Parent Student Handbook

• A grade of zero on the assignment or assessment. If the infraction occurs on a Midterm, Final, or AP exam, a zero will be factored in for the exam and the final average for the course will be determined.

• Parental notification by the teacher. The Assistant Principal   for Curriculum and Instruction will notify the parent in writing.

•  Disqualification from the Honor Roll for the quarter when the offense occurs, regardless of overall average.

The Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction maintains all Academic Integrity files. If a student is being considered for some type of award or honor, the nominating/sponsoring party may inquire about integrity issues regarding specific candidates. In this case, details may be shared. Academic Integrity violations do not automatically disqualify a student from possible awards or distinctions.

Any subsequent violations of the Academic Integrity policy may result in further sanctions including the student receiving a quarter  grade of 55 for the course, the convening of an Accountability Board, or dismissal from St. Joseph High School.
 

All students must assume the responsibility of keeping the school building and campus free of vandalism in any form. Many people make considerable personal sacrifice to build, maintain, and equip our school. Everyone must assist in the care and maintenance of the school property.

The school must be reimbursed for the cost of repairing or replacing anything damaged or lost by a student.

Any act of vandalism, including computer tampering, will result in suspension with the possibility of expulsion from St. Joseph High School, as well as any other legal action that might be deemed appropriate.

The conduct of students attending St. Joseph High School is to be  above reproach. All are expected to be courteous, polite, and respectful and all students are held responsible for their off-campus behavior. Any conduct detrimental to the reputation of the school (including arrest) may be subject to disciplinary action.
 

The St. Joseph High School motto “Privilege and Responsibility” is the guiding principle behind the school’s code of conduct. All students are expected to be honest, respectful, and cooperative with all members of the faculty and staff.

The following guidelines for student behavior are intended to protect the integrity of both the students and the school so as to create an environment most conducive to achieving the school’s mission statement.
 

A. Office Referral

An Office Referral slip may be given to any student violating the policies outlined in this handbook. Students may receive an Office Referral from any member of the faculty or staff and students must sign the slip in order to acknowledge their awareness of having received the Referral. Refusal to sign the Office Referral slip as an act of defiance, disagreement, or disrespect will not be tolerated and will subject the student to further disciplinary action.

Students should bring any questions or concerns regarding Office Referrals to the Dean of Students.

B. Detentions

A student who receives multiple Office Referrals or an Office Referral for a more serious violation of the school conduct code (disruptive or disrespectful behavior, etc.) may be assigned a school detention. The guidelines for detentions are as follows:

• School detentions are served with the Dean of Students before or after school.
• All school detentions must be served within three days of receiving the detention. It is the student’s responsibility to make any arrangements necessary to serve the detention (transportation, sports, jobs, extra-curricular activities, etc.).  Excuses will not be entertained.
• Failure to serve the detention within the time limit will result in the student being placed on disciplinary probation until the detention is served. While on disciplinary probation, the student may not attend or participate in any school functions, sports or extra-curricular activities.
• A plan of escalating penalties will result for repeat offenders. A typical detention lasts for one hour. However, a second detention for the same offense may become a two-hour detention and so on. Continual detentions for the same offense will result in more serious disciplinary action including suspension and possible dismissal.
• Lateness to or early dismissal from detention is unacceptable.
• At the discretion of the Dean of Students, a student may be directed to perform community service in lieu of detention for a period of time as determined by the Dean.

C. Suspension (Internal/External Suspension)

Suspension is reserved for serious and/or chronic violations of the   Parent/Student Handbook. Suspension is the temporary separation of the student from the class day to allow the student to  reflect upon his or her poor decision-making. In the event it is necessary to suspend a student, an Administrator will contact a parent/guardian and then conference with them in person or on the phone.

The following violations may be subject to either internal or external suspension from school for a period of time determined  by the Principal or the Dean of Students. This is a representative  list of violations and is not exhaustive or exclusive.

• Disrespect and insubordination
• Damaging or defacing school property
• Truancy from school or unexcused absence from class
• Falsifying an absentee note or phone call or early dismissal  note
• Gambling
• Stealing school property or stealing from others
• Misbehavior on school buses or during a fire drill
• Conduct in school or out of school that is harmful to the reputation or well-being of the school, student body, or an  individual member of our school community
• Inappropriate and ill-mannered behavior
• Fighting
• Violation of parking or driving rules
• Failure to report to detention
• Violation of the school’s Tobacco or Alcohol and Drug  Policy (ex: vaping)
• Violation of the school’s Weapon Policy
• Chronic non-compliance with school policies and regulations.

Students who are suspended will be readmitted to school only after their parents/guardians have had a re-entry meeting or phone conversation with the Dean of Students.

A suspended student may not participate in or attend school activities until readmitted to school.

A student suspended externally will be given the opportunity to make-up tests or quizzes missed during the period of suspension. This will be done upon return and at the teacher’s convenience. We do not report suspensions to colleges or universities unless they reach out to us and inquire.

D. Probation

A student who causes disruptions, accumulates disciplinary infractions, commits a serious infraction and/or has problems being a contributing member of our community may be placed on  disciplinary probation. Probation entails:

• Parental notification by letter or phone call
• The establishment of guidelines, sanctions (including  restricted activities), and behavioral parameters
• At the discretion of the Administration, a student on probation with restricted activities may be allowed to participate in practices, rehearsals, and regular club meetings  during this time period.
• A student will be removed from probation when the Dean of  Students determines that the conditions of probation have been fulfilled.

E. Accountability Board

In serious disciplinary matters that boarder on expulsion, an Accountability Board of School Administrators will be convened by  the Principal to review and recommend sanctions on chronic and/or serious violations of the school behavioral code by a member of the student body. The Accountability Board helps ensure that the student has received thoughtful due-process. The information discussed in the Accountability Board is confidential. However, this information may be used in determining a student’s  eligibility for awards, honor societies, and other organizations in which student character is a determining factor. Students who are already members in such honor societies or other organizations may have their membership revoked depending on the stipulations  outlined in their own charters or constitutions.

F. Confidentiality

Disciplinary matters are generally considered to be confidential between the Administration, student, parent/guardian, and faculty directly involved in the incident. In some cases, the Administration reserves the right to disclose information to the proper authorities when deemed necessary. Details of an incident may be shared with parents when there are multiple students involved in an incident; however, student names will be withheld and parents will not be given specific details of disciplinary actions or consequences taken against any student other than their own.

G. Expulsion

The following violations on or off campus will subject a student to  expulsion. This is a representative list of violations and is not exhaustive or exclusive.

• Conduct in school or out of school that is harmful to the reputation or well-being of the school, or conduct that may  present a moral, spiritual, or physical threat
• The possession, use, purveyance, or sale of narcotics, drug  paraphernalia, drugs, alcohol, or weapons
• Vandalism to school property
• Tampering with fire alarm, safety, and security systems
• Continued inappropriate behavior and lack of cooperation

In such cases a student will be placed on suspension pending a final decision.

H. Law Enforcement

Law enforcement agencies will be notified and involved in situations as deemed appropriate by Administration or required by law.

I. Non-Discrimination

St. Joseph High School (SJHS) is committed to a school environment free of harassment and discrimination. It is the policy of SJHS that any form of discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, whether by students or employees, is prohibited. This prohibition of discrimination or harassment extends to SJHS’s educational programs or activities, including academic, nonacademic and extracurricular activities, including athletics, and further such discrimination is prohibited on SJHS’s premises. For purposes of this policy, the term “harassment” shall include sexual harassment and the term “discrimination” shall include “sex discrimination”. Students who feel they are being discriminated against or sexually harassed should report such behavior immediately  to a member of the faculty, staff, or Administration.

J. Harassment/Bullying/Hazing/Initiations

Any and all types of actions, including written, verbal, or electronic which cause intimidation, embarrassment, or discomfort are inconsistent with our mission to protect the dignity of each person, will not be tolerated. Such actions will result in appropriate sanctions and necessary legal referrals. Examples include, but are not limited to, sexual harassment, racially motivated behavior, and cyber bullying. Students who feel they are being harassed or bullied should report such behavior immediately to a member of the faculty, staff, or Administration.

K. Tobacco (including e-cigarettes)

St. Joseph High School is a smoke-free campus. Students are not allowed to carry cigarettes on their person. Smoking or the use of smokeless tobacco (including e-cigarettes and JUUL devices) or marijuana is not permitted on school grounds or at school functions. All visitors must comply with this expectation. Students will be suspended for the use or sale of tobacco products, such as JUUL products, on school grounds or at school functions.

L. Gambling

Gambling, playing cards, or betting of any kind is not allowed on campus or at any school sponsored activity.

M. Alcohol & Drug Policy

St. Joseph High School is committed to helping individual students  who may be suffering from drug or alcohol dependence while at the same time maintaining a safe environment. Any student suffering from a drug or alcohol problem is encouraged to seek help from the school social worker, a College Counselor, or the Dean of Students. Any student who volunteers such information and agrees to a course of counseling as determined by the Administration will not be subject to disciplinary action so long as he or she was not caught using, being under the influence of, or in possession of alcohol, drugs, tobacco products, or drug paraphernalia while as an active member of the school community. In cases of a serious nature, the school may involve the local authorities in order to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of the student involved, and the entire school community.

Breathalyzers

St Joseph High School has implemented the use of breathalyzers at all school dances, both on and off campus, to deter underage drinking. All students and their guests must submit to a breathalyzer test in order to enter the dance; it is the responsibility of the student to inform their guest of the breathalyzer test. St. Joseph High School reserves the right to administer a breathalyzer test to any student during the school day. Any student who refuses to submit to a breathalyzer test will not be granted admission to the dance and will be subject to the penalties listed below.

Penalties

Any student determined to be under the influence of alcohol or an illegal substance, in possession of alcohol, an illegal substance or drug paraphernalia, or any student who remains in the presence of others who are under the influence or in possession of alcohol or an illegal substance while as a member of the school community, is in violation of a major school policy and may be subject to a minimum:

• 3 days of External Suspension
• 2 weeks of Disciplinary Probation
• 15 hours of Community Service (in addition to the school  requirement)
• An evaluation, at the parents’ expense, by a certified drug/alcohol counselor to assess the student’s risk of  dependency. Students must follow through with any recommended course of treatment.
• Random drug testing at the parents’/guardians’ expense.
• An evaluation, at the parents’/guardians’ expense, by a certified drug/alcohol counselor to assess the student’s risk of dependency. Students must follow through with any recommended course of treatment.

The sale or distribution of any controlled substance or drug paraphernalia, whether on or off campus, will subject a student to expulsion and referral to the local authorities. Sale or distribution can include sharing, providing, and delivering any controlled substance or being in possession of an amount that the Administration determines is reasonable to assume that sale or distribution was the intent. There does not need to be a monetary exchange for a student to be considered in violation of this policy.

The Principal reserves the right to convene an Accountability Board for any incident involving alcohol or drugs.

N. Searches

The School reserves the right to have local law enforcement use drug-detecting dogs to sweep the school building, parking lots, and  grounds. A student’s person, locker or vehicle may be subject to inspection.

The right to search and sanction is extended to any electronic resource used by students at School or at School-related activities.  Electronic resources include, but are not limited to: student- assigned or student-owned computers, iPads, cell phones, other electronic equipment, camera roll, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, blogs, or social media sites.

The School Administration reserves the right to hold students accountable for  any material posted on the devices, equipment, or sites that is contrary to the mission of St. Joseph High School. The School Administration may review social networking sites and other internet activity at any time.

O. Weapons

Any student in possession of a weapon in school, on school grounds, at a school function, or unlawfully outside of school, will be liable to suspension and expulsion from St. Joseph High School.

Sexual Misconduct Policy

The Diocese of Bridgeport requires that any adult working with any student on behalf of St. Joseph High School must acknowledge  receipt of and agree to comply with the Diocese’s Policy Relating to Sexual Misconduct and background checks.

The school assumes permission to use photographs in publications, on our website, and on our social media pages. If you wish to deny permission for the use of photographs, please contact the Main Office.
Cameras are in classrooms for the purpose of distance learning. Classes could be recorded.

School Hours

7:55 A.M. – 2:15 P.M.

Full School Day

A full school day consists of a minimum of four hours and every student is expected to be present each day. Any student not present for the minimum four hours will be considered absent for the day and ineligible to participate in any athletic or extracurricular activities until the student is reinstated on the next school day. Once arriving on campus, no student is to leave before dismissal without written permission from a parent.

Daily Attendance

Daily Attendance is taken at the beginning of 1st period each day. Teachers will take their own attendance at the beginning of each class period.

Students are expected to attend all classes. Skipping a class may result in detention, loss of academic credit for the class (including  the ability to make up tests, presentations or quizzes missed), loss of extracurricular and athletic privileges, and a parental notification. A second offense may result in disciplinary probation and suspension.

Absence/Excused Absence

The distinction between excused and unexcused absences is used only in determining appropriate disciplinary action for students with chronic attendance issues. All absences, excused or unexcused, will appear on a student’s final transcript. An absence will be recorded for any student not present for the minimum four hours that constitutes a full school day. Excused absences are only granted for the death of an immediate family member or for medical issues that require the care of a physician. Medical exceptions must be properly documented with a note from a physician and excused absences will be granted only for the specific dates listed in the note. Phone calls, emails, or notes from parents will not grant an excused absence. Family vacations are not excused absences, and they require notification of missed class time to the Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Learning.

Tardy/Excused Tardy:

The distinction between excused and unexcused tardies is used only in determining appropriate disciplinary action for students with chronic attendance issues. All tardies, excused or unexcused, will appear on a student’s final transcript. A tardy will be recorded for any student not present in their first period class when the 7:55am bell rings. Excused tardies are only granted for a driver’s license test or for a medical appointment. Both exceptions must be accompanied by proper documentation from either the DMV or a physician. Phone calls, emails, or notes from parents will not grant an excused tardy.

A.M. Arrival:

• The school building will be open to students at 7:00AM. Students arriving early must remain in the Main Lobby or report to the cafeteria.

• Students may not enter other parts of the building until 7:35AM unless supervised by a staff member.

• All students must enter the building through either the front doors or the rear gym doors.

• For safety purposes, and in deference to our neighbors, students may not be dropped off or picked up on Huntington Turnpike. Parents who drive students to and from school are required to drop-off and pick-up behind the school building in the designated drop-off area.

• The faculty parking area in front of the school is not to be used as a student drop-off area.

P.M. Dismissal:

• Students should be picked up at dismissal, unless involved in a supervised activity, in which case the student should be picked up promptly at the conclusion of the activity.

• The school building is off-limits to all unsupervised students after 5:30PM. After this time, general supervision is not available and all unsupervised students should have transportation. The school reserves the right to contact the proper authorities if a student has not been picked-up by 5:30PM or is found on campus unattended after 5:30PM.

• When arriving early for pick-up, parents are asked to refrain from parking in the entrance and exit driveways, the faculty parking area, anywhere on Huntington Turnpike, or in the Fire Lanes.

Absence

• On each day of absence, a parent/guardian must call or email the school to report the absence between 7:45AM and 9:00AM. Parents should call the school number (203) 378-9378 ext. 454 or send an email to attendance@sjcadets.org. Students may not report their own absences.

• An absent student will not be allowed in the school or be permitted to attend school activities until the student has been formally readmitted to school on the next day that school is in session. Any exceptions will be resolved by the Administration.

• In case of prolonged illness or injury, a physician’s note will be necessary for readmission. Chronic illnesses should be proactively managed so that all student absences fall within acceptable limits.

• Absence does not excuse a student from any assignments, tests, or quizzes. It is the students’ responsibility to arrange make up or missed work with the teacher.

• St. Joseph High School’s support of homebound status will not continue indefinitely and is subject to review.

• Students should not take vacation at times other than the scheduled school vacation. Written notification must be submitted in advance to the Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction. Teachers are under no obligation to provide individual tutoring or provide work in advance. The student is responsible for all material missed.

• Disciplinary action will be taken for excessive absences. The nature of the disciplinary action is up to the discretion of the Dean of Students.

Early Dismissal

• Early dismissals should be avoided and only requested for unique family circumstances.

• For the safety of all students, all requests for early dismissal must be in writing with a parental signature. Students must present a note to the Main Office before 9:00AM stating the reason for dismissal. In  case of an emergency or unexpected circumstance that requires an early dismissal, a fax (203-378-7306) or email (attendance@sjcadets.org) with a parental signature may be accepted. Phone calls requesting early dismissal will not be accepted. If approved, a special pass will be issued to the student.

• Such approvals will be granted by the Attendance Officer  at the discretion of the Principal, Assistant Principal, or Dean of Students. Students may not independently request early dismissals.

• Any student who leaves campus without following the  proper procedure for early dismissal may be subject to  suspension.

• Work missed due to early dismissal is the full  responsibility of the student.

Tardiness

• A student who is late to school, which means the student is NOT in his or her first period classroom, must report to the Attendance Secretary or Security Desk to obtain a late slip immediately upon entering school.

• If a student is meeting with a teacher or College Counselor before school and the meeting runs into first period, the student must obtain a pass from their teacher or counselor. The student must then report to the Main Office and present the pass to the Attendance Secretary so that attendance can be adjusted.

• The student is responsible for all work missed due to lateness.

• Disciplinary action will be taken for excessive tardies.  The nature of the disciplinary action is up to the discretion of the Dean of Students.

• 4 tardies = 1 absence

Students with chronic attendance issues may be subject to any of the following:

• 5 tardies = student meets with Dean of Students

• 10 tardies = morning detention and parental notification

• 15 tardies = student meets with parent(s) and Dean of Students

• 20 tardies = in-school suspension

• Additional tardies = meeting with Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, and Principal, or convening the Attendance Review Board.
   
• 5 absences = letter sent home
• 10 absences = student meets with parent(s) and Dean of Students
• 15 absences = in-school suspension
• 20 absences = loss of class credit
• Additional absences = meeting with Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, and Principal, or convening the Attendance Review Board.

*These disciplinary actions are up to the discretion of the Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, or Principal, and will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

St. Joseph High School will be closed and, if in session, will begin late or dismiss early according to weather conditions. Announcements will be made by our Parent Messaging Service, Channel 8 (WTNH), and Channel 3 (FSB). St. Joseph High School has its own separate announcement aired. St. Joseph High School follows Trumbull Public Schools in weather related school closing-related decisions.

Contingency plans for unexpected early dismissals should be arranged in advance by parents.

St Joseph High School requires all students to use an iPad, tablet, or personal computer. This policy is subject to the following stipulations:

• Texting is not allowed during class.
• Students are not allowed to place phone calls on their devices during school hours.
• The use of cell phones, electronic devices, or earbuds/air Pods in the classroom is solely at the discretion of the teacher. Teachers have the right to issue office referrals for any electronic device that is being used inappropriately or without the teacher’s permission. Any further inappropriate behavior may result in Students surrendering their electronic device if asked or risk further disciplinary action.
• Teachers have the right to turn over any confiscated item to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students may request that that student retrieve the device after 2:15PM.
• St. Joseph High School is not responsible for any lost or stolen devices.
• Taking photos or videos of another individual without their permission or knowledge is unacceptable and may be subject to disciplinary action.
• For safety reasons, earbuds or headphones cannot be worn in the hallways.

Every St. Joseph High School student using the computer system in the school has a responsibility to respect and protect the rights of every other user of the computer systems. Students are expected to abide by the principles of academic and personal honesty and integrity. Every student is  responsible for appropriate behavior on computers just as they are in a classroom or any open space of the school. We recommend that students:

• Do not give out personal information or passwords. Be sure to log off and disconnect correctly at end of session.

• Do not transmit credit card information over the network.

• Observe copyright laws. Do not transmit false information, attempt to read, or steal anyone else’s e-mail or work. Do not transfer commercial software. Not properly citing another person’s work is plagiarism.

• Do not insult anyone or use obscene or offensive language in communications, even e-mail, texting, and airdrop.

• Do not waste online time. Do not send unwanted or unnecessary email to anyone who has not asked. It may be considered harassment and against the law.

• Do not download or transmit any file that may have a computer virus.

• Report any problems or abuses to teachers or our system Administrator. Never give out their own or another’s personal  information, name, home address, phone number, or social security number over any computer network

• Network use is for curriculum projects or school business only. No commercial use or use for partisan politics is permitted.

• Access to any pornographic sites or material that could be considered illegal, or dangerous, or inconsistent with the philosophy of St. Joseph High School as stated in the Parent/Student Handbook is strictly prohibited.

• All use of the Internet and school work must be in support of education and research and consistent with the purposes of St. Joseph High School. Resources are limited and should not be wasted.
• Any use of the Internet and network to facilitate illegal activity is prohibited.
•  Use of the network for non-work related communication (e- mail, chat) is permitted only with on-site teacher permission and supervision.
• Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users or misrepresent other users on the network.
• Network accounts are to be used only by the authorized owner of the account for the authorized purpose.
• All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed to be private property. No trespassing in other’s folders, work or files.
• Network use shall not disrupt use by others; hardware or software shall not be damaged, modified, or abused in any way.
• Malicious use of the network to develop programs that harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computing system and/or damage the software components of a computer or computing system is prohibited. No hacking or introduction of a virus.
• Hate mail, harassment, threatening material, discriminatory remarks, insulting or obscene language and other anti-social behaviors are prohibited.
• The illegal installation or downloading of copyrighted software is prohibited.
•  Use of the network to access, send or display obscene or pornographic material is prohibited.
• Use of the network to transmit material likely to be offensive or objectionable to the recipients is prohibited
• Use of the network for commercial purposes is prohibited.
• We reserve the right to log Internet and Intranet usage and to monitor fileserver space utilization by users while respecting the privacy of user accounts.
• St. Joseph High School reserves the right to deny access to the Internet.
• St. Joseph High School will enact appropriate disciplinary sanctions for serious violations of the above policies. Be aware that misuse of computer resources may result in criminal prosecution.

Students are expected to use their electronic device as an educational tool. Accordingly, students are expected to adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy, outlined above, which governs technology  use on campus. Students should silence their electronic devices during the day unless instructed to do otherwise by a faculty or staff member.

Unauthorized use of cameras, recording devices, instant-messaging  apps, social networking apps, and/or games will result in disciplinary consequences.

• The electronic devices are owned by the students and are to be used as a learning tool.
• Students are responsible for knowing how to properly operate and protect their electronic device. This includes not leaving the device in a location where it can be damaged by cold, heat, or moisture, and cleaning the screen with a soft, dry, or anti-static cloth.
• Students/parents are solely responsible for the care and  security of student’s electronic device(s). Electronic devices must never be left in an unlocked, unlocked car, or any unsupervised area.
•  If the electronic device is damaged or malfunctions, or is lost or stolen, the students/parents are responsible for the expense of repairing or replacing the device.
• Students should not exchange their electronic devices with one another.
• The use of laptops, tablets, and phones, etc. in school is subject to the Acceptable Use and Academic Integrity Policies. St. Joseph High School does not accept responsibility for the electronic devices of students.

General Expectations

• Students are expected to have their fully charged electronic devices at school each day. To extend battery life, students should turn off their devices when not in use.
• Students are encouraged to use iCloud for their storage and backup of educational materials. This will allow the device to automatically backup when it is connected to Wi-Fi and a power source. Students should check to be sure their device is regularly backing up. Doing so will safeguard files, documents, and apps.
• Electronic devices should always be within a protective cases when carried.
• Students should have identification information located on their electronic device.
• For iPads: The “Find my iPad” function must be on at all times.
• Non-educational content is for personal use only and may not be accessed at any time during the school day or shared in any manner, audio or visual, with other students.
• If an electronic device is found unattended, it should be brought to the Main Office.
•  In the case of memory space conflict, academic content takes precedence over personal files and apps.

Prohibited Uses

• The communication functions on all electronic devices (messaging, texting, Facetime, camera, microphone, and any form of social media) are not to be used during the school day unless under the direction of a teacher for academic purposes.
• Inappropriate media may not be used as a screensaver or background photo (including but not limited to the presences of guns, weapons, pornographic materials, inappropriate language, alcohol, drugs, gang related symbols, or pictures).
• Use of chat rooms or messaging services not authorized by a teacher.
• Accessing sites selling other student’s work and assignments.
• Spamming - sending mass or inappropriate emails.
• Bypassing the St. Joseph High School web filter through a web proxy.

St. Joseph High School reserves the right to confiscate and search a  student’s electronic device to ensure compliance with the Acceptable Use Policy. Students in breach of the Acceptable Use Policy may be subject, but not limited to, disciplinary action up to and including dismissal, overnight confiscation, removal of content, or referral to  external agencies in the event of illegal activity. In the event of any disciplinary action, completion of all class work remains the  responsibility of the student.

Teachers may set additional requirements for use in their respective classes.

When using social networking sites, virtual reality sites, email or text/picture/ instant messaging systems of any kind, students must consider the impact on themselves and on other members of the community and be mindful of the School’s rules, mission and values. In particular:

• Any posting (anonymous or not) that creates, directly or indirectly, an uninviting/threatening atmosphere for any member of our community, or creates an environment that is contrary to the values of SJHS, will be investigated and considered a serious violation of our harassment and bullying  policies no matter when or on what system it was created or transmitted.
• Students need to be mindful that, even in their online activities, they are always representing SJHS.
• Students should not post anything compromising that could then be linked to the School.
• Students should be aware that many college admissions offices and future employers will look at the social networking sites of applicants. Postings can have serious, life-long repercussions.
• Students may not use the name or logos of the School for any posting without written permission from the President and may not use the logos or copyrighted material of any other person or organization without appropriate permission.

Basic Guidelines for Safety on Social Networking Sites

• Students should be careful with the personal contact information they post on social networking sites. Such information includes a student’s full name, home address, location, home phone number, cell phone number, and any other information that would allow an individual to locate a student.
• Disclosing personal contact information on social networking sites can lead to unwanted and unsafe attention from individuals that students do not know.
• Social media websites and applications provide numerous privacy settings for information contained in their pages. Students should use these settings to protect personal contact information and other private information.
• Students should be aware that once posted, the information becomes property of the website.
• Legal age limits apply to certain social networking sites.
•  Students are responsible for the content that they publish or that is published under their names.
• Never assume that anything posted is private.
• Anything sent or posted in cyberspace creates a record that cannot be deleted.
• Always consider the reaction of recipients of social networking.
• Always consider the reaction of others such as your family, friends, the School, or the media, to any student postings.
• Online behavior should reflect the same standards that SJHS expects of the student each day: respect, integrity, kindness, honesty, compassion, and trust.

Lunches: 1st = 10:45-11:08 | 2nd = 11:12-11:35 | 3rd = 11:39-12:02 | 4th = 12:05-12:28

Lunches: 1st = 11:21-11:44 | 2nd = 11:47-12:10 | 3rd = 12:13-12:36 | 4th = 12:38-1:01

Lunches: 1st = 11:33-11:56 | 2nd = 11:59-12:22 | 3rd = 12:25-12:48 | 4th = 12:50-1:13

Lunches: 1st = 11:45-12:08 | 2nd = 12:11-12:34 | 3rd = 12:37-1:00 | 4th = 1:02-1:25

Course Scheduling

Every reasonable attempt will be made to honor course requests. Due to the complexity of scheduling, not every course request can be accommodated. Requests for individual teachers cannot be accommodated.

Dropping Courses

A student may not drop a class without approval of the Counseling Department. Class cannot be changed after the first two weeks.

Sleeping in Class

Sleeping in class is prohibited. After a warning, students may be subject to suspension.

Students must successfully earn the credits listed below as well as be in compliance with the other policies listed in order to receive a diploma from St Joseph High School.

• English: 4.0 credits (1 credit per year)
• Mathematics: 4.0 credits (1 credit per year)
• Theology: 4.0 credits (1 credit per year)
• Social Studies: 3.5 credits (including Civics)
• Science: 3.0 credits
• World Language: 2.0 credits (of same language)
  • College recommending: 3.0 credits
• General Electives: 3.5 credits
• Grade 9 & 10 Required Electives: 2.0 credits
  • Grade 9 electives: Choir or Band or Technology 680 and Health & Wellness
  • Grade 10 electives: Choir or Band; or Art or Theatre and Technology & Innovation or Health & Wellness
• Community Service..................... 70 hours

Total Credits............................... 26

Transfer Students

Transfer students are placed accordingly as determined by the St. Joseph High School curriculum and requirements for graduation. In some cases, transfer students may be required to take classes with a different grade level. Transfer student credit requirements will be determined on a case-by-case basis during the admissions process. A student must attend St Joseph High School for four years in order to be considered for valedictorian and salutatorian honors.  To earn their diploma, transfer students must meet the following requirements:

• 1.0 credit in British Literature
• 1.0 credit in U.S. History
• 0.5 credit in Civics (or 1.0 credit in AP US Government & Politics)
• 1.0 credit or equivalent in Algebra 2
• 3.0 credits in Science, including 1.0 in biological science (Biology or Anatomy) and 1.0 in a physical science (Chemistry or Physics)
• 2.0 credits in the same World Language

A senior who fails more than two full credits will not receive a diploma from St Joseph High School.

• Seniors must complete their required community service hours to receive a diploma.
• Transfer Student credit requirements will be determined on a  case by case basis. Students may earn additional credits but are required to carry a full course load each year.

Students must pass all courses in order to advance to the next grade level. Any course failures (grade below a 65) must be successfully recovered through a summer school program. If a student fails more than two credits, he or she is not eligible to return to St. Joseph High School. In addition, students must also complete their community service requirement to advance.

Promotion to the next grade level is not simply a matter of the successful completion of academic requirements. Since we educate the whole person, we expect and require the student to exhibit, by his or her own behavior, an appreciation for and acceptance of the values and ideas on which the School was founded and which we continue to teach. Failure to comply with the Parent/Student Handbook may result in a student not being invited back to St. Joseph High School. Also, if parents/guardians fail to cooperate with school policies, the School may require that the parent withdraw their student from St. Joseph High School.

All textbooks are the property of St Joseph High School and are loaned to the students for the academic year.

•  Students are responsible for the care of books issued to them.
• The student’s name and homeroom should be written in ink on the inside front cover.
• The same book with the same book number that was given to students at the beginning of the course must be turned in upon completion of the course.
• Students are not allowed to mark or deface their books.

Lost, missing, or damaged textbooks must be paid for by the student. Failure to do so will result in an outstanding financial obligation and the student may not be permitted to take midterm  or final exams.

Any academic failure will require the student to attend summer school for the purpose of recovering credits in the subject(s) failed. The only acceptable summer school programs that students may attend are the programs offered by St. Joseph High School or programs offered by their town. Students who opt to attend the programs in their town are responsible for making those arrangements with their local Board of Education. St. Joseph High School will publicize the summer school requirements on or about May 1st. There is an additional fee for any student enrolled in the Summer School Program.

Summer school grades are not factored into a student’s cumulative grade point average but are indicated on the student’s transcript. A student who fails more than two full credits is ineligible to return to St. Joseph High School.

Summer reading assignments will be posted to PlusPortals and our website over the summer.

Community Service is an important component of the curriculum that helps students become aware of the needs of others. Community service is a requirement for grade promotion and graduation. The service form with all proper signatures will be collected at the end of the third quarter. The criteria for acceptable service are determined by the Office of Campus Ministry.

Hours must be completed in the following areas:

Freshmen……… 10 Hours          Juniors……… 20Hours

Sophomores…… 15 Hours          Seniors……… 25Hours

Community Service hours must be submitted through X2VOL between May 1st 2021 and May 1st 2022.

A grade of P (pass) indicates the service hours are complete and the form has been properly filled out and handed in by the deadline. If the hours and form are not completed, an F (fail) will be posted as the third quarter Service grade.

In addition to the F, an INCOMPLETE will be issued as the third quarter theology grade. If this is not reconciled within the grace period, the student will become academically ineligible for the fourth quarter.

The academic calendar is divided into the 1^st Semester and 2^nd Semester; each Semester is further divided into two quarters:

• 1^st Semester = 1^st and 2^nd  Quarters and the midterm exam
• 2^nd Semester = 3^rd and 4^th Quarters and the final exam

Full year courses meet for both the 1^st and 2^nd Semesters. Half year courses   meet for only one semester and may be offered in either the 1^st or 2^nd Semester.

A numerical marking system is used for quarter, exam, and final grades. A passing grade is 65 and above. A failing grade is 64 and  below. To determine the final average for courses, the following formula will be used:

• Full year courses: Each quarter will count as 20% of the  final grade. The midterm exam and final exam will count as 10% each.
• Semester courses: Each quarter will count as 40% of the  final grade and the final exam will count as 20%.

Students’ grades are reported as raw scores on all transcripts and report cards. Students who are enrolled in Advanced Placement, College-level, or Honors courses receive a multiplier towards their  adjusted (weighted) grade point average. The Registrar’s Office updates each students’ grade point average annually to reflect the multiplier.

The multipliers are as follows:

• Advanced Placement/College-Level - 1.10
• Honors 1 - 1.07
• Honors 2 - 1.05
• College Prep - 1.00

The cumulative grade point average is available on the final report card. Grade point averages for transfer students are calculated only  on their coursework at SJHS. Summer school grades only reflect that the credits have been recovered; they do not replace the failing grade and are not averaged into the student’s final GPA.

CLASS PARTICIPATION

Teachers may incorporate class participation as a portion of a student’s grade up to, but not exceeding 10%  in each quarter.
 

HOMEWORK
Class work and study periods during the day are not sufficient to master today’s complex subject matter and must be supplemented by homework. Students must be prepared to do at least two hours of homework each night. Assignments should be done with care and all written work should be neat and follow the formatting expectations of the teacher.

These exams are administered at scheduled times at the end of each semester (see school calendar). All students are expected to be present, punctual, and in proper school uniform, for all of their scheduled exam sessions.

Make-ups are not arranged as a matter of convenience or preference. A student who misses an exam due to illness or a death in the family must furnish the Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction with the necessary documentation. Make-up exams will take place after regular exams are complete. Any other exam absence may result in a zero for the missed examination.

If a student is registered in an AP course, students may elect to not take the AP national exam. National exams are given in May at St. Joseph High School. Students need to pay for the AP Exam upon registration for the exam.

Testing Dates

In order to avoid an unfair number of assessments on the same day, we use the following test day assignments as a guide:

• Monday: Math, Fine Arts
• Tuesday: Science, World Language
• Wednesday: Business/Technology/Theology
• Thursday: English
• Friday: Social Studies, Electives

Two full-period assessments given on one school day are not considered unreasonable.

At the end of each marking period, students who achieve the required average are recognized for their scholastic accomplishments. Honors are awarded as follows:

• President’s Honor Roll: A weighted grade point average of 95 or higher with no individual grade under an 90.
• Principal’s Honor Roll: A weighted grade point average of 88 or higher with no individual grade under an 80.

Students who make Honor Roll the first three marking periods, two of which must be the President’s Honor Roll, will be honored at the Academic Awards Banquet in the spring.

National Honor Society

Students who have been enrolled in the school for at least one semester and have a scholastic weighted career average of 90 will be invited to apply. Acceptance is based on many factors, including leadership, service, and recommendations. If accepted into the Society, it  is expected that all criteria for membership will be maintained throughout the student’s high school career, including the highest  standards of academics, leadership, service, and character on which they were selected. Details of the selection process are available from the NHS advisor.

Participation in sports, student activities, or field trips is a privilege. Students may be denied participation if they fail to meet  academic, attendance, or behavioral expectations. In order to participate in clubs, athletic teams, field trips, special class trips, or  events, a student must maintain academic eligibility. If a student receives two failing grades in a marking period, the student becomes ineligible until the next quarter’s final grades are posted.

Two incompletes or one incomplete and one failure will also result  in ineligibility until the incompletes are successfully resolved.

Students who are academically ineligible to participate in athletics, extracurricular activities, school trips etc. will not be able to participate in such activities until the new quarter grades have been  officially posted. Since the purpose of the ineligibility period is to provide students with more time to dedicate to their studies, students may not participate in practices or regular meetings during this time period (with the exception of try-outs or auditions).

While attendance at games or school functions where a club may be present is not forbidden, students who are ineligible may not dress in uniform or any club attire. They also cannot sit on the bench or travel with their team. For safety purposes, athletes that  are removed from the ineligibility list must take part in two full practices before playing in their first contest.

In addition to academic eligibility, if a student wishes to represent  St. Joseph High School in extracurricular activities, his/her school  conduct and attitude, as well as out of school behavior, must be beyond reproach.
 

An Intervention Meeting may be convened by the student’s Counselor or the Administration for the purpose of evaluating a student’s progress when the student is demonstrating poor performance. Participants will include the student’s College Counselor, and may include teachers, Social Worker, Dean of Students, Nurse, and members of the Administration. The student  and parents/guardians will be requested to attend the Intervention Meeting. It is expected that the student will employ the strategies identified in the planning meeting. Failure to comply with the recommendations  may result in a referral to the Accountability Board.

Polo and Oxford Shirts

A short or long sleeve polo shirt bearing the St. Joseph High School insignia of our school may be worn throughout the academic school year. They are available for purchase from Blake’s Uniform Store (www.blakesschooluniform.com).

All students may choose to wear a solid, non-patterned, long-sleeved oxford shirt. Boys must wear a tie with the oxford shirt. All shirts, both polo and oxford, must be properly tucked into the slacks or skirt.

Students who have purchased approved club, activity, or team polos may wear their shirts in place of the school polo. All club, activity, and team polos must be approved by the Dean of Student Life.

A solid, white, short sleeve t-shirt or tank top is the only shirt acceptable to be worn under a short sleeved uniform shirt/polo. Rugby shirts may only be worn on Fridays. Long sleeve shirts under short sleeve polos are not permitted. A proper uniform polo or dress shirt must be worn under approved outerwear at all times.

Outerwear

Outerwear is optional. Any student who chooses to wear outerwear during the school day may choose to wear one of the following options:

• Maroon or gray school fleece (available in ¼ zip or full zip)
• Maroon or gray micro-fleece (available in ¼ zip only)
• Gray lightweight pull-over (available in ¼ zip only)
• SJ quarter zip hoodless sweatshirt (the only sweatshirt  allowed)
• Maroon, gray, or white club, activity, or team ¼ zip pullover.
• All other outerwear (jackets, hoodies, vests, pullovers, etc.) must be kept in backpacks during the school day. NHS apparel may be worn by NHS members only.

The bookstore sells, and athletic teams may purchase, outwear that may not be acceptable to wear in school on a daily basis; please check with the Dean of Students before making any purchases to determine if the apparel may be worn during the school day.

Shoes

The only acceptable footwear for all students is a closed toe shoe, below the ankle with a full back, rigid heel, and sole (ex: Sperry boat shoes, loafers, dress shoes, ballerina flats). Shoes may be brown, black, navy blue, or gray. No bright colors, including bright white are allowed on the heel or sole. White shoes are not allowed. Sneakers or Sneaker-style Sperry’s, Vans, boots, sandals, flip flops,   heels, clogs, slippers, moccasins, or any shoe with visible “fur or fuzz” (ex: UGG’s, Timberlands, etc.) are not allowed.

Appearance

Hairstyles must meet conventional standards appropriate for work in a professional business office setting in order to participate in any function or activity of the school.

Extremes of length, style, cut, or unnatural color (ex: bright/neon colors, ash gray, bleach, etc) are not permitted, including streaks of color in the hair or “dipped” hair. Also prohibited are any designs cut, shaved, or dyed into one’s hair, or beads woven into the hair.

Claims that the offending hairstyle/color cannot be changed because it is a recent purchase will not be accepted. Under no circumstance may athletic teams or clubs dye their hair as a form of team comradery. Students will be subject to disciplinary action for violating school rules.

Any tattoos must be covered. Body piercings (except for girl’s earrings in the lobe) are prohibited. Students will be required to remove the offending item prior to being allowed to participate in any function or activity of the school. Claims that the offending item cannot be removed because it is a recent piercing will not be accepted. Band aids may not be worn over offending items.

Hats are not permitted at any time, including dress down days. Torn, marked, or soiled uniforms will not be permitted.

All attire and accessories (including jewelry) must be consistent with the values and expectations of St. Joseph High School.

Spiked or studded clothing or accessories will not be permitted.
 

In addition to the rules for all students, the following are required  of all boys:

Traditional style navy blue or khaki dress slacks are required of boys. The dress slacks are to be hemmed, properly fitted and worn at the waist with a belt. Pants may not be rolled above the ankles. No jean style pants, cargo pants, jogger-style pants, corduroy pants  or any pants with external pockets or zippers may be worn. Socks must be worn at all times.

All boys must be clean-shaven (no facial hair). The length of the side burns may not extend past the bottom of the ear. No earrings  are allowed at any time; band aids may not be worn over the ears during the school day.

Hair length must not be beyond the top of the shirt collar. Extreme differences in hair length are not allowed; different lengths must blend seamlessly into one another (i.e. cannot be long on top and shaved on the sides). See “Hairstyles” in ALL STUDENTS section: “Extremes of length” include, but are not limited to: shaved heads, mohawks. Designs shaved into the hair are not allowed.

In addition to the rules for all students, the following are also required of all girls:

Girls may wear a blue or gray kilt, or blue or gray uniform skirt, which must be purchased from Blake’s Uniform Company.

Modesty is a concern. All skirts should be worn no higher than  four inches above the knee.

Girls also have the option of wearing traditional style navy blue or  khaki dress slacks. The slacks are to be hemmed, properly fitted and worn at the waist. No jean style, cargo, corduroy, low rise, or tight fitting pants or any pants with external pockets or zippers may be worn.

Sweatpants, leggings, and pajama bottoms are never to be worn under the skirt during school hours. Girls may wear tights under  the skirt.

Hairstyles, hair color, makeup and jewelry, must be suitable for  professional office wear. Nose rings and studs are prohibited. Claims that they are recent piercings when asked to remove are not acceptable. Band-Aids and nose stud or ring retainers are not  allowed.
 

All attire worn by students at any St. Joseph High School function  or event, including dress down days, must be modest (covers the body well) and in compliance with the expectations of St. Joseph High School. Flip- flops or other unsafe footwear are never permitted during the school day.

• Any student inappropriately dressed or groomed may be sent  home by the Administration to change. Time missed from classes will be unexcused and work may not be allowed to be  made up.
• Faculty and staff members may issue office referrals or  confiscate electronic devices for dress code violations.
• Chronic dress code violations will make a student subject to  detention and suspension.
• Additional referrals for dress code violations after a suspension may lead to dismissal from St. Joseph High School.
• On a daily basis, the Dean of Students is the final interpreter  of the school dress code. “Legalistic” word games over interpretations will not be entertained.
• Full cooperation from the students and parents for dress code  enforcement in alignment with the rules listed in this handbook is expected.
• Students who require an exception from the dress code due to  medical reasons must present a doctor’s note to the Nurse and Dean of Students.