Mercy High School 2014-2015 · Alyssa Parodi Cassandra Bradley CLASS OF 2015 Emily Gonzalez Julia...
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1 Mercy High School 2014-2015 This handbook will be updated electronically throughout the year, and it is the responsibility of Mercy High School students and guardians to regularly review the handbook. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Assistant Principal for Student Life, Natalie Cirigliano, at [email protected] .
Transcript of Mercy High School 2014-2015 · Alyssa Parodi Cassandra Bradley CLASS OF 2015 Emily Gonzalez Julia...
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Mercy High School 2014-2015
This handbook will be updated electronically throughout the year, and it is the responsibility of Mercy High School students and guardians to regularly review the handbook. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Assistant Principal for Student Life, Natalie Cirigliano, at
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mercy High School Contact Information ……………………………………….……………………………………………3
Mercy Block Schedule…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3
Board of Directors, Leadership Team, and Department Chairs……………………………………………………4
Faculty and Staff Emails………………………………………………………………………………………………………………5
Student Leadership…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….6
Parent Club…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………7
Mercy History……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..8
Mission Statement and ESLRs/ISOs..........................…………………………………………………………………..9
Positive School Environment…………………………………………………………………………………………………….10
Responsibilities of Parents/ Guardians……………………………………………………………………………………..10
Code of Conduct……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11
Academic Programs and Policies………………………………………………………………….………………………12-19
Student Support Services (AMES, Counseling, Library/ Academic Support)……………………………..20
Registrar……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………21
Technology/iPad Program……………………………………………………………………………………………………22-29
Conduct, Appearance, and Discipline……………………………………………………..…………………………. 30- 38
Detention………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….31
Prohibited Behaviors…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………32
Dance Rules and Expectations……………………………………………………………………………………………..35-36
Uniform……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….37-38
Disciplinary Probation/ Suspension/ Expulsion………………………………………………………………………….39
Drug, Alcohol, Tobacco, Substance Abuse Policy……………………………………………………………………….40
Attendance Policies and Procedures……………………………………………………………………………………41-43
Student Health and Safety/ Parking……………………………………………………………………………………..44-46
Emergency Procedures……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..46
Archdiocesan Policy on Abuse…………………………………………………………………………………………………..46
Campus Ministry and Service Learning…………………………………………………………………………………47-48
Athletics……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….49-53
Student Life (Student Government, Big Sis, Clubs, and Dances)……………………………………………54-55
Business and Financial………………………………………………………………………………………………………………56
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Mercy High School
Main Office/ Attendance Line 650-343-3631 Head of School 650-762-1100 Administrative Assistant to the Head of School / Tuition Questions 650-762-1101 Assistant Principal for Student Life 650-762-1103 Assistant Principal for Academics 650-762-1102 Director of AMES 650-762-1138 Administrative Assistant to the Assistant Principals 650-762-1104 Director of Counseling 650-762-1142 Director of Admissions 650-762-1114 Assistant to the Admissions Director 650-762-1115 Director of Mission Effectiveness 650-762-1123 Director of Campus Ministry 650-762-1149 Service Learning Coordinator 650-762-1108 Director of Advancement 650-762-1199 Director of Marketing 650-762-1115 Director of Public Relations/ Assistant Director of Advcancement 650-762-1192 Director of Finance and Human Resources 650-762-1122 Director of Athletics 650-762-1107 Student Activities Coordinator 650-762-1149 Registrar 650-762-1111 Mercy Gear http://www.crusaderwear.com
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MERCY HIGH SCHOOL
2014-2015
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Penny Stack Alexander ’78 Robert Grassilli, chair Kelli Benz Karen Hanrahan Sr. Judy Cannon, RSM Sr. Mary Kilgariff, RSM Cindy McDonald Dunleavy '81 Alan Maffei Pat Flanagan '65 Brandy Martinez Navarro '98
Bart Gaul Clare Pool Purpura ‘75
Sr. Katherine Doyle, Education Sponsorship Council Liaison
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Head of School Karen Hanrahan Assistant Principal for Academics Lauren Conklin Assistant Principal for Student Life Natalie Cirigliano '02 Campus Minister Angie Simonetti Director of Admissions Francesca Ohanessian Director of Advancement Mary Lund Director of Athletics Daniella Matteucci '04 Director of Facilities Darrell Justus Director of Finance/Human Resources Kay Carter Director of Marketing Stacey Longwich '98 Director of Mission Effectiveness Sandy Flaherty Director of Technology Carol Cooke ‘78
DEPARTMENT CHAIRS
English Lauren Conklin Guidance Camila Behnke Mathematics Kirby Kish Physical Education Lauren Conklin Religious Studies Angie Simonetti Science Jennifer Lambdin Social Studies Natalie Cirigliano ‘02 Visual and Performing Arts Pam Matthews World Languages Liz Barthe
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Mercy High School Faculty and Staff
Sandy Albers [email protected] Eileen Horan [email protected]
Terri Baldocchi [email protected] Edmund Ibarra [email protected]
Nadine Baroudi-Salame
[email protected] Darrell Justus [email protected]
Liz Barthe [email protected] Kirby Kish [email protected]
Bonnie Baron [email protected] Carol Kolski [email protected]
Kristen Baslee Smith
[email protected] Nazira Kury-Arnold
Betty Battaglia [email protected] Louisa La Farge [email protected]
Lynn Beal [email protected] Jen Lambdin [email protected]
Camilla Behnke [email protected] Stacey Longwich [email protected]
Alison Bell [email protected] Mary Lund [email protected]
Pat Bradley [email protected] Michele Macmillan
Sarah Boragno [email protected] Daniella Matteucci
David Burns [email protected] Pam Matthews [email protected]
Kay Carter [email protected] Kathy McKay [email protected]
Mary Louise Castillo
[email protected] Christopher Montoya
Danai Chirapuntu [email protected] Stephanie Montoya
Natalie Cirigliano [email protected] Janet Morello [email protected]
Rob Collins [email protected] Kathy Mountain [email protected]
Lauren Conklin [email protected] Ryan Offield [email protected]
Carol Cooke [email protected] Francesca Ohanessian
Dianne Devin [email protected] Patsy Ohta [email protected]
Peter Diaz [email protected] Myra Olives [email protected]
Summer Dittmer [email protected] Carol Piccolotti [email protected]
Gary Ferguson [email protected] Rudraigh Quattrin
Julie Fischer [email protected] Susan Roughgarden
Sandy Flaherty [email protected] Sarah Rowan [email protected]
Christine Folan [email protected] Jill Scerri [email protected]
Cathy Fontaine [email protected] Angie Simonetti [email protected]
Carol Fraher [email protected] Andrea Smith [email protected]
Carol Galletta [email protected] Kristin Southwick [email protected]
Michael Garcia [email protected] Linda Townsend [email protected]
Patricia Glasser [email protected] Julia Wang [email protected]
Lisa Giarratano [email protected] Tom Wootten [email protected]
Karen Hanrahan [email protected]
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MERCY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT LEADERSHIP
STUDENT BODY OFFICERS
President: Stephanie D'Arcy Vice President: Paige Morrisey Secretary: Jaclyn Kruljac Treasurer: Aisling Duffy Spirit: Deena Salfiti Publicity: Samantha Baker
GIRLS ATHLETICS ASSOCIATION
Nina Moutoux Vanessa Kibblewhite Frances Siu Francesca Faoro Jordan Gentry Madison Gomes Cami Fruehe Dierdre Bonitz Alyssa Parodi Cassandra Bradley
CLASS OF 2015
Emily Gonzalez
Julia Deschaumes Ciara Fitzpatrick
Julie Allan Amanjot Samra
CLASS OF 2016
Isabella Ick Andrea Sanchez
Anissa Silva Chloe Dimarumba
Kendall Gordon
CLASS OF 2017
Gina Blue Michelle Curran Courtney Nappi Carolina Salame Sterling Kaylyn
CLASS OF 2018
To be elected in the fall of 2014
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MERCY PARENT CLUB
The Mercy High School Parents Club (MPC) assists and supports the school in creating a spirit of community by providing various opportunities for the parents to become involved in their daughters’ education and extracurricular activities. The MPC provides a network for parents to meet and to discuss ways to foster the Catholic environment within the school as well as how to continue to contribute to the spiritual, academic, and social growth of students. The MPC strives to promote an involved parent community.
Of the many events that the MPC helps to host are:
Martinis in the Mansion Auction Fundraiser
Wine Tasting Fundraiser
Head of School’s Welcome BBQ
Mother/Daughter Tea
Father/Daughter Dance
Senior Mother/Daughter Mass and Brunch
MPC EXECUTIVE COUNCIL President: Martha Ann Milliken Vice President of Traditional Events: Carmen Siu Vice President of Hospitality Events: Libby Schaul Vice President of Fundraising Events: Melanie Davis Treasurer: Judy Ajam Secretary: Arleen Jauregui
Contact Information: Mercy High School Event Coordinator and MPC Moderator: Patricia Glasser Mercy Parents Club Executive Committee: [email protected]
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MERCY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK 2014-2015
"No work of charity can be more productive to the good of society . . . than the careful instruction of women"
-Catherine McAuley, Foundress of the Sisters of Mercy
MERCY HISTORY Catherine McAuley, the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, was an Irish Catholic laywomen who recognized the need to help those who were economically disadvantaged. Catherine was born in Dublin in 1778 and was tragically orphaned after her parents passed away. After living with relatives for a few years after her mother’s passing, Catherine was welcomed into the home of William and Catherine Callaghan where she served as a nurse and companion to them. William Callaghan was always impressed by Catherine’s empathetic desire to help others so he left her his estate when he passed away. Determined to make a difference, Catherine used her inheritance to open the first House of Mercy on Lower Baggot Street in Dublin, Ireland, on September 24, 1827. Catherine opened this home to young women and girls in order to provide them with shelter and education. Recognizing her commitment to her faith and ministry, the Archbishop of Dublin encouraged her to establish a religious congregation, and three years later on December 12, 1831, Catherine and two of her friends became the first Sisters of Mercy. In the ten years between Catherine’s founding of the Sisters of Mercy and her death, she established fourteen educational and medical institutions in Ireland and England. Committed to living out Catherine’s legacy and dreams after her death, the Sister of Mercy further expanded the order to Newfoundland, Australia, South America, New Zealand, and the United States. After being encouraged by Archbishop Alemany to go to San Francisco to help during the “Gold Rush” days, Mother Mary Baptist Russell led eight young Sisters of Mercy in 1854 from the seaport of Kinsale, Ireland, to San Francisco, California. Within three years of their arrival, the Sisters of Mercy established St. Mary's Hospital in San Francisco. In 1924 they bought the Kohl Mansion in Burlingame, California. The Kohl Mansion originally served as the Motherhouse for the Sisters of Mercy before they decided to open their first Catholic high school in the building in 1931. Since its founding, more than 8,000 young women have graduated from Mercy High School. Mercy is proud of its alumnae who continue to walk in Catherine’s footsteps as they actively live out the works of Mercy in both their professional and personal lives. Mercy alumnae are living proof that a Mercy High School, Burlingame, graduate is a woman of faith, a woman in pursuit of academic excellence, a woman of influence, a woman of compassionate service, embodying Catherine McAuley’s spirit of Mercy, and a proactive global citizen.
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Mission Statement
We, the community of Mercy High School, Burlingame, a Catholic college preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, educate young women of diverse religious, ethnic, social and economic backgrounds to reverence and foster the dignity of each human person, to create a community of hospitality, to lead with compassion, to strive for excellence, and to proclaim Gospel values in word and deed.
-Approved by the Board of Directors, July 2013
ESLRs (Expected Student Learning Results)/ ISOs (Integrated Student Outcomes)
Mercy High School has very high expectations of its students, and it is our goal that a Mercy High School, Burlingame, graduate will be:
A woman of faith who Is knowledgeable of the Catholic Christian heritage and respects other faith traditions. Participates in a faith community. Develops her personal spirituality. Makes moral decisions based on gospel values and beliefs, and incorporates them into
her daily life.
A woman in pursuit of academic excellence who Demonstrates creative and critical thinking skills. Articulates ideas clearly and effectively in oral, written, kinesthetic and artistic
expression. Uses technology competently and responsibly. Strives to be a lifelong learner.
A woman of influence who Voices her opinions with clarity while respecting the opinions of others. Seeks the wisdom and counsel of others. Collaborates with others to resolve problems. Embraces change and confronts challenges in her daily life.
A woman of compassionate service, embodying Catherine McAuley's spirit of mercy, who Acts with love and kindness. Empathizes with the life experiences of others. Willingly responds to the needs of others, especially those who are less fortunate.
A proactive global citizen who Acts in harmony and interdependence with all creation. Addresses injustices and works toward change. Values diversity and multiculturalism. Recognizes and fulfills her responsibilities to the earth and all its inhabitants.
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POSITIVE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT
The primary goal of Mercy High School is that its students follow in the footsteps of Catherine McAuley and serve as examples of the spirit of Mercy in their daily lives. Mercy High School places the highest priority on fostering students’ spiritual, moral, intellectual, and physical development by providing various opportunities for personal growth, self-reflection, service learning, academic rigor, and athletic and co-curricular programs. Students, parents and guardians, and the faculty and staff of Mercy High School are called to create a community and climate that are defined by respect, personal integrity, pride in one’s work, and achievement. By registering at Mercy High School, students and their parents/guardians indicate their willingness to accept and observe the school’s policies.
RESPOSNIBILITIES OF PARENTS/ GUARDIANS
Educating a young woman can only be accomplished through the purposeful partnership between the parents/ guardians and the school. In keeping with the Mercy mission, the administration, faculty, and staff of Mercy High School seek to work closely, honestly, and cooperatively with our students’ parents/ guardians in support of their educational goals. In order to accomplish this, this relationship requires regular communication between school and home that is characterized by mutual trust, respect, and honesty. To honor this partnership Mercy High School will notify parents/ guardians about any academic, disciplinary, and personal concerns that have to do with their daughters. Parents and guardians are expected to reciprocate the relationship by replying in a timely manner to all communication that the school initiates in the same manner that Mercy High School promises to reply to any concerns and questions brought to the school. Should a parent or guardian do something to harm this partnership, the child could be asked to leave Mercy High School as it is our expectation that parents/ guardians uphold the same Code of Conduct that is expected of our students.
Parents and guardians of Mercy High School students are encouraged to share their concerns with appropriate Mercy High School personnel. Parents and guardians are asked to first address any issues they may have with the person with whom there is a misunderstanding or conflict. Should the parent or guardian still be unsatisfied after going directly to the source, they are asked to speak to that employee’s immediate supervisor. Though the administration welcomes conversations and concerns, it is the expectation of Mercy High School administration that parents and guardians first go to the people listed above before the concern is brought to them.
Parents are asked to treat all Mercy faculty and staff as well as other Mercy parents and students with respect. If conversations and interactions take place in a discourteous, rumor-driven, disruptive, threatening, hostile, or divisive manner, Mercy High School will not host the conversation and will ask the parent or guardian to leave the campus or venue in which the conversation is taking place.
Mercy High School reserves the right to determine which actions fail to meet the Mercy High School Code of Conduct and the Christian philosophy that is encouraged within our mission statement. Failure to act in a way that is suitable of a Mercy High School parent may result in a warning, revocation of a parent/ guardian’s privilege to attend or participate in school activities or student and family dismissal from the school depending on the severity of the offense.
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CODE OF CONDUCT
Students of Mercy High School are expected to be women of character who exhibit and uphold the Christian values set forth in our mission statement at all times. Students of Mercy act as ambassadors of Mercy High School 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, and as so, they are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with school policy at all times regardless of whether they are on or off campus. Students are expected to refrain from any and all activities that can be defined as illegal, immoral, unhealthy, and/or highly inappropriate. Students will be held responsible for any and all of their actions that contradict either the values set forth in our mission statement or the policies and procedures set forth in our student/ parent handbook. Students will be held accountable for their actions and/or words, both written and verbal, through punishments deemed appropriate by the school’s administration. These punishments can include, but are not limited to, detention, suspension, removal from school extracurricular activities, and expulsion.
The intent of Mercy High School’s Code of Conduct is to encourage students to develop themselves as women of character and integrity who live their lives displaying the same Christian values that Catherine McAuley originally built her mission upon. Mercy High School faculty and administration will render the final decision on the interpretation of the Code of Conduct.
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ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AND POLICIES
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Credit Requirements The academic program at Mercy High School is designed to prepare young women for college. A student must complete 70 units per year and 280 units in order to graduate, in addition to completing 80 community service hours. Students are required to take Religion every year. Upon completion of these requirements, students will graduate in the spring of their senior year. Subject Requirements Mercy requires the following minimum coursework:
English: 4 years, 40 credits
Math: 3 years, 30 credits
Physical Education: .5 years, 5 credits
Religion: 4 years, 40 credits
Science: 3 years, 30 credits
Social Studies: 3.5 years, 35 credits
Visual/Performing Arts: 1 year, 10 credits
World Language: 2 years, 20 credits
Electives: 70 credits
* A grade of C- or higher is required for courses used in determining college eligibility GRADING SCALE Mercy High School uses the following scale to determine grades. Any honors or AP class taken is credited with an extra point in our GPA.
100-98 = A+ 76-74 = C 97-94 = A 73-70 = C- 93-90 = A- 69-67 = D+ 89-87 = B+ 66-64 = D 86-84 = B 63–60 = D- 83-80 = B- 60- >60 = F 79-77 = C+
GPA Mercy High School’s grading scale is based on a four-point system. A student’s grade point average (GPA) is determined by dividing the total points earned by the number of classes taken.
A+ = 4.00 B+ = 3.33 C+ = 2.33 D+ = 1.33 F = 0.00 A = 4.00 B = 3.00 C = 2.00 D = 1.00 A- = 3.67 B- = 2.67 C- = 1.67 D- = 0.67
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REPORT CARDS Mercy High School issues report cards four times a year, after each grading period. Official transcripts reflect only semester grades. GRADING Parents and students can access PowerSchool for updated grades. Online grade books are updated regularly with homework and other small assignments. Larger essays and tests are updated within two weeks of the due date/ testing date. Individual grading policies will be shared with students by teachers at the beginning of the year through the course syllabus. If a student or parent feels grades are not being properly updated they should contact the teacher prior to going to the department chair or an administrator. MAKE-UP WORK/ TEST POLICY It is the student’s responsibility to communicate with her teacher when she misses class as well as to turn in make-up work and missed assignments by the deadline set by the teacher. Students with excused absences are required to make up tests that were administered during their absence within three days of returning to school or on the scheduled makeup date. Teachers are not obligated to proctor make-up tests during the school days. When there are repeated absences on days students’ are aware they have tests, presentations, and major projects due, teachers will exercise their judgment regarding the feasibility of make-up work. In the case of a prolonged absence due to illness, the teacher/ student/ parents will decide on an appropriate course of action regarding missing work. DROPPING COURSES Students who wish to drop a course must meet with the Assistant Principal for Academics to receive a REQUEST TO DROP FORM. This form must be signed by the teacher of the class that they are requesting to drop, their counselor, and their parent. Forms must be turned in within the published deadline. Filling out a Request to Drop Form does not guarantee that the student may be able to drop a course. ACCOMODATIONS FOR STUDENTS IN CRISIS Mercy High School will make a reasonable effort to offer special accommodations to those students who have short-term issues that affect their attendance and academic performance. Special accommodation requests should be brought to the Assistant Principal for Academics or the student’s counselor. A student receiving special accommodations will be reviewed regularly to determine if the accommodations should continue and if the student should continue her high school career at Mercy High School.
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FINAL EXAMS All students are expected to be present for the scheduled final exams. Should a family need to request an earlier final they must approach the Assistant Principal for Academics at least one month prior to the scheduled exam. Requesting an earlier final does not guarantee that an earlier accommodation can be made for the student and family. If a student is seriously ill during her scheduled final she should call the Main Office and speak to the Assistant Principal for Academics. INCOMPLETE GRADES A student who receives an incomplete on her report card must complete any outstanding work within one month of the end of the semester. Failure to do so will result in a grade change to an F. If there are extraordinary circumstances that cause a student to be unable to meet this deadline the Assistant Principal for Academics will meet with the family to determine a new plan to ensure the work is completed in a timely manner. ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMS All students enrolled in AP courses are expected to take the AP exam in May. Students must pay the non-refundable fees for each test by the set deadline. GRADUATION/ DIPLOMAS While it is the hope of Mercy High School that all seniors take part in the graduation ceremony, families should be aware that there are certain conditions that may result in a student’s inability to participate in graduation exercises. These conditions include, but are not limited to:
Failure to meet academic requirements for graduation
Serious behavioral issues that require administrative action
Failure to attend graduation practices
Personal choice of student Diplomas may be held if:
Course credits are incomplete or failing
Academic requirements for graduation are not met
Financial obligations are not met
Service learning requirement is not met
Disruptive behavior is practiced at the graduation ceremony ACADEMIC GRIEVANCE If a student has a concern over a grade she has received, she should follow the following grievance process:
Email the teacher and request a private meeting to discuss the grade
Email the department chair and request a meeting to discuss the continued concern
Request a conference with the Assistant Principal for Academics if both steps prove unsatisfactory. The conference will include the student, parent, teacher, counselor, department chair, and Assistant Principal for Academics.
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TEXTBOOKS Each student is responsible for acquiring all of her necessary textbooks and course materials. Textboooks may be purchased in either a hard copy or e-text version. A list of required textbooks will be posted on Mercy High School’s Website on August 1. HOMEWORK Homework assignments can be found on Schoology. All homework assignments are expected to be turned in at the beginning of class on the date that it is due. Any late or incomplete homework may receive a grade of zero. Students are expected to complete a minimum of two hours of study each night. Students who choose to enroll in honors and AP courses should expect to have additional homework in each higher level course. TESTING All Mercy High School freshmen, sophomore, and junior students are expected to take part in the National Testing Day held in October. Freshmen take the ReadiStep test, and sophomores and juniors take the PSAT. Seniors are expected to independently register for the SAT, SAT subject, and/or ACT exams. Students should speak to their counselors for more guidance in this process. CONFIDENTIALITY In order to protect the dignity, character, and future of Mercy High School, all school information about students and/or their school, civic, or home life is held in confidence. The information will not be released to any individual or institution unless the request is in writing from the parent/ legal guardian and the school authorities are fully satisfied that the requesting party has a right to the information requested. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Mercy High School is a Catholic, college preparatory high school with a strong academic curriculum. Its goals are to provide the best possible program to meet the current needs of the student body and to lay the foundation for the continued educational success of every student at the college level.
While Mercy High School strives to create a consistent policy in regards to academic integrity, each department may differ slightly in their policies due to the innate differences in course assessments.
STATEMENT OF INTEGRITY
As a community that affirms the traditions and values of the Catholic faith, Mercy High School expects academic integrity and ethical conduct in all areas of school life. Students, parents, teachers, staff, and administrators work together to maintain and enforce an atmosphere of honesty and respect for individual work and ideas in all areas of campus life. Personal integrity is essential for building community and promoting social justice. Behavior that reflects a lack of regard for ethical conduct in connection with academic work will be addressed so that students will be made more aware of the moral implications of this behavior.
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CHEATING vs. COLLABORATION
Mercy High School defines cheating as losing the opportunity to learn and gaining an unfair academic advantage over others as a result of taking someone else’s work as your own or using unapproved materials to complete assignments or exams. Cheating can be seen through a variety of ways including, but not limited to, copying classmates’ homework, using unapproved study materials during exams, and plagiarizing on essays. While Mercy High School encourages students to work collaboratively with one another, it is important for students to understand that true collaboration is a partnership not only between students but also between students and faculty members. Mercy High School faculty and staff understand that some assignments may be difficult, and as a result students may work with one another. While Mercy encourages this collaboration as a means to student academic success, it is Mercy High School’s expectation that, whether the collaboration is approved or unapproved by teachers, student work should be original and not identical to the work of those students with whom they collaborated.
CONSEQUENCES OF ACADEMIC DISHONESTY Cheating/ Assisting in Cheating Any student who is caught cheating or assisting in cheating will receive disciplinary consequences. Aiding in cheating can be defined as giving completed homework or test questions to another student as well as communicating during exams. Any student who is caught copying homework or cheating on homework or an exam will receive a zero for that assignment and will be assigned a detention. Parents will be notified by the teacher via email, and when necessary, will receive a follow up phone call from the Assistant Principal for Student Life. All students will be given one formal warning in their time at Mercy High School in regards to academic integrity from the Assistant Principal for Student Life. In other words, students who are caught engaging in any type of academic dishonest behavior more than once during their four years at Mercy High School will be placed on Disciplinary Probation. Plagiarism Any student who is caught plagiarizing an assignment will receive disciplinary consequences in relation to the level of cheating and/or plagiarism that occurred. For every percent of plagiarism under 50%, the student will receive that percentage of points deducted from her assignment. (e.g. If a student plagiarizes 40% of a paper, her overall grade will be lowered 40%.) Any student whose paper has 50% or more of its content plagiarized will receive zero points. Any student who has plagiarized any portion of an assignment will be required to rewrite the assignment in a reasonable timeframe set by the teacher. Revised papers will provide those students who have plagiarized with the opportunity to earn points back up to a maximum of a grade of a C. This opportunity to revise papers will allow students the opportunity raise their grade while ensuring that learning is occurring. As a result, any student that misses the set deadline for their paper will be denied the opportunity to revise the paper and earn back points.
In addition to receiving a lowered grade, any student found to plagiarize will be given a detention. Parents will be notified by the teacher via email, and when necessary, will receive a follow up phone call from the Assistant Principal for Student Life. All students will only be given one formal warning during their time at Mercy High School in regards to academic integrity.
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Lying Lying is defined as fabricating or falsifying information for any reason that may include, but is not limited to, an attempt to receive an extension for an assignment or test or extra time to study prior to a test. Any student caught lying will meet with the Assistant Principal for Student Life and will be given a formal warning and a detention. Students will be expected to formally apologize to those they lied to, and parents will be notified of their daughter’s behavior. If it is found that a student lied as a way to get out of scheduled exam she will not be allowed to make up that exam. All students will only be given one formal warning within their time at Mercy High School in regards to academic integrity.
Repeated Academic Dishonest Behavior Any student who repeats any type of academically dishonest behavior will be removed from extracurricular activities and placed on disciplinary probation for a period of time set by Mercy High School’s Administration. Should any student continue to show academic dishonesty she and her parents/ guardians will be asked to meet with the Disciplinary Review Board concerning her future at Mercy High School.
ACADEMIC PROBATION
Students whose academic standing is unsatisfactory will be reviewed at the end of each grading period. Any student who is placed on probation will not be able to participate on any athletic team or extracurricular commitment. Students will remain on probation for the grading period and will not be reviewed until the next grading period. There will be no exceptions to this rule.
A student will be placed on academic probation for the following semester if they have at least one of the following criteria:
Two or more “Ds” on a grading period progress report
One “F” on a grading period progress report
A grade point average of under 2.0 on a grading period progress report
Students who continue to fall below a 2.0 for two consecutive semesters and/or who have three F’s at the end of any semester may be asked to leave Mercy High School. The final decision as to whether a student will be allowed to continue will be made on a case-by-case basis by the Academic Review Board at the end of the second semester of probation. The Academic Review Board consists of the Assistant Principals and the Guidance Counselor.
Parents are notified of Academic Probation by a letter from the Assistant Principal for Academics.
The Guidance Counselors will meet with students who receive multiple “Ds” or an “F” in any course to devise a plan for making up the course.
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WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL
Any student who wishes to withdrawal or transfer to another school is required to submit a formal written request to the Registrar. All outstanding charges must be settled with Mercy High School before the withdrawal/ transfer may occur.
REMEDIATION
Students who earn a D or F in a course must remediate the course by attending summer school or taking the course online. Students in need of remediation can receive more information from their counselor and the Assistant Principal for Academics regarding the options available.
The Assistant Principal for Academics must approve all remedial courses taken outside of Mercy High School prior to the student’s registration in order to ensure that the course is UC approved and in line with the Mercy High School curriculum.
TRI-SCHOOL COURSES
In partnership with Notre Dame High School and Junipero Serra High School, Mercy High School offers Tri-School courses to our students in order to encourage collaboration and co-educational experiences. Mercy High School offers the following Tri-School courses: Anatomy and Physiology, Honors Anatomy and Physiology, Forensic Science, AP Psychology and AP Statistics. Serra High School offers Jazz Band, Regular Band, AP Computer Science, Virtual Enterprise, Intro to Business: Entrepreneurship, Intro to Business: Marketing, Mandarin 1/2, Mandarin 3/4, German 1/2, Architectural Design. Notre Dame offers Bio Ethics, Dance 5: Partnering, String Orchestra, AP Chemistry, and A Place at the Table.
Parents and guardians are responsible for transportation to the Tri-School campus in which they are enrolled. When possible, Mercy will provide transportation to Mercy High School from Serra and Notre Dame.
Tri-School students are expected to sign in at the main office upon returning from their Tri-School campus.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are privileges offered to students in order to enhance their learning experience. Should a student fail to meet academic and/or behavioral requirements she may be denied the right to participate in a field trip.
Students who plan to attend a field trip must complete the proper paperwork by the stated deadlines. Any student who fails to meet the deadlines may be denied the right to attend the field trip.
It is the student’s responsibility to notify teachers of any known absences due to field trips as well as to make up all assignments.
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HONOR SOCIETIES
Mercy High School is home to many honor societies that recognize and honor those students who exemplify academic excellence, personal character, leadership, and service both to the school and the community.
The following honor societies recognize general academic excellence:
California Scholarship Federation
National Honor Society
The following honor societies recognize content-specific academic excellence:
American Sign Language Honor Society
Dance Honor Society
French Honor Society
Spanish Honor Society
Tri-M Music Honor Society
National Art Honor Society
National Math Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta
National Science Honor Society
National Social Studies Honor Society, Rho Kappa
For more information about Mercy High School’s honor societies please contact the Assistant Principal for Academics and the academic department chairs.
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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
ACADEMIC MENTORING AND EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT (AMES)
Mercy High School’s Academic Mentoring and Educational Support Program (AMES) is designed to assist students with identified learning differences who are in need of additional support to be successful in our college preparatory environment. The goal of the AMES Program is to develop and strengthen various learning skills that are essential to academic success. The AMES Program utilizes different techniques which equip the students to use their strengths in the classroom, while learning to accommodate those areas that they find challenging. Students in AMES are instructed in various assistive technologies along with study skills and strategies of self-advocacy. Those students who have documented learning differences are introduced to compensatory methods as well as accommodations which will assist them in meeting their academic goals.
Students and parents with questions or concerns about the AMES Program should contact the Director of AMES.
COUNSELING
The Counseling Department, which is located in Russell Hall, provides academic and personal counseling as well as college counseling. Counselors are available to students throughout the school day as well as by referral from other student, parents, and teachers. Confidentiality is an essential part of the trust built with students. Counselors will keep student interactions confidential, unless harm to self or others is indicated. Counselors refer students to outside professionals when appropriate.
LIBRARY/ ACADEMIC SUPPORT
The Mercy High School Library is open Monday- Thursday from 7:00AM- 5:00PM and Fridays 7:00AM- 4:00PM. The library is staffed by a full-time librarian throughout the day. Academic support is available between the hours of 2:30PM- 5:00PM Monday- Thursday and 2:30PM- 4:00PM Fridays on a drop-in basis.
With the goal of supporting students in their academic and personal growth and teaching students to be competent and critical users of information, the library provides friendly, personal help and a wide variety of current, curricula-related resources. The library emphasizes personal responsibility in the use of all materials (both print and electronic), behavior, and consideration of others in order to provide atmosphere of community and scholarship.
The library’s materials are listed in our online catalog, OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog). OPAC is found on each student’s individual computer profile. All online databases are accessible from a student’s home via the Internet, providing expanded research capabilities outside of regular school hours. The following user I.D. and password are necessary to log on to these databases from home. ID: mercyb Password: crusader. Electronic resources are an integral part of Mercy’s Library Program.
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REGISTRAR
The Mercy High School Registrar is responsible for generating transcripts upon request as well as for assisting students in obtaining work permits. Transcripts requested by families will cost $5.
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TECHNOLOGY / IPAD PROGRAM
Mercy High School is a wireless campus and students are limited to bringing iPad technology to school. Additionally each student is provided a network folder accessible anywhere on campus.
Students have access to a variety of computer technologies on campus in the Multimedia Lab, Instructional Lab, Library, and AMES. Students are invited to bring their own iPads and to use them appropriately.
Students also have access to a variety of educational resources on the Internet. Some information available on the Internet may be inappropriate. Therefore, Mercy High School reserves the right to pre-select appropriate materials and programs.
A contract, the Technology Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), signed by the student and parent/guardian, must be on file with the Assistant Principal for Student Life before a student is allowed access to the school network and Internet. This contract, designed for students at Mercy High School, has the expectations and violations clearly defined. Students found using technology inappropriately will lose access privileges and face disciplinary consequences.
Technology Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
The use of technology at Mercy High School is a privilege and may be revoked at any time.
1. The use of the Internet must be in support of education and research consistent with the educational objectives of Mercy High School. Use of other organizations’ networks or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate for that network. There is no reasonable expectation of privacy in any information or data that is sent or stored on Mercy High School equipment.
2. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. Use for commercial activities is not acceptable. Use for product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited. Any transmission or reception of pornographic material is expressly prohibited and will result in the cancellation of all information technology access and privileges.
3. We expect our parents to be equal stakeholders in the implementation of our Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). Parents are expected to monitor their daughter’s internet use at home. The safety of each student is paramount. Students who post any type of inappropriate or defamatory statements on the Internet (Myspace.com, Facebook.com, Ratemyteachers.com, etc.) about other students, teachers, staff members, etc., will face disciplinary consequences. Deliberate defamation of others is not consistent with Christian values and students will be held accountable for intentional harm they cause others.
4. Student use of online sources, including, but not limited to the internet, is covered under the electronic resource contract, an extension of the school’s behavior code. Mercy High school has a behavior code for all students that details appropriate school behavior, outlines rights, and sets expectations for students. Because electronic resources are used as part of a school activity, the school’s discipline policy applies to network activities as well. Therefore, the electronic resource contract is an extension of the school’s behavior code.
5. Unacceptable use of technology will result in a cancellation of those privileges. The Assistant Principal for Student Life may deny, revoke, or suspend user access. Whether an incident is a minor or a major incident will be determined by the Assistant Principal for Academics and the Assistant Principal for Student Life.
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6. Students are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to:
A. Be polite; use appropriate language; do not post defamatory statements about students or others.
B. Do not reveal your personal address/phone number or those of your fellow students or colleagues.
C. Understand that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. Messages relating to, or in support of, illegal activities may be reported to the Burlingame Police Department.
D. Do not use the network in such a way that would disrupt the use of the network by other users.
E. Do not post anonymous messages.
F. Do not send chain letters, broadcasts, or chat messages to a list of others.
7. Mercy High School will not be responsible for any damages suffered as a result of the use of this service. This includes, but is not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or a student’s errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at one’s own risk.
8. Security on any computer is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. If you can identify a security problem, notify the Assistant Principal for Student Life. Attempts to log on to any network server as a faculty or staff member may result in cancellation of user privileges, suspension, and possible dismissal from school.
9. To avoid copyright violations (pirated software liability, and/or damaging computer viruses), Mercy High School restricts the use of software brought from outside the campus.
10. Computer vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy the data of another user, the network, or any of the above listed agencies or networks that are connected to the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses or any physical damage to the computer itself. An act of computer vandalism may result in cancellation of user privileges, suspension, and possible dismissal from the school.
11. Mercy High School reserves the right to review (or monitor) all activities, electronic mail correspondences, and materials created by students on school computers. The school will remove any material from school computers that is not conducive to its educational mission or is deemed to be objectionable.
12. Students are not allowed to install unauthorized software or download unauthorized files to school computers. Even if the agreement is not signed by the parent(s) and/or guardian(s) or the student, improper use of computers, the network, and/or the Internet will result in a loss of computer privileges at school, as well as other disciplinary actions as determined by the Assistant Principal for Student Life.
13. Theft of any computer software or hardware may result in cancellation of user privileges, suspension, and possible dismissal from school.
14. Students using iPads must log onto the school network for monitoring purposes. Any student found using her iPad on a different network will receive immediate disciplinary consequences.
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Acceptable Use
Technology and Internet use at Mercy High School, whether on a student-operated iPad or a school computer, is to be used for educational purposes that serve the school’s mission. It is expected that all Mercy students will use the iPads respectfully and for the sole purpose of deepening and enriching their educational experiences at Mercy. The use of iPads in the classroom is a privilege, not a right. Students are expected to uphold the values and expectations set forth in the Mission Statement and the Code of Conduct as these two documents extend to the electronic world. The following Acceptable Use Policy is provided to make all users, including parents, aware of the additional responsibilities associated with efficient, ethical, and lawful use of technology. If a student violates any of the following terms and conditions, she may lose technology privileges and suffer disciplinary consequences. Disciplinary consequences include, but are not limited to: warnings, detentions, suspension, loss of iPad privileges, removal of iPad apps, placement of disciplinary probation, parent phone calls and/or meetings, and/or expulsion. When applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.
Unacceptable conduct and/or illegal interaction with the information service is strictly
prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:
Cyber bullying or anything that can be construed as cyber bullying, including sending
or displaying offensive messages or pictures or harassing and violating others
Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other
contracts
Vandalizing the data of another user
Wastefully using finite resources
Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities
Accessing inappropriate matter on the Internet
Using technology capabilities for cheating
Using technology capabilities for communicating with other students during class
Disabling or attempting to disable school-installed software such as internet filtering
and antivirus
Invading the privacy of individuals which includes but is not limited to accessing
another person’s account and/ or files and taking pictures or videos of a student or
teacher unknowingly
Posting personal communications without the author’s consent
Posting anonymous messages
Use of non-educational social media networks or apps which include but are not
limited to Facebook, FormSpring, MySpace, InstaGram, and Twitter
Using any messaging programs during school hours
Placing unlawful information on a system
Using abusive or otherwise objectionable language
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Sending messages that are likely to result in the loss of recipients’ work or systems
Degrading the good name of Mercy High School in any technological communication
both within and outside of school
Sending chain letters, broadcast, chats, texts, or instant messages to a list of others
Use of the information services for commercial activities for profit or product
advertising
Degrading or disrupting equipment or system performance
Political lobbying
Any other use which would violate the policies of Mercy High School concerning
proper student conduct and/or which would violate the teachings of the Roman
Catholic Church.
Use of a non-Mercy network
All members of the Mercy community are expected to practice netiquette while using
technology. Netiquette is defined as network etiquette and includes the following:
Politeness
Use of appropriate language
Privacy
Limited disruptions
Students are personally responsible for their use of technology as well as for what happens to
their personal technology tools. Students are responsible for everything posted on their social
media networks regardless of whether or not they posted them as well as for comments they
post on other people’s accounts.
If a Mercy student is found to have a repetitive disciplinary issue due to the use of a specific app,
the teacher has the right to delete the app from the students’ iPad.
IPAD PROGRAM
The focus of the iPad program at Mercy High School is to provide tools and resources to the 21st Century learner so that she may maximize her learning by fully integrating relevant technology into the academic arena. In doing so, students will acquire, share and evaluate information, achieve media and technology literacy, and maintain a safe and ethical environment. At all times students will be expected to use their iPads respectfully, maturely, and professionally.
The policies, procedures, and information laid out below apply to all iPads used at Mercy High School, and they also extend to include any other technological devices considered by the Administration to come under this policy. Teachers may set additional requirements for use in the classroom, and it is each student’s responsibility to familiarize herself with each of her teachers specific policies.
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Using the iPad at School
iPads are intended for use at school each day. iPads may be used in the classroom as well as to
check school messages, announcements, calendars, schedules, and gradebooks. Students are
responsible for bringing their iPad to class every day.
iPads Left at Home
If a student leaves her iPad at home, she is responsible for getting the coursework completed as
if she had their iPad present. Leaving an iPad at home is not an acceptable excuse for not having
homework, projects, supplies, etc. turned in on time. Students can and will receive zeros if their
homework is missing as a result of iPads left at home. If a student repeatedly (three or more
times in a class) leaves her iPad at home, she will be sent to the Assistant Principal for Student
Life where disciplinary consequences will be decided. Disciplinary consequences include, but are
not limited to: warnings, detentions, suspension, loss of iPad privileges, parent phone calls
and/or meetings, and/or expulsion.
iPad Undergoing Repair
Students with iPads undergoing repair are responsible for preparing for class and completing all
assignments. If a student has an iPad that is in repair, it is the student’s responsibility to inform
teachers of any issues due to the lack of having her iPad, and she must present proof of repair to
the Assistant Principal for Student Life if she is requesting any extensions from teachers as a
result. If it is discovered that a student has lied about a repair in order to get an extension on
class work and/or tests, she will be in violation of the Code of Conduct and will suffer
disciplinary actions at the discretion of the Assistant Principal for Student Life. Disciplinary
consequences include, but are not limited to: warnings, detentions, suspension, loss of iPad
privileges, placement of disciplinary probation, parent phone calls and/or meetings, and/or
expulsion.
Charging of iPad
iPads must be brought to school each day fully charged. Students are expected to charge their
iPads every evening. The teacher reserves full discretion to deny a student’s request to charge
her iPad during class if a student comes to class in need of charging her iPad. In the case that an
iPad battery no longer has charging ability, she must inform her teacher of her need to sit in a
seat that allows her to plug her iPad in for the entire class period. If it is discovered that a
student has lied about a broken charger in order to be able to charge her iPad, she will be in
violation of the Code of Conduct and will suffer disciplinary actions at the discretion of the
Assistant Principal for Student Life. Disciplinary consequences include, but are not limited to:
warnings, detentions, suspension, loss of iPad privileges, placement of disciplinary probation,
parent phone calls and/or meetings, and/or expulsion.
Screensavers/ Background Photos
Inappropriate media and/or photos may not be used as screensavers or backgrounds. Presence
or suggestion of inappropriate, illegal, and/or immoral language and/or behaviors which include,
but are not limited to alcohol, drugs, weapons, pornographic materials, and/or gang related
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symbols or pictures will result in disciplinary actions. Disciplinary consequences include, but are
not limited to: warnings, detentions, suspension, loss of iPad privileges, placement of
disciplinary probation, parent phone calls and/or meetings, and/or expulsion.
Though a student may keep her iPad secure through the use of a password, the school reserves
the right to search her iPad. If there is questionable iPad usage, a student will be required to tell
the teacher and/or administration her personal password so that the school may search her
iPad.
Sounds, Music, Media, and Programs
Sound must be muted at all times unless permission is obtained from the teacher for
instructional purposes.
Music is allowed on the iPad, but may only be used at the discretion of the teacher. Teachers
who allow students to listen to music during study times may only do so if the students have
personal earphones. Additionally, students may only listen to music via iPads or iPods.
Games and programs may not be used during class periods or Study Hall periods. If a student is
found to be using a non-educational app or using the internet for a non-educational purpose,
she may be warned by the teacher, given a detention, have her iPad taken away, and/or sent to
the Assistant Principal for Student Life. Should the student be sent to the Assistant Principal for
Student Life she may receive disciplinary consequences which include, but are not limited to:
warnings, detentions, suspension, loss of iPad privileges, placement of disciplinary probation,
parent phone calls and/or meetings, and/or expulsion.
Students may not stream videos or music while using their iPads as it slows down the Mercy
network.
Printing
Students will need to set up a Dropbox account and/or a Cloud account in order to print work at
school that is on the iPad. Students should have all work printed out and prepared prior to the
start time of class. Students may not disrupt classes in session in order to use the printers. If a
student disrupts a class in order to print, she will be subject to disciplinary consequences.
Disciplinary consequences include, but are not limited to: warnings, detentions, suspension, loss
of iPad privileges, placement of disciplinary probation, parent phone calls and/or meetings,
and/or expulsion.
Students are expected to come with all materials necessary for class. Should a student need to
use a school printer, she should go to the school library before school, during school, or after
school Students may not use school printers during advisory time.
Appropriate Use in the Classroom
Students are expected to use their iPads appropriately and for educational purposes at all times. Students may not use messaging programs on their iPads at any time. Should a student not use their iPad appropriately she will be subject to disciplinary consequences which include, but are
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not limited to: warnings, detentions, suspension, loss of iPad privileges, loss of iPad apps, placement of disciplinary probation, parent phone calls and/or meetings, and/or expulsion.
Students may not use their iPad calculators during quizzes or tests. Students may not use notes
on their iPads during open note tests and quizzes; students must come with the necessary
material printed.
Students are expected to clear their homebars before each class period. Students are expected
to use their iPads to check their Gmail accounts at least once a day. If a student fails to check her
email and misses an important email regarding a deadline she will not be given an extension and
must accept the consequences.
Pictures and Videos
Students may not take pictures or record any other students or teachers unknowingly. Students
may not take pictures during class time unless otherwise instructed by their teacher. Students
may not play on the Internet or on apps during class time unless otherwise instructed to do so
by her teacher.
Students must ask for permission from the teacher to take any and all videos or pictures.
Students may not post any pictures or videos without the approval of all people captured in the
picture or video.
Saving to the iPad
Students may save work directly to their iPads. Though storage space is available on the iPad, it
is not always backed up.
Backing Up Work
Backing up files is highly recommended as it is the student’s responsibility to ensure that work is
not lost due to mechanical failure or accidental deletion. It is recommended that students back
up their work by emailing themselves documents, saving files on flash drives, or using apps such
as Dropbox. iPad malfunctions are not an acceptable excuse for not submitting work and/or
being unprepared for class.
Network Connectivity
Mercy High School makes no guarantee that the network will be up and running 100% of the
time. In the rare case that the network is down, Mercy High School will not be responsible for
lost or missing data.
Students should always come to school prepared for all their classes with all homework and
projects printed out. If a student’s printer does not work at home she should email her teacher
the assignment the night before or morning of in anticipation that the school network may be
down.
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Applications
Students are expected to come to class prepared with all necessary apps already purchased and
stored on their iPad. Any student who comes to class unprepared may suffer disciplinary
consequences. Disciplinary consequences include, but are not limited to: warnings, detentions,,
suspension, loss of iPad privileges, placement of disciplinary probation, parent phone calls
and/or meetings, and/or expulsion.
Re-loading Software
If technical difficulties occur, iPads may need to be restored. Students may not use iPad
malfunction and loss of software or documents due to re-formatting as an excuse in the
classroom. Students are responsible for updating all applications needed for the classroom.
iPad Care
Students are responsible for the general care of their iPad and for any and all damage that might occur. iPads that are broken or fail to work must be taken to an Apple Store to be evaluated immediately. If a circumstance occurs on campus between two students which results in a broken iPad it is the responsibility of the two families to work it out amongst themselves. The school will only get involved if disciplinary action is needed in which case the Assistant Principal for Student Life will begin an investigation and decide consequences should they be necessary. Disciplinary consequences include, but are not limited to: warnings, detentions, suspension, loss of iPad privileges, placement of disciplinary probation, parent phone calls and/or meetings, and/or expulsion.
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CONDUCT, APPEARANCE, AND DISCIPLINE
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS A student is a Mercy High School student at all times and is expected to behave, both on and off campus, in a respectful manner consistent with the school’s Mission Statement and Code of Conduct. Any conduct, both in and out of school, that reflects negatively upon the reputation of the school may be subject to disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, suspension from competitive and co-curricular activities, school suspension, and expulsion. Mercy High School reserves the right to search lockers, cars, and any and all personal possessions brought to school, including, but not limited to backpacks and electronic devices. Mercy High School students are expected to check their Mercy Gmail accounts as well as their PowerSchool attendance records every twenty-four hours. Any attendance discrepancies should be addressed with the Assistant Principal for Student Life or the Main Office Staff within 24 hours of the posting. All students are expected to have their student ID card on them at all times. Any student who has a behavioral or uniform infraction will be asked to give their ID card to the staff or faculty member requesting it and will not have it returned until the detention and/or disciplinary consequence is served.
CONDUCT AWAY FROM SCHOOL
A student can expect disciplinary action to be taken if she is reported for misconduct on her way to or from school, at any other school (not just Tri-School), or at any other school’s function, e.g. dances, games, or plays sponsored by another school in the area. Misconduct includes any of the following: disrespect, harm, or threat of harm to another person; use or possession of drugs or alcohol; stealing; any kind of defacing or destruction of another’s property. If misconduct occurs, and a student is at a Tri-School sponsored event or any other school in the area, or if the student can be publicly identified as a Mercy High School student, the rules that apply at a Mercy-sponsored function will apply at the event as well.
SECURITY OF PERSONAL PROPERTY
It is each student’s responsibility to ensure that all personal possessions are kept secure from possible theft and/or vandalism. Valuables should be left at home. Mercy High School cannot and does not assume responsibility for stolen/vandalized possessions. If a student loses an item she can go to the Main Office to check the lost and found. Students may claim identified items during school hours. Items not claimed at the end of each semester will be donated to charity.
STUDENT LOCKERS
Lockers are expected to be locked at all times regardless of whether or not a student uses them. Students assigned to lockers will be held responsible for them being unlocked as well as for anything found inside of them regardless of whether or not they use their locker. Lockers are the property of the school and can be opened at any time by school officials. If there is reasonable administrative suspicion, lockers, backpacks, and/or purses can be searched. The school officials must balance the student’s expectation of privacy against the school’s need for discipline and the safety of other students. The school will ask the student for permission to search her backpack, purse, etc. If the student refuses, the parent(s) and/or guardian(s) of the student will be notified and asked to come to school to search the article. If warranted, the Burlingame Police Department will be contacted to conduct the search.
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DETENTION
Students may receive detentions for a number of reasons, including, but not limited to:
Tardies
Admissions Infractions
Uniform infractions
Locker infractions
Parking
Return from absences without parent notes or phone calls
Behavioral issues
Inappropriate use of cell phone or iPad
Cutting class
Detention will be served in the MML Monday through Friday during the morning detention or afternoon detention. Morning detention will take place from 7:00AM to 7:35AM and afternoon detentions will take place from 2:50PM- 3:25PM. Students who arrive after 7:00AM or 2:50PM will not be given credit for serving their detention. No exception to this rule may be made.*
Students must serve the detention within three school days of receiving it. Students are expected to check their Mercy Gmail for detention notices. A student who fails to check her email will be held responsible for not serving the detention, and she will not be given an extension to serve the detention. Students must actively and quietly work while serving detention.
Any student who is asked to leave detention or who fails to serve a detention will receive an infraction and may receive further disciplinary consequences. After failing to serve two detentions a student will receive a Disciplinary Warning Letter. After earning three violations in one semester a student will be placed on disciplinary probation which will remove her from all extracurricular activities. A cut will act as an infraction even if detention was served. A student may also be placed on disciplinary probation if she receives three detentions for the same infraction within a semester.
*Any zero-period student-athlete who receives a detention is encouraged to speak to the Assistant Principal for Student Life so an additional option to work off detention can be discussed.
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PROHIBITED BEHAVIORS
Mercy High School strives to teach students to conduct themselves with integrity at all times both on and off campus. The following examples of behavior provide for major violations of integrity. A student who engages in any of the following behaviors may receive disciplinary consequences that include, but are not limited to, a parent meeting, removal from extracurricular activities, suspension, placement on probation, and/ or expulsion. Depending on the nature of the offense, the police may be notified.
Serious disobedience or disrespect for authority
Theft
Vandalism
Lying to a faculty or staff member / Dishonesty
Forgery
Unauthorized Phone Calls
Pulling a Fire Alarm
Inappropriate Language and Behavior
Leaving Campus without Approval
Smoking
Use, sale, distribution, or Possession of Illegal Substances
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Harassment
Use of Illegal Substances at School Functions
Under the Influence
Assault with, or possession of Weapons that are capable of causing harm
Fear or threats with or without imitation weapons
Bomb Threat
Injury or harm to persons or property
Sale of any materials on school grounds without proper approval
Student-to-Student Harassment and Bullying
Threat of Violence
Threatening Email
Improper Use of Social Media and Cyberbullying
Academic Dishonesty
Violations of the technology use policy and the social media policy
Conduct which reflects negatively of Mercy High School
Parental non-cooperation or lack of support for school policies
Truancy Issues
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CYBERBULLYING AND HARRASSMENT POLICY/ SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY The Archdiocese of San Francisco affirms the Christian dignity of every student. Harassment is unacceptable conduct that is severe, pervasive, deliberate, and emotionally and/or physically endangering to another student. The school reserves the right to discipline a student for actions committed both on and off-campus if they are intended to have an effect on a student or they adversely affect the safety and well-being of a student while in school. This policy prohibits student-to-student harassment, whenever it is related to school activity or attendance and occurs at any time. Any student who engages in the harassment of another student is subject to disciplinary consequences.
A charge of harassment shall not create the presumption of wrongdoing. Depending on the nature and extent of the charge, if reasonable suspicion of misconduct is determined, the alleged harasser may be sent home pending conclusion of the investigation by the school at which point proper disciplinary consequences will be decided. Confirmed acts of harassment will result in disciplinary consequences, and when appropriate, the police may be notified.
Mercy High School recognizes and encourages the need for the social development of its students; however, we expect students to conduct themselves on Internet and social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, and FormSpring with the same moral standards that we expect out of them in the classroom. Should any inappropriate pictures, videos, and/or comments come to the attention of the school that shows the student engaging in any illegal, immoral, unhealthy, or inappropriate behaviors, students will immediately be held accountable and appropriate action may be taken.
SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
Students are solely responsible for their social media accounts and apps as well as for what is posted of them on other accounts. Students may not take or post photos or videos unless approval from all people captured in these has been given. Prior to taking any video or recording in a classroom, students must gain teacher approval to do so. School action may include, but is not limited to, a parent meeting, removal from extracurricular activities, suspension, placement on probation, and/ or expulsion. When appropriate, the police may be notified. If a student has concerns about what has been posted by others on their account or what has been posted about them on another site they are advised to speak with the Assistant Principal for Student Life immediately.
While Mercy High School will investigate all social media incidences brought to the school’s attention, families should be aware that Mercy High School is unable to investigate those matters that have to do with social media sites such as ask.fm that allow students to post anonymously. For these sites Mercy High School strongly suggests that students either change their settings to disengage the anonymous setting or delete all accounts.
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USE OF CELL PHONE
Students may use their cell phones during their lunch periods and while in the cafeteria or on the Green. Students may never use cell phones while in the classrooms, hallways, bathrooms, or Library. Cell phones are expected to be turned off during class time and stored in bags. Some teachers may require cell phones to be turned into the front of the room prior to the start of class, and students are expected to follow each teacher’s individual cell phone policy. On testing day, cell phones must be stored in backpacks, and backpacks must be placed in the front of the room.
Any violation of this policy will result in temporary confiscation of the device in question, which will be held in the Main Office. Confiscated cell phones will result in a detention. Repetitive inappropriate cell phone usage will result in further disciplinary action which may include, but is not limited to, parent meeting, holding of the cell phone for a period of time, suspension, and/or placement Disciplinary Probation.
USE OF MUSICAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Students may use their electronic devices, such as iPods and MP3s, during their lunch and study periods. Students may never use an iPod in a classroom unless the teacher has given the students a study period and has given clear permission for them to use their musical devices. Students may not share ear phones with fellow classmates. Faculty and staff reserve the right to ask students to turn their iPods and electronic devices down or off, and the student is expected to oblige by the faculty request without any discussion or debate.
If a student uses a prohibited electronic device during the class period, the device will be taken, the student will receive a detention, and the student will be required to pick it up from the Main Office at the end of the day. Repetitive confiscation of electronic devices will result in further disciplinary action which may include, but is not limited to, parent meeting, holding of the cell phone for a period of time, suspension, and/or placement on probation.
Phones may not be used for musical purposes.
RESPECT FOR CAMPUS GROUNDS
One of the graduation outcomes for Mercy students is to become pro-active global citizens who exhibit care and respect for the environment. In order to reflect this goal, students are expected to keep the Mercy campus clean and graffiti-free. Trash, recyclying, and compost materials are to be placed in the appropriate containers.
Mercy students should be respectful of Sequoia and the Chapel. Students are expected to engage in proper behavior. No food or drinks are allowed in these rooms.
Any student who is found littering or destroying campus grounds will be brought in for disciplinary consequences. The consequences may include, but are not limited to, parent meeting, detention, removal from extracurricular activities, suspension, placement on probation, and/or expulsion.
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DANCE RULES AND EXPECTATIONS
The secondary schools of the San Francisco Archdiocese have adopted common policies pertaining to regular school dances, and Mercy High School’s rules are similar. Mercy’s rules and expectations promote Catholic Christian values that recognize the dignity and self-worth of each person. Dances should provide an opportunity for students to socialize in a supervised and safe environment.
Dance Attire and Accessories
Students attending dances both on and off the Mercy campus are expected to uphold the Mercy High School Code of Conduct, Drug and Alcohol Use Policy, and dress code at all times. While at dances all items brought by students are subject to inspection.
Items Not Allowed:
• Hats (unless formal hats for Winter Formal or Junior/Senior Prom), bandanas or other head coverings
• Ripped or torn clothing
• Any item or article of clothing which promotes alcohol, drugs, gangs, profanity, tobacco, or anything deemed inappropriate by the school
• Pajamas
• Girls: Halter tops, strapless tops, tube tops, tank tops with straps smaller than their bra straps (no strapless bras may be worn to try to get around this rule), spaghetti strap tops or tops that reveal the midriff or bare back, off-the-shoulder tops, tops that are deemed to be immodest
Boys: sleeveless shirts, tank tops, baggy pants.
• Short skirts, dresses, and shorts may not be more than 5 inches from the knee and skirts may not have slits any higher than mid-thigh length
Spandex pants or tights
Formal and Prom
Students are expected to wear semi-formal attire to formal and prom. Girls will not be allowed to wear outfits with low or revealing necklines or midriffs showing. Backless dresses that drop below the waistline are not appropriate. Long dresses with slits or short dresses may not expose the upper thigh. Dresses made of transparent material may not be worn, and no cutouts may be seen from the front. Students are expected to look appropriate in regards to their dress length. Any student wearing a dress that appears to be of an inappropriate length will be expected to walk a few steps and without pulling her dress down will need to have a minimum measurement of 5inches. The dress will be measured from the point where the backside meets the leg to the bottom of the dress.
Boys are expected to wear appropriate dress attire or suits to semi-formal dances. Shirts must be kept buttoned and on at all times.
Any Mercy student or guest dressed inappropriately will be required to contact a parent or guardian to bring a change of clothes before they are allowed to enter the dance.
Behavior at Dances and on the Dance floor
Students and their guests are expected to engage in appropriate forms of dancing. Any students who must be repetitively asked to stop dancing inappropriately may receive disciplinary consequences.
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School Attendance, Arrival, and Departure
It is the school’s expectation that any parents/ guardians that allow their children to take party buses or limos to dances have spoken with the company to ensure no illegal substances will be allowed throughout the duration of the ride.
Students are expected to be in school for the entirety of the day if they wish to attend the dance. The exception to this rule is for students who earn the “Bowl-a-Thon” day off. Doctor appointments will not be accepted as an excuse for missing school time on dance days.
If a student arrives after check-in is over, it will be at the discretion of the Assistant Principal for Student Life whether or not she will be admitted to the dance.
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UNIFORM
Students are expected to represent Mercy High School by dressing appropriately, both in uniform and on “free dress” days. A student’s clothing must not disrupt the learning atmosphere. Inappropriate dress includes any clothing, hairstyle, make-up, tattoos or an accessory that calls negative attention to the student. The only body piercing allowed is a small post or stud in the nose or pierced earrings. Gauges are not allowed. Clothing that is indecent or suggestive, or that endorses alcohol or drugs, is inappropriate and unacceptable.
Mercy High School does not allow students to wear rollers or curlers to school at any time (with the exception of Tri-school theater performance night) and unnatural colored hair for the individual (pink, green, purple etc.) is not allowed. Hats and beanies may never be worn at Mercy High School.
REQUIRED FULL DRESS UNIFORM: Mercy students must wear their full uniforms on certain days such as liturgy days and formal assemblies. On full uniform days Mercy students must be in the following uniform:
Mercy High School plaid skirt
White polo
Navy sweater
Black flat shoes
Optional white socks- or- black or navy solid colored tights
DAY to DAY UNIFORM POLICY Skirt- Mercy plaid skirt may not be shorter than five inches from the back of the knee. Pants- Appropriate navy and khaki pants are allowed. Pants must be boot cut or have a flare. No skinny pants or ripped pants allowed. Yoga pants, leggings, and jeans are not allowed. Shorts- Navy and Khaki Bermuda shorts are allowed as long as they are no shorter than five inches from the back of the knee. Polo- White, black, or navy Mercy polo only*** *** Mercy High School is phasing out the black and navy polo options. Mills Uniforms will only be selling what is left in stock, and once this apparel is out of stock it will no longer be sold as a Mercy High School uniform option. Students may wear these polos if they own them throughout their high school career *** Outerwear- Navy sweater, navy vest, and Mercy spirit wear are allowed. No non-Mercy sweatshirts and/or jackets are allowed except for rain jackets on rainy days. Socks- Plain white, black, navy, or gray socks may be worn. Socks with patterns and colors are not allowed. Shoes- Predominantly white, navy, and black shoes may be worn with shoelaces of these colors. Shoes with shoelace holes must have shoelaces. Navy blue is the only shade of blue that is allowed. High top tennis shoes are ok. Students may not wear boots, any shoe with a heel, slippers, Uggs, or moccasins. The only sandals allowed are Sseko Sandals with black straps. Rain boots may only be worn on rainy days in Burlingame; as such, students should plan in bringing an extra pair of shoes in case it is raining in their home town, but not I Burlingame. Tights- Black or navy solid colored tights may be worn. Students may not wear leggings or tights with patterns or rips in them. No exceptions to this may be made.
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*** Any faculty or staff member has the right to determine whether a student’s attire conforms to uniform regulations. Students must wear their uniforms the entire school day. It is expected that all parts of the uniform will be clean, neat, and properly mended.
Uniform regulations apply in all kinds of weather. In warm weather, because sun bathing is not permitted, students may not wear other clothes to sun bathe, nor may they tie or tuck up polos or skirts.
Free Dress Days: On Free Dress Days (Fridays and other designated days), students are expected to dress appropriately for school. Students may not wear any “gang-related” apparel. Students may not wear spaghetti straps, strapless, low cut or midsection revealing tops. If a student wears a tank top the straps must cover her bra strap (a strapless bra may not be worn to get around this rule). Shorts or skirts must be no shorter than 5 inches above the knee. Students may not wear pajama tops or pants to school. Students may wear sandals to school on free dress days. Students may not wear sandals if it is a lab day for their science class.
Birthday Free Dress Pass: Students may wear appropriate free dress on their birthday. Student must come to the Main Office to get a free dress pass.
On rally days students may wear their dress up clothes for the rally all day, except on Mercy Day.
Uniform Infractions: Any student reported for being out of uniform will be assigned an immediate detention. Students who receive four repetitive uniform infractions for the same violation will be placed on disciplinary probation.
Skirt Length: Any student who receives four skirt length violations in a quarter will lose her skirt privileges for the remainder of the quarter. If the school as a whole appears to be wearing their skirts at an inappropriate length, a skirt ban can be called in which all students must wear pants for a designated length of time.
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DISCIPLINARY PROBATION
Many factors are taken into consideration by the Assistant Principal for Student Life and Counselor to ensure that a just situation prevails for each student.
Students placed on probation will not be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities with the exception of retreats. Students on Disciplinary Probation are reviewed as appropriate by the Assistant Principal for Student Life. If a student on probation commits another serious infraction she will be brought to the Disciplinary Review Board where her future at Mercy High School and any consequences will be decided.
A student on probation for more than one semester may be in jeopardy of losing Financial Aid.
SUSPENSION POLICY
Students who are suspended are expected to keep up with the work that they miss. Students are expected to communicate with their teachers during their suspension terms in order to schedule make up testing. Any papers and assignments due during a student’s suspension must be turned in upon their return to school.
EXPULSION POLICY
The decision to expel a student shall be final and binding upon the student and her parents/ guardians.
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DRUG, ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, SUBSTANCE USE POLICY
Administration, faculty, and staff are committed to maintaining a healthy, safe, respectful, and positive environment. We assist students and families as each student grows in the ability to make informed choices and moral decisions in pursuing a healthy lifestyle. Mercy High School is a drug and alcohol free school, and as such, it is our expectation that students refrain from the use of alcohol and others drugs both on and off campus. Students found in possession, use, sale, and/or distribution of drugs will receive disciplinary consequences. Those students who are in the presence of/ accompany those who engage in unlawful behavior may be subject to disciplinary consequences.
If it is brought to the attention of the school that a student may be in possession, use, sale, and/or the distribution of drugs, an investigation will begin. The investigation may require the student to submit to searches and testing for controlled substances and may include the filing of a police report or a request for police investigation. Refusal to submit to searches, testing, or assessment in a timely manner may result in a decision to expel the student. The student will be suspended pending completion of the investigation by the administration.
If a student is found to have possessed, used, distributed, or sold drugs, disciplinary consequences will occur which may include, but are not limited to expulsion, placement on probation, periodic testing and assessment, education, counseling, inpatient or outpatient treatment and exclusion from school activities, and expulsion. Failure of parents/guardians to cooperate and support the conditions for the student’s continuing at the school may result in the school’s request that the parents/guardians withdraw their student or a decision not to accept continued enrollment of the student. Persistent refusal by either or both the student and parents/guardians to comply with any provision of this policy will result in expulsion.
Mercy High School reserves the right to conduct random and specific drug and alcohol testing at any and all school events.
We expect students’ activities in private homes to reflect the same values and philosophy as those of Mercy High School. We encourage parents to communicate with other parents to achieve these ends. We expect that parents will not provide students access to alcohol or drugs in their homes and that they will supervise students’ social activities held at their house. Any family who is found to provide illegal substances to students may risk their daughter’s expulsion.
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ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
In preparation for future employment and post-secondary education, students are expected to learn and practice career skills such as punctuality; therefore, students are expected to be in class and ready to begin work at the beginning of each instructional period. A tardy student will be defined as any student who is not physically inside her classroom at the start of each period regardless of whether or not her backpack and/or school supplies are present at her desk. While we recognize that some families may be traveling from further locations in the mornings, it is our expectation that each family leave the house with enough time for the student to get into the Mercy High School main gates and walk to the appropriate first or fifth period class regardless of whether it is in the mansion or Russell and regardless of traffic. Mercy families and students should be aware that excessive tardies and early dismissal not only jeopardize student academic progress, but they also disrupt the learning environment of their fellow classmates and as such, we expect that all families and students respect the learning process of their fellow schoolmates. Students are expected to be on time for all classes. Students who arrive late must have a guardian (which is defined as an adult listed on the emergency form) phone the main office or write a letter explaining the tardy in order to qualify for an excused tardy; however students may only have four official guardian- excused tardies and/or early dismissals within a semester as the school recognizes and honors the importance of class time to student academic success. Detention is automatic for each unexcused tardy and/or early dismissal and for any guardian- excused tardies over the four per semester allotment. Should a student incur more than 10 tardies (excused and/or unexcused) within the time period of a semester, the students and their families will be required to meet with the Assistant Principal for Student Life and/or the Assistant Principal for Academics where an academic and/or disciplinary plan will be created and agreed upon by both parties which may include, but is not limited, to mandatory tutoring hours, teacher meetings, removal from extracurricular events, suspension, and/or loss of parking privileges. Students with more than five tardies in a class per semester should be aware that their grade may be lowered as a result of their repetitive absence during crucial class time minutes. It is the student’s responsibility to monitor her tardies. Excessive tardiness will not be tolerated by the school except under extreme medical and documented family emergency situations. Any student who is tardy is responsible for making up missed quizzes and daily work according to the originally set deadlines which includes but is not limited to the morning deadlines of long range assignments such as term papers. All tardiness to school is recorded and becomes part of the student’s permanent record which can be accessed via PowerSchool. Furthermore, if a student is more than 15 minutes late for a class, the student is considered absent and she will receive a detention. Six or more excused or unexcused absences per class in a semester may result in disciplinary action and lowered grades. Disciplinary action can include, but is not limited to, a warning, parent meeting, detention(s), placement on disciplinary
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probation, suspension, and/or expulsion. All absences must be called into the Main Office by 9:30AM. Mercy High School will call families of students who are not on campus and who have not been called in as absent between 10:00 and 11:00AM. The following designates excused vs. unexcused tardies and absences. Any tardy or absence not falling within these guidelines will be reviewed and determined by the Assistant Principal for Student Life. All absences (non school-related) will count in absence totals for attendance monitoring. Excused Absences
Illness
Emergency medical appointments
Family emergencies
Court appointments
Funeral
Unexcused Absences (including, but are not limited to)
Vacation
DMV or other appointments
Oversleeping, tired, studying
Carpool
Traffic, weather, etc.
Senior portraits
Political or service hours
Club sports
Non Mercy High School church youth group, community service trips, camps, or conferences.
Mercy High School does not accept as legitimate those parental explained absences which allow students to avoid a class assignment or which allow students to prepare for another assignment of school-related activity such as AP tests, prom, a dance, a performance, or an athletic event. If it is determined that a student has been tardy or absent in order to prepare for an assignment, test, or school activity, the student may receive disciplinary consequences. *Extenuating circumstances will be taken into account when reviewing this policy. The Mercy administration reserves the right to determine the validity of the extenuating circumstance. The Main Office will contact parents by 10AM of any absences. ADMIT AFTER ABSENCE If a student’s absence was not phoned into the Main Office, the student must report to the Main Office with a note signed by a parent or guardian stating the reason for the absence. If a student returns without a phone call or note she will receive a detention regardless of whether the note or phone call come later that day or the next day. An absence will only be considered excused for the above listed reasons.
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HOMEWORK DURING ABSENCES If a student is going to be absent for three days or longer, the Main Office must be notified as soon as possible in order that arrangements can be made for work to be accumulated for the student. When a long-term absence is anticipated, parent/guardians should contact the Assistant Principal for Academics as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements for obtaining the student’s assignments and informing teachers. Students should also check online for posted assignments and work they have missed during their absence.
COLLEGE VISITATION
It is sometimes advisable or necessary to visit a prospective college in order to make an informed decision about possible attendance. The student is responsible for scheduling such visits around tests or other days that cannot be made up. Families are encouraged to book these trips in line with the scheduled extended vacations. Scheduling more than two such days may adversely affect a student’s grade. The student must submit a form signed by a parent and approved by the Assistant Principal for Academics prior to the time of the tour.
FAMILY VACATIONS
Family vacations are to be scheduled when school is not in session. The education and familial advantages of vacations must be weighed against the student’s ability to rejoin classes without undue burden being imposed on the teachers and other students. While teachers often are willing to let students make up work, it is the students’ responsibility to be ready to fully resume their classes upon returning. Students will not be permitted to miss or to reschedule a final examination to accommodate vacation plans.
EARLY DISMISSAL
With the exception of school sponsored co-curricular activities, leaving the school grounds requires written permission in the form of an early dismissal slip. Parents should send a note to the Main Office by 10:00 am indicating time of early dismissal, reason, and parent signature.
Since the school is legally responsible for students only the Head of School, or Assistant Principals can approve a student leaving the school during regular school hours, and then only with the prior knowledge of the student’s parents/guardians. No teacher or other school employee may give a student permission to leave the school premises. Leaving school grounds without an early dismissal slip will be treated as truancy and dealt with accordingly.
Upon returning to school, a student who has left campus early must report to the Main Office.
CONTACTING A STUDENT DURING THE DAY Parents are expected to abide by the same cell phone policy as students and are asked not to text or call their daughters during class time. If a parent needs to contact a daughter during the school day due to an emergency, please call the Main Office to request that a message is forwarded to the student. Students and their parents are responsible for notifying the school immediately of any changes in guardianship, addresses, and phone numbers.
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STUDENT HEALTH AND SAFETY
CLOSED CAMPUS
Though the acres surrounding Mercy are open for people to enjoy and walk through throughout their days, Mercy High School operates a closed campus in order to ensure the safety of all Mercy community members. Visitors to the high school are required by campus security personnel to identify themselves, state the purpose of their visit and report to the Main Office prior to proceeding to their intended destination on campus.
Parents/guardians of students who wish to meet with a teacher or other school officials are expected to abide by these same guidelines. In order to avoid unnecessary delays, parents/guardians who wish to meet with school personnel are strongly advised to make arrangements in advance either by directly emailing the person they want to meet with or by calling the Main Office and leaving a message for the person in question.
Once students have arrived at school, they may not leave the grounds during the day without presenting written authorization from a parent/guardian to do so and obtaining an early dismissal slip from the Main Office. In case of emergency, parent/guardian authorization may be given over the telephone.
Students are not able to access the following areas throughout the school The following are out-of-bounds areas during the entire school day:
• Student parking lot, Lake Lot, Forest Lot, Eucalyptus Lot and road areas
• Field and road areas past the Grassilli Center.
• Grass along path between Kohl Mansion and Russell Hall
• All areas around Russell Hall or the Motherhouse and the office wing on the second floor of Russell Hall
• The lower Green outside the classroom wing windows
• The Machines Room, Faculty Lunch Room, Faculty Workroom, cafeteria kitchen, basement, front lobby, and 4th floor, except for official business or appointments
• The phone booth by the Motherhouse
• Mercy Center
Students are not allowed to loiter in these areas and must wait for their rides in front of the mansion. Students may not wait for their rides or be picked up outside of the campus gates per the Conditional Use Permit with the City of Burlingame.
LEGAL CUSTODY ISSUES
Mercy High School will provide parents with access to academic records and other school information regarding their child. If there is a court order specifying that there should be no contact with a parent and that no information should be shared with a parent, it is the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide the school with a court- certificated copy.
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Please make sure that at least one emergency contact on your daughter’s medical form is available between the hours of 8AM and 4PM in order to assist with any illnesses and emergencies.
PARKING LOT AND VEHICLES
Since Mercy High School has limited parking, students must have a permit in order to park in the student lot. Only juniors and seniors may apply for parking with seniors receiving priority.
Students are expected to abide by the parking policies that are stated in the Parking Permit Application. Any violation to this application will result in loss of driving privileges. In order to accommodate those students who wish to drive, but who do not receive a permit, Mercy High School and the City of Burlingame offer shuttles to and from the Millbrae BART station. For more information on this please contact the Assistant Principal for Student Life.
Mercy High School has a Conditional Use Permit with the City of Burlingame which outlines that our students may not park outside of the Mercy gates as well as that they must be picked up inside the Mercy gates. All parents and students are expected to abide by these rules. Any student in violation of these terms will receive disciplinary consequences.
Mercy High School is not responsible for damage to vehicles or items taken from vehicles at any time on or off campus, at school or at school-sponsored events.
ILLNESS OR INJURY DURING THE SCHOOL DAY
Any student who becomes ill during the day must report to the Main Office. If the student needs to go home, the school will call the parent/guardian to pick up the student or give the student permission to leave school. Students may not wait in the Sick Room for longer than 15 minutes when they do not feel well except under extreme conditions. After fifteen minutes students will be expected to return to class. A student will not be permitted to leave campus unless the parents/guardians can be contacted.
All school injuries are to be reported to the teacher or coach in charge as soon as they occur, whether the student considers the injury significant or not.
MEDICATION
Mercy High School will always provide first aid care for new injuries that occur on campus to the best of their abilities. Mercy High School personnel are unable to distribute medication and to apply/ change dressings on pre-existing injuries. Any need for the use of prescribed medication should be noted on a student’s emergency health card.
IMMUNIZATION
California State law requires that a completed immunization record be on file within thirty (30) days after the start of the school year. Students will be sent home after thirty (30) days of the start of the school year unless the immunization record is on file in the Registrar’s Office.
Mercy High School requires that tuberculin testing for incoming students be current within one
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year and that all students have their DTAP Booster.
Conditional Admissions: Students lacking one or more required vaccine doses, but not currently due for a dose, may be admitted on condition that they receive the remaining doses when due.
There is a Spanish translation of the California School Immunization Record available upon request.
Reference: Health and Safety Code, Sections 120325-120375; California Administrative Code, Title 17, Sections 6000-6075 (July 1999).
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Mercy High School has established procedures to be followed in the event of fire, earthquake, and other disasters. These are posted in all classrooms and are reviewed with students by teachers. In addition, the school holds intruder, fire, and earthquake drills throughout the year. All students and school personnel, are required to familiarize themselves with these procedures and to be prepared to immediately follow them. The school’s emergency preparedness plan includes provision for emergency food and shelter for all students and staff for three days.
As a condition of enrollment, all students must have current and accurate emergency contact information on file. Please notify the Main Office immediately if you have a change in address, emergency contact, work phone, cell phone or home telephone number.
If an emergency takes place during non-school hours and school will be cancelled for the day, parents will be contacted by using our emergency communication system. Parents can also listen to radio stations KCBS 740 am or 94.9 fm or TV Channel 2 regarding information on how to proceed. Parents are asked not to call the school office during an emergency or come to the school until requested.
*In the event of a family emergency, please feel free to call the Main Office and a message will be delivered to your daughter.
ARCHDIOCESAN POLICY ON ABUSE
Shield the Vulnerable is an online course designed under the authority of the Archdiocese of San Francisco by Lawroom. This course challenges teens to learn, build and retrain valuable skills to maximize their opportunities for growth, while maintaining healthy relationships and feeling good about themselves. It shows teens how to identify abusive behavior, identify abusive relationships, avoid dangerous situations, prevent abuse and observe standards of conduct. Every year students will either complete the teen safety course or one of its modules.
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CAMPUS MINISTRY
The Campus Ministry Program is rooted in Gospel values and steeped in the Mercy charism. Campus Ministry offers students a number of opportunities to examine their relationships with God, their selves and others, through discussion, reflection, service and prayer. Throughout the school year Mercy has School Liturgies, Seasonal Prayer services and the sacrament of Reconciliation for our school community. Retreats are offered throughout the year at each grade level. The Campus Ministry program also coordinates the Student Service Learning Program which requires each student to perform community service each year.
Liturgies: Eucharistic Liturgies
Seasonal Prayer Services
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Retreats: Freshman Ropes Course
Sophomore Retreat at St. Anthony’s
Junior Kairos Retreat*
Senior Day of Recollection
* Kairos is a three-day, two-night retreat where juniors are given a chance to reflect on their lives, connect with others, and explore relationships between family, friends, and God.
Service Learning Service-learning is a method of teaching, learning and reflecting that combines academic classroom curriculum with meaningful service throughout the community. As a teaching methodology, it falls under the philosophy of experiential education. More specifically, it integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach involvement in the community, participation in the world, and becoming women of compassionate service and women of influence. As a graduation requirement, students are required to complete twenty (20) hours of service-based learning each year they attend Mercy High School. 10 of the 20 hours must be Core hours. *All students must complete and turn in their service learning forms to their Religious Studies teacher on May 12, 2015.
• Students will receive an “A” on their report card if forms are completed and returned by 3:00 pm, May 12
• Students will receive a “B” on their report card if forms are completed and returned after May 12 but before the end of the semester
• Students will receive an “F” on their report card if no form is received
• Students who receive an “F” must still complete their hours to fulfill the 80 hour graduation requirement. Diplomas will be held for any seniors who have not fulfilled this graduation requirement.
• Students may do community service during the summer to count for the next year. Please make sure to complete the correct paperwork.
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* Core hours which are direct service with a 501(c)(3) Non Profit organization that puts you in contact with people from low income backgrounds, people with physical or developmental disabilities, elderly, sick, homeless or immigrants.
The additional 10 hours can also be CORE hours or can be Supplemental hours which are indirect service at a 501c3 nonprofit such as food banks, clothes closets, leading church retreats, or teaching Religion Education classes. Saturday of Service
Saturdays of Service are opportunities for students to participate in service learning with fellow students. The opportunities are put together and advertised by the Service Learning Coordinator. Families can find the days of service on their important dates sheet that was sent out in summer mailing. Please see the Service Learning Coordinator for more information.
Urban Plunge Once a semester, Mercy students are invited to apply for an overnight service retreat where they learn about homelessness and serve in various homeless shelters. Please see the Service Learning Coordinator for more information.
Immersion Program Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors are invited to apply for Immersion Trips during Spring Break. Locations of Immersion Trips will be determined in the Fall, but each trip will be led by Mercy faculty and staff and will include a focus on community, simplicity, justice, and spirituality. Parents are encouraged to attend the School Trips Informational Meeting in September to learn about the year’s offerings. Rise UP Mercy Rise UP Mercy is a group of students, faculty and staff who are interested in being a part of an intentional community which includes elements of prayer, sharing and service. If you are interested in being a part of this, please get an application from the Director of Campus Ministry or the Director of Mission Effectiveness.
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ATHLETICS MERCY ATHLETICS OVERVIEW Mercy High School Athletics believes that Greatness Rises After Commitment and Effirt (GRACE). The Athletic Department of Mercy High School is committed to providing our student-athletes with opportunities that promote character development and success in their future lives by encouraging our young women to act with GRACE, embrace discipline, face their challenges, and commit themselves towards achieving common goals through teamwork as they live their lives and uphold Christian values in ways that stress equality and respect for all whom they encounter.
The goal of the Mercy High School Athletic Program is to teach life lessons in a manner that is compatible with the mission of the school. The Mercy High School athletic philosophy is to place the highest importance on teaching the values of respect, leadership, integrity, teamwork, pride, and commitment. Coaches and parents are encouraged to help student-athletes recognize that it is a privilege to participate in the Mercy High School Athletic Program and that appropriate conduct both on and off the field is imperative in retaining that privilege.
Mercy High School’s faculty and staff, student body, and parent community are expected to abide by the school’s mission and Code of Conduct at all times in order to encourage the mental, physical, spiritual, and moral growth of all community members.
For most sports, Mercy High School belongs to the West Bay Athletic League (WBAL) with Castilleja School, Crystal Springs Uplands School, Eastside Preparatory, Harker School, Immaculate Conception Academy, The Kings Academy, Menlo School, Mercy High School - San Francisco, Notre Dame High School - San Jose, Pinewood School, Woodside Priory, and Sacred Heart Preparatory. In Water Polo Mercy competes in the Peninsula Athletic League (PAL). Gymnastics is run through the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League.
Mercy offers fourteen (14) sports. The following athletic opportunities are available to all Mercy High School students:
* denotes non-cut sports
Season Teams
Fall Cross Country* Golf Tennis (Varsity and Junior Varsity) Volleyball (Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshman) Water Polo (Varsity and Junior Varsity)
Winter Basketball (Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshman) Soccer (Varsity, Junior Varsity)
Spring Gymnastics Lacrosse Softball Swimming and Diving* Track and Field*
Year Round Cheerleading Dance (Varsity and Junior Varsity)
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LEVELS OF COMPETITION Mercy High School offers athletic opportunities at the Freshmen, Junior Varsity, and Varsity levels in most sports. Coaches are expected to understand and abide by a number of factors that differentiate the levels of competition from one another. Parents and students are expected to understand and respect these factors as well. These factors include the commitment required of student-athletes, the tryout guidelines, the competition level, the playing time of each student-athlete, and the skills that should be emphasized at each respective level. For more details on how these playing time differences are defined please see the Student-Athlete/Parent Handbook.
MERCY HIGH SCHOOL FACILITIES
Mercy High School’s athletic program is run through a number of facilities both at the school and in the surrounding community. While we do our best to ensure that there is a consistent schedule for our families, we ask that families understand when scheduling conflicts arise and require last minute scheduling changes.
Any questions regarding facilities should go directly through the Athletic Director or another school administrator.
Mercy High School’s home facilities are as follows:
Water Polo and Swimming- Mercy High School (Burlingame) and Serra High School ( San Mateo)
Dance - Mercy High School (Burlingame)
Tennis - Mercy High School (Burlingame) and Skyline College (San Bruno)
Softball- Cuernavaca Park (Burlingame) and Bayside Park (Burlingame)
Basketball- Burlingame Sports Center (Burlingame) and College of San Mateo (San Mateo)
Track and Field- Junipero Serra High School (San Mateo)
Volleyball- Junipero Serra High School (San Mateo) and Burlingame Sports Center (Burlingame)
Soccer- Skyline College (San Bruno)
Golf- Crystal Springs Golf Course (Burlingame)
Cross Country- Crystal Spring Cross Country Course (Belmont)
Gymnastics- Gymtowne Gymnastics (South San Francisco)
Cheerleading - Rebels Elite Gym (South San Francisco)
Lacrosse - Gellert Park (Daly City) and Woodside High School (Woodside)
SPORTSMANSHIP
Sportsmanship is a priority at Mercy High School and can be observed in an individual who can take a defeat without complaint and a victory without gloating, and who treats her opponents with fairness, courtesy and respect. We at Mercy believe in living the Six Principles of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship. Good sportsmanship can come in many forms including positive supportive language, cooperation with coaches and
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officials, the use of safe legal techniques when playing the game, and support of injured players regardless of school affiliation.
Mercy High School expects its faculty and staff, students, and parent community to be role models demonstrating sportsmanship at all times. Coaches, players, and spectators are expected to always respect the integrity and judgment of sports officials. The conduct of coaches and players generally sets the tone for CIF/CCS school contests. They will be expected to maintain the highest level of decorum at all CCS/CIF school contests. The following behavior is unacceptable at any and all high school contests: berating an opponent’s school or mascot, berating opposing players, using obscene cheers or gestures, displaying negative signs, use of artificial noise makers, approaching the coach in a negative manner, and complaining about officials’ calls (verbal or gestures).
While the administration understands that officials can often make unfair decisions during competitions, it is our expectation that the coach and parents, serving as role models for our Mercy students, will not lose their tempers or outwardly display frustration and/or anger while at a Mercy High School function. Should a parent be frustrated by a call, he or she is expected to handle the incident according to school and sport rules. Parents are expected to contact the Athletic Director after the competition if there is a major issue with an official, and the Athletic Director will address the incident with the league through a formal complaint.
A student-athlete’s behavior is governed by the same rules, regulations, and procedures that apply to all students as set forth in the Mercy High School Parent-Student Handbook. Each student-athlete is expected to demonstrate and encourage in others behaviors that reflect good sportsmanship.
Parents and students should be aware that displaying poor sportsmanship and/or behavior that can be deemed by others as disrespectful, inappropriate, immoral, immature, and/or uncalled for could face disciplinary consequences which can include, but are not limited to, formal warnings, meetings with Mercy High School’s administration, suspension from the team, suspension from visiting abilities, and/or dismissal from the team.
ELIGIBILITY We expect student-athletes to maintain academic and behavioral standards in keeping with the Mercy High School Student-Parent Handbook and the teachings of the Catholic Church. These regulations and procedures apply while on school premises, during practices and competitions, and in the public arena. Being a participant in the Mercy Athletic Program is considered to be a privilege, and as such, students are expected to adhere to our Code of Conduct and Student Handbook. Students will be placed on Probation and removed from athletic teams if they have one of the following at the end of each grading period:
Have two or more “Ds” on a grading period progress report
Have one “F” on a grading period progress report
Have a grade point average of under 2.0 on a grading period progress report
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Furthermore, students must turn in all appropriate forms in order to be eligible to participate in a tryout. No student may tryout for a team until all forms are turned in. A student can become an eligible student-athlete of Mercy High School Athletics once the following requirements are met:
1. Student and parent/guardian have completed and returned the Mercy High School Athletic Interscholastic/ Permission Form
2. Student and parent/guardian have completed and turned in the Health Examination Form
3. Student and parent/ guardian have completed and turned in the Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation Form (only for 10th-12th graders)
4. Student and parent/ guardian have completed and turned in the Transportation Form 5. Student and parent/ guardian have completed and turned in the Concussion Form 3. Student and parent/guardian have read the Mercy High School Athletic Handbook and
signed the Athletic Contract All student-athletes must be marked as present in school on the day of practice or a game in order to participate. Any student who is not in attendance for at least 51% of the school day will not be eligible to participate in extra-curricular activities for that day. There is no exception this rule and families are expected to understand this and abide to it.
TRYOUTS Announcements of tryout dates will occur via the website, athletic e-news, and through student announcements during school hours. Any eligible Mercy High School student may tryout for a sport. Students are expected to attend all tryout dates. Should the coaches know prior to the last day of tryouts who would be best on the team, tryouts may not last the entire period. Should this occur no additional tryouts will be granted.
ATTENDANCE All student-athletes must recognize the time commitment made to a team. Mercy High School student-athletes are expected to attend all practices and games. If a student-athlete cannot attend a practice or game, it is her duty to contact the coach in advance. Consequences for a missed practice or game will be informed by the team rules as outlined by the coach/team at the beginning of the season in addition to the natural consequences that result from missing practice instruction or game experience. Any student who misses three or more practices will be required to have a meeting with her parents and Athletic Director where her future on the team will be decided. COMMUNICATION
The Mercy High School Administration encourages a healthy parent partnership in all aspects of the student’s life. Our parent and student community are expected to treat our coaches with respect at all times.
Parents and students are expected to refrain from approaching coaches immediately after games or at practices. In the case when a parent and/or student do want to express a concern, the grievance process is intended to be a process whereby concerns of alleged treatment of
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athletes can be addressed in a timely manner. It is our belief that a quick and honest discussion between all parties will result in the positive resolution of concerns and an improvement of the atmosphere for both the athletes and coaches.
The student-athlete and her parents are encouraged to address any situation according to the following process:
• The student-athlete discusses concern with the coach
• The parents discuss concern with the coach
The student-athlete discusses concern with the Athletic Director
• The parents discuss concern with the Athletic Director
• The parents, student-athlete, coach, and Athletic Director meet with the Assistant Principal for Student Life and/or Head of School
If there is a grievance with another school, it is not appropriate for a parent or player to contact the other school. Please direct the complaint to your Athletic Director and the athletic directors will handle the situation.
UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
Student-athletes and families are financially responsible for all uniforms and equipment loaned to them. Failure to return items constitutes financial obligation; lost items must be replaced or paid for at replacement costs. Uniforms and equipment should be returned in the same condition as they were received. Uniforms should be cleaned and washed before being returned. Report cards will be held and access to PowerSchool will be denied until all uniforms have been returned in acceptable condition or appropriate payments have been made.
For complete Athletic Information please review the Student-Athlete/ Parent Handbook.
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STUDENT LIFE
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Mercy High School’s Student Council represents the students in all areas of student life and advises the Student Activities Coordinator on these matters. The school encourages each grade level to have an active class council. All class activities are organized and run by the class council in conjunction with the class moderator.
The purpose of the Student Council is to initiate, encourage and coordinate student participation in all governmental, extra-curricular, and intra/interschool activities. Membership includes six student body officers and the five class officers from each class. Any club wishing to be represented sends its president or vice-president to Student Council meetings.
In order to become a member of the student council and retain the position, students must meet certain requirements:
• Maintain at least a 2.5 unweighted cumulative grade point average. GPAs of all student council members will be reviewed at the end of each marking period. If members fail to meet the minimum grade point average, they will enter a probationary period and grades will be monitored for the rest of the term. If the student’s grades do not improve by that time, she will be removed from her position for the remainder of the probationary period.
• Earn and maintain solid academic and disciplinary standing during their time as a student council member. If a student is placed on probation for a disciplinary issue she may lose her right to serve on class council for the remainder of the year as well as to run again in the future.
• Promise to uphold the Student Council Constitution and to demonstrate exemplary conduct at all times. Student Council members are role models for the entire student body and will be held to such standards on and off campus.
Student Body Officers are seniors elected by the student body to represent them for the term of one year. The positions are as follows: President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Publicity, and Activities Commissioner. The Student Body Officers work directly with the Student Activities Coordinator in the development, planning, and implementation of school-wide activities such as assemblies, rallies, and dances.
Class Officers are elected by their class for a term of one year. The class officers serve as representatives on the Student Council who are responsible for the smooth operation of activities within their class and the functioning of student affairs. Class officers must present proposed activities for their class to Student Council and student concerns to the Assistant Principal for Student Life.
BIG SISTER
Big Sister is the Mercy High School transition program designed to welcome freshmen and make them feel comfortable throughout their first year in high school. In the Big Sis/ Lil Sis program juniors will be paired with freshmen and will continue their relationships as sophomores and seniors. Built on the belief that students can help students succeed, our Mercy Big Sisters serve
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as positive role models and motivators who guide the freshmen to discover what it takes to be successful during their transition to Mercy High School. A group of seniors will be elected each year to serve as an advisory board to the program. For more information please contact the Student Activities Coordinator.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Students have the opportunity to discover and join various cultural, service, academic, and social clubs during our annual Fall Club Day. Membership is open to all Mercy High School students throughout the year. Students who express an interest in forming a club that revolves around an area of interest need to fill out a club application and charter, which are available at the beginning of the school year from the Student Activities Coordinator. Students are encouraged to join as many clubs as they feel they are capable of committing to. For a complete list of current clubs offered at Mercy High School, please contact the Student Activities Coordinator.
DANCES
Mercy High School offers various dances throughout the year in order to provide a fun and safe opportunity for students to interact with Mercy students as well as with students from other Catholic and public high schools.
Mercy High School holds the following dances:
Tri-School Freshman Social
Halloween Dance
Winter Formal
Junior/Senior Prom
Spring Fling
If a Mercy student wishes to attend a dance at another school she may be required to have a form filled out by Mercy High School. All forms should be signed by the Assistant Principal for Student Life.
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BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL
FINANCIAL AID PROGRAM
Mercy High School is conscious that a Mercy education involves a significant financial commitment on the part of parents and responsible management of those finances on the part of Mercy High School.
Each year resources are set aside for Financial Aid to help parents in their quest for a Mercy education for their daughters. Financial Aid requests are done through TADS and must be renewed each year. The application process begins in December.
Each (in) November Mercy parent e-news will include weekly reminders of the Financial Aid process and deadlines. Financial Aid awards are made in March for the following academic year.
Students receiving Financial Aid must maintain a semester average 2.5 GPA to remain eligible to continue receiving aid. Students whose GPA falls below 2.5 during the school year will have until the end of the quarter to improve their grades or aid will be rescinded. Returning students receiving aid who have less than a 2.5 GPA will be eligible for aid for a new school year; however, their GPA must be raised to 2.5 by the end of the first semester to remain eligible. Students new to the school whose families qualify for and who receive Financial Aid must have a 2.5 GPA at the semester to continue receiving the aid. Families of students whose aid is in jeopardy because of grades will receive letters outlining the issue, the possible solution and a deadline.
TUITION
Tuition payments may be made annually, semi-annually, or monthly. Enrollment in the FACTS Tuition Management program is mandatory for all families.
Before any senior can receive graduation accessories, or participate in any of the graduation activities (practices, Mass, Graduation ceremony), tuition accounts must be current.
For a more detailed explanation, please refer to the Board of Directors’ Tuition Policy distributed at the time of re-registration and in the July Parent/Student mailing.
ADVANCEMENT AND FUND-RAISING
The Advancement Office works closely with the entire Mercy community to further the mission of the school. The primary function of the Advancement Office is to build and increase the level of support for all programs and projects at Mercy High School.
Mercy High School will sponsor one school-wide student fundraiser each academic year. All students are expected to participate and raise funds for the fundraiser. Guidelines for participation will be mailed to all parents in August. The funds raised from the event support the academic, athletic, and co-curricular programs at Mercy High School. Outside fundraisers are not allowed at school.
Photo and Name Release
During the course of the school year, your daughter may be included in various photo opportunities. These photos may be used for the Yearbook, for promotional items including
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advertisements for Open House, the Website (no names used/photos only), Annual Report and general school use. These photos may also be used in conjunction with Press Releases sent out to the local newspapers and the San Francisco Catholic.
Should you desire not to have your daughter be included in these photos, please send a written note to the Advancement Office notifying them of your decision and we will make every effort to honor your wishes.
