GATE OF HEAVEN SCHOOL
609 EAST FOURTH STREET
SOUTH BOSTON, MA 02127
617-268-8431
617-268-5131 - FAX
E-MAIL spat.gatey@verizon.net
WEBSITE: gateofheaven.net
Reverend Robert E. Casey, Pastor
Reverend Brian Flynn, Parochial Vicar
Sister Patricia McCarthy, C.S.J., Principal
Early Childhood Program
Pre-School Mrs. Mary Sweeney
Kindergarten I Mrs. Mary Powers
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Kindergarten II Mrs. Kathleen Barbuto
Grade 1 Ms. Margaret Byrne
2 Mrs. Mary Malloy
2 Sister Eleanor Clancy, SND
3 Mrs. Kathleen Walpole
4 Ms. Joanne Kennedy
5 Mrs. Denise Maloney
6 Mr. Daniel Cahill
7 Ms. Shannon Keating
8 Ms. Tracy Marshall
Administrative Assistant Mrs. Marie Burton
Office Assistant Mrs. Cheryl Pascarelli
Reading Recovery Teacher Ms. Mary Hebard
Spanish Teacher Mrs. Amelia Valdivia
Art Instructor Mrs. Deborah Putnam
Gym Teacher
Maintenance Mr. Patrick Lyons
Media Specialist Mrs. Elizabeth Cleary
Librarian Sr. Ann Dominic Roach, OP
Music Teacher Mrs. Ivonne Moguel
GATE OF HEAVEN HOME AND SCHOOL OFFICERS
PRESIDENT: Maria Anderson
VICE PRESIDENT: Heather Tinlin
TREASURER: Kathleen Lally
SECRETARY: Lisa Cox
THE PHILOSOPHY OF GATE OF HEAVEN SCHOOL
We are an urban, Catholic elementary school, which is and has been deeply rooted in the faith community of Gate of Heaven Parish in South Boston for over a century. Inspired and energized by our rich tradition and history, we strive to meet the spiritual, academic, physical and social needs of the people whom we serve.
The dignity and self-worth of each individual is of utmost importance as we endeavor to integrate learning with the experience of living our Christian faith. We are first and foremost a Catholic school which sees its reason for being in more than academic fields. The teaching of Religion is seen not merely as a discipline or body of knowledge to be taught but rather as a way of life which permeates and gives value to all expressions of learning.
We strive to develop within our students the necessary skills and knowledge so that they will become persons who have a sense of their being, identity and worth and who will commit themselves to a life of on-going learning and to be effective and contributing members of society. We would hope to encourage our students to witness to their faith, to use their gifts and talents in service of others and to become builders of a caring community.
(TO TEACH AS JESUS DID)
OBJECTIVES OF OUR PHILOSOPHY
I Christian Aspects of Faith, Community and Service:
To provide a dynamic and growth-producing atmosphere which will promote the development of the total Christian child by presenting and integrating values of faith, learning and living according to the Gospel message with emphasis on peace and justice and the needs of the Church and society.
II Respect:
To foster a sense of dignity, self-worth and a respect for individual differences as well as to foster pride in one’s own heritage with sincere concern for the human and civil rights of all people.
III Citizenship:
To prepare students to become responsible members of the Church, community people and well-informed citizens who will be able to act with a sense of justice and concern within their own communities and in the larger global community as well.
IV Creativity:
To encourage students to strive for academic excellence cognizant of their own potential, unique gifts and talents; to expose students to a wide range of experiences which will allow them to become critical, independent thinkers, as well as responsible, life-long learners.
V Collegiality:
To strive for a stronger shared educational process which involves not only teachers, administrators, and parish staff, but parents, parishioners and the resources of the local community.
GATE OF HEAVEN SCHOOL
PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
ADMISSIONS
Gate of Heaven School is deeply rooted in the history of Gate of Heaven Parish. Through the years, parishioners of Gate of Heaven have contributed greatly to the support of the school. Therefore, students who have made application and have been evaluated will be accepted according to the following criteria:
1. Children of the parish who have sisters and brothers attending Gate of Heaven School.
2. Other children of the parish.
3 Children of other Catholic parishes who do not have a school.
4. Children of parishes with a Catholic School.
5. Children who are non-Catholic.
6. Children whose academic needs can be met by the educational program of Gate of Heaven School.
Age requirements for students entering Pre-school, Kindergarten and Grade One are:
Pre-School……..age 3 by September 1
Kindergarten I... age 4 by September 1
Kindergarten II. age 5 by September 1
Grade One -- age 6 by September 1
(or in accord with Boston Public School policy).
Before a child is accepted to Gate of Heaven School, necessary records of admission must be provided by parents; e.g. birth certificate, baptismal certificate, (if applicable) record of immunization and health; academic records and certificates of sacramental reception where applicable.
For families enrolled in Gate of Heaven School, registration forms for the following school year are distributed in the Spring. There is a NON-REFUNDABLE REGISTRATION FEE required each year which must be returned with the registration/parent commitment form/tuition plan form. All re-registration fees must be paid before June 1st.
ABSENCE/TRUANCY/DISMISSALS
If a student is to be absent from school, parents are asked to contact the School Office (268-8431) by 9:00am EACH morning of an absence. A note from the parent must accompany the student on his/her return to school. ALL SCHOOL WORK AND HOMEWORK SHOULD BE MADE-UP WITHIN ONE WEEK OF THE STUDENT’S ABSENCE. NO MARKS WILL BE GIVEN TO A STUDENT IF HE/SHE IS ABSENT MORE THAN TEN (10) TIMES IN ONE MARKING TERM UNLESS A DOCTOR’S CERTIFICATE OR MEDICAL EXCUSE IS PRESENTED.
Doctor and dentist appointments should not be made during school hours. If it necessary for a student to leave school early, a written note should be presented to the homeroom teacher stating the reason for the dismissal. IN ACCORDANCE WITH MASSACHUSETTS STATE LAW, NO STUDENT WILL BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE BUILDING UNLESS ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT AFTER SIGNING OUT IN THE SCHOOL OFFICE.
Truancy (absence from school without the knowledge and permission of the parent/guardian) is a serious infraction of school policy and is considered grounds for suspension.
IN COMPLIANCE WITH MASSACHUSETTS STATE LAW, it is mandatory that a student be in attendance at school 85% of the school year (approximately 155 days). Failure to meet this requirement may result in retention.
ACCESS TO THE SCHOOL BUILDING
In order to safeguard students, it is necessary that all visitors, parents, guests, and tardy students report directly to the office upon entering the building. All school doors will be kept locked during the day. Children entering the school building before the beginning of the school day should enter by East 5th Street and report to the office. If a parent wishes to see a teacher, appointments will be made before or after schools hours. Teachers and students will not be disturbed during school hours. Delivery of a forgotten lunch, homework and other school related materials should be left at the school office on the first floor.
AIDS
The reality of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency) has created a profound social, moral and medical crisis in almost every facet of our society. Gate of Heaven School has on file and adheres to the Massachusetts School Attendance Policy related to Aids.
Education about AIDS and the virus that causes AIDS - Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) present a major challenge to both parents and educators. The faculty and students of Gate of Heaven will address these concerns using a curriculum and materials designed by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) and appropriate to the student’s grade level.
CARE OF BOOKS AND SCHOOL PROPERTY
Each student is expected to take proper care of textbooks, desks, equipment and other school property. School books must be covered. Contact paper should not be used on books. Lost/damaged books and school property must be repaired and/or replaced by the student. Bookcovers written on with doodling will have to be replaced. All books must be carried in a bookbag.
CHILD ABUSE
If any member of the school staff has reason to believe that a child is suffering from any kind of abuse, (physical, verbal, sexual) or neglect, he/she is mandated to report all concerns to the Principal who will subsequently follow the procedures set forth by the Department of Social Services. Gate of Heaven School follows the policies and procedures of the Archdiocese of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts regarding the reporting of sexual abuse.
CORI
All Faculty, Staff, Parents and Volunteers are required to fill out criminal background checks.
Volunteers for parent commitment and field trips must fill out CORI forms at the beginning of each school year. It is required that EVERY Parent/Guardian fill out a CORI form in order to be available for field trips and parent commitment within the school.
DAILY SCHOOL SCHEDULE
The importance of punctual attendance is stressed. Good work habits start at an early age. Each student is urged to be punctual and absent only in case of illness or emergency. Students who arrive in the yard before 7:50AM are not supervised by the school staff.
All tardy students are to report FIRST to the School Office before going to their classrooms.
7:50AM - 8:00AM 6th, 7th and 8th grade students free file to their homerooms.
(Students entering after their first class begins are considered tardy and must remain after school that day.)
8:00AM - 8:15AM Pre-school through grade 5 are to assemble in lines and file with their
teachers into the building. (Students entering after 8:30AM are
considered tardy.)
2:10PM Dismissal for the 6th, 7th & 8th.
2:15PM Dismissal for Pre-school-5.
11:00AM AM Pre-school, K1 and K2 dismissal.
DISMISSAL ON A HALF-DAY IS AT 11:30 AM FOR ALL STUDENTS INCLUDING “AM”
PRE-SCHOOL, K1 AND K2 STUDENTS.
DETENTION:
For repeated infractions of general school regulations. (e.g. inappropriate behavior, out of uniform, missed homework, gum chewing, tardiness, etc.) detention slips are sent home stating the offense and date of detention. Slips must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to school the next day.
Gate of Heaven School is a “hands off” school. Detention will be assigned to students in grades 3-8 who do not keep their hands to themselves. We continue to remind younger children of the “hands off policy”. Loss of recess may be the consequence in the primary grades for not adhering to the policy.
DRESS CODE
All students are expected to be in uniform each school day unless specifically stated otherwise. (e.g. Tag Day, Uniform pass)
Gate of Heaven School Dress Code for All Students
Pre-school - comfortable clothes
GIRLS’ UNIFORMS
Grades KI-5
White blouse (long or short sleeve)
Navy blue plaid jumper
Navy blue uniform slacks with gray polo shirt - Nov. 1st - March 31st.
Navy blue or white knee sock or navy blue or white tights
Navy blue sweater
Gate of Heaven Sweatshirt (for added warmth if needed)
Grades 6- 7-8
Gray Saint Brigid/Gate of Heaven Middle Catholic Middle School polo shirt
Navy blue skirt (skirts must come to the KNEE)
Navy blue uniform slacks -Nov. 1st - Mar. 31st
Gate of Heaven Sweatshirt (for added warmth if needed)
Navy blue or white knee socks or tights
Warm weather uniform: Navy blue walking shorts (with cuffs)
Gray Gate of Heaven Middle School polo shirt
(Beginning of school until 10/31 and 4/1 through end of school)
BOYS’ UNIFORMS
Grades K-5
Navy blue pants
Gray Gate of Heaven polo shirt
Gate of Heaven sweatshirt (for added warmth if needed)
Grades 6-7-8
Navy blue slacks
Saint Brigid/Gate of Heaven Catholic Middle School polo shirt
Gate of Heaven sweatshirt (for added warmth if needed)
Warm weather uniform: Navy blue walking shorts (no cuff)
Gray Gate of Heaven Middle School polo shirt
(Beginning of school until 10/31 and 4/1 through end of school)
Dark colored shoes or solid dark colored sneakers are permitted. For safety reasons, we recommend that rubber soled shoes be worn. When boots are worn, students should bring shoes to wear during the school day.
For safety reasons no sandals, no open back shoes, no crocs or any type of shoe with a heel over 2” are permitted.
After May 1st, sneakers (neat and clean) may be worn for the remaining weeks of school, since many students have out-grown their shoes and parents are purchasing sneakers for the summer months. Sneakers must be tied at all times. Sneakers may be worn with warm weather uniforms. Socks must have cuffs on them and cover the ankle.
No colored sweatshirts are allowed as part of the uniform. If students wish to dress for added warmth, navy blue sweaters or Gate of Heaven sweatshirts are permitted.
Warm weather uniforms may be worn at the opening of school until October 31st (or parents may use their discretion, weather permitting) and after April 1 until school closing. Sneakers are allowed when wearing warm weather uniforms.
Colored nail polish, make-up, mascara, hair (boy’s hair should not exceed hairline or touch the shirt collar) unusual haircuts (i.e. numbers, words, symbols, or dyed or highlighted hair, etc.) and any jewelry that constitutes a danger or a distraction such as dangling earrings, hoops, chokers as well as tattoos are unacceptable. Stud earrings only. No body piercing. No hats are worn in school. SHIRTS/BLOUSES MUST BE TUCKED IN AT ALL TIMES. Belts should be worn.
If it is necessary for a student to be out of uniform, please notify the homeroom teacher in writing on that day. Students who are frequently out of uniform without sufficient reason will not be able to participate in “out of uniform days”. While in uniform, students must remember that they represent Gate of Heaven School and they should act accordingly.
A school gym uniform (Navy blue sweatpants, Gate of Heaven mesh shorts, oatmeal T-shirt or Gate of Heaven blue sweatshirt may be purchased and is required in grades 4-8. A student may remain in the school gym uniform for the duration of the school day. Children in Grades Pre-school-3 may wear any loose fitting, appropriate clothing. Gate of Heaven mesh shorts may be worn during warm weather. Shorts should be finger tip length to knee.
DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
The safety of our children is one of our major concerns. That concern is heightened at arrival and dismissal times.
I. The children are asked to file in line to the corners of H and 5th St., I and 5th St., H and 4th St.,
and I and 4th St. where they are crossed by teachers and crossing guards. Parents may meet
students on the opposite corner of crossing. PARENTS SHOULD NOT ASK THEIR CHILDREN
TO LEAVE THEIR LINE BEFORE REACHING THE CORNERS. IF YOUR CHILD IS TO BE
PICKED UP IN THE EAST 5TH STREET YARD AND NOT AT THE CORNER, THEY SHOULD
BE AT THE END OF THEIR LINE. Early Childhood Program students arrive and are dismissed at
the assigned Churchside door.
II. To ensure the children’s safety, it is requested that the office be notified (in writing) if a student is
to be met by someone other than his/her parent/legal guardian and if there is to be a change in the
ordinary dismissal procedure.
III. Children who are not picked up at the corner in a timely manner will return to the school office.
IV. DOUBLE PARKING ON E. 4TH OR ON E. 5TH STREET IS PROHIBITED. PARKING IN FRONT OF EXITS/DRIVEWAYS AND CROSSWALKS IS ALSO PROHIBITED. COOPERATION IS IMPERATIVE FOR THE SAFETY OF ALL. THIS CONTINUES TO BE A CONCERN. EMERGENCY APPARATUS IS NOT ABLE TO RESPOND TO NEIGHBORHOOD EMERGENCIES WHEN PARENTS DOUBLE PARK ON E. 4TH AND E. 5TH STREETS.
DISRUPTION OF NORMAL CLASS ACTIVITY
Gel pens, toys, games, radios, walkmen, CD Players, Game Boys, Beepers, Pokemon articles, cameras and other articles of entertainment, while good in themselves, are often distractions to serious study and attention to classwork. With large numbers of students present, the school cannot be responsible for loss or damage to any of these items. Therefore, it is requested that these articles not be brought to school. If they are brought to school the items will be confiscated, and parents will be able to retrieve them in the school office. Cellular phones may be kept in school bags and be turned off during the school days. Any violation of this policy will result in phones being sent to the office and picked up at the end of the day by a parent/guardian.
FACULTY MEETINGS
Faculty meetings are held monthly. There are also times throughout the year when teachers are asked to attend professional in-service workshops and school is not in session. These dates are listed on the monthly school calendars. On days when faculty meetings are held the whole school Pre-school-8 is dismissed at 11:30 AM. Dismissal procedures are the same as on regular school days.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are extensions of educational instruction at Gate of Heaven School. Students are to be in uniform unless otherwise stated. Signed permission slips and/or any money required must be returned to the teacher (by a specified time) if a student is to be allowed on the field trip.
While on the field trip, all school rules must be observed and followed carefully. If concern has been expressed regarding an individual’s behavior during the year, the privilege of attending the field trip may be rescinded. It is only with appropriate behavior that the full benefits of the field trip can be appreciated. Students not participating in a field trip will follow the normal school program.
Students who fail to return the required permission slip will bet be allowed to participate in the field trip. Telephone calls or written notes will not be accepted in lieu of the school required permission slip.
All chaperones must have passed a CORI background check.
FIRE DRILL
Fire drills are required regularly by both school personnel and the Boston Fire Department. A fire evacuation plan is posted in each room. Students should study the plan and become thoroughly familiar with procedures.
During a fire drill the entire school must be evacuated quickly and calmly. When the fire alarm rings, students immediately leave the room and the building in single file. SILENCE IS REQUIRED. The teacher accompanies the class to the assigned location.
If a student is out of his/her classroom when the alarm sounds, he/she is to go to the nearest exit and join the classes filing out of that exit. Once outside, the student must report to a teacher and inform that teacher of his/her name and grade. The information is relayed to the student’s homeroom teacher.
GRADUATION FEE
Graduation Fee: Grade 8 - $50.00 - payable by April 1.
HEALTH RECORDS AND REQUIREMENTS
Health records are filed in the Health Room; these include a vaccination record, latest physicals, vision and hearing test results. Administration and teachers should always be informed of any physical problem or condition which could necessitate special care or treatment for a child; symptoms, who to call, etc.
Emergency cards should be updated and the information sent to the school office at any time during the year when changes occur. Parents/guardians will be notified of an emergency by the school office.
Legally, and on the advice of the Health Department, the school is advised to insist that the dispensing of medication in the school will take place only when a student’s health would be jeopardized without it. Every effort should be made to schedule administration of medication during non-school hours.
If a child must take medication during school, the school asks that the following directions be observed:
IMMUNIZATION
Chapter 76, Section 15 of the General Laws of Massachusetts states in part:
"No child shall ... be admitted to school except upon the presentation of a physician’s certificate that the child has been successfully immunized against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, measles, and poliomyelitis and such other communicable diseases as may be specified from time to time by Department of Public Health."
This statute applies to all children in grades Pre-school through Grade 8 and provides for exemption from the immunization requirement for medical or religious reasons. Students who have not presented satisfactory evidence of at least having begun the immunization series may not legally attend school after the deadline set for each district by the Department of Public Health. (Massachusetts - 10/5). Parents will be notified of all new immunization requirements to assure compliance by Gate of Heaven School.
If a child receives any immunization during the school year, please inform the school so that records are up to date.
OTHER HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS ARE REQUIRED WHEN A CHILD ENTERS THIS SCHOOL FOR THE FIRST TIME.
Screenings: (done by school)
Vision
Hearing
Scoliosis grades 5-8
Pediculosis (head lice as needed)
If any information or treatment is needed in these areas, parents/guardians will receive a notice from the School Nurse. Prompt attention to this matter is required. Notification of scheduled treatment and the outcome of that treatment should be forwarded to the school nurse.
Example: The parent/guardian is notified that his/her child failed the vision screening.
The parent/guardian schedules an appointment, has the doctor fill out the
form sent home. Parent/guardian returns the form to school.
Each child’s health record is PERMANENT and is forwarded to high schools or a new school system. The completeness of this record depends upon following through with any requests made by the school.
Students whose records are not complete and are not in compliance with State Law will not be able to remain in school after October 5, 2007.
The Health Room is not staffed on a full time basis. A City of Boston nurse is present in the building on Thursdays only. The health needs of the children are met on a daily basis by teachers and the office staff.
Children are sent home when they have a fever, are vomiting or have diarrhea. Children should not be sent to school with these same symptoms. Please refer to the exclusion policy given out in your first information packet. Accidents in the yard sometimes require a call to parents. School staff does not determine broken bones or the need for stitches.
HOMEWORK
Homework is a necessary part of a student’s education since it contributes to a sense of self-discipline as well as reinforces skills which are taught. Parents are encouraged to supervise homework. Children must be encouraged to do his/her own work. This work is a requirement at Gate of Heaven School. It is evaluated and checked. Generally, parents and students can expect the following time to be spent on homework daily:
Grade 1 + 2 10 - 30 minutes
Grade 3, 4 5 45 - 90 minutes
Grade 6 7, 8 1 - 2 1/2 hours
Students in Grades 3-8 will be required to use the assignment notebook provided by the school. Parents should check the homework notebook each night. Teachers and Parents should use the homework notebook for daily communication between home and school.
THE HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
The Gate of Heaven Home and School Association exists to encourage cooperation between the home and school. Its fundraising activities help support and develop existing academic, social and extra curricular programs. All parents are invited to be active members of this group. A yearly fee of $5.00 is required of each family and is included in the $105.00 registration fee.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
In the event of a storm or very bad weather, please listen to the radio and television for NO SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS. Gate of Heaven follows the announcements made for the Boston Public Schools. If Boston has school, Gate of Heaven School is in session. If the City of Boston cancels school, Gate of Heaven cancels sessions. PLEASE, DO NOT TELEPHONE the school for this information. If there is a question of “safety” the Gate of Heaven School will make a decision on their own regarding cancellation of school.
If there should be a problem within Gate of Heaven School which requires cancellation or early dismissal, parents are notified by means of a telephone chain or an announcement on the radio. Therefore, please be sure that the family’s correct telephone number is on file at all times.
If there should be an announcement of DELAYED OPENING due to inclement weather for the public schools, Gate of Heaven School (Grades Pre-school-8) will do the same, e.g. “2 hour delayed opening” would mean Gate of Heaven School would open at 10:00AM. *If this should happen, morning Pre-school, Kindergarten I & II should NOT attend that day. AT ALL TIMES, PARENTS SHOULD USE THEIR OWN DISCRETION IN SENDING THEIR CHILD/REN TO SCHOOL WHEN WEATHER IS INCLEMENT. YOUR CHILD/REN’S SAFETY IS OUR MAIN CONCERN.
LAVATORY PRIVILEGES
Each class is assigned regularly scheduled lavatory breaks. Students must have permission from a teacher or another person in authority to use the lavatories at unscheduled times. Proper use and conduct are required at all times within these facilities. If frequent use of lavatories is necessary because of a medical condition, a note from a doctor or parent should be on file at school.
Destruction of school property and graffiti of any kind is considered a serious offense. Restitution will be expected.
LIBRARY
The library is available to students during scheduled class periods. Students are fully responsible for all books and materials checked out. Fines are charged for all overdue materials and for lost or damaged books. Reference books are to be used only in the library or in the classroom under a teacher’s supervision. The fine for overdue books is one food item for the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry for each overdue day. Lost or damaged books must be replaced.
The mission of the Gate of Heaven School Library is to enable students to become productive and ethical users of information and ideas. It also strives to provide students with a wide array of accomplished authors, past and present, and an atmosphere for students to immerse themselves in reading.
In order to assure quality library services for all members of the school community, the following policies are enforced:
Students are encouraged to check out books during their assigned library times.
Books must be signed out with the student’s name and homeroom printed clearly
on the borrower’s automatic withdrawal card.
Books should be returned within one week, however students needing more time to
complete a book are encouraged to renew it.
Books being returned should be deposited in the drop boxes located throughout the
school. No book should be left in the library when it is returned.
It is expected that no student will write in or deface library property. Once a student
signs out a book, it becomes their responsibility to return the book in the condition
it was borrowed. In the event that library property is lost or damaged, it is the
responsibility of the student to pay the replacement cost for that item.
MARKING SYSTEM
Grades 1 and 2 -- 0-Outstanding S - Satisfactory NI - Needs Improvement U- Unsatisfactory
Grades 3 - 4 - 5
A - Excellent grasp of material and skills that have been presented - does outstanding work,
consistently high test marks, homework always well done, attentive and responsive during
class, does all required work, puts forth unusual effort.
B - Above average - consistently does work of high quality, does all required work, homework
always done, solid grasp of material and skills, attentive and responsive during class.
C - Average - average marks - occasionally up and down, has homework, usually attentive and
responsive during class, has grasped an average amount of material skills required.
D - Below average - Having difficulty in meeting expectation and requirements, inconsistent marks, missing homework or not paying attention in class, has not grasped quite a bit of material and skills that have been presented.
F - Grasp of materials and required skills is unacceptable, failing, frequently fails tests, often has
no homework or incomplete homework.
A+ = 97-100 B+ = 87-89 C+ = 77-79
A = 94-96 B = 84-86 C = 74-76
A- = 90-93 B- = 80-83 C- = 70-73
D+ = 67-69 D- = 60-63
D = 64-66 F = Failure
MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS RECEIVE NUMERICAL GRADES OF ACTUAL AVERAGES.
No student ever fails at Gate of Heaven School if they:
1- work to the best of his/her ability and cooperate with teachers
2- complete all homework
3- seek extra help as needed.
NOTICES
In order to facilitate communication between home and school, all notices for the week will go home in a COMMUNICATION FOLDER on Wednesday with each child in a family. Please sign and return the folder to school by Friday. Parents should look for the communication folder each week.
COMMITMENT AREAS
Although parent/guardian commitment is not mandatory, volunteers are always welcome. Please call the office if you wish to be of service in any of these areas. CORI forms must have been approved.
Home and School Events (Pizza lunch, tonic pick-up, dances, etc.)
Yard Lunch Duty - 11:45 - 12:45 one day a week yard duty
Library Aide - an hour - one day a week
Health Aide - an hour - one day a week
Door Monitor - an hour - one day a week
CCD Teacher
Kindergarten Aide - schedule to be arranged with Pre-school and Kindergarten teachers
Building maintenance & repair (duties and time arranged with Principal and Property Manager) School Custodian)
Other - contact school office (e.g. involvement on Parish/School Boards)
PARENT EMERGENCY/ CONTACT FORMS
Each student should have on file in the School Office a parent emergency/ contact form. For the safety of the children, any change in parental guardianship, address, and/or telephone number must be reported IMMEDIATELY TO THE OFFICE. Unfortunately accidents do occur; therefore updated contact/emergency forms are of utmost importance.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent-Teacher Conferences are held when report cards are given out. However, the school does not wish to limit contact only to these brief conferences. Parents are urged to contact teachers if there is a problem. Please call the school office (268-8431) or send a written note to arrange for an APPOINTMENT which will be convenient for both the parent and teacher(s). Teachers should not be contacted at their homes for any reason.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress reports are distributed at the half-way mark of each marking period. Distribution dates will be noted on monthly calendar.
REPORT CARDS
Middle School students receive 4 report cards. November, January, April and June. Report cards are given out in December, March and June for Grades K2-5.. Students are asked to return the card, signed by the parent, within 3 days. The June report card is mailed directly to parents. When returning the March/April card, please affix a postage stamp to the envelope. Pre-school and Kindergarten 1 conferences are held in February and or an as needed basis.
SCHOOL BOARD
The School Board is comprised of Gate of Heaven parents and parishioners who contribute to the life of the Parish School in an advisory capacity to the Pastor and Principal.
SCHOOL CALENDAR
A yearly calendar with general dates and information is sent home at the beginning of the school year. This tentative yearly calendar contains dates and events that we know about at the time of printing.
On the last Wednesday of each month a calendar is issued containing important dates and information particular for the next month. Please post it and consult it often. The calendars are given to each family in the school, and it is the responsibility of each child to bring the calendar home in the Wednesday Communication Folder.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Harassment of any nature (word, deed or gesture) is unacceptable and is considered grounds for suspension. Children need to be reminded that any careless or thoughtless word, deed or gesture of a sexual nature has serious consequences. Gate of Heaven School participates in the Archdiocesan sponsored sexual abuse prevention programs Talk About Touching K-4 and Protecting God’s Children Grades 5-8. Teachers are required to be trained in this program as well as the VIRTUS Program. Parents/guardians will be notified when these programs are implemented in the classroom. The guidelines of the Diocese allow for parent/guardian to sign a request for their child’s non-participation.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The purpose of Gate of Heaven Student Council is to promote good citizenship, to encourage a high standard of scholarship, to arouse a spirit of pride within Gate of Heaven School, to demonstrate the practical application of democracy and to contribute to the general welfare of the school and community.
SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION
Suspension, a temporary dismissal of a student from school for ten days or less, is a punishment which we do not issue lightly. A student may be suspended for serious and constant disruption of school rules, such as, fighting, disrespect of students and teachers, and the use or sale of controlled substances. If a student is suspended, the Pastor and parent/guardian are notified. In some instances, a parent may be asked to pick the child up at school and to take them home. A student may not make up any school work missed for credit and will receive “zeros” for class work during the day(s) of his/her suspension.
Expulsion, a most serious matter, is the permanent dismissal of a student from the school and is invoked only as a last resort. Incidents of behavioral concern, actions of school personnel and conferences with parents will be logged. Consultations with the Pastor and the Superintendent of School will be held. The student and his/her parents will be granted a hearing by the Principal prior to expulsion. Repeated suspensions and offenses listed above may warrant expulsion.
TELEPHONE CALLS
The telephone at school is a business phone and will be used by students for emergencies only. After school plans should be made before coming to school. Parents should be apprised of their child/ren's after school plans (extra curricular, extra help, etc.) to avoid calls home.
TESTING PROGRAM
Gate of Heaven students in grades 2-8 take part in the Archdiocesan Standardized Testing Program, Terra Nova, administered in October. Parents are requested to avoid taking an unscheduled vacation during this week (2007- 10/15-19)
TRANSCRIPTS
Transcripts are provided by Gate of Heaven School for 8th grade students applying to Catholic High Schools. This is a standard form which is acceptable to all Catholic High Schools. Requests for additional transcripts and recommendations by 6th, 7th and 8th graders for Private schools must be received in the office one month before the Private School’s admission deadline. Addressed stamped envelopes must accompany these requests.
TUITION POLICY
Each Spring, in order to provide maximum benefit to both school and parents the following tuition policy is offered. Parents are asked to select the tuition schedule which best fits their needs mindful of the conditions set for each plan and the method of payment.
TUITION Includes participation in the children’s fundraising and Home and School Fundraising
K1 – 8 Full Day $3,800.00 Pre-school Full Day $4,450.00
K1 and K2 ½ Day $2,200.00 Pre-school ½ Day $2,250.00
Each family is required to sell 20 calendars. $200.00
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Please call the school office for any questions regarding tuition.
TUITION - that is not current (overdue 30 days – families will be asked to withdraw children from school.)
Any tuition payment made after APRIL 15th - must be in cash or money order.
GRADUATION FEE: Grade 8 - $50.00 - payable by April 1.
Re-registration for school families cannot take place unless all financial obligations have been met.
UNSCHEDULED VACATION
Administration and faculty discourage parents from taking children out of school for an unscheduled vacation.
Make-up work due to scheduling vacations while school is in session is the responsibility of the students with the encouragement of their parents. Students who miss class for whatever reason must take the initiative to complete missed work within one week. NO WORK WILL BE GIVEN PRIOR TO THE UNSCHEDULED VACATION PERIOD.
USE OF CONTROLLED OR FOREIGN SUBSTANCES
The use of controlled substances (e.g. tobacco, drugs, alcohol) by students is seen as a serious behavioral problem which cannot be allowed at Gate of Heaven School. Therefore, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.
If a student uses or has in his/her possession a controlled substance during school time and this matter is brought to the attention of the Principal, immediate action will be taken. This includes before and after school since such behavior, while a student is in uniform, impacts upon the school’s and the student’s reputation. A student will be initially suspended and the Principal, along with faculty input, will make specific recommendations to the student and parents for the return to school. A second violation of this rule will result in automatic expulsion.
The sale of a controlled substance (tobacco, drugs, alcohol) is clearly a serious violation of a State Law and school rule and will be treated as such with notification to Boston Police Department. The sale of drugs, tobacco, or alcohol by a student will be considered as an important reason to ask a student to leave Gate of Heaven School.
WARNING SLIPS/PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress Reports are sent home to parents at each mid-marking period and at any time a teacher feels it is necessary during a term. Progress Reports inform parents of the possibility of failure in a subject or any other problems which may occur. These notices are to be signed by the parents and returned to the teacher on the next school day.
Progress reports are used to identify the strengths and weaknesses of individual students. Students in grades 1-8 will receive them midway through each marking period.
Dates for Progress reports/warning distribution will be noted on the monthly calendar and will be sent home in the Wednesday Communication Folder.
RIGHT TO AMEND:
Gate of Heaven School reserves the right to amend this Handbook, Notice of Amendments will be sent to parents via Wednesday Communication Folder.
GATE OF HEAVEN SCHOOL
PARENT/STUDENT CONTRACT
PARENT-CHILD-SCHOOL DISCIPLINE
The moral obligation of training children rests first with the parents. The responsibility of the school is to give extension and broadening to parental training. The teachers in this school are dedicated to finding the best means of guiding and teaching your children, and in this way helping you, the parents/guardians.
It is extremely important that a child be thoroughly convinced that his/her parents/guardians stand behind the school and that they will demand an accounting of what the child does in school. Without such an understanding, a child can come to think that home and school are unrelated areas of authority and he/she soon learns to play one against the other. We can best serve the children by working together, by checking out whatever misunderstandings might arise, by supporting one another in all things. If there is a difference of opinion, that is all right. This is a sign of healthy life. Do call for an appointment to talk things over. An understanding can be reached which will safeguard the child’s respect for all.
TO BE RETURNED TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE
We, the undersigned, state that we have read in its entirety, the Parent-Student Handbook for Gate of Heaven School.
We sign that we have not only read it and that we understand fully the regulations contained, but that we will uphold them and follow them and that we recognize the right of the school to establish rules and provide for their enforcement. We also understand that non-compliance of the enclosed policies has its own consequences as stated throughout this handbook.
________________________________________________________
Signature (Student)
________________________________________________________
Signature (Student)
________________________________________________________
Signature (Parent)
________________________________________________________
Signature (Parent)
_______________________________
MONTH DAY YEAR
MISSION STATEMENT
Inspired and energized by our rich tradition and history, Gate of Heaven School, South Boston, is an urban, Catholic elementary school, of the Archdiocese of Boston, who has as its primary purpose TO PROVIDE TOTAL CATHOLIC EDUCATION. We strive to meet the spiritual, academic, physical and social needs of the Parish/School Community whom we serve.
The dignity and self worth of each individual are of utmost importance as we endeavor to integrate learning with the experience of living our Christian faith.
We attempt to develop within our students the necessary skills and knowledge rooted in faith to become life-long learners who will be effective and contributing members of society.
Gate of Heaven School
Founded in 1879
Accredited by the New England Association
of Schools and Colleges
Gate of Heaven School
South Boston, Massachusetts
Established 1879
PARENT-STUDENT
HANDBOOK