Post on 26-Jan-2020
1
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
Catholic School “Building a Bright Future”
2015-2016
School Handbook
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School
6703 Whitefriars Dr.
Houston, Texas 77087
(713) 643-0676
www.olmchou.org/school
The contents of this handbook are subject to change, updating, correction, and revisions at
any time with or without notice. A current copy can be viewed on the school website.
2
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School
6703 Whitefriars Dr.
Houston, Texas 77087
www.olmchou.org/school
(713) 643-0676 School Office
(713) 649-1835 School Fax
(713) 645-6673 Parish Office
Jimmy R. Ramos, M.Ed.
Principal
Rev. Abelardo Cobos
Pastor
School Board Members
Denise Zaebst
Lazaro Contreras
Parent Teacher Organization – PTO
Katherine Smith President
TBA Secretary
Tracy Murray Treasurer
3
OUR LADY OF MT. CARMEL
CATHOLIC SCHOOL
School Handbook (Revised 8/15)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome .............................................................. 5
Absences ............................................................... 14
Academic Awards ............................................... 25
Academic Policy .................................................. 21
Academic Referrals ............................................. 25
Additional Dress Code Policy ............................ 28
Admissions Policy .................................................. 10
Admissions Requirements ................................... 11
After School Care ................................................. 18
After School-No Loitering Policy ........................ 18
Attendance Policy ............................................... 14
Cellular use………………………………………… 37
Code of Conduct ................................................ 30
Code of Conduct Regulations .......................... 30
Child Abuse and Child Neglect ........................ 14
Conduct and Discipline Policy .......................... 29
Communicable Diseases .................................... 13
Communication ................................................... 19
Crisis Management Plan ..................................... 19
Detention and ISS ................................................. 31
Disaster Drills .......................................................... 19
Disciplinary Probation .......................................... 32
Discipline ................................................................ 29
Dismissal and After School Activities ................ 18
Dismissal Policy ...................................................... 16
Dismissal Procedure ............................................. 16
Dismissal Times ....................................................... 16
Dress Code ............................................................ 27
Early Student Pick-up by Parent ........................ 15
Educational Accommodations ......................... 24
Educational Philosophy ..................................... 7
Emergency School Closing ................................ 19
Expulsion ................................................................. 32
Extra-Curricular Activities .................................... 34
Field Trips ................................................................ 26
Fundraising and Advancement ........................ 35
Governance .......................................................... 9
Grading .................................................................. 23
Handbook Procedures and Regulations ......... 10
Homework ............................................................. 21
Homework Late Policy......................................... 22
Honors and Awards ............................................. 34
Informal Conferences ......................................... 25
4
Immunizations ....................................................... 13
Library ..................................................................... 20
Line of Authority .................................................... 31
Lost and Found ..................................................... 15
Lunch ...................................................................... 19
Major Changes/ Additions/ Clarifications ....... 6
Mandatory Tutorials ............................................. 24
Major Misbehavior................................................ 30
Medical Emergencies ......................................... 13
Medications at School ........................................ 13
Mission Statement ................................................ 8
Non-Custodial Parent .......................................... 26
Online Grade Book .............................................. 23
Other Dismissals..................................................... 18
Parent Conduct and Behavior .......................... 32
Parents Partnership .............................................. 35
Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences ............. 25
Party Policy ............................................................ 20
PE Dress Code Requirements ............................. 28
Playground/Use of School Grounds ................. 16
Personal Property ................................................. 15
Records .................................................................. 26
Report and Progress Report Cards ................... 22
School Dances ...................................................... 20
School Health Policy ............................................ 12
Student Life ............................................................ 26
Student-Parent Complain Process .................... 33
Suspension ............................................................. 32
Tardiness ................................................................. 15
Technology and Acceptable Use Policy ........ 35
Telephone Use Policy .......................................... 16
Testing Program .................................................... 26
Transfer Policy ....................................................... 11
Tuition Assistance Policy ...................................... 12
Tuition Policy .......................................................... 11
Use of Controlled Substances ............................ 33
Volunteers .............................................................. 35
5
WELCOME
Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to the 2015 -2016 school year at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School!
Here at OLMC School, we are building a bright future! By choosing OLMC for your child,
you have shown that you clearly understand the value of our philosophy of education –
in accordance with Diocesan policy, to educate the whole student in a diverse and
welcoming Catholic Christian family environment. We strive to attend to each child’s
spiritual, academic, physical, social and emotional needs, while integrating each family
into our school community.
We are in this communal process together – students, parents, teachers, pastor, and
principal. We are all here for the same reason, which is your child’s future! You have my
assurance that every decision made at the school is made with the best interests of our
students, school and community at large in the context of school and Diocesan policy.
It is important to me that we work closely together in the spirit of love and
understanding as taught to us by Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I do have an open
door policy, and will make every effort to be accessible to all members of the school
community; however, if not possible, I would invite you to make an appointment so that
we may speak regarding your concern. If it is a concern regarding your child with
regard to his or her teacher, as part of our protocol, the teacher should have already
been contacted in an attempt to resolve concern and or issue first.
The purpose of this handbook is to advise you of all policies and procedures which are
in place to set a foundation for teaching and learning. We must have structures in
place to nurture student success, but above all to ensure that each and every child at
our school is kept safe and secure as they engage in their academic and faith
formation endeavors.
It is critical that you read this entire handbook, and be familiar with its contents. I have
highlighted critical policies or changes on the following page of your handbook. We
have tried to address many issues and concerns in a clear and concise way, in an effort
to maximize learning and minimize confusion regarding school policies. After reading
the handbook, all families are required to sign agreeing that you understand and will
follow these policies.
I look forward to collaborating with you this year in our major community-building and
fund-raising activities such as our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), Christmas
Program, World’s Finest Chocolates sale, OLMC Bazaar, and many more! We are truly a
communal family here, as we work in under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, each day
for your child’s academic and spiritual success. God bless you.
Yours in Christ,
Mr. Jimmy R. Ramos, M.Ed.
6
Principal
There are many changes in policy and updates to our handbook this year. Please note the following important changes in policy:
Uniform Dress Code
New Dress Code Guidelines – The uniform colors have been changed to Maroon
as we have contracted the services of Parker Uniforms. However, this year will be
a phase out program where students will still be allowed to use the uniforms from
the previous year 2014–2015 school year, but would be required to have the new
uniforms for the school year 2016 - 2017. Violators will be issued a verbal warning
for first offence; however, there may be a $5.00 fee for every other infraction of
uniform violations and additional fees will apply for further infractions.
Early /Tardy Policy
As part of our safety policy, students are not to be dropped off at school prior to
7:15 a.m., since the school does not officially open its doors until 7:15 a.m. The
dropping off of students prior to official start time compromises the safety of the
children being left at the school without proper supervision. 3 early arrivals of this
sort would result in a fee of $25.00 to be billed on FACTS account.
School officially opens at 7:15 a.m. and classes begin promptly at 7:55 a.m.
Students arriving after 7:55am are required check into the office for a tardy slip.
Students who accumulate 3 tardies will be assigned a detention or some type of
age appropriate consequence. However, parent will have the option paying a
$25.00 tardy fee in lieu of a student detention, to be billed on the family’s FACTS
Management account.
Early Student Pick-Up by Parent/Guardian
Parents will not be permitted to sign their child out earlier than 2:30pm on a
regular school day or 1:30pm on Fridays. In these cases, parents should instead
wait in their cars in the carpool line for school dismissal.
As part of our safety policy, vehicles without authorized car tags will not be
allowed to pick up student(s) from school. These parent(s)/guardian(s)/ and or
other, will be directed instead to drive out of the line and park in the parking lot
and wait until the entire dismissal is completed, at which time parent will be
allowed to go to parish hall and pick up child. If it is the case the original tag has
been lost or misplaced, the office will be able to re-issue for a cost of $5.00, which
would be billed on FACTS Management account.
Mandatory Tutorials
Students who have been identified as performing poorly academically – 74% or
below - in a particular class or classes, will be required to attend mandatory
tutorials on Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. – 4: 30 p.m. Students will remain on
mandatory tutorials until all academic obligations are met and grade average
has exceeded 75% or better. Parents will be notified by teacher and proper
arrangements are to be for student pick up at 4:30 p.m. Those students who are
not picked up by 4:35 p.m. will be required to sign in for Extended Day and will be
charged the applicable rates.
7
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY OF
OUR LADY OF MT. CARMEL CATHOLIC SCHOOL
The uniqueness of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School is its dedication to a personal
and positive approach to learning and discipline, in partnership with parents, the
primary educators of their children. Grounded in the values of the Catholic faith, the
multi-cultural school community, adults and children alike, are challenged daily to live
with Gospel values.
Additionally, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School celebrates our tremendous cultural and
linguistic diversity. We truly believe that all are welcome at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
School, and we profess this in our daily actions and words.
Our role as Catholic educators demands that we collaborate our efforts to develop
children fully, not only intellectually, but also spiritually, physically, emotionally, and
socially.
Intellectual development is grounded in a sound basic curriculum provided by the
Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and delivered through multiple teaching strategies.
Students actively participate in lessons, for research suggests that the best learning
occurs if multiple senses are used. School is the child’s workplace, and the work is
appropriately demanding. Meeting high academic standards develops each student’s
self-esteem, not just as a fleeting “feel good” sensation, but as a lived experience of
competence based on successful completion of challenging academic work. This
success results in students who progress through the grades taking ever more
responsibility for their own learning; culminating in eighth grade graduates from Our
Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School who are confident of their ability to successfully
tackle high school.
A sound religious education program, coupled with many experiences in age-
appropriate liturgies, empowers students to develop their spiritual lives and to integrate
faith with life. As educators, our religious commitment must be deep and its translation
relevant for children, as they experience God’s love through us. Moral values are
deliberately integrated throughout the whole school day, so that religion is not only a
subject taught, but also a reality lived. Our students learn that the church and the
school together create the entity called Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Community.
Our parish has identified Catholic education as one of its primary ministries.
Physical education is an important component of the curriculum, and students progress
through a planned program of sequential motor development. Healthy, active
participation in athletics promotes sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership. Learning
and practicing healthy habits of exercise and nutrition, which prevent life-threatening
diseases in later life, is emphasized.
8
MISSION STATEMENT
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School Mission Statement
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School, in the spirit of excellence, is committed to forming our students in
the gospel of Jesus Christ, while academically preparing them to become successful 21st Century
Learners, so that they may be empowered in taking on the academic and moral challenges of the world.
The Mission of Catholic Schools in the State of Texas
The ministry of Catholic education in general is the fulfillment of the educational mission of the Catholic
Church and has as its primary goal the continuous formation of the Christian person.
As a pastoral instrument of the church, the strength of the Catholic school is its ability to respond to the
needs of the whole person, the church in a time of transition, and the world with a global perspective for
a peaceful and sustainable future.
The Catholic school is a unique environment in which students can experience the presence of the Holy
Spirit. Its focus is on the individual person's spiritual, moral, intellectual, social, cultural, and physical
development. In the Catholic school, students and teachers are drawn to proclaim the Gospel message,
to unite in worship, to respond to the needs of the community through fellowship and social justice, and
to serve all people through the sharing of their spiritual gifts and temporal goods.
Intellectually, students are challenged to work to the best of their abilities. In a world of diversity and
absolutes, students need to be freed to appreciate and understand the living organism called Earth, the
peoples and cultures that inhabit it, and to develop global perspectives by which to form their lives and
consciences. Students are provided opportunities to develop basic academic and physical skills, pursue
knowledge, and critically study and analyze the world in which they live.
The effective Catholic school must call its students to the conviction that people are more important than
material gain; that justice is more important than success; that love is more important than esteem; and
that collaboration unites while competition divides. The truly successful Catholic school student is not
necessarily one who is successful in every endeavor, but one who accepts Christian responsibility for
fulfillment of personal potential and shares these gifts with others.
Texas Catholic Conference Education Department
Role of Parents
"Since parents have conferred life on their children, they have a most solemn obligation to educate their
offspring. Hence parents must be acknowledged as the first and foremost educators of their children.
Their role as educators is so decisive that scarcely anything can compensate for their failure in it.
It is particularly in the Christian family, enriched by the grace and sacrament of matrimony, which from
their earliest year’s children should be taught, according to the faith received in baptism, to have
knowledge of God, to worship Him, and to love their neighbor.
While belonging primarily to the family, the task of imparting education requires the help of society as a
whole. As for Catholic parents, the council calls to mind their duty to entrust their children to Catholic
schools, when and where this is possible, to support such schools to the extent of their ability, and to work
along with them for the welfare of their children."
Declaration on Christian Education
Proclaimed by His Holiness, Pope Paul VI
October 28, 1965
9
GOVERNANCE
The Cardinal
The Cardinal, as the chief representative of the Church's teaching authority, is the head of the
Archdiocesan System of Schools. The administration of the schools is carried out by the Superintendent.
Religious Education is under the guidance of the Director of the Office of Continuing Christian Education.
Texas Catholic Conference Education Department (TCCED)
TCCED is the designated coordinator of all activities related to state accreditation. As such, it shall
establish standards which a diocesan system of schools must satisfy to be accredited and shall adopt an
accreditation process to be used in Catholic schools. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School received
its accreditation renewal in 2009.
Texas Catholic Conference Education Department Accreditation Commission (TCCAC)
Membership consists of all superintendents of the fourteen Texas diocese, other experts in the field of
education, and two bishop members who serve as Episcopal liaisons. The Commission, through
committees, is responsible for setting up the operations, ongoing planning of the accreditation process,
review of school compliance, and reporting of accreditation status.
Archdiocesan Board of Education
The Archdiocesan Board of Education is an advisory council delegated by the Cardinal and responsible
to the Archdiocese for archdiocesan-sponsored educational programs.
Superintendent
The Superintendent of schools is the organizational and instructional leader in the system of Catholic
schools of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. The superintendent's specific responsibilities include:
directing and coordinating the Catholic School office, coordinating and supervising the central
administrative services for the efficient operation of all Catholic schools, implementing all policies of the
Archdiocesan Board of Education and implementing the principles and standards for accreditation
(TCCED).
The Pastor
The Pastor is the spiritual leader of the parish and the ex-officio chief administrative officer of the parish
school. It is his duty to see that the teachings of the Church are clearly and accurately presented. The
immediate direction of the school and its instructional program is, however, to be delegated to the
Principal. Satisfactory and effective administration depends on the cooperation and mutual support of
both Pastor and Principal in matters of local educational policy.
The Principal
The Principal is the educational leader of the school, possessing full administrative responsibility for the
instructional program of the school. As the educational head of the school, the Principal is held
accountable for school policies outlined in the Texas Catholic Conference Education Department
Accreditation Principles and Standards, Archdiocesan School Goals, the Archdiocesan Board of
Education Policies, State Rules for Curriculum and the Catholic School Office Administrator's Handbook of
Regulations, and policies established by the local Education Council.
School Board
The Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School Board functions as an advisory council to the Pastor and Principal. As
such, the school board assists in establishing policies, goals, and objectives for the educational programs,
reviews policy implementation, assists in the development of the school budget and financial planning.
Development and committee leadership is an integral function of the school board.
The Teacher
The teacher's primary responsibility is classroom instruction. The teacher is responsible for supervision of
students, effective communication with the school community, and following guidelines of the curriculum
10
for the grade, provided by the Archdiocesan Curriculum Guidelines in accordance with state (TEKS) and
national (Common Core) curriculum standards.
HANDBOOK PROCEDURES AND REGULATIONS
Given the complex nature of education, it is impossible to predetermine a policy to cover every
situation. Accordingly, the administration, after appropriate consideration, may be required to
make judgments as to the course of action in a given circumstance or to make changes to this
handbook. When necessary, exceptions or changes will be made with the greatest benefit to
the children and educational purpose in mind. The principal retains the right to amend the
contents of this handbook at any time.
ADMISSIONS POLICY
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School is a TCCED accredited school, offering pre-
kindergarten through eighth grade. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School admits all students
to the rights, privileges, programs, and activities made available to the student body. The
school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, or national origin in the
administration of its admission, athletic or scholarship programs. The school adheres to the
policies stipulated by the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and the Catholic Schools Office.
The following policies have been formulated in relation to student admissions:
Parents should visit school and tour facilities.
Parents have the option to observe a classroom by appointment, with Principal
approval.
Prospective students should visit the class he or she would be admitted to and at that
time an informal academic assessment may be given.
A letter of recommendation from the applicant’s current or former school must be
provided to the Director of Admissions prior to final admission.
Student and parents meet with the Principal prior to admission.
On completion of the procedures listed above, all of the applicant’s school records, test scores,
and recommendations will be reviewed for recommendation of acceptance.
Applicants must be scholastically qualified. All students must present acceptable
transcripts, current report cards, if applicable, achievement test results and not owe or
have any existing outstanding financial debt of unpaid tuition, fees, or any other type of
financial delinquency whatsoever to any previous Catholic school that student may
have attended.
For students with identified learning differences, copies of all educational testing must be
submitted for review by the principal. Copies of evaluation reports must be kept on file
at OLMC. Such educational evaluations must be current (within 3 years).
Eligibility for admission and attendance is contingent upon current payment of all tuition
payments and fees as indicated in the tuition fee agreement.
Priority admissions will be based on the following:
Students presently attending Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School, with
registration fee paid by the early registration deadline.
Siblings of students presently attending Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School,
for which a registration fee is received by the early registration deadline.
Parishioners of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel who currently do not have any children
attending the school.
Vacancies must exist within the established teacher/student ratio. A waiting list will be
formed for classes that are full.
11
All required forms must be returned and fees paid before placement is assured,
including: having met with the Principal, application, special needs form, registration
information, record of birth and/or sacraments received, health records and medical
release form, achievement records, and tuition fee agreement. A non-refundable
registration fee is required at the time of application.
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
A pupil entering first grade must have reached his or her sixth birthday on or before September
1st. Kindergarten students must be five years, on or before September 1st. Pre-K4 students must
be four years old on or before September 1st. Pre-K3 students must be three years old on or
before September 1st.
All new students are admitted on a probationary basis, while teachers and the principal
evaluate whether we can meet the student's academic, social, and emotional needs and
work in a successful partnership with the family. The probationary period is 9 weeks;
however, the principal makes the final decision regarding probationary admission status at
any time during the 9 week period or at the conclusion of the 9 week period.
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School remains committed to a philosophy of inclusion. The
Admissions office will carefully consider students for enrollment who have special needs,
based on the following criteria:
- Extent of accommodations needed.
- The academic, social and emotional make-up of the class.
Certain accommodations may be provided for students with special needs, dependent
upon consultation with the principal and teachers and review of current (within 3 years)
educational evaluation. Accommodations will be made where possible for students with a
diagnosed learning difference.
Re-enrollment of each student is on a year-to-year basis and the 9 week probationary
period applies each academic year, beginning with the first day of attendance.
TRANSFER POLICY
The parent of a student who plans to transfer to another school must notify the school office in
writing. Complete records, including a transcript of the permanent record card and health
records, will be mailed to the receiving school upon the school’s written request, once all
financial obligations to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School have been met, including any tuition,
fees and fundraising owed. Records for families/students with delinquent accounts will be held
until the full balance is paid in its entirety.
TUITION POLICY
TUITION PAYMENTS
Monthly tuition payments are due on 5th, 10th, 15th or 20th of each month and are payable
exclusively through direct withdrawal by FACTS Management. All families must complete
paperwork for a FACTS Management account, where all tuition and fees will be managed.
Tuition payments may be made on a 10 month, 12 month or single payment annual payment
plan. Please see the tuition schedule for details.
A Tuition Fee Agreement must be signed by the responsible parent or guardian. First month
tuition is non-refundable and is due by June (12 month payments) or July (10 month payments).
12
Tuition is due in full for any month in which student has attended classes. For example, a
withdrawal on October 2nd will require the October tuition to be paid in full.
In the event that a family falls 30 days behind in tuition payments, school administration may
withdraw the student from the school. Prior to the 30 days, parents must make arrangements
with the school office in order to avoid this removal. Report Cards and/or Progress Reports and
access to Gradelink online will be withheld until any past due balance is paid. For accounts that
have been chronically overdue in the previous year, tuition payments may be required in
advance in order to maintain enrollment, at the discretion of the principal or his designee.
On the 10th day after the tuition payment due date each month, a $50.00 late fee is charged
A $30.00 fee for returned checks is also assessed. If financial circumstances do not allow for
payment of fees in a timely manner, it is the parents' responsibility to communicate with school
administration regarding the circumstances. Please note that all fees (including but not limited
to curriculum and registration fees) are non-refundable.
TUITION ASSISTANCE POLICY
The Tuition Assistance/Scholarship program at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School is
available to assist members of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, school staff, and other families
who desire a Catholic education for their children but who cannot meet all of the financial
obligations without some level of assistance.
All families must complete the diocesan PSAS application before any consideration can be
made for tuition assistance. Scholarships for OLMC Church parishioners may be available in
some cases, pending funds availability. These funds are available only to parishioners of Our
Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish. In order to be classified as a parishioner, the parent or legal
guardian must have been registered with the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish office for a
minimum of three months prior to receiving any assistance. After three months, new parishioner
families may apply for parishioner status. Some exceptions may be made at the discretion of
the principal and the pastor. The parishioner family must be actively participating, contributing
parishioners who support the ministries of the parish by giving of their time, talent, and treasure.
The Principal, the Pastor, the Admissions Director and optionally a member of the school board,
parish staff or a member of the faculty shall serve on the committee to determine any parish
scholarship awards. Eligibility for consideration is based on demonstrated financial need,
completion and on-time submission of the application for financial assistance to the school, on-
time completion of the PSAS application, and minimum scholastic achievement and
satisfactory conduct by all students on the application. Additionally, applicant families must
provide evidence of active participation school activities, complete extra volunteer service
hours, and demonstrate a genuine willingness to share their time and talent for the general
welfare and needs of the school.
SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School will follow the guidelines set forth by the Archdiocese of
Galveston-Houston Health Services. All medical information is confidential. Students must have
documentation of annual physical and physician’s clearance for participation in sports.
13
IMMUNIZATIONS
As an accredited school, we comply with the State of Texas, Department of Health regulations
regarding immunizations. The only valid exemption is a medical exemption with physician’s
signature. We are subject to audit by the state and require strict adherence to the regulations
that keep all students safe and healthy. We may exclude your child from attending school until
he/she is properly immunized. Your physician, the City Health Clinics, and our Christus nurse can
serve as guides through the immunization process. You may also review immunization
information at http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/immunize/summary.htm.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
If your child contracts a communicable disease, he/she will be excluded from school until such
time that your physician provides a written clearance indicating that he/she is no longer
infectious. Exclusions may occur for the following: strep throat, impetigo, head lice, ringworm of
the scalp, fifth’s disease accompanied by fever, conjunctivitis, chicken pox and measles. In
addition, we will exclude students from school who are vomiting, have diarrhea, or have a
temperature greater than 100F. Your child must not have a temperature of 100F or at least 24
hours before returning to school.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
Each child must have a completed Emergency Health Card on file at the school. It must have
the name of your child’s physician, hospital choice for your child, and a signature that gives Our
Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School the right to seek emergency medical care for your child.
We will attempt to contact you first in an emergency; however, we reserve the right to call an
ambulance to transport your child to seek appropriate medical care if, in our opinion, it should
become necessary.
MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL
Parents are encouraged to schedule the administration of student medicine in such a manner
that medication brought to school will be kept to a minimum. (For example, the physician may
be able to prescribe the medication before/after school and at bedtime.)
Medications (prescription and nonprescription) may be administered at school under the
following conditions:
1. A medication administration form is completed and signed by the parent and the
physician. It must be on file in the clinic before we administer any medication.
2. The medication is contained in a labeled bottle. The label must have the child’s
name; the name of the medication; the dose (# of milligrams per tsp. or tablet); the
amount to be administered (how many tsp. or tablets); and the time it is to be given.
For nonprescription medications, ask your pharmacist or physician for a label. If the
medication is to be given three or four times per day, ask your pharmacist for two
labeled bottles: one for school and one for home.
3. The medication administration form and the bottle label must have identical
information.
4. Inhalers must be in a labeled box and accompanied by the medication
administration form.
14
CHILD ABUSE AND CHILD NEGLECT School personnel in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston have a moral obligation as well as a
legal obligation under state law to report any suspected child abuse or neglect.
Criteria for Reporting:
A report of child abuse is not an accusation or a proven fact, and Texas does not require
a reporter to know or to be certain that a child has been abused or neglected.
The degree of certainty that must be met is that the person reporting must have “cause
to believe” that abuse or neglect has occurred or will occur. This standard is based on
the reasonable person convictions. Confidentiality of the person making the report will
be upheld. The person who reports suspected child abuse or neglect is immune from
civil or criminal liability if the report is made without malice.
Failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect is a crime punishable by fine,
imprisonment, or both.
To Whom to Report:
Reports of child abuse or neglect are sent to the Texas Department of Protective &
Regulatory Services, Child Protective Services Division (CPS). CPS will investigate and will
determine the nature and extent of the problem, evaluate the child’s condition and
safety, and if appropriate, initiate action to protect the child.
School personnel are to call 911 if they believe a child is in immediate danger of harm.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
ABSENCES
Parents must call the school office or clinic at 713-643-0676 before 9:00 a.m. to report an
absence, giving the name and grade of the student, and stating if the illness will likely be
prolonged. This serves to alert the school of any communicable disease and lets school
personnel know you are aware of your child's absence. In addition, parents must submit a
written explanation of the absence to the homeroom teacher upon the student's return to
school. Absence excuse notes will be kept on file. Absences due to travel are highly
discouraged. We encourage you to work with the holidays and summer break provided in the
school calendar for travel. Please note that teachers may not be able to prepare work for
students to take with them on trips. However, students are responsible for all work missed due to
absence.
(From TCCED)
Students are to attend school unless there are valid reasons for absence. Excessive absences,
as well as habitual tardiness, seriously affect school performance. Parents should be contacted
when this situation arises, and consequences discussed. Ordinarily, a student may not receive
credit for a class unless the student is in attendance for at least ninety per cent (90%) of the
days the class is offered. Promotion or credit may be jeopardized if a student misses more than
eighteen (18) days, excused or unexcused (10% of the school year).
School absence is categorized as follows:
• Family Emergency - A death in the immediate family and/or serious or prolonged illness is
always handled on an individual basis.
15
• Absence Due to Illness - If a student is unable to come to school due to illness, including all
dental and doctor appointments, the parent/guardian is expected to notify the school office
and send a written note upon return to school.
If it is necessary for parents or guardians to remove children from classes for reasons other than
family emergencies, illness or other medical concerns, a written request must be submitted to
the principal indicating the reason for the absence and the number of days the student will be
absent. Students who are absent shall be responsible for completing work missed, according to
the school’s requirements. For FAMILY EMERGENCY or ABSENCE DUE TO ILLNESS, students will be
given a reasonable amount of time to make up assigned work and tests. A suggested gauge
would be an allowance of one school day for each day the student was absent.
TARDINESS
A student who is late for class not only falls behind in his work but also disrupts the other students
as he/she enters late. Habitual tardiness will not be permitted. It is the responsibility of the parent
to ensure that children are at school on time for the beginning of the school day. The school
opens at 7:15 a.m. School begins promptly at 7:55 a.m. Students arriving after 7:55am must
check into the office for a tardy slip. If a student has 3 tardies or more, the student will be
assigned an age appropriate detention or parent will have option of paying a $25.00 tardy fee,
which would be billed on the family’s FACTS Management account. Please ensure that your
child arrives on time to school. If the late arrival is due to a doctor’s appointment, a doctor’s
note must be provided to the school office at the time of arrival in order to avoid a ‘tardy.’
EARLY STUDENT PICK-UP BY PARENT/GUARDIAN Students may not be picked up prior to dismissal time for reason of convenience and will not be
permitted to be signed out earlier than 2:30pm on a regular school day or 1:30pm on Fridays. In
the case of a doctor’s appointment, a note requesting permission for early pick-up should be
brought to the office by the student between 7:45-8:05 a.m., and a doctor’s note should be
turned in the following day to his or her teacher. At the pre-designated time, the parent must
sign the child out in the school office. In the case of an emergency or any other type of urgent
matter to where the child would have to be signed out prior to 2:30 p.m., would require the
authorization of Principal or designee.
LOST AND FOUND
All uniforms, P.E. clothing, sweaters, coats, lunch kits, book bags, pencil bags, and other articles
are to be marked with the child's first and last name. The lost and found is located in the school
office and unless the clothing article is clearly marked with child’s name, that item would not be
eligible for claim. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen property. UNMARKED AND
UNCLAIMED ITEMS WILL BE DONATED, disposed of, or placed in the used uniform sale to benefit
the PTO after 30 days.
PERSONAL PROPERTY
The school reserves the right to search anything brought on campus. Students should leave
valuable possessions at home in order to fully ensure no loss or damage to valuables. The school
is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items and will not replace them.
16
Examples of valuable items include large sums of cash, valuable collectables or items,
electronic equipment, iPods, iPads, other tablet computers, eBook readers (such as Kindle),
electronic games, CD/music players, expensive jewelry, purses, designer clothing items, and
trading cards. These items should remain at home except as permitted by the completion and
appropriate signatures on an OLMC Technology Acceptable Use Agreement. Cell
phones/smart phones may not be utilized any time during school hours, including extended
day, tutorials, sports practice or extracurricular activities without explicit permission of a
teacher, staff member or coach. Portable video game systems should not be brought to school
at any time. There will be one warning for violations of the cell phone/smart phone/electronic
device policy. The item will be confiscated and held in the school office until the parent or
guardian comes to retrieve it in person. Infractions after the first warning will require a $25.00
cash fee and a parent to retrieve the item.
PLAYGROUND/USE OF SCHOOL GROUNDS Students are not allowed on the playground without adult supervision. School grounds may not
be used without the permission of the pastor or principal, and are used only for school/parish
groups after the completion of a facilities use form with the Parish Center staff. In addition to the
school building, this policy includes the soccer/baseball/softball field and the basketball court.
TELEPHONE USE POLICY
Except for an emergency, neither teachers nor students may be called to the telephone during
school hours. Important messages may be left in the office. The administration staff will convey
them at an appropriate time. Parents are encouraged to utilize email to leave messages with
the teachers. In unusual circumstances, teachers may permit students to use the classroom
telephone to call a parent only in urgent matters and that it be the exception; not the rule.
Also, in the event of an extra-curricular or tutorial schedule change, students will be allowed to
call their parents at an appropriate time to inform them of the change.
DISMISSAL POLICY
DISMISSAL TIMES
PK – 8th Grade 3:10pm (except on Fridays)
4:30 pm (Mandatory Tutorials on Weds)
2:10pm (on Fridays)
12:00pm (Early Dismissal)
NOTICE: PK-8th students not picked up by 3:30pm will be taken to extended day program and
parents will be charged the applicable rate.
DISMISSAL PROCEDURE
All students Pre-K through 8th will be dismissed from the front driveway of the school only.
Students will gather in the Parish Hall by class/grade level and each teacher is responsible to
see that his/her class is escorted to their cars, along with their older siblings/family group.
17
Parent/guardian/adult cooperation is needed! Each authorized adult who is allowed (by
writing, previously arranged) to pick up a child must have his or her own unique car window tag
provided by the school. Parents/adults without their window tag must park in the parish parking
lot and visit the school office prior to picking up their child. As part of our safety policy, vehicles
without authorized car tags will not be allowed to pick up student(s) from school. These
parent(s)/guardian(s)/ and or other, will be directed instead to drive out of the line and park in
the parking lot and wait until the entire dismissal is completed, at which time parent will be
allowed to go to parish hall and pick up child. If it is the case the original tag has been lost or
misplaced, the office will be able to re-issue for a cost of $5.00, which would be billed on FACTS
Management account.
Children must be picked up immediately at the indicated dismissal time. Parents who know
they will be late due to unusual circumstances should call the school office as early as possible.
Office personnel will notify the student and the student's teacher.
Parents who may need to come to the school office to conduct official business after school
and during dismissal, once finished cannot check out their child or children from school. Parent
must either return to their vehicle and wait for their child in the parking lot or wait in the school
office until dismissal is completely over. Parents are not allowed to remain in the hallway area
during dismissal.
Parents are to remain in their cars, with window tag easily visible, and pull forward in the line for
your children to load. Parents are not permitted to park and walk up to pick up a child. For the
safety of all children, and in fairness to everyone, every parent must wait in the carpool line in
his or her car. Parents may not stand in front of the school exit doors, on the sidewalk or in the
parking lot, nor may they enter the Parish Hall door or school entryway at dismissal time. All
parents must drive through the pick-up line to pick up.
Also, for the safety of all children, parents are asked not to exit their vehicles while in the pick-up
line, and children must enter on the passenger side (right-hand, curb side) of the vehicle only.
Children may not cross in front of or behind cars at any time. This is to ensure the safety of your
child and those of others.
In an effort to expedite the dismissal process, parent student inquiry with regard to academics,
discipline or other various types of inquiries which would require an excessive amount of time
that would unnecessarily disrupt the flow of car line, is prohibited. We ask parents to discuss all
types of inquiries during a scheduled parent/teacher conference.
IMPORTANT NOTE: At no time may anyone park in the circle driveway.
Cars are not allowed to wait or park in the circle driveway at any time. Any parent needing to
get out of his/her car for any reason must park in the parking lot and come into the school
through the front doors. Vehicles parked in the circle driveway at any time without a driver
inside the car are subject to immediate towing at the vehicle owner’s expense.
Students, who are picked up by someone either than parent and or guardian, must have a
signed written authorized letter/form on file with the school office, with the specified person’s
name, current contact information and address. Or, parent may send an e-mail with same
information, but whose e-mail account is the same account on file with the school office.
Without this authorization, the school will not allow student to go home with anyone else either
than the authorized parent and or guardian. Exceptional cases are solely up to the discretion
and judgment of the Principal.
18
STUDENTS WHO WALK HOME
Students who have written permission to walk home must vacate the OLMC school and parish
property immediately at dismissal time, unless they have supervision by a parent or an adult
who is on his or her parent-authorized pick-up list. Other parents may not supervise these
children on campus, nor can unauthorized adults pick students up without written permission
from the parent. Additionally, no student may leave campus on foot without a form signed by
the parent in the office and without the parent notifying the teacher of the instructions.
DISMISSAL AND AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Students wishing to stay for events after school in which they are not directly participating by
written permission must have a parent-authorized adult accompanying them at all times. The
adult must remain at the event and actively supervise the children. Students may not be
dropped off at the school event. The school staff is not responsible for students attending but
not actively participating in after school events. We encourage all families to attend school
events, actively upholding all of the same behavioral expectations that exist during the school
day.
OTHER DISMISSALS Students who are enrolled participants in extra-curricular activities will have teacher or parent
chaperones. Students must be picked up promptly when the activities are over. Before 6:00pm,
students who remain on campus will wait in Extended Day Program at applicable rates. Parents
of students remaining after 6:00 p.m. will be charged $2.00 per minute until the student is picked
up.
Only students who are supervised by a sponsor, as a participant of an approved activity, may
be on campus 15 minutes after dismissal. Others waiting for an activity must be directly
supervised by an authorized adult or they will need to attend extended day program at
applicable rates.
AFTER SCHOOL CARE
An extension of the school day is provided after school from dismissal - 6:00 p.m. If you have not
arrived within 20 minutes after dismissal, your child will automatically go to the Extended Day
room, from where he/she can be picked up. You will be billed for this service at applicable
rates.
AFTER SCHOOL NO LOITERING POLICY
OLMC school doors are officially closed at 4:00 p.m., M, T, Th, 4:30 p.m on Weds and 2:30 pm on
Fridays. Unless students have a valid, legitimate and verifiable purpose for being on campus
after official close door hours, such: as tutorials, extracurricular activity, office business, etc.,
students are to vacate the premises and not to be loitering on school campus for any reason
whatsoever.
Please note that students left beyond 6:00pm without parent contact by telephone, and for
whom we cannot reach someone by telephone immediately, may require that school
personnel telephone the appropriate authorities to report that we are unable to reach a parent
or authorized adult. For this reason, it is critical that you ensure that the school has current,
updated emergency contact information, including alternate contacts and working cell phone
19
numbers. If/when you or anyone on your emergency list gets a new number; please
immediately contact the school with the new information.
LUNCH
The cafeteria food service company will provide a healthy lunch option for an established
price. Students may also bring sack or box lunches that do not require refrigeration. A
microwave oven will be made available for students in the parish hall for those requiring heating
their lunch. Lunch time is an important part of the school day and allows students an
opportunity to learn and practice social skills. Parents are not allowed to be in the parish hall
during lunch; however, may join students for lunch for special occasions with Principal’s
approval. Frequent visits are discouraged as students need lunch time to interact with peers
rather than with adults. Daily lunch visits by parents will not be permitted, unless the parent is
serving in a volunteer role, with principal approval, assisting all classes and all students.
CRISIS MANAGEMENT PLAN
The faculty is committed to the safety and well-being of all students. In keeping with this
commitment, a crisis management plan is in place in anticipation of crises or disasters. The crisis
management team, consisting of Principal and specific faculty members, is responsible for
implementation of the plan, if needed. Students are taught predetermined signals and
procedures in order to respond effectively in the event of an emergency. Drills will be
conducted on a regular basis. Cristo Rey Jesuit High School is our designated location should
we need to evacuate the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel campus.
DISASTER DRILLS
Disaster drills are conducted regularly at both announced and unannounced times. Students
learn safe and orderly procedures to use in case of fire, hurricane, or tornado warnings.
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING
In case of inclement weather emergencies, such as flooding, storms and icy streets, Our Lady of
Mt. Carmel School generally follows the closure schedule of HISD. Announcements are made
on local radio and TV. However, we will also utilize the IRIS notification system to inform you of
the decision by telephone and email. As such, it is critical that we have updated and accurate
telephone numbers and email addresses for all parents.
COMMUNICATION
The school will send and post on the School’s website, periodic newsletters and calendars to
inform you of upcoming events and to recognize the achievements of our students. The parent
has the responsibility to read the newsletter, to review the annual and monthly school calendars
in Gradelink and the website, and to keep up with upcoming events and due dates. Also,
teachers may send notes, weekly newsletters, calendars, post information on Edmoto and
information on a varying basis. Parents should check for notes from teachers, email and phone
messages (including IRIS), and teach their children to be responsible for giving school notes and
information to parents. For School Year, 2015-2016, Friday is “parent folder day,” so please
check your child’s folder on Fridays for important information, newsletters, calendars, and
updates on grades and class events.
20
LIBRARY
The school has fully stocked library, including 15 computers and thousands of books. Parents are
urged to promote reading, research, and proper care of all borrowed materials. Each class has
a library skills class each week. Students must pay fines for overdue books and must reimburse
the school for the cost of any damaged or lost books or damaged computer equipment.
Students' checkout privileges, grades, and records may be withheld for unpaid fines.
PARTY POLICY
Only Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day, and earned academic or fundraising incentives
may be celebrated with classroom parties. We greatly appreciate our room moms/dads and
other willing parents who want to help with events. Please speak with your child’s teacher
and/or the school office to learn about other events for which the school needs your help!
Individual birthdays may be simply celebrated with a small snack during the lunch period, such
as cupcakes. Snacks are to be left with in the school office in the morning before the start of the
school day. Drinks, hats, balloons, favors, pizzas and other full meals are not allowed to be
provided for birthdays at school and gifts should not be delivered to or opened at school.
Delivery of flowers, balloons or other gifts may be disruptive to the educational process and
therefore is not allowed at OLMC during school hours.
PARTY INVITATIONS
We encourage parents to use the U.S. Mail service, telephone, Internet invitations or personal
emails to extend invitations to children's home birthday parties rather than distributing them at
school. If distributed at school, any party invitations must include all students in the child’s grade
level/class. In the case that the party needs to not include the entire class, the invitations then
may not be distributed on school property. No exceptions.
SCHOOL DANCES
On-campus dances for middle school are sometimes planned by the school or by club
sponsors. This is done with strict standards set by the chaperones, who are faculty members or
parents. These standards include but are not limited to the following:
Designated arrival and dismissal times are established ahead of time. Parents must pick up
students on time
Students must remain at the gathering at all times, in full view of chaperones, with no access
to any other areas of campus.
Parent or designee must pick up the child at the front door, on time.
Restrooms are monitored regularly throughout the evening. Only one student at a time
should visit the restroom.
Students are required to assist with set-up and clean-up of the dance.
Only OLMC students may attend, and occasionally 8th graders from the previous year may
be invited.
A music list and video list are required and screened for appropriateness, and student-
provided music is not permitted when a DJ is utilized.
Students must dress appropriately and modestly for a school function. Students dressed in
provocative or inappropriate clothing will not be allowed to attend and will be sent back
home.
21
ACADEMIC POLICIES
HOMEWORK
OLMC teachers assign an appropriate amount of homework at the prescribed level that is
indicated by research and reported by Dr. Robert Marzano’s Classroom Instruction That Works.
Students should have a homework routine schedule where they dedicate time to school work
outside of the classroom. Research shows that homework is vital to the development of
achievement motivation and student becoming a mature learner. Therefore, students who
spend little to no time on doing homework cannot expect to be successful with regard to their
academics.
As part of the community approach in the education process, the parent role is absolutely vital
to the success of the student. Parents should assure that students are doing homework, asking
specific questions with regard to the assignment(s), consistently communicating with teacher to
monitor progress and develop a Homework Plan, and checking Grade Link or e-mail. If the
students see that parents are taking an active role in their education and holding them
accountable, the student will then become more motivated to achieve productively with
regard to their academics.
Students who state “I don’t have any homework,” Or “I did all my homework at school “are
statements we tend to hear from students; however this is not quite accurate. As part of our
Literacy Campaign, students nightly should be reading at least 30 – 45 min., studying assigned
vocabulary, or reading to your child or having your child to read to you. Also, there are many
websites such as: Khan Academy, which provides videos and math problems for students to
work on. For our textbooks, there are corresponding websites, where students can log on and
study. The goal is to have the student on a disciplined homework routine, take ownership and
responsibility for their learning, which is absolutely vital for the success and development in
academic achievement.
Grades K3-K 5-10 minutes
Grades 1-3 10-20 minutes
Grades 4-5 20-40 minutes
Grade 6 40-60 minutes
Grades 7-8 60-90 minutes
When assessing your child’s academic progress, the following questions are helpful:
Is my child on a Homework Plan? If so, how do I assure that my child is consistent?
How often do I see my child doing homework?
If my child consistently states: “I have no homework” or “I did it all at school,” do I check
with teacher?
Do I ask my child specific questions with regard to the homework assignment? For
example: If you ask: What are you working on? And your child answers: “Math,” ask:
“What specifically are you studying, Fractions, Multiplication, Exponents, Ratios, etc.?”
“What is your objective?” “What is the skill you are trying to master?” “How you will know
that you are mastering your objective?”
If my child is on the computer, laptop, tablet, etc., do I monitor or supervise for
academic integrity?
Do I check the graded work sent home or go on Gradelink to check for academic
progress?
22
Do I assure that my child at least reads 30 – 45 min. nightly? Do I have my child read to
me, or do I read to my child?
Are you turning in your homework on time? If not, why are you turning it in late?
Students will be required to come to class fully prepared: having homework fully completed,
chapters or required readings entirely read, in possession of class materials or any type of
material required by the teacher. While in class, students are required to actively engage in the
lesson, pay attention and follow directions, behave accordingly to student code of conduct,
ask critical and intelligent questions, write daily homework assignments, class objectives, and
take notes in student notebook. The after school program provides a designated time and
place for study Monday through Friday.
It is the students’ responsibility to get homework and missed assignments when absent. Being
absent from school is not a valid reason or an acceptable one for not turning in assignments.
Lesson plans, and class syllabus will be posted on Teacher’s Edmodo Account and or Gradelink,
for students to keep up with assignments and communicate with teacher. If a student knows
that he or she is going to be absent, then this is to be communicated as soon as possible, or in a
reasonable amount of time, either by student or parent with teacher – no exceptions – so that
proper arrangements can be made to deal with any type of implications that may result. It is
recommended that e-mail be means of communications. When students are absent 3 or more
days consecutively, parents are to contact the teacher to arrange for pick up of assignments, if
applicable. Based on arrangements made with teacher, assignments are to be turned in upon
return of student absence(s). We are not able to collect assignments for students when they are
absent fewer than three days. This policy is necessary to minimize disruptions to daily instruction.
Please note that teachers may not be able to prepare work packets for students to take with
them on trips, if applicable; however, However, students will be responsible for work missed
due to absence.
HOMEWORK LATE POLICY
Barring all exceptional type cases, where a valid, just, and verifiable explanation can be
provided, ALL homework and all other assignments are to be turned in on time – especially
those which have been indicated on Teacher’s Syllabus, posted on Grade Link, Edmoto, and
copies distributed to students and parents. We encourage our students to value the
importance of being responsible; however, in those cases where home work is not turned in on
time, and based on the professional discretion of the teacher, the following policy will apply:
1 day late - 70%
2 days late - 50%
3 days late - 25 %
4 days late - 0 %
REPORT AND PROGRESS REPORT CARDS
Progress Reports are a means by which we communicate with parents to provide the current
status of your child’s academic status and progress. It is also an effective tool and indicator to
be able to assess how well your child is doing and if you should need to contact teachers if any
concerns should arise. Notices will be sent out to remind parents of the distribution date so that
they may be expecting them. Parents should sit with their child and go over the progress report
and ask questions with regard to their present grades. If they are not performing well, or as
23
expected, questions should be asked as to what could be done to improve on their
academics.
Report cards for grades 1-8 are issued four times a year, at nine-week school intervals. The first
and third cards are distributed at a parent-teacher-student conference. Second and fourth
report cards are given to students for parents to review and sign. These report cards are
important messages from the school concerning the child's progress, not only in academic
subjects, but also in social skills, study skills, and emotional/moral development. Mid-quarter
progress reports also inform parents about student academic and behavioral strengths and
weaknesses. Parents should keep in mind that each child is an individual. Report cards should
not be compared.
Parents contribute to their child's motivation by showing a sincere interest in the child's work,
praising the child whenever possible, and encouraging improvement where needed. Parents
who have questions about the report card may arrange for a conference with the child's
teacher. Parents should call the school office or email the teacher to make appointments. For
safety reasons, please do not attempt to conference with teachers when they are receiving or
dismissing students.
Report cards and records are withheld when financial responsibilities to the school have not
been met. These include tuition, fees, fundraising, volunteer fees, after school program
payments, library fines, return of sports uniforms, payments for lost or damaged books, and any
other funds owed to the school.
ONLINE GRADE BOOK
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School utilizes Gradelink.com online grade book system.
Parent access is available, and login information will be provided to you by mail after the start
of school. Parents should be actively monitoring their child’s grades and progress. Please note
that access to Gradelink will be withheld when financial responsibilities to the school have not
been met in a timely manner.
GRADING
Pre-Kindergarten is not graded. Reporting methods to parents include a weekly teacher letter,
student work, and parent-teacher-student conferences. A written progress report of skills will be
provided twice annually.
Kindergarten reporting includes all of the above, plus an archdiocesan report card starting at
the end of the 2nd quarter.
First through eighth grades receive numerical percentage grades.
Grading Scale
A 93-100
B 86-92
C 78-85
D 70-77
F 69 and below
24
Conduct Code
E Exemplary: Student exceeds classroom standards for conduct and participation; is a role
model for other students; considerate of other students and adults; self-disciplined.
S Satisfactory: Student meets the classroom standards for appropriate conduct and
participation.
N Needs Improvement: Student does not meet the classroom standards for conduct and
participation. This grade may require a student-parent-teacher conference to plan for
the child's success.
U Unacceptable: Student is inappropriate in conduct and participation. This grade may
require a Principal-student-parent-teacher conference to plan for the child's success.
MANDATORY TUTORIALS
Students who have been identified as performing poorly academically – 74% or below - in a
particular class or classes, will be required to attend mandatory tutorials on Wednesday from
3:30 p.m. – 4: 30 p.m. Students will remain on mandatory tutorials until all academic obligations
are met and grade average has exceeded 75% or better. Parents will be notified by teacher
and proper arrangements are to be for student pick up at 4:30 p.m. Those students who are not
picked up by 4:35 p.m. will be required to sign in for Extended Day and will be charged the
applicable rates.
Students who do not attend Mandatory Tutorials, for whatever the reason, will run the risk of
being placed on Academic Probation with the very real possibility of either being not being
promoted to subsequent grade level or being asked to withdraw from Mt. Carmel for not
meeting academic requirements.
EDUCATIONAL ACCOMODATIONS – RATIONALE AND POLICIES
The sole purpose of accommodations of any type is the appropriate instruction according to
the individual student’s special needs. As a result of diagnostic evaluation, a student meets
certain criteria to qualify for accommodations to his/her school work. There are diverse ways to
accommodate students’ learning needs.
The student diagnosed with a learning disability and/or mild learning deficit may qualify for
accommodations. Special (but limited) accommodations may be needed in delivery of
instructional for success in the classroom. Such accommodations must be noted in a student’s
educational evaluation, which must be on file at the school. The educational evaluation must
be current (within 3 years). Re-evaluations will be required every 3 years.
Accommodations may apply to the volume of work, the content covered, delivery of
instruction and grade reporting.
The following additional areas may be considered for accommodations:
Time allotments for students’ assignments/tests;
Number of items in the assignment (volume);
Percentage of grade can be given for being on task and organized , etc;
25
Only diagnosed students who qualify with a learning deficit are eligible for accommodations.
Documentation and approval by the principal is needed before accommodations are
implemented.
Parents must be informed before accommodations to work/grades, etc., can be implemented.
Level(s) of operation may only be indicated when a student is functioning below grade level
and is using materials appropriate to the functional level. Additional documentation may
include anecdotal records.
ACADEMIC REFERRALS
If teachers and the principal believe there is a need to refer a student for educational testing,
the parents will be notified. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School does not require
evaluations by any specific provider, although names of providers may be provided to parents.
Educational testing is generally available without charge through the local school district, and
private providers are also available. As a part of the evaluation process, the school personnel
may be asked to complete paperwork regarding the child’s performance and/or behavior at
school. All such paperwork must go through the principal’s office. If such paperwork is
completed, it will be sent directly to the provider by the school. Parents will not be provided a
copy by the school. This policy exists to keep information regarding referrals objective.
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Principal's Honor Roll: A's in all subjects; E's and S's in conduct; working on or above grade
level in all subjects
Honor Roll: A's and no more than two B's; E's and S's in conduct
Recognition: All A's and B's; E's and S's in conduct
Any N or U in conduct disqualifies a student in all areas.
PARENT-TEACHER-STUDENT CONFERENCES
Formal parent-teacher-student conferences are held in 3 times a year. These three-way
communications are very beneficial, and it is important that your child attend. Your child wants
to celebrate his/her school success with you. Appointments will be made with the classroom or
homeroom teacher prior to the conference day. Parents who are divorced or separated will
be asked to conference together for the benefit of the child.
INFORMAL CONFERENCES
Parents may contact teachers to discuss their child's progress during the year. Teachers also
may initiate a conference at any time. Good communication between parents and teachers is
essential to every child's success; however, teachers are not free for discussions with parents
during class time or while receiving or dismissing students. Please contact the teacher by email
or the office to make an appointment with the teacher.
School policy requires that parents contact teachers first for any concerns involving their child.
For routine matters, parents may call the school office and leave a message for the teacher or
may email the teacher. Teachers normally respond within 48 hours. Parents may also email
26
teachers. Email addresses are on the school website. It is helpful for a teacher to know if some
unusual or extenuating circumstance will cause a child to be upset or to act differently at any
time. If, for example, a child's teacher receives a short note from the parent explaining the loss
of a pet or a recent frightening experience, the teacher can be attuned to the child's needs
during this difficult time.
TESTING PROGRAM
The IOWA Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) is administered annually, typically in March, to students in
Grades K-8th. Please review the school’s annual calendar for current dates. In addition the
Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) will be administered in Grades 2, 4 and 6. The school
participates in this archdiocesan-wide achievement testing program both for the purpose of
monitoring individual achievement and for program evaluation. Each student's test results are
given to the parents and are recorded on the permanent record card. Test results to do not
affect the child’s grades or passing status.
RECORDS
Any request for official transcripts/report cards/records must be made by the receiving school in
the case of a student’s withdrawal from OLMC.
NON-CUSTODIAL PARENT
The school abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-
custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the
non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related
information regarding the child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no
information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an
official copy of the court order. If a child lives with a custodial parent, a complete and signed
copy of the divorce decree is required to be on file in the office, by archdiocesan policy. If
parents share custody, the school provides duplicate copies of all relevant information upon
request.
STUDENT LIFE
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are a privilege which serve the instructional program by utilizing educational resources
of the community to supplement classroom work. Parents sign the field trip permission form to
permit that their child participates in a class trip, releasing the school and its personnel from
liability. When field trips are planned as a part of the curriculum, it is expected that students will
attend; unless, student is failing a class or currently has an average of a 74% or below, or has
been written up for conduct violations. Field trips are not optional unless stated. According to
state law, children are not allowed to attend a field trip without written permission from the
parents or guardians. School uniforms will be worn on field trips unless otherwise indicated on
the permission slip.
Transportation
The Archdiocese has determined that buses are the safest means of transportation and
are required for all school trips involving elementary through high school age
27
participants. Participants will not be permitted to be transported to or from school trips in
any other form of transportation without explicit consent of the principal.
Field Trip Chaperones
Volunteer chaperones of field trips are provided with instructions defining their
responsibilities. Chaperones must devote their total attention to their charges.
Chaperones may not bring their own children or guests. All chaperones must have
attended VIRTUS training. Chaperones positions are provided on a “first come, first serve”
basis. Consideration is given to those
Field Trip Standards
Written field trip standards and expectations are prepared for each program and shared
with parents. Parents may be required to pick up a student who makes irresponsible
behavior choices on any field trip.
DRESS CODE
(# New Policy 2015 -2016) Our Lady of Mt. Carmel will be transitioning to new school colors for
the 2015-2016 School Year and will be phasing out the previous school colors. Returning
students will may wear the uniform from the previous 2014 -2015 school year, but would need to
be in compliance with new school colors for the 2016-2017 School Year.
Students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade wear uniforms. Uniforms are available
through Parker Uniforms, please check website for various locations: https://www.parkersu.com.
Students must be in complete uniform at all times.
*New Guidelines 2015 – 2016 for Standard Uniform for all Grades
Non-Mass Days
Girls / Boys Pants: Khaki pants or Shorts (Elastic Waist for Pre K3/4)
Skirts: Khaki, plaid or plaid jumper
Belts: Solid Black
Shirts: Maroon Polo Shirt with Monogram
Socks: White, Maroon or Black (2 inches above the shoes NO
No-Shows or ankle socks)
Tennis Shoes: Solid Black or White, or Soft two tone color of
Black and White
Uniform Shoes: Solid black, white, brown or regular dress
Shoes. (Sperry Topsiders are allowed with approved colors.)
Jackets/Sweaters: Maroon Sweater with Monogram or
Maroon Sweater Hoodie with monogram.
Mass Uniform
Girls PK3 – 8th grade Plaid Jumper or Skirt
Modesty shorts MUST be worn under the jumper or skirt
White Oxford Shirt
Maroon Tie
Maroon Sweater Vest with Monogram
White Knee Socks or White Tights
Black Dress Shoes (Mary Jane, Flats) No high heels or Tennis
Shoes
28
Boys PK3 –8th grade Khaki Pants
Black Belt
White Oxford Shirt
Maroon Tie
Maroon Sweater Vest with Monogram
Black Socks
Black Dress Shoes
P.E. DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS
Depending on the activity or particular physical education class and or activity, may require
particular traditional P.E. dress. If so, P.E. Teacher and or Coach will notify parent of dress
required along with dress code guidelines.
ADDITIONAL DRESS CODE POLICY
As part of our Catholic Identity, the wearing of our uniforms reminds us that we are all one and
part of the same community. Therefore, we take pride in the proper display of the uniform and
require full compliance at all times from all our students as part of our mission of what it means
to be a Mt. Carmel Crusader.
NAILS: Nail color, artificial nails/tips, gel nails, etc, are not permitted.
HAIR: Artificial hair coloring or bleaching of hair is not allowed for boys or girls. (This includes
frosting, hi-lights and tinting) “Fad” hairstyles or distracting hairstyles are not permitted. Boys,
regardless of grade level or age, are not allowed facial hair of any kind and must be clean
shaven. Hair length may not cover the eyes and for boys may not extend past a standard
collar and must be neatly groomed. The principal is the sole determinant of what constitutes a
fad, distracting or messily groomed hair. Headbands, bandanas, caps, hats, or any other type
of variation are not allowed; to include hair ornaments or decorations which could be
construed as distracting; unless otherwise approved by the principal.
DRESS: Mass days require mass uniform. Non-mass days require standard uniform. Shirts are to
remain tucked in at all times. Tight or excessively loose clothing is not permitted. Skirts and shorts
must be no shorter than 2 inches above the kneecap. Hoodie jackets are to be worn strictly as
designed and not to be displayed in being tied around waist or any other type of variation.
SHOES: See guide lines above. Additionally, no high heels, platforms, cleats, sandals or boots.
Tennis/athletic shoes must be worn for P.E.
JEWELRY: Studs and small hoop earrings for girls. No more than one piercing per ear for girls. No
cartilage earrings. No earrings or piercings on boys. No tattoos, no body or facial piercing.
Watches and religious medals may be worn, so long as they do not cause a distraction, but
must be worn inside the uniform shirt/top.
MAKEUP: No visible make-up is allowed. Girls in 6-8th may wear a light foundation or powder if
needed to cover blemishes, but color must match skin tone, not be noticeable, and must be
applied only at home.
P.E. UNIFORMS: If your child has P.E. on Mass days and is not wearing suitable shoes for P.E.,
please send tennis shoes in their gym bag.
FREE DRESS or SCHOOL ACTIVITIES: Clothing must be modest and appropriate for the Catholic
school setting. Tank tops, halter tops, spaghetti straps, midriff shirts, short shorts, low cut blouses
or short skirts and/or any garments exposing too much, unreasonably or extremely tight (such
as biker short or yoga tights) are not permitted. No advertisements which promote offensive,
inappropriate language, message(s), graphics or symbols, or anything that could refer to the
occult, Satanism, witchcraft, or any other type or variation, are not allowed, other than OLMC
school logos or logos appropriate to a theme day (e.g. college t-shirt day or Texans day). Hats /
29
caps are not allowed indoors or outdoors unless specifically allowed by the principal for a
special occasion – and would fall under the “No Advertisement” guidelines. Jeans, when
permitted by special occasion or when approved for a field trip, should not be tight or form-
fitting, or ripped with holes or any other type of variation, and should be standard non-designer
blue jeans of solid blue denim and in neat and good condition. Jeans with large logos, designs,
embroidery, and jeans of designer brands are not permitted.
CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE POLICY
Flagrant and Defiant Misbehavior, such as: disrespect, aggression - to include “bullying” and all
other various associated types - hostile, which infringes on human dignity, academic process
and moral code of conduct, will not be tolerated. A logical consequence for intervention will
follow. Parents will be notified whenever a child has seriously misbehaved. Parents are
expected to support the decisions of the faculty and the principal with regard to all disciplinary
interventions.
As part of our Catholic Identity, we encourage emotional and social development by moral
discipline which is both firm and just. Self-discipline leads to good discipline, which forms the
foundation of a lifetime of Christian discipleship. Well-established behavioral standards, which
hold a person accountable, helps that person, make increasingly more mature and morally
responsible decisions with each school year. Each child has a responsibility to himself and his
fellow students to use moral self-control appropriate to his age.
DISCIPLINE
Parents are the primary educators of their children, working in partnership with faculty. Discipline
begins at home and will be strongly reinforced by the school. As a community, it is essential for
students to experience parents and teachers working together cooperatively. The solidarity of
this partnership empowers students to focus on the development of moral self-discipline, which
is the ultimate goal.
It is important for all people to understand limits and boundaries, and to follow clear and
concise guidelines for expected behavior. Students are expected to show courtesy and respect
to each other, adults, themselves, and property. Defiance, violence, and insubordination will
not be tolerated.
Students and parents will be treated with respect by the faculty, and in turn, the faculty expects
to be treated with respect by students and parents. The faculty welcomes expression of
concerns as long as the communication is respectful and in keeping with the line of authority.
Prior to parent notification by faculty regarding a disciplinary problem, previous discipline
measures have usually been taken, such as an individual student conference, a student plan
for success, and/or withdrawal of privileges. The notification serves to alert parents that stronger
disciplinary action may be taken and that increased parent involvement is required.
Students are expected to be courteous and respectful to each other, to all school personnel,
visitors, and volunteer workers at all times, including assemblies, athletic events, church,
cafeteria, playground, field trips and social gatherings.
30
CODE OF CODUCT REGULATIONS
Parents and students are required to read and agree to the Code of Conduct by signing the
Parent-Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form each year. The signed form is kept on file in
the office.
The Code of Conduct is not intended to be an exhaustive list. It is a guide to help parents and
students understand general expectations for conduct. The gravity of each misbehavior will
ultimately be judged on an individual basis, taking into account the specific circumstances,
age, and development of the child. The discretion of the principal, his designee and/or the
pastor will determine the appropriateness of consequences applied for a behavioral offense.
CODE OF CODUCT
Students will:
be respectful and attentive
use appropriate spoken and written language
follow directions of all school personnel at all times
control aggressive behavior
leave chewing gum at home
In the event that a student fails to observe the above expectations, the following notes
describe the usual approach and procedures for working with the student. The school reserves
the right to modify these procedures as it sees fit:
1. In the event of minor misbehavior, student and teacher discuss and work cooperatively
to resolve the problem.
2. Chronic misbehavior is reported to parents and principal by the teacher.
3. Major misbehavior, especially that involving injurious behavior is taken to the principal.
In the event of major or chronic misbehavior a student may be excluded from school activities,
suspended, or expelled at the principal’s sole discretion. The school expects full parental
cooperation in all aspects of the student’s life at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School. All
rules apply before, during, and after school, and at all times on school sponsored outings or
events, whether on campus or off campus.
MAJOR MISBEHAVIOR
The school considers the following to be examples of major misbehavior:
Interference with the rights of others, including physical abuse (such as hitting, punching,
kicking, or biting), verbal abuse (such as teasing, taunting, threats or intimidation),
bullying (such as physical aggression, social alienation, verbal aggression, cyber bullying
and intimidation);
Damage to, abuse of, or stealing any school or personal property;
Possession, use or sale of drugs listed in the current Federal Controlled Substances Act;
Possession, use or sale of weapons or explosives;
Unexcused absence from school or school activity;
Use of obscene, profane, suggestive, or intimidating written or verbal language;
Repeated disruptive or uncooperative behavior; and
Conduct committed off-campus and outside school hours that is illegal or reflects
negatively on the school
31
Misuse of computer/internet/email detrimental to himself, to others or to the community
as a whole whether conducted on or off campus
Plagiarism or cheating (may result in no credit given on assignment in question)
Vandalism and other various types of destruction of school property and personal
property
Issues of physical aggression, such as - physical and verbal altercations - are of particular
concern. Students who are physically aggressive, such as physically attacking or striking
someone- will be sent to the principal who will conference with him/her or implement more
severe consequences, at the sole discretion of the principal. Students sent to the Principal for a
second incidence of physical aggression will be suspended from school for at least one day,
and a parent conference will be scheduled prior to their return to class. The Principal is the final
authority in all disciplinary situations and may waive any disciplinary rule for just cause at his sole
discretion, and may also apply more severe consequences at his sole discretion, based on the
circumstances involved in the infraction.
DETENTION AND ISS Detention is held every Thursday from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Parents will be notified by school office
and a disciplinary form sent home. Students are required to attend – no exceptions. If a
student fails to attend (No Show) without proper notification, or without Principal’s approval,
then student will be subject to an In-School Suspension (ISS) for a fee $70.00 to be billed on
FACTS to cover the cost of substitute teacher. If unable to attend, due to a valid and
reasonable circumstance, then parent is to contact office to request a reschedule - the
Principal being the final approval authority for rescheduling of detention. If the detention is
approved for rescheduling, then that student would still owe the originally assigned detention in
addition to the rescheduled one. If the request for a reschedule is not approved, then student
would be subject to an ISS.
LINE OF AUTHORITY
The Catholic Church abides by the principle of subsidiary which states that problems should be
solved at the lowest level possible. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School abides by this
principle, and implements it in the following manner:
If a concern or incident arises, the teacher will contact parents in writing or by phone. In
extraordinary circumstances, the Principal may make this initial contact. Faculty members
expect parental support in development and implementation of a plan to solve the concern.
If a parent wishes to discuss any concern or incident, the teacher is the first person the parent
must contact, in writing or by telephone. Teachers should be contacted through the office or
email. The teacher will respond within 48 hours, whenever possible. If communication with the
teacher does not resolve the concern, the Principal may be contacted.
Please respect the line of authority: 1. Teacher or faculty member first. 2. Principal is the final school authority.
32
If a concern regards a broader issue than a child or a classroom incident, please call the school
office and make an appointment to speak with the Principal, should the need be to contact
the principal. (For example: a parent has a suggestion for uniform policy addition)
Misunderstandings may occur if the problem is not first investigated at the source. Personal
concerns are not appropriate issues with which to approach other parents in the school, other
faculty members, parent organization representatives, School Board members, or the parish
pastor, verbally, in writing or via email.
PARENT CONDUCT AND BEHAVIOR
Parents/Legal Guardians are expected to conduct themselves in a manner reflective of good
moral principles and which does not interfere with the operation of, or reflect adversely on Our
Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School. All communication, both written and verbal, must be
respectful at all times. Disruptive, threatening, disrespectful or illegal behavior of a parent may
result in the removal of the child (ren) from enrollment in the school. This decision is at the sole
discretion of the principal, and tuition refunds will not be given. This handbook serves as prior
notice of this policy.
DISCIPLINARY PROBATION
A student's continuous misbehavior or a single serious incident may result in disciplinary
probation by the Principal. The Principal will determine the length of time of the probation, and
will notify the student and his/her parents, in person if possible, of the reasons for the terms of the
probation. During the probation and at the end of the probation, the parents will be informed
of the child's progress. If there is a continued failure to meet disciplinary standards, the principal
and pastor reserve the right to end the child’s enrollment immediately following parental
notification. In these cases, tuition refunds will not be given. This handbook serves as prior notice
of this policy.
SUSPENSION
If, in the judgment of the Principal, a student is guilty of serious misconduct, he/she may be
suspended from class for up to five days. The student and parents will be advised of the reason
for suspension, in person if possible, by the Principal.
In school suspension may be assigned by the principal. If students are required to be at in-
school suspension, parents will be required to pay the cost of a substitute to supervise the child,
which is $70 per day.
Suspension may also be assigned "out-of-school" during which time the student is required to
remain away from school. Work will be given and parental supervision required for the full day.
At the conclusion of the probation or suspension, the Principal, in consultation with the student's
teachers, will determine if sufficient improvement in behavior has occurred. If insufficient
progress is noted, other disciplinary actions may be considered by the Principal, up to and
including expulsion or additional days of suspension.
EXPULSION
A student's continued enrollment at the school is subject to his/her meeting the scholastic and
behavioral standards set by the Principal and Pastor. If any student fails to meet these
33
standards, and the Principal determines that continued enrollment of the student in the school
is not in the best interest of the student and/or the school, the Principal shall also advise the
pastor. In these cases, tuition refunds will not be given. This handbook serves as prior notice of
this policy.
If the Principal and the Pastor determine that the student should be expelled, the Principal will
arrange a conference with the parents or guardians and the student to explain the reasons for
the expulsion. A written notification of the expulsion, stating the circumstances and dates, shall
be sent to the diocesan Superintendent of Schools.
USE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School adheres to the diocesan policy, stated below, regarding the use
of controlled substances.
The use and unlawful possession of illicit drugs and alcohol is wrong and harmful. A student is
subject to removal from class, which may result in suspension, expulsion, or referral for
prosecution if, while on school property or while attending a school sponsored or school related
activity on or off school property, there is question of:
Chemical substance use, possession for consumption, sale or dispensing of illegal drugs and
narcotics (hard or soft drugs, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana or controlled substance).
Acting under the influence of an illegal drug-alcohol, narcotic, marijuana or a controlled
substance.
Medication misuse or over dosage. The school nurse, the counselor and the Principal should
work together with the student and family, towards bringing about a complete recovery
and elimination of the drug abuse for the student involved.
Giving medication, prescribed or over the counter, to another student.
When removing a student from class, for the reasons stated above, the Principal should:
Report the incident to the superintendent.
Notify parent(s)/guardian immediately and request a conference.
May notify authorities.
After the conference with the parent and student, the student may be suspended for a period
of three days or expelled. During this time, it is recommended that the parents enroll in some
type of family therapy with the student, as suggested by the Principal, a family physician, or the
diocesan office. At the completion of the suspension, the student will return to school with a
contract to continue the therapy until the therapist feels a complete recovery has been made.
STUDENT-PARENT COMPLAIN PROCESS
Although the Archdiocese endeavors to establish a harmonious Christian atmosphere within its
schools, it recognizes that misunderstandings or differences of opinion sometimes occur. Ideally,
such matters can be resolved informally by a parent or guardian meeting with the immediate
authoritative person to discuss the matter. If, however, the matter is not settled to the parent or
guardian's satisfaction, the parent or guardian may institute a formal grievance. A formal
grievance must be in writing and must be received in five (5) working days following the
occurrence of the event on which the grievance is based. Please contact the principal for a
copy of the Archdiocesan current appeals process/grievance procedure for further details and
forms. Also, please note that the current policy supersedes and replaces all previous policies
and statements regarding institution and processing of formal grievances within Catholic
34
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities. Students must maintain a
satisfactory grade average and conduct.
Altar Servers: Catholic boys and girls in fourth through eighth grades have the privilege of
serving as altar servers. Altar servers must attend altar server training meetings at Our Lady of Mt.
Carmel, regardless of where their original training was held.
Sports: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel has an excellent and well-rounded sports program for both boys
and girls at an intramural level for third through fifth grade and an inter-school level for fifth,
sixth, seventh, and eighth grade. The program includes for boys: soccer, basketball, track, and
baseball; and for girls: soccer, basketball, volleyball, softball, cheer/dance and track. To help
defray the cost of the program, a non-refundable sports fee is charged. Students must maintain
satisfactory grades and conduct. Students with an average(s) below “C” (77% or below) or
conduct grades below “S” are subject to suspension from sports until grades are satisfactory
once again – please see the OLMC Sports Handbook for more details.
Student Council: Sixth through eighth graders elected by their classmates form the Student
Council, serving the needs of the school community.
HONORS AND AWARDS
Awards Day
An Awards Day is held annually. Parents are encouraged to attend. Quarterly Awards are also
given for Honor Roll students.
Eighth Grade Graduation Activities
Eighth grade graduation activities include a graduation mass and reception. A fee is collected
from each student for these activities. A specific dress code is observed for graduation
activities.
Valedictorian/Salutatorian students are selected based on consistent GPA, academic
performance, conduct, and community service, for the particular graduating academic year.
In exceptional cases, other considerations could be but not limited to: principal/teacher
recommendation, length of time at OLMC or other relevant circumstances that would lend
themselves to a sound and just decision.
8th Grade Graduation Trip – this trip is offered to all graduating 8th Grade students; however, it is
one that is earned; not given. Students, in order to be eligible, students must not have been
written up more 3 times during the school year; not have committed a major violation(s); not
have served more than 2 detentions; have been suspended from school or have served an ISS
more than twice; and must be passing all classes by the day prior to the trip’s departure.
8th Grade Principal Recommendations for High School – recommendation forms are to be
turned into 8th Grade teacher as soon as they are made available. The cutoff date for all letters
of recommendation is Jan.31st. Unless a reasonable and valid excuse can be provided for not
meeting deadline date, all requests for recommendation(s) will be subject to denial.
35
PARENT PARTNERSHIP
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
The parent teacher organization, PTO, is based on the National Catholic Educational
Association’s guidelines and the archdiocesan guidelines for parent organizations.
Each family of a student enrolled at OLMC automatically becomes a part of this organization.
Organization dues are included in the school registration fees. The organization thrives on
member participation and active involvement. There are multiple officer and committee
positions available, all of which are filled each May to allow planning and work for the following
year. You are encouraged to actively participate in the PTO.
FUNDRAISING AND ADVANCEMENT
The tuition paid for each student does not represent the full cost of the student’s education. The
difference of the two must be raised in fundraising events. The advancement & fundraising
program provides for the future of the school by setting long-range goals to enhance the
school's financial stability and earn friends for the school. The success of our advancement
program is dependent upon the participation of each family. All the families are required to
complete a total of $500.00 of fundraising obligation for one student and $100.00 for any
additional students. Also, all the families that receive financial assistance are required to
complete an additional 5% of the financial assistance provided in fundraising obligation.
VOLUNTEERS
All parents are expected to participate in volunteer activities both in and out of the classroom.
Volunteering not only contributes to the educational process, but also allows parents and
friends to become an active part of the process. The faculty is greatly appreciative of the
volunteer help. Parents may sign up for various volunteer positions at the time of registration and
with the PTO, for every volunteer hour completed the family will receive a $10.00 credit toward
their fundraising obligation balance. Volunteers working near students must attend VIRTUS
training.
TECHNOLOGY AND ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (TAUP)
POLICY FOR 2015-2016
(Subject to revision in accordance with the policies of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
and the discretion of the principal or his designee)
For Parents and Students
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School is pleased to offer students access to technology
resources for educational purposes, which may include computer hardware and software. To
gain access to the technology resources, all students must obtain parental permission as
verified by the signatures on Media Release & Technology Acceptable Use Agreement.
Internet and E-mail
Access to Internet and/or e-mail will enable students to explore thousands of libraries,
databases, museums, and other repositories of information and to exchange personal
36
communication with other students and teachers around the world. Families should be aware
that some material accessible via the internet may contain items that are illegal, defamatory,
inaccurate, or potentially offensive. While the purpose of the school is to use Internet resources
for constructive educational goals, students may find ways to access other materials. We
believe that the benefits to students from access to the Internet outweigh the disadvantages.
Ultimately, however, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying
the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources.
Therefore, we support and respect each family’s right to grant Internet permission.
Expectations
Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on the school’s computer network just as they
are in a classroom or on school grounds. Communications on the network are often public in
nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. It is expected that users
will comply with Archdiocesan standards and the specific rules set forth below. The use of
technology resources is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked if abused. The user is
personally responsible for his/her actions in accessing and utilizing the school’s technology
resources. The students are expected never to access, keep, or send anything that they would
not want their parents, teachers, principal or pastor to see.
Rules of Appropriate Use
Electronic Communication – Whether occurring within or outside of school, when a student’s
use of electronic communication jeopardizes the safe environment of the school or is contrary
to Gospel values the student can be subject to the full range of disciplinary consequences
including the expulsion of the student, at the discretion of the principal, his designee or pastor.
Cyber Bullying would be an example of this. This policy applies to communications or
depictions through e-mail, text messages, blogs, social media, and any other web postings,
whether they occur through the school’s equipment or connectivity resources or through
private communication.
Personal Safety and Personal Privacy – Students will not post personal contact information
about themselves. Personal contact information includes their address, telephone, cell
phone/txt number, full name, school address, etc. This information may not be provided to an
individual, organization, or company, including web sites that solicit or request such personal
information.
Social Networking - Accessing social networking websites, blogs, video sites (e.g. Facebook,
YouTube, Friendster, tagged, Vine, Twitter, etc., except those used with prior permission for
educational purposes) are off-limits on school property. The use of circumventors, such as proxy
servers, to get around school network security is prohibited and may result in revocation of
access to all technology on campus.
Illegal copying - Students should never download or install any commercial software,
shareware, or freeware onto network drives or disks. Nor should students copy other people’s
work or intrude into other people’s files. The download/upload of any material in violation of
any U.S., State, Board, Archdiocesan, or school policy is prohibited. This includes, but is not
limited to, copyrighted materials, threatening, violent, or obscene material, or material
protected by trade secret.
Inappropriate materials or language – No profane, abusive or impolite language should not be
used to communicate nor should materials be accessed which are not in line with the rules of
37
school behavior. Use of technology resources for gambling, chain letter communication,
unauthorized email, chat or instant message, blogs, or discussion forums, is also prohibited.
Should students encounter such material by accident, they should report it to their teacher
immediately. A good rule to follow is never view, send, or access materials, which you would
not want your teachers and parents to see. Uses of cell phones to transmit unacceptable
language and/or photos that are harmful to self, other students, and/or to other people are
prohibited.
Permittable Electronic Devices – Certain electronic devices may be utilized by students with
parent and teacher permission for academic or research purposes, such as reading a book,
reading a textbook, or working on an assignment. Such devices include small laptop
computers, e-Readers (such as a Kindle or Nook), or tablet computers (such as an iPad or
Android tablet). Parents and students should remember that such valuable items are not
protected by the school or the teacher and may be damaged, lost or stolen when brought to
school. Parents and students must fully accept this risk when permitting such items to be
brought to school. The school staff and administration will be unable to take action with regard
to damaged, lost or stolen electronic devices. Furthermore, inappropriate use of such devices
will result in their confiscation in accordance with the policies outlined in this handbook.
Wireless Network (Wi-Fi) – The school Wi-Fi service is exclusively for use by faculty and staff for
official and academic purposes only.
Proper Care of Computer Hardware and Equipment
Students are responsible for appropriate care of school’s computers, to include not vandalizing,
mistreating, or in any way physically abusing or damaging the equipment, system and or
hardware. Student will be assigned a particular computer and those computers that have
been damaged due to intentional misuse or physical abuse, will be held accountable with
disciplinary measures and in paying for the assessed damages.
Cellular Use
The use and/or possession of cell phones and other electronic devices are prohibited during
school hours. Students may only use their cell phones after school if allowed by a teacher
(urgent calls).
Cell phone and electronics devices are prohibited in the classroom, locker rooms, hallways, and
bathrooms at all times during the school day. At any time a cell phone and/or electronic
devices(s) is/are confiscated, it/they will be kept for a full day at which time the student’s
parent or guardian may come retrieve the item(s) and pay a fee of $10.00. Our Lady of Mt.
Carmel Catholic School reserves the right to search through any and all activity and content on
the device. To receive the item(s) the student must show what activity he/she was doing with
the device(s) when it/they were confiscated (was the student texting, calling, taking pictures,
etc.). The school reserves the right to remove any content. Should any material on an
electronic device be found which is deemed inappropriate, students may face behavioral
consequences which may include expulsion.
38
The OLMC Handbook contains important information about the school, and I understand that I
should consult the Administrator and or Director of Admissions regarding any questions not
answered in the handbook.
Since the information, policies, and benefits described herein are subject to change at any
time, I acknowledge that revisions to the handbook may occur. All such changes will
generally be communicated through official notices, and I understand that revised
information may supersede, modify, or eliminate existing policies. Only the Principal of the
School has the ability to adopt any revisions to the policies in this handbook.
I, as a parent or guardian of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School accept the terms of the
handbook. I also understand that it is my responsibility and that of my child (ren) to comply
with the policies contained in this handbook, and any revisions made to it. I further agree that
if I remain with the school, following any modifications to the handbook, I thereby accept
and agree to such changes.
I have received a copy of the OLMC Handbook on the date listed below. I understand that I
am expected to read the entire handbook. I will sign the Acknowledgment of Receipt listed
below on the date specified. I understand that this form will be retained in my child’s student
file.
____________________________________ ______________
Signature of Parent Date
Printed name of student(s):_______________________________________
Grade(s):______________________________________________________