturgies and reception of the sacraments are essential to modeling our faith. Sharing Catholic values and practices also reinforce the lessons learned at school. Faith in action is our Catholic tradition.

Report cards are issued four times a year at the end of each quarter. We hope that parents/guardians will study the report card carefully and will contact the school if there are any questions about the grading system or the organization of the report card. Each time the report card is sent home, it should be signed by the parent or legal guardian and returned to school promptly.

It should be noted that only semester grades are recorded on permanent record cards. Quarter grades are halfway indicators.

Teachers in grades 2-8 will keep grades on an electronic grade book. This generates a permanent record of completed assignments and allows immediate knowledge of achievement.

In grades K-1, report card grades are recorded as E (Excellent Progress), S (Satisfactory Progress) and N (Need for Improvement). In grades 2 – 8, traditional letter grades are given to the students. The scale is as follows:

A teacher is on staff to work with students who temporarily or on a long-term basis need help with academic or organizational skill development. This is not meant as special education. The teacher tutors individuals and provides small group instruction and additional practice when necessary.

All people who have any contact with children in a Catholic school in the Archdiocese of Omaha must receive the Archdiocesan Safe Environment Training and be approved by the Archdiocese of Omaha prior to having contact with the children in the schools.

A complete Child Protection Policy manual is available in the school office. Anyone interested in volunteering and in need of training should contact, Theresa McLaury at the parish office (553-7500).

Holy Cross Catholic School has a school safety and crisis plan in place. The staff and faculty have been trained and will utilize our Safety/Crisis plan if and when needed. Periodic drills concerning lock-downs and evacuations will take place during the school year.

The school’s Safety Patrol has been established to help provide safe passage across the busy intersections around our school. Please help our patrols by insisting on respect for them and obedience to the rules and regulations of our school.

Remember the Safety Patrol boys and girls are providing a service for our school and must be on duty in rain, sleet, snow and frigid weather. Please ensure that students on patrol duty are dressed appropriately.

5. Since the parking lot remains closed during the school days (except during funerals), please be patient and courteous.

Parents/guardians are urged to drive with extreme caution in the school neighborhood. Children should be let out and picked up far enough away from the patrol crossing to avoid congestion that might be hazardous to youngsters crossing with the patrols. Please assist the safety patrol by remembering that no vehicles are allowed into the parking lot for the purpose of dropping off or picking up students. In addition, make sure that the crosswalks are kept clear of any stopped vehicles at all times.

SAFETY PATROL SCHEDULE

The Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) is administered to all students in grades two through eight in the fall. Additionally, students in grades four and seven will take the Cognitive Abilities Test. Once the tests have been scored and returned to Holy Cross, an individual student report will be sent home to the families. Individual scores are kept in the student’s cumulative file. It is important that the students be present during the entire testing period.

Holy Cross Catholic School has implemented a student assistance program. Students may require assistance as they cope with behavioral, social, and learning situations. The Student Assistance Team (SAT) has been formed to help in this area. The Student Assistance Team is comprised of the principal, the resource teacher and three or four teachers who work together to problem solve areas of concern. This team meets every week. Students may be referred by their parent/guardian or the teachers at Holy Cross Catholic School. A student may personally request this service.

A school supplies list is made available to parents/guardians each spring and again at August registration night. Textbooks and many classroom materials are provided with a percentage of their cost covered by the annual book/materials fee.

Students and/or parents/guardians are expected to pay for lost or damaged books, supplies and equipment.

Students and/or parents/guardians will be held responsible to pay for willful damage to any school property.

Desks, lockers, or any other storage equipment remain the property of the school and as such can be opened, inspected, or cleaned at any time. The school is not responsible for items left in these storage spaces.

Every Tuesday your child will bring home a Take Home Tuesday folder. This folder is the primary vehicle for communication between home and school informing parents/guardians of upcoming events. In this folder will be corrected papers, classroom newsletters, art work, correspondence from various organizations in the school etc. The last Tuesday of the month a school newsletter called the Falcon Flyer will be emailed to each school family or sent home with the youngest/only child in each school family. The deadline for an article to be considered for the Falcon Flyer is the 15^th of the month. All articles require approval of the principal prior to placement in the newsletter.

The school telephone is a business telephone and is to be used by students for emergencies only and only with the permission of a teacher, the secretary, or the principal. The telephone is not to be used to arrange for forgotten assignments, gym clothes, etc. Coordinating family schedules should be completed before each school day and not by telephone during school hours.

Children are not allowed to use cell phones during school hours. Cell phones must be turned off and kept in a backpack or locker. If a teacher finds it is necessary to confiscate a cell phone, it will remain in the teacher’s possession until the parent/guardian has the opportunity to pick it up.

The first month’s tuition and the book/materials fee are due at the August registration night. It should be noted that the parish makes a very significant investment in every student’s education and no active and supporting parishioner is asked to pay the full cost of education at the school. Financial assistance can be sought by contacting the pastor who can be reached through the rectory office (553-7500).

Parents/guardians in need of financial assistance are first required to apply for the Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha. Information about these scholarships and when to apply will be published in the Take Home Tuesday. Since the parish and the parents/guardians are in partnership in providing Catholic education, it is assumed that families using the school as well as other parish services will contribute financially to the operation of the total parish. To be considered an “Active and Supporting” member of the parish, you must do the following:

2. contribute money regularly through the use of the Sunday envelopes (a minimum of $10.00 a week is suggested), and

Holy Cross Parish pledges to help you with the tuition costs if you continue to be an “Active and Supporting” member of the parish.

Uniforms that are clean and well maintained are to be worn daily to promote a sense of community, to assure appropriate dress for school, and to de-emphasize fashion as a high societal value and expense. Enforcement of the school uniform Dress Code is the responsibility of each student’s parents/guardians. The classroom teachers should not have to police their students for uniform infractions. Final interpretation of compliance will be determined by the principal.

Requests to be out of uniform should be made by a parent/guardian to the principal. Only the principal may excuse students from following the uniform code. Scouting uniforms may be worn by boys and girls on days of meetings.

Uniforms, navy blue sweaters, and sweatshirts may be purchased new at the Dennis Uniform Co., 740 North 109th Court (496-9911). Uniforms may be purchased used at the Uniform Swap sponsored by the Home and School Association every year at the August registration night. The date is announced in the parish bulletin.

A sweatshirt is not part of the required Holy Cross Catholic School Uniform. However, if a sweatshirt is worn to school only the official Holy Cross sweatshirt, available exclusively at Dennis Uniform, may be worn.

Students in Kindergarten through fifthgrade may wear the official navy blue Holy Cross sweatshirt. Students in sixth through eighth grades may wear the official green Holy Cross sweatshirt.

Please label your child’s clothing, particularly boots, sweaters, and sweatshirts.

Any plain (no logo), white, long or short sleeve collared blouse, polo shirt or turtleneck may be worn. Blouses, shirts, or turtlenecks with lace or ruffles may not be worn. Blouses, shirts, and turtlenecks are to be tucked in and undershirts, if worn, must be plain white with sleeves no longer than the outer shirt.

Slacks must be of a woven fabric with no patch pockets, no flat felled seams, and no noticeable decorations. Slacks should not touch the ground. (Hip huggers, bell bottoms, and cargo pants are not considered uniform slacks.)

Shorts must not be more than 3 inches above the knee. Oversized or baggy shorts are not allowed. Shorts may be worn the first six weeks of school and the last six weeks of school.

A navy, black, or brown belt must be worn with slacks or walking shorts that have belt loops.

Sweatshirts and sweaters are optional and not part of the required uniform at Holy Cross Catholic School.

Solid white, navy or black socks or tights, without logos or designs, must be worn. Socks must be visible at all times.

Shoes/sandals must have a back or a strap covering the back of the heel. Shoes with laces must be tied; laces may not be tucked into the shoes. Slides, flip flops, crocs, and Heelys are not allowed. Boots may be worn as long as they don’t have high heels or black soles that will mark up the floor. Snow boots may be worn to school on snowy day, but they will need to be changed before the school day begins.

Students are discouraged from wearing jewelry to school. Small earrings may be worn, but for safety reasons, are not to hang below the student’s earlobe. No hoops or dangling earrings are allowed. Very simple religious chains/crosses are acceptable. No other neckwear is allowed. Wristwatches may be worn. Bracelets are limited to one. Medical Alert identification products are not considered jewelry.

No visible, temporary, or permanent tattoos or body piercing (pierced ears are an exception) is allowed.

Student’s hair must be clean, well groomed, and have no unusual color, cut, or style. Final interpretation of compliance will be determined by the principal.

K-5 Plain (no logo), white or pastel blue long or short sleeve collared polo shirt or turtleneck

6-8 Plain (no logo), white long or short sleeve collared polo shirt or turtleneck

Shirts are to be tucked in and undershirts, if worn, must be plain white with sleeves no longer than the outer shirt.

Slacks must be of a woven fabric with no patch pockets, no flat fell seams, and no noticeable decorations. Slacks should not touch the ground. Oversized, baggy, or sagging pants are not allowed.

Shorts must not be more than 3 inches above the knee. No oversized, baggy, or sagging shorts are allowed. Shorts may be worn the first six weeks of the school year and the last six weeks of the school year.

A navy, black, or brown belt must be worn with slacks or walking shorts that have belt loops.

Sweatshirts and sweaters are optional and not part of the required uniform at Holy Cross Catholic School.

Solid white, navy or black socks, without logos, must be worn. Socks must be visible at all times.

Shoes/sandals must have a back or a strap covering the back of the heel. Shoes with laces must be tied; laces may not be tucked into the shoes. Slides, flip flops, crocs, and Heelys are not allowed.

Boots may be worn as long as they don’t have black soles that will mark up the floor. Snow boots may be worn to school on snowy day, but they will need to be changed before the school day begins.

Students are discouraged from wearing jewelry to school. No earrings are allowed. Very simple religious chains/crosses are acceptable. No other neckwear is allowed. Wristwatches may be worn. Bracelets are limited to one. Medical Alert identification products are not considered jewelry.

Student’s hair must be clean, well groomed, and have no unusual color, cut, or style. Hair must be above the eyebrows, off of the neck, and must not extend past the middle of the ear. Final interpretation of compliance will be determined by the principal.

Our school and school equipment is parish property. Willfully damaging or destroying this property is vandalism and is cause for immediate suspension and possible expulsion.

In addition, it is the student and/or parent/guardian’s responsibility to repair or replace any damaged property. If a student accidentally causes damage, it should be reported to a teacher immediately so that the damage is not misconstrued as vandalism. No student is to forcibly open or “jimmy” a locked door on school or church property at any time. Doors are locked for a reason. To break into a room through a locked door is considered breaking and entering and is punishable by law.

Parents/guardians are always welcome at Holy Cross Catholic School and in its classrooms. To ensure proper timing and to minimize disruption of instructional time, notice to the office and teacher is required before a classroom visit. Parents/guardians who wish to confer with a teacher must arrange an appointment at a time outside regular class hours. Class time must be used for instruction. All visitors, including parents/guardians, must report to the school office before going to any classroom at any time. The school office will issue a visitor pass. This identifies them as such, and will alleviate a staff member alerting the office, which is what they have been instructed to do. Former students of Holy Cross School and friends of Holy Cross students may come and visit only during the lunch hour and with prior notification and approval of the principal. If a relative of a student would like to come and visit for the day, prior approval of the principal is necessary.

A security system has been installed at each entrance to help ensure the safety of our children. All visitors, including parents/guardians must use the call button to gain entrance. This includes the main entrance, the southwest alley door to the main building, the playground entrance to the primary building, the northeast entrance to the gym on the parking lot, and the north cafeteria entrance.

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This Parent/Student Handbook is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contractual agreement between Holy Cross Catholic School and any student or any parent/guardian of any student. The information contained in the Handbook provides a general description of rules and regulations. The school reserves the right to add to, modify or abolish any of the Handbook provisions without notice. Non-enforcement of any of the rules or regulations does not serve as a waiver of their future enforcement. This Handbook does not create any restriction upon Holy Cross Catholic School’s right to institute any course of disciplinary action that, in Holy Cross Catholic School’s sole discretion, it believes is necessary and consistent with it’s Catholic mission.