1

STUDENT - PARENT
HANDBOOK

Early Education: Paseo de los Locutores No. 6, esq. Rafael F. Bonelly

Tel. 809-732-0440 / 809-732-0669

Elementary, Middle, & HS: Roberto Pastoriza No. 701

Tel. 809-540-8992 / 809-732-3270 / 809-544-4242/ Fax 809-540-8267
Website: www.sjs.edu.do E-Mail: info@sjs.edu.do

August 2008
 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................................... 4

A MESSAGE FROM THE SCHOOL CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR .................................................................................. 4

SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR ....................................................................................................................................... 5

Who’s Who at Saint Joseph School........................................................................................................................... 7

2007-2011 Board of Directors ................................................................................................................................... 7
Academic Staff ......................................................................................................................................................... 7
Faculty ...................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Teacher Assistants ................................................................................................................................................... 8
Administrative Staff ................................................................................................................................................... 8

SECTION I: DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHOOL ........................................................................................................... 9

1.1 Philosophy .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
1.2 Vision .................................................................................................................................................................. 9
1.3 Purpose .............................................................................................................................................................. 9
1.4 Belief Statements................................................................................................................................................ 9
1.5 Schoolwide Goals for Student Learning.............................................................................................................. 9
1.6 History ................................................................................................................................................................ 9
1.7 School Colors and Emblems ............................................................................................................................ 10
1.8 Organizational Structure ................................................................................................................................... 10
1.9 Accreditation and Affiliation .............................................................................................................................. 10

SECTION II: GENERAL INFORMATION .................................................................................................................... 10

2.1 Equal Education Opportunity ............................................................................................................................ 10
2.2 Admission and Registration Procedure............................................................................................................. 10
2.2.1 Readmission of students ........................................................................................................................... 10
2.2.2 Non-readmission ....................................................................................................................................... 11
2.3 Tuition Payment ................................................................................................................................................ 11
2.4 Student Withdrawal........................................................................................................................................... 11
2.5 Office Hours ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
2.6 Parental Involvement ........................................................................................................................................ 11
2.7 Back-to-School General Meeting ...................................................................................................................... 11
2.8 Conferences and Visits ..................................................................................................................................... 11
2.8.1 Scheduled Parent-Teacher Conferences .................................................................................................. 12
2.8.2 Un-scheduled Conferences....................................................................................................................... 12
2.8.3 Classroom Delegates ................................................................................................................................ 12
2.8.4 Unannounced School Visitor ..................................................................................................................... 12
2.9 Guidelines for Expressing Concern .................................................................................................................. 12
2.10 Parent Custody/Release of Records............................................................................................................... 12
2.11 Arrival to School.............................................................................................................................................. 12
2.12 Dismissal ........................................................................................................................................................ 13
2.12.1 Early Dismissal ....................................................................................................................................... 13
2.12.2 Departure from Afterschool Activities ...................................................................................................... 13
2.13 Attendance/Absence Policy ............................................................................................................................ 13
2.13.1 Excused Absence ................................................................................................................................... 13
2.13.2 Excused or Unexcused Absences Procedure ......................................................................................... 13
2.14 Make-Up Work ................................................................................................................................................ 14
2.15 Passes ............................................................................................................................................................ 14
2.16 Telephone Calls .............................................................................................................................................. 14
2.17 Uniforms ......................................................................................................................................................... 14
2.18 Personal Articles ............................................................................................................................................. 14
2.19 Lost and Found ............................................................................................................................................... 15
2.20 Announcements .............................................................................................................................................. 15
2.21 Care of School Property ................................................................................................................................. 15
2.22 Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) ................................................................................................................. 15

SECTION III: ACADEMIC STANDARDS .................................................................................................................... 15

3.1 Characteristics of the Academic Program ......................................................................................................... 15
3.1.1 Early Education Program .......................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.2 Elementary School .................................................................................................................................... 16
 3

3.1.3 Middle School ........................................................................................................................................... 16

3.1.4 High School............................................................................................................................................... 16
3.2 Promotion Requirement Policy ......................................................................................................................... 17
3.3 School Day and Bell Schedule ......................................................................................................................... 16
3.4 Assessment System ......................................................................................................................................... 16
3.5 Grading System ................................................................................................................................................ 17
3.5.1 Academic Grade Scales ........................................................................................................................... 17
3.5.2 Social and Skills Development Performance ............................................................................................ 18
3.5.3 Quarter and Semester Averages .............................................................................................................. 18
3.6 Semester Exam Exemption .............................................................................................................................. 18
3.7 Semester Exam Revision ................................................................................................................................. 18
3.8 Requests for Change of Semester Exam Date ................................................................................................. 18
3.9 Homework Policy .............................................................................................................................................. 18
3.9.1 General Rules ........................................................................................................................................... 19
3.9.2 When Students Are Negligent With Homework......................................................................................... 19
3.10 Notices of Concern ......................................................................................................................................... 19
3.11 Academic Probation........................................................................................................................................ 19
3.12 Remedial Programs ........................................................................................................................................ 19
3.13 Report Cards .................................................................................................................................................. 19
3.14 Honors and Awards ........................................................................................................................................ 19
3.15 Textbooks ....................................................................................................................................................... 20
3.16 Enrichment Period .......................................................................................................................................... 20
3.17 Tutoring Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 20
3.18 Summer School Session ................................................................................................................................ 20

SECTION IV: CONDUCT STANDARDS..................................................................................................................... 20

4.1 Students’ Rights and Responsibilities ............................................................................................................... 20
4.2 Disciplinary Committee ..................................................................................................................................... 21
4.3 Rules and Regulations for Conduct Infringement ............................................................................................. 21
4.3.1 Stage I— Infringement of Classroom Rules .............................................................................................. 21
4.3.2 Stage II— Serious Infringement of Classroom Rules ................................................................................ 22
4.3.3 Stage III —In-School Suspension ............................................................................................................. 22
4.3.4 Stage IV—Expulsion ................................................................................................................................. 23
4.4 Classroom Demeanor ....................................................................................................................................... 24
4.5 Playground Demeanor ...................................................................................................................................... 24
4.6 Internet Use ...................................................................................................................................................... 25
4.6.1 Plagiarism and Copyright Violation ........................................................................................................... 25
4.6.2 Safety measures ....................................................................................................................................... 25
4.7 Right to Search ................................................................................................................................................. 25
4.8 Harassment ...................................................................................................................................................... 25

SECTION V. STUDENT SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES .............................................................................................. 26

5.1 Media Center .................................................................................................................................................... 26
5.2 Cafeteria ........................................................................................................................................................... 26
5.3 Counseling Service ........................................................................................................................................... 26
5.4 School Nurse .................................................................................................................................................... 26
5.5 Illness and Supervised Medication ................................................................................................................... 27
5.6 Drills and Emergency Situations ....................................................................................................................... 27
5.6.1 Emergency Phone Line ............................................................................................................................. 27
5.7 Birthday Parties ................................................................................................................................................ 27
5.8 Extracurricular Activities ................................................................................................................................... 27
5.8.1 Field Trips ................................................................................................................................................. 27
5.8.2 Assemblies................................................................................................................................................ 27
5.8.3 Student Clubs ........................................................................................................................................... 28
5.9 After School Program ....................................................................................................................................... 28
5.10 Student Government....................................................................................................................................... 28
5.11 Lockers .......................................................................................................................................................... 29
5.12 School Newsletter ........................................................................................................................................... 28
5.13 Fundraising Projects ....................................................................................................................................... 28
5.14 Organization, Activity, and Club Funds ........................................................................................................... 28

LETTER OF AGREEMENT......................................................................................................................................... 29
 4

INTRODUCTION

The Student-Parent Handbook is a set of norms intended to inform the school community of Saint Joseph School’s
guiding principles, preside over the essential behavior expected of its members and make the retrieval of the desired
information easier. It serves as a reference guide to school standards as it endeavors to enhance communication
between the School and home. Students and Parents must first read carefully and discuss thoroughly its content,
then sign and return to school the Letter of Agreement (see Appendix).

This Handbook does not in any way imply that the School will abide by these standards ceaselessly. The School
Board and the School Administration reserve their rights to amend, eliminate, and/or interpret any and all of these
norms at their discretion and without prior notice. This Student-Parent Handbook is in effect until the School
Administration decides otherwise. Therefore, it eliminates any regulation, communication or part of it that may have
been previously published and is in disagreement with this compilation. The School Board and/or the Administration
in compliance with the School philosophy and goals will conscientiously attend to any situation that may arise and is
not considered in this Student-Parent Handbook.

A MESSAGE FROM THE SCHOOL CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR

Dear Students and Parents:

On behalf of the faculty and staff I would like to welcome you to the Saint Joseph School family and express our hope
that you feel happy and well served within our community. The entire staff at School is at your service and our main
concern is your child’s education and well-being.

With that in mind we put forward this Student-Parent Handbook in the hope that its guidelines serve to address your
queries and concerns. The policies, norms, and regulations set herein are a product of the consensus of the entire
Saint Joseph community from its School Board to the parents. Any questions or suggestions regarding its content are
welcome and appreciated.

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, we are a school that places high value on excellence of teaching as evidenced
by the curriculum planning process carried out by our faculty. Remember, your child’s education is an important
undertaking that must involve all of us working together and sharing the same values and beliefs.

We are a small school with lofty goals. For our students, it is the best of both worlds – an intimate and intense school
paired with the diverse educational opportunities characteristic of our dual language program and curriculum. Finally,
we welcome your questions and invite you to visit us.

Most cordially,

Dr. Janet Reyes

School Chief Administrator
 5

SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR

2008-2009
August 2008
Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun. AUGUST VALUES OF THE MONTH: CHARACTER & UNIQUENESS
1 2 3 4 - 15 Faculty Induction
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 19 Early Education Induction for students
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 25 Elementary, Middle School & High School Induction
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31

September 2008
Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun SEPTEMBER VALUES OF THE MONTH:RESPONSIBILITY &
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 COOPERATION
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 8 - 12 Student Council Campaign & Elections
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 15 Student Council Induction Assembly, 8:00 a.m.
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 15 – 19 Safety Awareness Week
16 Parent Workshop, 7:00 p.m.
29 30
17 1st – 9th Progress Reports go home
17 - 19 Early Education Adaptation Reports go home
24 Our Lady of Mercy Day (SCHOOL CLOSED)
October 2008
Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun OCTOBER VALUES OF THE MONTH: RESPECT & DISCIPLINE
1 2 3 4 5 17 END OF 1st QUARTER
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 23 – 24 Battle of the Books (Literary Enrichment Days)
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 /Faculty In-service (NO CLASSES)
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 31 Early Education Costume Parade
27 28 29 30 31 31 Spelling Bee for 2nd – 5th grades
31 Parent-Teacher Conference for 1st-9th(DISMISSAL AT 12:00 M)

November 2008 NOVEMBER VALUES OF THE MONTH: TRUSTWORTHINESS & THANKFULNESS

Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun
7 Early Education Grandparents Day Celebration
1 2 10 Dominican Constitution Day (SCHOOL CLOSED)
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 19 1st – 9th Progress Reports go home
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 Early Education Parent-Teacher Conferences
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 26 Thanksgiving Celebration
24 25 26 27 28 29 30 27 – 28 Thanksgiving Holiday (SCHOOL CLOSED)

December 2008
Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun DECEMBER VALUES OF THE MONTH: CARING & SHARING
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 Winter Performance
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 - 18 Spanish & French Midterm Tests for 3rd-9th grades
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 19 Winter Break Celebration, 8-10 a.m./Last Day of Classes for all Students
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 22-Jan 6 Winter Break (SCHOOL CLOSED)
29 30 31

THIS CALENDAR CONTAINS ESSENTIAL DATES. THE SCHOOL BOARD

MAY APPROVE CHANGES DUE TO UNFORESEEN EVENTS OR
EMERGENCIES.
 6

January 2009 JANUARY VALUES OF THE MONTH: FAIRNESS & FREEDOM

Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun 6 Staff returns/ Faculty In-service Day (NO CLASSES)
1 2 3 4 7 Classes Resume for All Students
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 9 END OF 2ND QUARTER
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 12 – 13 English Midterm Test Reviews for 3rd-9th grades
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 14 – 16 English Midterm Tests for 3rd-9th grades (EARLY DISMISSAL)
26 27 28 29 30 31 19 3RD QUARTER BEGINS
21 Día de la Altagracia (SCHOOL CLOSED)
26 Juan Pablo Duarte Day (SCHOOL CLOSED)
30 Parent-Teacher Conferences for 1st -9th (DISMISSAL AT 12:00 M)
February 2009
Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun FEBRUARY VALUES OF THE MONTH: PATRIOTISM & CITIZENSHIP
1 18 1st – 9th Progress Reports go home
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 23 - 26 Dominican Heritage Week
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 27 Dominican Independence Day (SCHOOL CLOSED)
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28
MARCH VALUES OF THE MONTH:FAMILY & FITNESS
March 2009 3 Spanish Literary Contest
Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun
1 6 Early Education Parent-Teacher Conferences
2 3 4 5 6 7 Family Fun Day, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
7 8
20 END OF 3RD QUARTER
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 25 Parent Workshop, 7:00 p.m.
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
APRIL VALUES OF THE MONTH:DECISION-MAKING & TEAMWORK
April 2009 3 Early Education Easter Egg Hunt
Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun 3 1st – 9th Math Olympics
1 2 3 4 5 3 Parent-Teacher Conference for 1st -9th (DISMISSAL AT 12:00 M)
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 6 – 10 Spring Break (SCHOOL CLOSED)
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 13 Staff returns/ Faculty In-service Day (NO CLASSES)
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 14 Classes Resume for All Students
29 1st – 9th Progress Reports go home
27 28 29 30

May 2009 MAY VALUES OF THE MONTH:LOYALTY & HONESTY

Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun 4 Labor Day (SCHOOL CLOSED)
1 2 3 5-8 Iowa Standardized Testing for K - 9th
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 28 Early Education Mother’s Day Program
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 29 Elementary Mother’s Day Program
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 27 END OF 4TH QUARTER
28-June 3 Reviews for Final Tests for 3rd – 9th grades
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
JUNE TEACHER APPRECIATION MONTH
June 2009 1-2 Spanish & French Midterm Tests for 3 rd-9th grades
Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun
4 – 9 English Final Tests for 3rd-9th grades (EARLY DISMISSAL)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
9 Kindergarten Moving Up Ceremony, 6:00 p.m.
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
10 End-of-the-year party, 8-10 am/Last day of School for All Students
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 11 Corpus Christi (SCHOOL CLOSED)
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 16 – 19 D.R. National Exams for 8th Grade
29 30 15 - 16 Completive Exams for 3rd-9th grades
22-July 10 Summer School for 1st – 9th
23 Final Report Card Distribution for 1 st – 9th, 8-12 m
25 Early Education Parent - Teacher Conferences, 8-12 m
26 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 8:30 a.m.
30 Teacher Appreciation Celebration
JULY 1-31 Faculty Vacations
 7

Who’s Who at Saint Joseph School

2008-2009

2007-2011 Board of Directors

President Mrs. Tammy Peralta
Vice-president Mr. Paulo Herrera Maluf
Secretary Mr. Allam De Moya
Treasurer Mr. Jorge Torres
Member Mr. Jhoan Manuel Vargas
Member Mr. Hipólito Marte
Member Ms. Amanda Hache
Member Mr. Diómedes Calderón
Non-voting Member -School Chief Adm. Ms. Janet Reyes
Non-voting Member Mrs. Carmina Peña

Academic Staff
School Chief Administrator Ms. Janet Reyes, M.A.
Early Education Principal Ms. Giselle Gómez, M.S.
Elementary & Middle School Principal Ms. Mery Saldaña, M.S.
Counselor Mrs. Arleen Guzmán, M.S.
Psychologist Mrs. Angela Mota
Media Specialist Ms. Joyce Nelson, M.S.

Faculty
Early Education Program
Nursery Mrs. Maybe Nova
Ms. Benedy Veloz
Toddler A Mrs. Ninoska Pujols
Toddler B Ms. Ariadna Sánchez
Pre-Kinder A Ms. Mayerlin Molina
Pre-Kinder B Ms. Montserrat González, M.S.
Kinder A Ms. Michelle Hernández
Kinder B Ms. Karen Estevez

Elementary School
First A Ms. Evelyn Tavarez
First B Mrs. Princesa Cid, M.S.
Second A Mrs. Joana Olsen
Second B Mr. Jovanni Durán
Third A Ms. Aracelis Aquino
Third B Mrs. Lina Sánchez
Fourth Mrs. Mirian Blanco, M.S.
Fifth A Mrs. Svetlana Terzic (Lang. Arts & Soc. Stud.)
Fifth B Mr. Diómedes Díaz (Math & Science)

Middle School & High School

Literature/Social Studies Ms. Kimberli Holmquist, M.A.
Mathematics Mr. Alcibíades Abreu
Science Mr. Livingstone Torkpoh

Spanish Language Department

Mrs. Gladys Reyes
Ms. Carmen Tejada, M. S.
Ms. Aida Cuello
Mrs. Martha Brito
Mrs. Criselda Melo

Co-Curricular Subjects
Computer Science Department Mr. Ernesto Flores (Computer Technician)

Physical Education Mr. Carlos Banks

Mr. José Pérez
Mrs. Mariluz Castillo (Motor Skills in Early Ed.)
 8

Ms. Mariel Muñoz (Aide)

Fine Arts Mr. Igor Muñoz (Music)

Ms. Nicole Suriel (Art)

Remedial Programs
Ms. Mechy Saldaña
Ms. Florangel Infante (Substitute Teacher)

Teacher Assistants
Early Education
Toddler A Ms. Raquel Hernández
Toddler B Ms. Estefania Saldivar
Pre-Kinder A Ms. Rebeca Ovalles
Pre-Kinder B Ms. Wendy Andújar
Kinder A Ms. Catherine García
Kinder B Ms. Karina Fernández

Elementary
First Ms. Brizayda Núñez
Second Ms. Ysabel Sosa
Third Ms. Rosa Lucia Benzan
Fourth Ms. Massiel Salcedo

Administrative Staff
Business Administrator Mrs. Carmina Peña
Assistant Business Administrator Mrs. Vanessa Taulé
Accountant Mr. Jesús Mateo
Receptionist Mrs. Michelle Victoria
Administrative Secretary / Activ. Coord. Mrs. Aimee Aybar
Early Education Secretary Ms. Erika Pichardo
Elementary Secretary Ms. Pily Díaz
Spanish Program Secretary Mrs. Yadira Rodríguez
School Nurse Ms. Lilian Leonor
Maintenance Supervisor Mr. Rómulo Araujo
 9

SECTION I: DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHOOL

1.1 Philosophy
Saint Joseph School fosters academic excellence and strong character development with an emphasis on human
relations. The School is committed to working in partnership with students, parents, and teachers and providing
opportunities that assure progress toward the school’s educational goals. Under the guidance of a caring Faculty and
Staff and in a supportive and nurturing environment, Saint Joseph School encourages positive attitudes toward life-
long learning and promotes the development of the academic and social skills needed for an ever changing, globally
interconnected, multicultural, and multiethnic world.

Saint Joseph School believes that a meaningful and qualitative educational program must address the diversity of
abilities among students and all aspects of their personal development. The School values the ethnicity of the
Dominican Republic and upholds a college preparatory, USA-type curriculum that encompasses not only a set of
fundamental academic skills, but also an array of principles including a commitment to function as a responsible
member of a civic community. Consequently, the School’s stimulating and effective educational program cultivates
the intellectual, physical, social, aesthetic, and emotional growth of each student using constructive pedagogical
methodologies and multi-sensory approaches.

Saint Joseph School recognizes that teachers, parents, and community members ought to partake of an environment
that is unified by the high value placed on education at home, at school, and in society. Thus, within this integrated
educational culture, and to carry out the wide-ranging and comprehensive academic foundation of creative
undertakings, the School endorses a strong, active parental and community involvement so students become
conscientious, thoughtful, and productive citizens.

1.2 Vision
Saint Joseph School promotes students’ integrity based on moral and social values and academic excellence thus
preparing them for a changing world.

1.3 Purpose
Saint Joseph School educates individual by teaching them to develop different skills and pursue academic excellence
as well as social, emotional, and physical growth, while engaging the community in the teaching-learning process.

1.4 Belief Statements

Saint Joseph School believes in:
• Sharing the responsibility in facilitating the process for students to learn
• Developing critical thinking skills and abilities through a dynamic curriculum.
• Incorporating a variety of learning activities to accommodate differences in students’ learning styles.
• Developing a sense of respect for all individuals and enhancing the values of truthfulness and concern for
the rights of others.
• Providing an environment that supports intellectual, emotional, social, physical and aesthetic growth.
• Promoting self and group belonging awareness.
• Fostering honesty, equality, consideration, self-discipline, and personal integrity through interaction and
service to the school and community.

1.5 Schoolwide Goals for Student Learning

The Purpose of the School is further defined by embracing expected schoolwide goals that form the foundation of
Saint Joseph School academic program for every student. Expected schoolwide goals are interdisciplinary
statements about what students should know, understand, and be able to do by the time they graduate.
Goal 1: Students will attain skills and strategies for effective lifelong learning.
Goal 2: Students will acquire and process knowledge within and across disciplines.
Goal 3: Students will build effective communication skills in English and Spanish to work
successfully and ethically in a diverse society.
Goal 4: Students will strive for excellence through the development of higher order thinking skills and the
application of learning to everyday life situations.
Goal 5: Students will demonstrate positive interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence required to attain
their greatest potential.
Goal 6: Students will acquire and display leadership skills and personal and social responsibility.

1.6 History
Saint Joseph School was founded in 1999 to provide the community with an International school that offers quality
education in a safe, supporting, and challenging environment enhanced by technology and the contributions of the
school community. The Board of Trustees formed by parents and members of our community has held ownership
over the School since 2004.
 10

Saint Joseph School follows a U.S.-type college preparatory curriculum in English. The School also complies with the
Dominican Ministry of Education curriculum requirements by offering a Spanish language and Dominican social
studies program. The School also offers a formative program of education in moral values, physical education, fine
arts, computer skills, and other extracurricular activities that serve to complement the academic programs.

1.7 School Colors and Emblems

Saint Joseph School colors are navy blue, red and white. Blue expresses the resourcefulness and aspiration for
better communication. Red shows the positive disposition and love for the school. White represents the purity of our
actions which are all geared towards providing our students with the best education possible and helping them
develop into integral citizens.

1.8 Organizational Structure

The Board of Trustees grants the Saint Joseph School Board of Directors the power to govern and oversee the
management of the School. Consequently, the Board of Directors is the policy-making body within the school that has
overall responsibility for curriculum, annual budget, employment of the School Chief Administrator and other
professional staff, facilities and expansions. The Board of Directors meets regularly on a monthly basis. Part of every
regular meeting is set aside for comments from the school community. To be included in this part of the meeting, the
school community must register with the School Chief Administrator’s secretary at least one week before the meeting
takes place. Those registering will be asked to indicate the topic about which they wish to speak.

The School structure is organized into two major areas, the Academic and the Administrative areas, with each
containing major functional divisions. The School Chief Administrator or Director is the educational leader who
administers both areas. The School Chief Administrator governs the school according to the policies set by the
Board; has the responsibility for hiring, evaluating, and dismissing faculty and staff; and works jointly with the
Business Manager and School Principals to ensure that the academic and financial resources of the school are
administered according to the needs of the school community. The Business Manager for the Administrative Division
has primary responsibilities for the operational and business functions.

The Academic Area incorporates resources that support the purpose of the School, including: all academic
departments, the media center, teaching laboratories, academic counseling, and enrollment management. Saint
st th
Joseph School is divided into four schools: Early Education (Nursery to Kindergarten), Elementary (1 -5 ), Middle
th th th th
School (6 – 8 ), and High School (9 –12 ).

The Administrative Division provides administrative support functions and services for the School. These functions
and services include: the Business and Financial Division, Human Resources, and Operations and Facility Services.

1.9 Accreditation and Affiliation

Saint Joseph School has been accredited by the Dominican Republic Ministry of Education (Certificate No. 701) since
1999. It is also a candidate member to the accreditation of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS-
CASI), which is an international association that operates in the United States as an accrediting agency to colleges
and schools that comply with its established criteria of educational quality. Furthermore, Saint Joseph School is also
affiliated to international educational associations such as, Inter-Regional Center (IRC), Association of Colombian
and Caribbean American Schools (ACCAS), and the Tri-Association. The main purpose of these associations is to
provide teachers and school administrators with up-to-date professional development.

SECTION II: GENERAL INFORMATION

2.1 Equal Education Opportunity
Saint Joseph School is an independent, non-sectarian academic institution that fosters a US-type curriculum and
serves the citizens of the Dominican Republic, the United States, and other countries without regard to race, religion,
gender, country of national origin, or political affiliation. The School offers equal educational opportunities to all who
formally register and comply with its standards and admission policy.

2.2 Admission and Registration Procedure

Saint Joseph School reserves the right to register or decline admission to any new or presently enrolled student. New
students must refer to the Registration Booklet for details on the new student enrollment procedure.

2.2.1 Readmission of students

All students presently attending Saint Joseph School who uphold the principles of citizenship and academic
promotion will automatically be re-admitted to the next academic year. In order to complete the enrollment
process parents are expected to comply within the stipulated time with the following:
a) Fill out a complete Registration Form;
 11

b) Bring one 2x2 photograph;

c) Sign the Registration Contract; and
d) Select a payment plan, reserve a place by paying the non-refundable enrollment fee and the
Parent-Teacher’s Association fee, and make the first payment accordingly.
Parents who do not submit documents and/or follow through with payments in the allotted time will
automatically forfeit the student’s place.

2.2.2 Non-readmission
A student may not be readmitted IF:
 The student was expelled or suspended more than once from school.
 The student is on an academic or disciplinary contract and has not satisfactorily accomplished the
stipulated conditions.
 The student fails to complete the academic school year or has been retained at grade level for a
second time. This applies to grades 4 and up.
 The student does not make up failed subjects during the summer school session.
 The student was absent or late for more than 20% of the school days.

2.3 Tuition Payment

As a private institution, Saint Joseph School mainly depends on tuition for its income. Therefore, Parents are
expected to comply with the payment plan they choose in order for the School to fulfill all of its financial
responsibilities. These payment plans are available in the Registration Booklet.

2.4 Student Withdrawal

Parents who wish to withdraw a student from Saint Joseph School once school has begun are to notify the school in
writing and sign a release form allowing the transfer of the student’s record to the new school. All textbooks and
library books must be returned and cafeteria fees must be paid before records can be forwarded. The refund policy is
as follows:
 Enrollment Fee – No refund
 Resources Fee- No refund
 Tuition Fee – There is a 50% refund from the tuition payments of the upcoming school year to
st
families who decide to withdraw before the 1 of June.

2.5 Office Hours

Parents who are interested in meeting with the School Director, any Administrative Personnel, Principal and/or a
faculty member to discuss matters pertaining to tuition fees, express concern, make suggestions, be part of
volunteered work, or deal with student’s academic and/or disciplinary matters may contact the Academic Office from
7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

2.6 Parental Involvement

Saint Joseph School works to establish strong bonds of communication between the Parents and the school.
Therefore, dynamic and effective parental involvement in school activities is required and the lack of it is taken into
consideration in determining the registration of students for the following school year. Parental involvement includes:
 Attendance and/or active participation at school functions and school related activities.
 Attendance at a minimum of three Parent-Teacher Conferences a year.
 Family financial support of school fundraising activities.
 The reading and acknowledgement of all communications sent home.
How can Parents help their children?
 Studying and discussing the contents of this Handbook;
 Participating in the Parent-Teacher Association;
 Attending conferences, back-to-school night, Parent-Teacher consultations and related school
activities;
 Engaging in frequent family discussions about school activities, class offerings, and the meaning
of total school experiences; and
 Helping the students formulate individual plans of scholastic and career goals.

2.7 Back-to-School General Meeting

This is a required meeting for all Parents to attend. At this meeting, the School Director and the President of the
School Board present an overview of the School philosophy and educational priorities for the new academic year. In
addition, there is a presentation relating to other issues of concern to the school community, such as Parental
Participation or curriculum review. Members of the School Board of Directors, Parent-Teacher Association, Faculty
and Administrative Staff are then introduced.

2.8 Conferences and Visits

Saint Joseph School exhorts the school community to keep open channels of communication with faculty and
administrators.
 12

2.8.1 Scheduled Parent-Teacher Conferences

The school has prearranged four scheduled conferences during which Parents receive the student’s
report card and talk about the student’s academic and disciplinary development in school. It is
essential for Parents to attend these conferences. See Parental Involvement Section.

2.8.2 Un-scheduled Conferences

If Parents wish to confer with a faculty or Administrative staff member, then an appointment should be
made beforehand at a time suitable to all participants. Classes, planned activities, recess periods, or
school duty assignments are not to be interrupted or used to hold a conference. Furthermore, a
teacher’s after school personal time should not be employed for a conference either.

2.8.3 Classroom Delegates

Parents who are delegates may request permission from the Principal to visit the classrooms during
homeroom period.

2.8.4 Unannounced School Visitor

All unannounced visitors should report to the Administrative Office upon entering the school. If it
concerns a student, the message will be given to the student or the items dropped off. However, the
school discourages interruptions of this type; parents are urged to send the children to school with all
the items they may need for the day.

2.9 Guidelines for Expressing Concern

It is logical that the school community may be at one time apprehensive about procedures, decisions or actions taken
by the School Board of Directors, Administration, Faculty or Staff. It is also reasonable that perhaps a parent or
student’s conduct may be cause for concern. The School urges all to follow effective channels and styles of
communication to solve difficulties. Please adhere to the following procedure:

If the concern involves a Faculty or Administrative Staff:

a) Request a meeting with the person in question to talk about the issue.
b) If the issue is not settled then speak to the School Director.
c) The Board of Directors is the final appeal forum.

If the concern involves a student or Parent:

a) Request a meeting with the Counselor, School Psychologist or teacher to look into the matter, notify the
people involved, and attempt to resolve the difficulty.
b) If the issue is not settled then request a conference with the School Director so proper actions are taken.

The School always embraces positive and constructive suggestions to uphold its excellence. But, for suggestions to
receive complete and thorough deliberation, they must be submitted in writing to the School Director. A reply and
reaction will be provided only if participants submitting the suggestion are acknowledged. Please remember to
include name and grade level.

2.10 Parent Custody/Release of Records

If Parents are divorced and custody of the child is part of the decree, the school must know if only one or both
Parents have permission to sign a child out or pick up a child after school. This notification must be in official
document form. Also, it should be immediately ascertained whether one or both Parents would have access to the
student's school records.

2.11 Arrival to School

A teacher is on duty at the School gate to welcome students as of 7:30 a.m., therefore, children should not be
dropped off before 7:30 a.m. since there is no supervision provided prior to that time. Homeroom starts promptly at
7:40 a.m. daily.

Students arriving later than 7:45 a.m. are considered tardy. When a child is late, he/she not only misses out on
the important morning activities but also disrupts the routine already begun by the other students. A student coming
habitually late to school for reasons of poor parent planning will be required to meet with the Counselor and/or School
Director and may jeopardize re-admission to the following school year.

A child who arrives between 7:45 and 8:00 a.m. is late and will be issued a tardy slip in order to enter class. Then at
8:00 a.m. the big school gates are closed and any child arriving after that time must be accompanied by an adult to
the office to sign him/her into school. These students will remain in a supervised area for the duration of the first
period in order not to disturb classes already in progress.
 13

Any student who accumulates five tardy slips in a month will be required to serve time in afterschool detention. A
student who accumulates ten tardy slips in one quarter will have an in school suspension for one day. A student
who is late for more than 20% of the school days may be declined readmission.

2.12 Dismissal
Dismissal for all grades is at 2:15 p.m. At the end of the school day, the students will remain in their classroom
until they are called over the loudspeaker. No student will be released except to a Parent, authorized person, or
carpool driver as they drive through the pick-up area. In order to help students leave the school grounds in an orderly
fashion, the following norms be observed:
 Since students are called when their ride arrives, Parents are not to come into the classroom to pick
them up.
 Students are to be attentive to their name being called, but not move until the teacher on duty calls
them.
 Students who carpool with others should remain together to avoid delays in traffic flow.
 Students who do not follow directions will have to be picked up from the Main Office.

2.12.1 Early Dismissal

If it is necessary for a student to be dismissed during a regular school day, the Parent must come to the
Main Office to sign the student out. Students will not be released to anyone other than the Parent or
Guardian without specific authorization. Early dismissals should be for valid reasons only. Parents should
not sign out students early from school for personal time convenience, as this will disrupt
teaching/learning in the classroom.

2.12.2 Departure from Afterschool Activities

At the conclusion of afterschool activities, Parents are asked to be prompt in picking up students although
authorized personnel stay with the students until they are picked up. If there is a change in the time of
departure, the student should bring a note from home. A student who is consistently not picked up at the
agreed time will not be allowed to participate in afterschool activities.

2.13 Attendance/Absence Policy

Attendance is critical for academic achievement and the development of school-related values. If a student does not
attend at least 80% of school days, then he/she may not be eligible to receive grades for that school year and, thus,
will not be promoted to the next grade.

2.13.1 Excused Absence

An Excused Absence is when the student is absent for a justifiable reason. An Unexcused Absence is
when a student is absent for unnecessary reasons, or simply as a matter of convenience to Parents.
 No absence is recorded when a student is physically away from school because he/she is
participating in school sponsored, teacher chaperoned field trips, athletic events, workshops,
contests, etc.
 The Principal may approve excuses for absence to any student for the following reasons:
o Evidence that the student is not in proper physical or mental condition to attend school.
The School may request the Parent or Guardian to obtain a written statement from a
physician as proof of the physical or mental condition of the student. Such excuse should
be in writing, state the period of time for which it is valid and not exceed 30 days.
o An immediate family member who is ill and requires the absence of the student because
of family responsibilities.
o Emergency medical, dental, chiropractic, optometric or other valid professional
appointment Parents or guardians are requested to make regular appointments during
non-school hours.
o A death in the immediate family.
o Religious holidays.
o Special circumstances that show good cause and are approved in advance by the
Principal.

2.13.2 Excused or Unexcused Absences Procedure

a. All excused absences require Parent written verification that is to be submitted to the
Administrative Office in advance or prior to re-admittance to school. The note should explain the
reason for the absence; otherwise the student’s absence will be recorded as unexcused.
b. All students with excused absences will be given the opportunity to make up work. (See Make Up
Policy).
c. In the case of an extended absence (three days or more), Parents can request homework
through the Academic Office before 9 a.m. in the morning. The homework assignments can then
be picked up from the Main Office from 2.15 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
 14

d. Upon their return to school after an absence, all students are required to take part in all school
activities. Exceptions to this rule are only accepted when a request in writing is submitted by the
family physician.

2.14 Make-Up Work

Excused Absence: Upon returning from an excused absence students will be given some time (at teacher’s
discretion) to make up important work missed. Teachers will follow these guidelines:
 It is the student's responsibility to contact teachers to make arrangements for making up work missed
when they return to school.
 Tests or assessments missed during an absence will be taken at a time mutually agreed upon by the
student and the teacher.

Un-excused Absence: No credit will be given for work missed and no make-up will be assigned for tests or projects.

2.15 Passes
A student must have a classroom pass signed by the teacher or authorized school staff to leave a classroom during a
class period. Students should have the classroom pass visible at all times when he/she is outside a classroom.

2.16 Telephone Calls

Office phones are private lines and not to be used by the students. In case of an emergency the Principal, Guidance
Counselor, or Nurse will make the call.

2.17 Uniforms
The student’s image is a parental and an individual responsibility. All students are required to wear the school
uniform. Good hygiene, tidy hair, and unsoiled clothes and shoes are elements of a pleasant physical appearance.
Thus, each student is expected to comply with simple reasonable grooming guidelines. All students must wear the
complete official uniform to class, field trips and related school activities. If a student reports to school not wearing
proper uniform, Parents are notified and the student is not allowed to attend classes until the uniform is completed.
Absences to class for this reason are considered unjustified. The School Administration reserves the right to withhold
students from class or remove and retain any unauthorized dress item brought to school. Furthermore, on free dress
day it is expected for students to wear attire appropriate for a school day. Therefore, students may not dress in
shorts, short mini-skirts, bare midriff and spaghetti strap shirts, or flip-flops.

Also, students are not allowed to:

 Wear hats, caps, bonnets, scarves, extravagant and excessive jewelry, sandals, tennis shoes with lights or
sounds.
 Put on nose or tongue jewelry. Only girls are allowed to wear discreet earrings.
 Have on make up, extravagant nail polish, tattoos or diverse hair colorings.
 Boys are not to sport facial hair or long hairstyle.

As to the proper use of uniforms, they must be clean and neatly pressed. Shirts must be worn inside the pants
showing the belt and pants may not hang loosely about the hips. Sweaters must be worn properly, not tied around the
waist, hips or shoulders.

LEVEL BOYS & GIRLS

 Top: Polo shirt with school logo in any of the following colors: red, white or blue.
 Kaki Bottom: Long pants, classic style.
Girls may wear skorts (skirt+shorts), below the knee.
Elementary  Belt: Black or dark brown.
st th
(1 – 5 grade)  Footwear: School shoes (black or dark brown) or sneakers (black or white).
 Socks: white, classic length.
 Sweater (optional): Navy blue with school logo.
 Physical Education: White T-shirt with school logo, long gym pants (navy blue,
could have a white side stripe) and sneakers (black or white).
Students are allowed to remain all day with their PE uniforms.
 Top: Polo shirt with school logo in any of the following colors: red, white or blue.
 Kaki Bottom: Long pants, classic style.
 Belt: Black or dark brown.
Middle School  Footwear: School shoes (black or dark brown) or sneakers (black or white).
& High School  Socks: white, classic length.
th th
(6 – 12  Sweater (optional): Navy blue with school logo.
grades)  Physical Education: White T-shirt with school logo, long gym pants (navy blue,
could have a white side stripe) and sneakers (black or white).
Students are allowed to remain all day with their PE uniforms
 15

2.18 Personal Articles

Personal articles such as: electronic games or equipment, toys, cameras, radios, tape recorders, laser pointers,
compact disc, cassette players, scooters, skateboards, roller blades and roller skates will not be permitted on school
grounds and/or activities at any time except by permission from the School Director. Any of the above brought to
school by a student will be kept in the School Academic Office and may be picked up by Parents. Items may be held
in the School Academic Office until the conclusion of the school year. Unclaimed articles will be donated to charity at
the end of the school year. Game cards and other items commonly traded or exchanged are also not permitted on
school grounds. Buying, selling or trading anything of this nature on School is prohibited. The school is not
responsible for any confiscated items.

2.19 Lost and Found

Although Saint Joseph School Faculty and Staff take every precaution to ensure the care of items brought from
home, they cannot be held accountable for the loss or damage to valuable goods. Articles found on the school
premises will be taken to the Lost and Found Area in the Infirmary. Parents are asked to mark student’s clothing so
that identification and return of lost articles can be more easily accomplished.

2.20 Announcements
The School Director or Counselor must first approve signs and posters that a student wishes to display.
Announcements or posters displayed without authorization will be removed. No one shall sell, advertise, or distribute
on school grounds any literature, which would substantially disrupt or interfere with normal school operations. All
printed, written, or pictorial literature must be in compliance with school policy and documented with the School
Director beforehand.

2.21 Care of School Property

The physical plants and surrounding areas are kept as clean and attractive as possible at all times and students are
asked to cooperate in maintaining them and showing proper respect. There are a number of wastebaskets
conveniently placed, so it is not necessary to throw waste material on the floor or the school grounds. Students are
accountable for their own actions directed toward school property and/or any damage. Vandalism, writing or marking
on any school property will not be tolerated. In instances where school property is marked on, broken, defaced by
cutting or with writing or pasting pictures or otherwise abused, responsible students or their Parents will be expected
to pay replacement or repair costs.

Students are responsible for all school-issued property, including but not limited to, athletic equipment, music
instruments, textbooks, and athletic uniforms.

2.22 Parent-Teacher Association (PTA)

Parental input and communication into school decisions is vitally important for a school to be successful. Therefore,
the Parent-Teacher Association plays an important role as liaison between the School, Parents and the community at
large. Parents wishing to become involved in the School Parent-Teacher Association or one of its committees for the
school year may contact the School Administrative Office.

2.23 Photographs and Videotaping of Students

Photographs and videotaping of students, staff and school guests taken throughout the school year may be used in
school displays, school website or any other publication. Initiating the school year, permission slips are sent to
Parents so they may authorize the school to photograph, videotape and/or audiotape their children.

SECTION III: ACADEMIC STANDARDS

3.1 Characteristics of the Academic Program

Saint Joseph School is organized to include Nursery through Twelfth Grade and is divided into four schools:
3.1.1 Early Education Program
This program is for children ages 1 through 5 in grades Nursery, Toddlers, Pre-Kindergarten and
Kindergarten. The curriculum is multicultural and diverse and provides children with experiences that enrich
and challenge their cognitive development as well as language acquisition in an environment where respect,
good manners and healthy habits are valued and taught. Students in Nursery receive instruction in their
native language and are exposed to everyday vocabulary in English. As of the level of Toddler all instruction
is in English. In Kindergarten, phonetics in Spanish is introduced. The academic program in Pre-
Kindergarten and Kindergarten are geared towards preparing children entry into Elementary School,
therefore it is already academically oriented. The Language Arts program include instruction and practice in
the subskills of grammar and conventions, writing, penmanship, reading comprehension, spelling, phonics
and fluency, and vocabulary. Other core areas are mathematics, science and social studies. Finally, the co-
curriculum is oriented towards enriching and complementing the program and promoting the development of
an integral education
 16

3.1.2 Elementary School

The Elementary School Program provides students with a solid foundation in language arts and
mathematics which will create the necessary tools for all type of learning to occur. Other core areas are
science and social studies. The co-curriculum includes health and character, technology, fine arts, and
physical education. The Spanish language program abides by the Dominican curriculum and it includes
instruction in Spanish language arts, social studies and Dominican civics.

3.1.3 Middle School

Middle School includes grades 6 through 8 and places a strong emphasis on the core areas of language
arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Critical thinking skills, writing skills, research skills, problem
solving, and character development are the basis for the curriculum. Co-curricular subjects offered are
technology, physical education, and fine arts. The curriculum is further enriched with the extracurriculum
with includes student clubs, after school sports, and the after school program.

3.1.4 High School

The high school continues to grow each year with a new grade being added on. The academic program
follows a U.S.-type college preparatory curriculum, which facilitates transfer to and from international
schools. Students pursuing the dual accreditation (US accredited high school diploma and the Dominican
Ministry of Education diploma) must complete a minimum of 24 credits.

Graduation Credit Requirements

Credits
(Beginning with Class 2012)
Literature I-IV (Literatura -Inglés) 4
Mathematics (Matemáticas) 4
Social Studies (Ciencias Sociales -Inglés) 3
Science (Ciencias Física y de la Naturaleza) 3
Spanish Language Arts (Lengua Española) 2
Spanish Social Studies (Ciencias Sociales) / Dominican Civics (Moral y Cívica) 3.25
Technology (Tecnología) 1
Physical Education/ Health and Fitness (Educación Física/Orientación y
1
Formación Integral)
Foreign Language (Lengua Extranjera -Francés) 1
Electives 1.75
Total minimum required 24 credits

3.2 School Day

The school day for all students begins at 7:40 a.m. and ends at 2:15 p.m. from Monday through Friday. The school
day for students is divided into seven class periods of 45 minutes each and a recess period so students may eat
lunch and rest before completing their school day. There is a 5-minute interval between classes so students may go
to the restroom, lockers, drink water, or prepare for the next class.

3.3 Assessment Procedure

Saint Joseph School believes that successful assessment should allow each student fair and equal opportunities to
show what he/she knows. Because a variety of learning styles are addressed, a variety of assessment
methods/techniques are also used. Major assessments in the School are connected to the standards and
benchmarks outlined in the curricula. As a result, knowledge and skills are assessed separately from attitudes and
conduct. The School also measures what is designed to measure, making the assessment/testing procedure reliable
and valid. Furthermore, the Assessment System aims for quality rather than quantity and is clearly communicated
and reported to all.
th
In the spring the Iowa Test of Basic Skills is administered to grades k-8 and the Iowa Test of Educational
Development to high school. The skills tested include vocabulary, word analysis, listening, reading, spelling,
capitalization, punctuation, language/usage and expression, math concepts, problem solving, math computation,
social studies, science, sources of information. Results are shared with stakeholders as soon as they are received by
the School.
th
In the summer all 8 graders must take the standardized tests administered by the Dominican Ministry of Education.
The National Exams (Pruebas Nacionales) are divided into four tests: Spanish language, mathematics, science and
 17

Dominican Social Studies. Promotion to high school is dependant upon the passing of all four of these tests. Test
grades are computed as follows: 70% allotted to the average in the subject area obtained in the regular year and 30%
allotted to the exam itself.

3.2 Promotion Requirements

A student who has made satisfactory progress at one grade level will be promoted to the next one according to the
evaluation system mandated by the Dominican Ministry of Education (Ordenanza 1’96 and 1’98). The following
regulations apply to all the subjects in both the English and the Spanish Programs.
st nd
3.2.1 Promotion in 1 and 2 Grades
Promotion in first and second grades is not conditioned to exam results nor quarter grades, since there is no
retention in these grades. However, academic and conduct grades are allotted to each child in order to
measure performance and achievement in the different areas. In the case of children with grades below 65,
the School strongly advises Parents to work together in devising a plan that will allow the child to surpass
his/her academic or behavioral difficulties.
th
3.2.2 Promotion in Grades 3-8
th
Promotion in grades 3-8 is determined by a passing final grade of 65 and above in all subjects and an 80%
or more of attendance rate. A student who receives a grade below 65 in four or more subjects will
automatically fail and must repeat the grade level.

If a student fails up to three subjects, he/she may take a Completive Exam in June which has a total value
of 100 points. Students who obtain a grade at or above 65 points in all the completive exams will be
promoted to the next grade level. Students who obtain a grade below 65 points in any one of the completive
exams will fail and must repeat the grade level.

3.2.3 Promotion in High School

th th
Promotion in High School (grades 9 –12 ) is the result of a passing final grade of 70 in all semester or year
long courses. Students must also have an 80% or more of attendance rate. All failed courses (with a grade
below 70) will be presented as a Completive Exam. Completive Exams will have a value of 50% and will be
administered at the time specified in the school calendar. The average of the quarter grades obtained during
the semester will represent the other 50%. Any subject receiving an average grade below 70 after the
Completive Exams will be considered failing and must be retaken.

The subjects not passed in the Completive Exams of the first or second semester of a grade level, will be
retaken with an Extraordinary Exam, administered in the date established in the school calendar. These
exams will have a value of 70% and the remaining 30% of the average will be from the quarter grades
obtained during the semester of the given subjects. The minimum passing grade is 70 points. Any student
who after having taken the Extraordinary Exams fails three or more from the same grade will automatically
fail the school year and will not be promoted.
st nd
A student who, after the Extraordinary Exams, has failed up to two subjects either from the 1 or the 2
semester may be promoted to the next grade level under the condition of taking Pending Exams before the
end of the grade promoted to. Students thus promoted with up to two pending (failed) subjects will have two
st
opportunities to present the corresponding exams: one at the end of the 1 semester and the other at the
nd nd
end of the 2 semester, being necessary for students to pass these exams before taking the 2 semester
exams. If a student fails one or two of the Pending Exams he/she must repeat the grade he/she is currently
in with the condition of also taking the same Pending Exams. These Pending Exams will have a total value
of 100 points. The minimum passing grade is 70 points.

3.5 Grading Process

Prior to a reporting period, teachers are requested to notify parents and students of low or failing grades through the
use of the academic notice of concern. All grades are recorded as numerical grades. For grading purposes the school
year is divided into four quarters with each quarter receiving a grade based on 100 and two semesters. Finally, the
st th
grade for each semester is averaged to determine the final grade. The lowest passing grade is 65 for grades 1 –8
th th
and 70 for High School (9 –12 ).

3.5.1 Academic Grade Scales

Grades 1 – 8 Letter Standard Grades 9 – 12 Letter Standard
90-100 A 90 –100 A
80-89 B 80 – 89 B
70-79 C 75 – 79 C
65-69 D 70 – 74 D
Below 65 F Below 70 F
 18

3.5.2 Social and Skills Development Performance

Progress in skill development and social development is determined by the homeroom teacher every quarter
in the report card and by the different subject teachers in the progress reports. Unlike academic grades,
social and skills development is reported with code grades. The following letter codes are used:
E - Excellent
M - Meets expectations
N - Needs Improvement (Parent should request a conference),
B – Below expectations (Parent must confer with Principal and/or teachers).

3.5.3 Quarter and Semester Averages

Grades from tests, quizzes, projects, homework assignments, class participation, and effort are taken into
consideration for an average. Quarter averages are computed the following way depending on the grade
level:
 In first and second grades every quarter is 50% of the semester average. There are no semester
exams in these grades.
th
 In grades 3-8 the semester is divided into two quarters each worth 40% and the semester exam
is worth 20% of the semester average

 In High School the semester is divided into two quarters each worth 35% and the semester exam
is worth 30% of the semester average.

No Quarter grade will be indicated for students who withdraw before the fourth week of that quarter. A mark
of Incomplete will be issued. In the case of students transferred from another school, Saint Joseph School
will award grades to transfer students once it has been verified by official receipt of records from the
previous school. Students who attended 35 days or less at their previous school are awarded final grades
based on their performance in their new classes in Saint Joseph School.

3.6 Semester Exam Exemption

High School students who obtain an average of 94 or above in any subject of the English Program may exempt or
exonerate the semester exam only if the corresponding conduct grade is above 85 points. The Principal grants final
approval of all exemptions. The exemption average will be the one reflected as the semester exam grade in the
report card.

3.7 Semester Exam Revision

Parents may request a revision of a semester exam by submitting a written request to the Principal within 15 days
after receiving notice of the exam grade. The Principal, teacher, parents and student will meet during the revision
session in no more that five days after receiving the request. The decision reached during this revision may not be
appealed.

3.8 Requests for Change of Semester Exam Date

Parents are informed of semester exam dates at the beginning of the school year, in order to allow for proper
planning. The School strongly discourages changes in exam dates; however if it is absolutely unavoidable for parents
to comply with these dates, they may request a change of the semester exam date by submitting a written request to
the Principal at least 30 days before the scheduled exam date. School authorities reserve the right to approve said
requests.

In case of approval of advancement or postponement of an exam date, parents must pay a fee of RD$500 per exam
administered. If a child is taken ill and must be absent during a semester exam, the parent must send an excuse
accompanied by a medical certificate and will be exempted from this fee.

3.9 Homework Policy

An important part of student learning is doing homework, which is the preparation of work to be completed outside the
classroom. Homework is assigned in such a way as to ensure student growth and reinforce, supplement and
compliment the learning that took place in the classroom. The School considers homework provides opportunities for
each student to achieve his/her potential. At times, homework may have to be geared towards individual differences.

Every teacher applies discretion on assigning homework. When homework is an integral part of the curriculum, the
student will better understand the reason for the assignment. Specific time allotment will vary because the teacher
must make the final judgement as to the nature and extent of the regularly planned assignment. Corrected written
homework enhances the student’s understanding of the day’s lesson.

The teachers at Saint Joseph School will cooperate with parents to bring a better understanding of the School’s
homework practices. Parents must work with the School to improve study habits.
 19

3.9.1 General Rules

 No form of written homework, other than recreational reading and review for an evaluation will be
assigned on long weekends or on a night when there is a special event taking place at the
school.
 No written homework will be assigned on a night when a student has to study for two major
exams.
 Homework is to be done at home, not during the school day.
 Assignments to complete unfinished classwork are not part of the programmed homework.
 Teachers will accept only a high standard of homework.

3.9.2 When Students Are Negligent With Homework

No student is exempted from doing homework. For those who are negligent with homework, teachers will
adhere to the following procedures:
 Try to determine the cause and if the reasons are unacceptable, give students the opportunity to
complete homework either at home, during lunchtime or after school, if possible.
 If there are repeated occurrences, the problem is discussed with Parents, seeking their
cooperation.
 If after contact is made with Parents and the desired results are not obtained, then the teacher
will report to the Academic Office for further action.

3.10 Notices of Concern

Before the end of a Quarter the School will notify Parents if a student is presenting difficulty with his/her academic
and/or conduct status. The Notice of Concern must be signed and returned to school the following day. It is important
for Parents to communicate with teachers, the Counselor and/or the Principal if the report indicates a conference.

3.11 Academic Probation

A student with two or more failing grades in major courses is placed on academic probation for the following Quarter.
While the student is on Academic Probation he/she is not permitted to participate in any extracurricular activity. The
School and the Parents will work together to devise a plan to help the student surpass these academic difficulties.

3.12. Remedial Programs

Students who are on academic probation for two consecutive Quarters are required to enroll in the remedial program
for language arts or for math. These programs are pull-out programs scheduled at the same time as the regular
classes. The School will charge an additional fee per class to the students participating in the program. The school
will provide details of the program on an individual basis.

3.13 Report Cards

Report Cards are given to Parents at the end of each Quarter or marking period to inform them of their child’s
academic progress. These Report Cards are used to indicate improvements as well as the danger of failure in
academic areas. Report Cards are distributed during a Parent-Teacher Conference when both parties may confer of
the student’s progress.

3.14 Honors and Awards

Students in all grades who have earned a Grade Point Average of 90 or above with all subjects above 85 as well as
the conduct in every subject will be placed in the honor roll for that Quarter. The citizenship award is also given at the
end of every quarter; teachers and students vote for the two students per class who meet the citizenship criteria.

At the end of the School year there is an Award Ceremony where the following academic and special awards are be
bestowed:
Academic Awards:
 Honor – To all those students who have been on the Honor Roll for the four quarters.
 Subject Award Certificate– To all those students who have the highest final cumulative in the core
subjects (Language/Literature, mathematics, science, social studies, Spanish language, and social
studies in Spanish) in every grade.

Special Awards
 The Director’s Award – presented to the one student who has the highest final GPA. The student
must have completed a minimum of two years in Saint Joseph School, and have excelled in
school activities and school spirit.
 Citizenship – one per class. The Disciplinary Committee presents this award to the student who
maintains excellent discipline and is a cooperative and positive leader.
 Attendance Award – To all those students who have a perfect attendance throughout the school
year. Students should not have unexcused late arrivals or be absent for more than three days.
 20

 Extracurricular Activity Awards – To all those students who excel in sports, clubs, student council,
etc.

3.15 Textbooks
The School will assign to each student their textbooks in English after parents have paid the Resource Fee upon
enrollment. These assigned textbooks become the responsibility of the student who is to return them at the end of the
academic year. If a book is damaged or lost, parents must pay a replacement cost. Books must be suitably covered
in a way that the cover can be removed before it is returned.

3.16 Enrichment Period

Enrichment Period is the time the school gives to those students who need to enhance the learning with extra
explanations. Teachers who are not involved in club meetings, class reunions or faculty meetings are available to
assist students from 2:30 – 2:55 p.m.

3.17 Tutoring Policy

Tutorials are recommended to students in special situations when they need extra help or are failing a course. The
purpose of tutorials is to deal with deficiencies in specific areas and help students achieve independence and
success. The Guidance Counselor may assist Parents by providing a list of tutors. Without exception, Saint Joseph
School teachers are not permitted to tutor their own students. Any Parent interested in acquiring the services of a
Saint Joseph School teacher needs to have the approval of the Principal.

3.18 Summer School

Saint Joseph School offers a summer school program for students who need to attend. The summer school program
is an extension of the regular curriculum; therefore, the same definitions, descriptions, rules and regulations for
regular curriculum apply to the summer program. Summer remedial classes provide opportunities for students to
improve, maintain, or strengthen academic skills. The Academic Council may require any student to attend summer
school based on academic performance, attitude, and/or social and skills development performance in order to
reinforce these areas. The School will have Parents pay a special fee for all summer courses.

As to academic performance, students who pass at the end of the school year or who pass make-up exams
(completive or extraordinary), yet receive deficient grades will be required to enroll in the Summer School in order to
strengthen their knowledge and skills in the needed areas. Specifically, summer school is required for students who
st th
receive a deficient final grade in any subject (for 1 –8 a grade between 65 and 69 and in high school a grade
between 70 and 74).

SECTION IV: CONDUCT STANDARDS

Good discipline is a prerequisite for good education. It is of the utmost importance in any school and is achieved only
when students view it as part of their responsibilities. The Principal and Faculty, with the support of the Parents,
outline the students’ actions. The School Policies contained in the Student-Parent Handbook are designed to
accomplish the following objectives: To present and enforce rules of safety, courtesy and appropriate behavior; to
provide meaningful discipline; and to emphasize consideration of others and consequences of unacceptable
behavior.

4.1 Students’ Rights and Responsibilities

The most effective approach to discipline is one that emphasizes teaching children to develop an internal discipline of
self-control and fosters behavior that results in self-respect and the respect of peers and adults. Saint Joseph School
promotes an environment of mutual respect for the rights of all; thus, students and Parents are expected to value the
rights and privileges of other students, Parents, Faculty and Administrative Staff.

The students’ responsibilities for helping attain a positive learning environment at school and related activities include
the following:
 Attending all classes and being on time.
 Preparing for each class with appropriate materials and completed assignments.
 Conducting themselves in a responsible manner
 Being knowledgeable of and complying with all school regulations found in the Student-Parent
Handbook.
 Assisting the Administration in the investigation of disciplinary and/or academic matters.
 Seeking adjustments in school policies in a logical and responsible fashion, through appropriate
channels.
 21

 Reporting threats to the safety of all as well as misconduct on the part of any other student or staff
member to the School Director, Counselor, a Teacher, or another adult.

Students must exercise their rights and responsibilities in compliance with the policies established by the Board of
Directors for the orderly conduct of Saint Joseph School’s educational purpose. Students who violate the rights of
others or any school policy shall be subject to the consequences outlined in this Handbook. All students are expected
to maintain the highest level of discipline and decorum at all times.

4.2 Disciplinary Committee

Major decisions regarding disciplinary measures are taken on the basis of an informed consensus that always strives
to promote maintain a positive school climate and good discipline. The Disciplinary Committee is the special
committee who makes these decisions and is composed of: the School Director; two Teachers; the Counselor; the
President of the PTA; and two parents (one from Elementary and the other from Middle or High School).

The Goals of the School Disciplinary Committee are to:

 Bring about decisions based on facts regarding student disciplinary status.
 Appraise all existing regulations on discipline, and ascertain evidence to determine which are effective
and which can be improved.
 Recommend a discipline system for the school based on contemporary research, school community
input, and the needs of the student population.
 Communicate the discipline system to all members of the school community.

4.3 Rules and Regulations for Conduct Infringement

Saint Joseph School implements discipline when necessary to protect students, Faculty, Staff, or property and
maintain essential order and discipline. The School bases discipline on a careful assessment of the circumstances of
each case and may include: Gravity of the offense; student’s age and attitude; frequency of misconduct; and possible
effect of the misconduct on the school environment.

Actions of misbehavior are categorized into the following four Stages of Infringement:

4.3.1 Stage I— Infringement of Classroom Rules

This stage is involved with misbehaviors that generally occur in the classroom and can be corrected by the
teacher. The Faculty will use their professional judgment to determine the most effective way to correct
student misconduct. The teacher discusses the misbehavior with the Parents, School Principal and/or
Counselor and keeps a record of the offenses and disciplinary actions. Stage I behavior infringement and
responses are not limited to those provided here. Serious or repeated violations may result in a more severe
response or referral to Stage II.

Actions of misbehaviors may include:

 Disobedience of rules or procedures established by the teacher
 Refusal to participate in classroom activities
 Unexcused tardiness to class
 Failure to bring required classroom materials or assigned work to class
 General misbehavior or any other act that disrupts the classroom or interrupts the operation of the
class
 Failure to deliver or return written communications between home and school
 Use of paging devices or any other type of communication systems (cellular phones, ipods, etc.)
while in school. In addition to disciplinary action, possession of paging devices or cell phones will
result in confiscation.

Usual disciplinary responses measures involving classroom teachers may include:

 Verbal correction
 Loss of privileges
 Lunch detention
 Other appropriate in-class disciplinary actions specified by teacher beforehand

Lunch detention will be served during the recess period in a specific area under teacher supervision.
st
Students will have the last 10 minutes of the recess to eat their lunch in the cafeteria area. Students in 1 –
4rh grades who accumulate 2 or more lunch detentions a week will lose the privilege of attending the co-
curricular elective/club on Friday of that week. Five lunch detentions in one month will equal one after
school detention.
 22

4.3.2 Stage II— Serious Infringement of Classroom Rules

Stage II includes those infringements that interfere with the organized educational process in the classroom
or in the school and are serious in nature or persistence of Stage I misbehavior. The final decision on the
student outcome rests with the Principal.

Actions of misbehaviors may include:

 Failure to abide by rules and regulations
 Cheating or copying the work of other students
 Leaving the classroom or school grounds without the authorization of School Administration
 Verbal abuse of others
 Distributing unauthorized materials
 Loitering in excluded areas
 Altering school documents or forging parent’s name or signature on school documents
 Unruly behavior or any other action that interferes with the teaching-learning process
 Inappropriate use of Internet, web pages, etc.
 5 tardies in a month

Disciplinary measures that may be used include:

 Student-counselor conference
 After-school detention
 Exclusion from a school activity
 Conduct contracts
 Any other appropriate disciplinary actions determined by the Principal

A teacher may remove a student from class whose behavior is so disruptive and/or who has been
acknowledged by the teacher to seriously obstruct the teaching-learning process. The student will be sent to
the Principal’s Office with a written factual explanation of the behavior that took place in the classroom. If the
student is sent to the Principal’s Office, he/she may not return to the class without the teacher’s consent.

After-school detentions will be served from 2:15 until 3:00 p.m. from Monday through Thursday in the
Media Center under the supervision of the Media Specialist. A student may only serve 3 after-school
th
detentions; the 4 after-school detention will automatically turn into 1 in-school suspension.

Procedure:
 A teacher who is knowledgeable of a student’s infringement fills out a disciplinary referral form and
sends it to the Principal with a copy to the Counselor. The main copy is sent home with the child to
be signed.
 Disciplinary referrals must be signed by the Parents/Tutors and returned the next school day to be
placed in the student’s file.

Stage II behavior infringements and Discipline Responses are not limited to those provided. Re-occurrence
of misbehavior may hinder a student’s readmission to the following academic year.

4.3.3 Stage III —In-School Suspension

This stage considers offenses or misbehaviors that are highly disruptive of the educational process in the
classroom, in the school or related activities, or are persistence of repeated Stage II or I misconduct. The
Disciplinary Committee will determine consequences on the basis of the gravity of the misbehavior.

In School Suspension- This consequence is assigned by the School Director and will be served in a
designated area. Students will complete work and eat lunch in the selected area. A Parent-teacher
conference will be scheduled before the student's return to the classroom. A second in-school suspension
will immediately place the student in Disciplinary Probation.

Actions of offense may include:

 Chronic or repeated disciplinary infractions of Stage I and/or Stage II misconduct
 Fighting, gambling, stealing/theft of property, or smoking
 Truancy
 Possession of pyrotechnic devices, laser pens or pointers that may be used to disrupt the
educational process
 23

 Interfering with or defiance of school authorities

 Involved with group demonstrations, this includes such actions as boycotts, sit-ins, trespassing,
and walkouts.
 Failure to adhere to terms of behavior contracts
 Sexual harassment
 Selling or soliciting for sale goods on school campus or related activities without the authorization
of the School Administration
 Participation in activities by groups such as gangs and cults
 Use of ethnic or racial insults, profanity, vulgar language, or obscene gestures
 Threats or other acts of intimidation that interfere with another student's learning process
 Vandalism resulting in the destruction or defacing of any property
 Unlawful use of the school computer network or other electronic devices for any purpose
 Any actions of serious misconduct that disrupt the school environment in the classroom and/or
school
 10 tardies in a quarter

Disciplinary measures that may be used include:

 Required School Director/student/parental conference
 Referral to a restricted disciplinary contract
 Restitution or restoration, as applicable, for vandalism to property
 Exclusion from all school activities
 Placement of the student into in-school suspension
 Any other appropriate disciplinary actions determined by the Disciplinary Committee.

Procedure:
 Disciplinary Referral sent to the School Director via Principal with copy to the Parents and
Counselor
 School Director and Counselor confer with student and Parents about the infringement.
 School Director sends report and suggested disciplinary measures to Disciplinary Committee
 Disciplinary Committee decides to uphold the suggestion made by the School Director or
reconvenes and investigates.
 Once the final decision is reached a written notice of the offense(s) and the action(s) taken are
given to the student, Parents. If the student is given a disciplinary contract, it will state the reasons
for it and set the terms. A student in a disciplinary contract is not allowed to participate in any
school activity.
 Repeated violations shall result in a more severe response and/or referral to stage IV.

Stage III behavior infringements and Discipline Responses are not limited to those provided Re-occurrence
of misbehavior may hinder a student’s readmission to the following academic year.

4.3.4 Stage IV—Expulsion

Stage IV includes serious misconduct and/or illegal actions that jeopardize the educational competence of
the school and/or that may seriously upset teaching-learning process in the school. Expulsion means
removal of a student from school for the remaining of the school year with no possibility of re-admission. A
student may be expelled from Saint Joseph School for engaging in the following misconduct:

 Continued serious or persistent misbehavior that violates the Code of the Student-Parent Manual
(See Stages I – III)
 Possessing an illegal weapon (e.g. hunting knives, switchblades, firearms, a club, brass knuckles,
armor-piercing ammunition, a chemical-dispensing device, a zip gun, etc)
 Possessing, using, or being under the influence of controlled substances (e.g. a dangerous drug or
an alcoholic beverage) sniffing glue or spray paint and/or handling of paraphernalia for such
matters
 Intentionally or recklessly causing bodily injury to a fellow student, Parent, Faculty, Staff member or
visitor
 Engaging in false alarm
 Sexual assault
 Arson
 24

Disciplinary measures that may be used include:

 Notification and investigation by Disciplinary Committee
 Case referral to the Dominican Council for Childhood (Consejo Nacional para la Niñez, CONANI)
 Required immediate administrator/parent/student conferences
 Exclusion from all school related activities
 Restitution or restoration as applicable
 Suspension for up to five consecutive days per occurrence
 Expulsion

Procedure:
 The School Director confers with the student after consulting with teacher and Counselor, and
sends report to Disciplinary-Academic Committee
 The School Director notifies student and Parents in writing of the reasons for the proposed
expulsion.
 The Disciplinary Committee will conduct a full hearing before a decision to expel a student is made,
unless the Parents waives the hearing
 The student is not to return to school or be involved in any school related activities until such time
that a decision is reached
 Within two business days after the date a hearing is held the Disciplinary-Academic Committee will
send a copy of the order reinstating or expelling the student along with any information required to
the Parents and School Administration

Expelled students will not be readmitted to Saint Joseph School.

4.4 Disciplinary Probation

The Disciplinary Committee may place a student in Disciplinary Probation if:
 the student is constantly infringing School rules, regulations and conduct standards;
 the student has been suspended twice during the school year;
 the student has been suspended throughout the school year once; and/or
 the student obtains a conduct grade below 65 in grades 1-8 or below 70 in High School for two straight
quarters in any given subject. Disciplinary Probation in this case is automatic.

Parents of students placed in Disciplinary Probation meet with the Principal and the Counselor and establish the
conditions to be met in order to surpass the behavioral difficulties. If the student and parents do not meet these
conditions then the student may be denied readmission for the next school year.

4.5 Classroom Demeanor

Well-mannered classroom behavior and a respect for learning are expected of all students attending Saint Joseph
School. Teachers will work individual classroom conduct code with the students. The School believes that good
behavior should include:
 Entering and leaving the school and instructional area in a quiet and orderly manner according to
instructions given.
 Keeping desk and surrounding areas neat and clean.
 Respecting school and fellow students’ property.
 Being courteous to fellow students, Faculty, Staff and visitors.
 Conversing only at the proper times.
 Making good use of class time by participating actively in classroom discussions and activities.
 Following all directions given by the teacher.

Respect for learning should include:

 Being prepared for class by completing homework, learning the material being studied and bringing all
necessary materials to class.
 Coming to class on time.
 Giving full attention to the teacher and subject matter being presented.

4.6 Playground Demeanor

 Follow directions set up for each area in the playground
 Remain in designated areas according to grade level, unless authorized by a pass
 Use walkways as a means of moving from one place to another. Running is not allowed.
 When the bell rings to end recess, become quiet and move immediately to the line-up areas.
 Drink water and go to the restroom during recess time.
 The throwing of any foreign objects (sticks, rocks, dirt, etc.) is never permissible.
 25

 Balls will not be allowed before school, after school, or on rainy days.

4.7 Internet Use

Internet is available to students in the Computer Lab and in the Media Center at Saint Joseph School. This access to
information offers vast, diverse, and unique resources to enhance learning possibilities to all that use it. On the global
network, it is very difficult to manage all the data and sometimes one may notice questionable information. The
School believes the benefits of Internet access to students in the form of research and opportunities for teamwork far
exceed any inconvenience, but, the continued accessibility of the Internet in the school lie upon the proper conduct of
the students. Teachers and students will discuss the acceptable use of the Internet before actual use by students.
The use of school computers must be consistent with the educational objectives of Saint Joseph School and
students are expected to abide by the policies of the World Wide Web protocol.

Guidelines are provided here so that students and their Parents are aware of the responsibilities that accompany the
privilege of using the Internet.
a. Respect privacy
b. Do not vandalize or steal software
c. Respect other users
d. Accessing or transmitting materials that are disrespectful or obscene is forbidden.
e. Transmission of any materials in violation of the legal regulations is prohibited.
f. Students are not to:
▪ Advertise personal information about themselves or other individuals.
▪ Engage in on-line chatting.
▪ Access personal e-mail without permission.
▪ Produce a Web page without staff supervision.
▪ Use the Internet for personal gain.
▪ Download files (i.e., games, videos, music, etc.).
▪ Access or change computer system, network, or program settings.
▪ Subscribe to "list serves" or "newsgroups”.
g. Internet Filtering programs are in use where needed.
h. Students are to use the system only for educational activities. Teachers must approve any other
student use beforehand.

4.7.1 Plagiarism and Copyright Violation

Since Plagiarism is copying the work of others, students are not to plagiarize work found on the Internet or
anywhere else. Copyright violation occurs when work that is protected by a copyright is reproduced. All
information found in the Internet is assumed to private property and subject to exclusive rights. If a student
wishes to use information found in the internet or other sources, he/she must paraphrase and give credit to
its author.

4.7.2 Safety measures

Computers and software used in School are educational tools owned by Saint Joseph School and can be
monitored or accessed by Faculty and Staff at any time. These tools are not to be vandalized and the school
reserves the right to deny access to any software if so desires. Students are not to copy any software
without proper authorization from the School Director.

4.8 Right to Search

Saint Joseph School Administrators are authorized to conduct sensible searches of students and school property
(e.g. lockers and desks) when there is sound cause to believe that students may be in possession of drugs, weapons,
alcohol, or other materials in violation of school policies or the Dominican Republic law. Students who are thought to
be in violation of the regulations may be searched in order to secure the school environment so learning can take
place and protect other students.

4.9 Harassment
Harassment can take many forms. It is unwanted behavior that interferes with life and limits and denies the rights of
students to study, work, and play in the school setting. Everyone has a right to not be harassed and the Faculty and
Staff at Saint Joseph School believe that all students should feel secure at school. There will be no tolerance of the
following types of harassment, or any other deemed by the School Administration:
 Inappropriate gestures or touch
 Sexual remarks, name calling, or spreading rumors or comments about one's body
 Drawing or displaying offensive pictures
 Ethnic name calling or making negative comments about a particular ethnic group
 26

 Teasing to cause embarrassment about a person's clothes or appearance or threatening to cause harm to
the person

Procedure to follow by a student who feels is being harassed:

 Tell the harasser you do not like his/her behavior and want it stopped. BE FIRM!
 Tell a teacher, counselor or Principal. Discuss the situation with a parent or other family member.
 If the harassment continues, write down and record dates, times, places, names of witnesses and any other
information that will verify what happened.

The School will not tolerate any form of harassment and all complaints are thoroughly considered. Students who
choose to harass another student can expect serious consequences.

SECTION V. STUDENT SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

5.1 Media Center

The media center or library is intended as a place for study, reference work and pleasure reading. Proper library
conduct is expected and students who cannot observe the posted rules will be denied access to its use. A media
specialist is available to assist students in locating materials.
st th
Each class from 1 through 4 grade is allotted one class period per week in the library. It is at this time that students
are instructed in library skills by the media specialist. Students may use the library at any time during the school day
with their teacher's permission, as well as during recess and before and after school when the media specialist is on
duty. The library is not to be used as a place for social gatherings.

Most books, with the exception of encyclopedias and other specific reference materials, may be check out for use
outside the library. Library books are borrowed for two weeks and may be renewed for another week. Students are
allowed to sign out two books at a time. Magazines are borrowed for four days and cannot be renewed. Students are
allowed to sign out one magazine at a time. Students must learn the responsibility of returning library books to the
library before or on the due date. They are also responsible for books signed out and will be required to reimburse the
school for lost or damaged books. If a student paid for a lost book and it is found afterwards, there will be no refund,
so the student stays with the book. A small fine is charged on overdue books, and a student is not allowed to check
out more books until the overdue materials are returned and paid for. Reminders are sent to the students concerning
overdue books. If books are more than 3 weeks overdue on a report card distribution date, the report card will be
withheld until books are returned.

5.2 Cafeteria
The cafeteria is open throughout the school day. It provides nutritious lunch and snacks for students at a reasonable
price. Those students with allergies to milk, milk products, and/or any type of food allergy should have a signed
excuse from a physician.

5.3 Counseling Service

Saint Joseph School counseling program is staffed by a full-time certified counselor and a school psychologist. The
goal of the program is to teach preventive mental and health skills that will help students develop responsible social
behavior. Classroom guidance sessions, small group activities, or individual sessions accomplish these goals. When
appropriate, the counselor or the psychologist will assist parents to obtain outside counseling resources for family
issues. In addition to counseling responsibilities, the counselor consults with parents by conducting groups, which
enhance parenting skills and self-esteem. The counselor and the psychologist coordinate all special education
referrals, organize all standardized testing, and prepare academic and career plans for the students. The program is
comprehensive in that it is involved in virtually every aspect of school life.

5.4 School Nurse

A full-time nurse is on staff at the school and is available to render first aid when accidents occur and when children
become ill. If a child is injured at school, the school nurse assesses the injury and informs the school secretary who
will then contact the child’s parent or guardian. The nurse also completes an accident report form.
 27

5.5 Illness and Supervised Medication

Saint Joseph School requires Parents to give a full disclosure as to any medical condition of or special medication
needed by the student. This information is to be included on the medical history and the school emergency forms and
kept updated during the course of the school year.

Students who become ill during the school day will be sent to the Infirmary. The School nurse will not offer medication
other than those specified in the official medical forms. The student who is ill will not be allowed to stay in school. The
Nurse or authorized personnel will notify Parents who are responsible for providing the medical attention needed. In
an extreme emergency if the School Nurse is unable to get in touch with Parents, the School Administration will
arrange for medical attention, based on the medical release form signed by them. Medical expenses incurred at this
time and not covered by the students’ insurance policy are the responsibility of the Parents.

If a student needs to receive specific medication at a precise time within the school day, Parents should personally
give it to the Principal along with a copy of the doctor’s instructions. Students should never have medication in
their possession. The Nurse or authorized person will administer the medicine in the Infirmary. Parents should not
send to school a child who is not feeling well, is feverish, or presents any symptoms of possible illness.

5.6 Drills and Emergency Situations

Saint Joseph School has taken the precaution to prepare and train Faculty and Staff for an unforeseen emergency.
Thus, if an emergency situation occurs, Faculty and Staff will proceed to ensure the wellbeing of students. The written
safety procedures and emergency exits sketches are posted in every area visible to all. The School planned
emergency fire and earthquake exit drills are carried out periodically. At the time of the drills all work, including tests,
are discontinued.

5.6.1 Emergency Phone Line

Sometimes it is inevitable to cancel classes on short notice due to extreme urgent situations. If the School
Director considers it essential to cancel classes, the School will make use of an established phone line web
to advice parents. The Phone-line web has been designed as follows:

School Director  Principal  Teachers  Parent Delegates  Parents/Guardians

5.7 Birthday Parties

st th
Birthday celebrations in school are only allowed for Early Education and Elementary School (1 – 5 ) students.
Parents must inform the Principal and teacher at least 48 hours in advance and try to schedule birthday celebrations
on Fridays, in order to minimize class disruptions.

5.8 Extracurricular Activities

Saint Joseph School students have the opportunity of participating in a diversity of extra-curricular activities during
the school year. Students participating in any program must demonstrate appropriate behavior and good academic
standing. Students must make acceptable grades (75 or above), as determined by the teachers, coach, and
Principal. A student whose recorded Quarter grade average in any course is lower than 75 at the end of the grading
period is suspended from participation in any extra-curricular competition or public performance. If during the
succeeding Quarters, the student achieves a course grade average of at least 75 in each course, the student regains
eligibility. To ensure the success of the activities, students must have regular attendance and few tardies.

The School Director, teachers, PTA members, parent delegates, and the Student Council may plan activities. Most of
the activities held at the school will occur during school time, some may be held after school, on Saturdays, or during
the evening. The approval of the School Director is necessary for all student activities. School activities must have a
sponsor who should consult with the Activities Coordinator and the school calendar of events before scheduling a
definite date for a specific activity. Usually, no student activities will be held the last week of the Quarter.

5.8.1 Field Trips

Field trips are an important part of education and are often taken to complement the curriculum. Students
will participate in various field trips that will vary from year to year and from class to class. Parents will be
asked to sign a permission slip for every field trip, authorizing or not their child’s participation in a given field
trip. Students may be excluded from participating in a field trip if conduct indicates this need. Non-
participation in a field trip will not justify absence from school. A teacher assistant will supervise students
missing a field trip and appropriate work will be assigned.

5.8.2 Assemblies
During the year people from the community are invited to share their knowledge and experience with
students. In addition, there are occasional civic assemblies--such as fire safety, water conservation,
commemoration of holidays, etc. All these events appear on the newsletter calendar. A student’s conduct in
assemblies must meet the same standard as in the classroom. A student who is tardy or engages in
inappropriate conduct during an assembly will be subject to disciplinary action.
 28

5.8.3 Student Clubs

Participating in club activities is a privilege awarded to the student. Therefore, to join a group a student must
have and maintain a minimum average of 75 in all subjects and in conduct, have parental approval, and not
partake in more than two clubs. Those students who are on discipline or academic probation are not eligible.
Clubs and their members must abide by the school code of conduct.

5.9 After School Program

Saint Joseph School has an after school program open to its students and the wider community. The offerings
depend on the needs and preferences of the students; courses offered may be painting, dance, martial arts, among
others. There is also a Homework Session (Sala de Tarea) for students who need supervision and/or extra help in
completing their homework. The After School Program is held from Mondays through Thursdays on different
schedules between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. The program schedules and fees are sent home early in September.

5.10 Student Government

The student body is represented by the Student Council and by class officers. The Student Council is a student
organization that provides an opportunity for discussion and resolution of student issues, as well as participation in
activities and projects for the school and the community. Student Council elections are held at the beginning of the
th
school year, with officers being elected from the Middle School and High School. Each class as of the 5 grade also
elects its own class officers. Before each election, there is a whole-school assembly for officer candidates to make
their election speeches. Candidates for class officers also make speeches to their classmates. The Student Council
as well as class officers have the following positions: president, vice-president, treasurer, and secretary. Every class
president is a voting delegate of the Student Council.

5.11 Lockers
The School provides lockers where students in Middle School and High School may store their personal belongings.
Each student is required to keep lockers orderly and clean and be held liable for damage and accountable for its
contents. No decorations or writings of any kind may be used on the outside of the lockers. Students may use
pictures taped to the inside of their own lockers. They may not, however use glue, stickers, or writings of any kind as
these are not easily removable. At the end of the school year students must leave their lockers empty and free of any
type of decoration.

Because a locker is school property and available to a student on a loan basis, lockers are subject to inspection and
search. The student will supply the lock. The combination to the lock or a copy of the key must be deposited in the
Principal’s Office. A student who changes his/her lock without previous authorization and does not notify the Office is
subject to disciplinary referrals and the loss of locker privileges.

Saint Joseph School assumes no responsibility for damage or loss of personal property stored in the lockers.

5.12 School Newsletter

In order to communicate more effectively with parents, Saint Joseph School publishes a monthly school newsletter.
This newsletter is sent out during the last week of every month and provides news, announcements and general
information about the School. Parents wishing to contribute information for the newsletter are welcome and should
approach the School Director.

5.13 Fundraising Projects

Each class or club may be allowed a fundraising project during each semester to obtain money for its objectives.
These fundraising projects must have a teacher sponsor and be approved by School Director. No sales or other
activities related to the fundraiser will be allowed in or during class. Students may not be involved in any door-to-door
solicitation. Parent groups may be permitted to organize fundraising drives but must obtain permission in advance
from the School Director.

5.14 Organization, Activity, and Club Funds

The School Accountant will operate a central accounting system and depository for all school organization funds.
Funds deriving from school organizations, clubs, and classes will be deposited in this account. All money collected at
school-sponsored activities must be deposited with the School Accountant as well.

Only organization, club, or activity sponsors may make purchases; which may not exceed the account balance.
Sponsors must request and receive prior approval before a purchase is made and must give the Accountant a receipt
showing proof of purchase. All financial actions of the club or organization must be reflected in the minutes of
meetings. Organizational records must be maintained by the sponsor and will be audited by the internal auditor.
 29

LETTER OF AGREEMENT

Family Name: _______________________________

Student Name: ______________________________ Class: _________
Student Name: ______________________________ Class: _________
Student Name: ______________________________ Class: _________

I hereby acknowledge receipt of our family’s copy of the Saint Joseph School Student-Parent Handbook, August
2008 version. Our family agrees to read the Handbook and abide by the standards, policies, and procedures defined
or referenced in this document. We are aware that the information in this Handbook is subject to change. We
understand that changes in School policies may supersede, modify, or eliminate the information summarized in this
booklet. As the School provides updated policy information, we accept responsibility for reading and abiding by the
changes.

__________________________________________ ____________________
Parent Signature (in representation of the entire family) Date

Note: This handbook includes two copies of this form. Please sign and date one and keep it in the handbook. Sign
and date the other copy and forward it to your eldest child’s homeroom teacher.

CUT ON LINE AND RETURN THIS PORTION TO YOUR TEACHER

LETTER OF AGREEMENT

Family Name: _______________________________

Student Name: ______________________________ Class: _________
Student Name: ______________________________ Class: _________
Student Name: ______________________________ Class: _________

I hereby acknowledge receipt of our family’s copy of the Saint Joseph School Student-Parent Handbook, August
2008 version. Our family agrees to read the Handbook and abide by the standards, policies, and procedures defined
or referenced in this document. We are aware that the information in this Handbook is subject to change. We
understand that changes in School policies may supersede, modify, or eliminate the information summarized in this
booklet. As the School provides updated policy information, we accept responsibility for reading and abiding by the
changes.

__________________________________________ ____________________
Parent Signature (in representation of the entire family) Date

Note: This handbook includes two copies of this form. Please sign and date one and keep it in the handbook. Sign
and date the other copy and forward it to your eldest child’s homeroom teacher.