NOTRE DAME SCHOOL

OF DE PERE

A Green Bay Area Catholic Education

(GRACE) school

FAMILY HANDBOOK

2017 – 2018

A PROUD TRADITION OF SHARED FAITH AND EDUCATION

August 2017 A NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL Dear Notre Dame De Pere Catholic School Parents and Students, Welcome back to our 2017-2018 school year! I hope everyone had a relaxing and rejuvenating summer filled with faith, family, and fun. I am very excited to be part of the Notre Dame De Pere community as your new principal and looking forward to working with all of you. After my interview, meet and greet with staff, popsicles on the playground with parents and kiddos, and my initial time over the summer, I knew right away in my heart this was an extremely exciting environment and I was so glad to be part of it. As a graduate of elementary Catholic education along with college undergraduate and graduate education, I value this faith-filled environment. I know the value of a Catholic Education and how much your child(ren) can too benefit from an education at Notre Dame of De Pere. I am so glad that I will be able to give back to this school, its faculty, staff, and you the parents and students of Notre Dame. Since my first day on the job back in July, I have been meeting with various GRACE and Notre Dame Community members to learn about this thrilling and developing Catholic school community. It has been wonderful meeting teachers, staff, parents, and students too! I have so much to learn about all the rich traditions this school affords to the community of De Pere. One of these rich aspects of Notre Dame is that the students and staff pick a theme for the school year. Our theme for 2017-2018 could not be more fitting as we always need to remember to…

(See Miracles in Life Everyday)

This Parent-Student Handbook contains Notre Dame regulations, procedures, and policies. Please take a few moments to read your handbook and keep it for reference throughout the year. In conclusion, I want to thank you for allowing me to be a servant-leader for the wonderful Notre Dame of De Pere Catholic School Community. I appreciate your trust shown to me and look forward to a successful and rewarding year for all. May God bless you and your family. Partners in education, Gregory R. Balza Principal

MISSION

Notre Dame School of De Pere develops young minds

into future leaders of the Catholic Faith and the community.

PHILOSOPHY

We strive in our education process to provide for the growth and uniqueness of each student. The school’s focus is to educate the whole person by developing each student’s Catholic Faith with emphasis on respect, personal responsibility and service to God. Our vision provides for a positive and safe learning atmosphere conducive to academic achievement and individual growth. The student is challenged to grow in the spiritual, intellectual, moral, physical, emotional and social dimensions of life. The education and ongoing values learned at Notre Dame are not just for today but for a lifetime. The ultimate measure of success lies in our student’s understanding of and dependence on Jesus as teacher, friend and Lord. The Notre Dame Community is committed to nurturing in students a healthy self-confidence that allows them to contribute significantly to the common good.

PARENT/STUDENT/TEACHER EXPECTATIONS

As a parent/guardian, I will: • Show respect and support for my child, the teachers, and the school • Support the school’s discipline policy • Provide a quiet, well-lit place for study and supervise homework • Attend parent-teacher conferences • Talk with my child each day about his or her school activities • Monitor my child’s TV viewing and internet usage • Assist with at least one school or classroom activity • Read with my child for at least 10 minutes each day and let my child see me read • Follow the appropriate chain of command when communicating with the school

As a student, I will:

• Always try to do my best work • Be kind and helpful to my classmates • Show respect for myself, my school, and other people • Obey classroom, school, and bus rules • Show respect for property by not stealing or vandalizing • Come to school prepared with my homework and my supplies • Believe that I can and will learn • Spend at least 15 minutes each day studying or reading at home • Talk with my parents each day about my school activities

As a teacher, I will:

• Show respect for each child and for his or her family • Make efficient use of learning time • Provide a safe and comfortable environment that’s conducive to learning • Help each child grow to his or her fullest potential • Provide meaningful and appropriate homework activities • Provide necessary assistance to parents so they can help with assignments • Enforce school and classroom rules fairly and consistently • Supply students and parents with clear evaluations of progress and achievement • Use special activities in the classroom to make learning enjoyable • Demonstrate professional behavior and a positive attitude • Communicate with parents in an appropriate manner through parent meetings,

phone calls and technology such as PowerSchool, Web-pages and email

DIRECTORY

2017 -2018 Elementary Building: 100 S. Huron Street Phone: 337-1103 Middle Building: 221 S. Wisconsin Street Phone: 337-1115 St. Francis Parish: 220 S. Michigan Street Phone: 336-1813 St. Mary Parish: Office: PO Box 70 Phone: 337-2330 School Web Page Address: www.notredameofdepere.com

DAILY SCHEDULE

School Hours: Elementary : 8:00 AM – 2:55 PM Middle: 7:55 AM – 3:00 PM Office Hours:

Elementary and Middle School: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

SITE ADVISORY COUNCIL Julie Appel Jessie Beauchamp Stacy Blahnik John Connelly Alisa Conway Marianne Gerrits

Rev. Richard Getchel Bridget Hein Jenny Kukiela Chet Lamers Debbie Ruggles Sarah Schwarten

Marv Wall Matthew Wegmann * Gregory Balza (non-voting member) * Lois Schumacher (non-voting member

ATHLETIC BOOSTER CLUB Athletic Director: Laura Weber

Phone: 532-0476 E-mail: NDRaiderathletics@gmail.com Assistant AD: Debbie Ruggles 246-1149 Co - Chair: Pam Gallagher 632-7122 & Jessie Lawton 964-2750 Treasurer: Lynn Wolfram 660-7603 Secretary: Joelle Zuengler 338-0407

FACULTY & STAFF 2017-2018

ELEMENTARY SITE MIDDLE SITE Principal Mr. Gregory Balza Admin. Asst. Mrs. Jenny Lamers Pre-K Ms. Jennifer Kopp Pre-K Ms. Kendra Kuehl Pre-K Aide Mrs. Julie Byrne Kindergarten Ms. Hannah Gore Kindergarten Mrs. Ashleigh Gilson K-Aide Ms. Lisa Shoemaker 1st Grade Mrs. Jacky Cramer 1st Grade Mrs. Ronni Ledvina 1st Grade Aide Mrs. Carol Pisani 2nd Grade Ms. Carrie Korinek 2nd Grade Ms. Sara Murphy 3rd Grade Mrs. Julie Kohl 3rd Grade Mrs. Jean Healy 4th Grade Mrs. Christina Henkel 4th Grade Mrs. Amy Muenster 5th Grade Ms. Jenna Jossart 5th Grade Ms. Cindy Kabat Art Mrs. Virginia Janssen Campus Minist. Ms. Valerie Oswalt Computer Mrs. Jody Laehn Cafeteria Mrs. Beth Simonet Mrs. Peggy Manning Librarian Mrs. Ellen Meverden Maintenance Mr. Steven Windey Music Ms. Melissa Freeman P.E./Health Mrs. Patti Pagel Spanish Srta. Ana Turba Sup. Consultant Mrs. Sarah Patterson

Principal Mr. Gregory Balza Admin. Asst. Mrs. Susan Nance Athletic Dir. Mrs. Laura Weber Art Ms. Virginia Janssen Bookkeeping Mrs. Tracy Glover Campus Minist. Ms. Valerie Oswalt Lang. Arts Ms. Katie Summers Librarian Mrs. Ellen Meverden Maintenance Mr. Patrick Ferron Math Ms. Emily Norppa Music/Band Mrs. Melissa Freeman P.E./Health Mrs. Patti Pagel Religion Middle School Teachers Science Mr. Kevin Schwarten Social Studies Mr. Pete Brauer Spanish Srta. Ana Turba Sup. Consultant Mrs. Sarah Patterson

HOME & SCHOOL

President: Jenny Kukiela …………… 632-7808 Secretary: Melanie Reince …………. 321-6939 Treasurer: Becky Lamers …….......... 915-8342 Spirituality: Open ……………………….. Mentoring New Families: Rachel Enright ……….... 360- 2643

For contact information for staff members please refer to our website.

www.notredameofdepere.com

Date Event AUGUST

Wed. Aug 23 ALICE Training Thurs. Aug 24 GRACE Teacher In-Service Mon. Aug 28 Kindergarten Screening Appointments Mon. Aug 28 Pre-K Parent Orientation Meeting (5 pm) Mon. Aug 28 Kindergarten Parent Orientation Meeting (6 pm) Mon. Aug 28 6th Grade Orientation (1:30-4:00 pm) at the MS Tues. Aug 29 Staff Group Photo at MS (at 7:30 am) In-Service to follow Tues. Aug 29 Meet Teachers/Drop Off Supplies (4-6 pm) Tues. Aug 29 Cook out at the Elementary School for all families (4-6pm) Thurs. Aug 31 First Day of School

SEPTEMBER Mon. Sep 4 No School – Labor Day

Tues. Sep 12 Elementary School Pictures (Staff 7:30) Wed. Sep 13 Middle School Pictures (Staff 7:30 am)

Wed.-Wed. Sep 13-Oct 4 MAPS Testing – All Students Mon-Wed. Sep 18-20 8th Grade Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya Fri.-Fri Sep 29-Oct 6 School Book Fair

OCTOBER Wed. Oct 4 Grandparents Day Fri. Oct 6 Shadow Day at NDA (8th Grade Only)

Tues. Oct 10 Parent/Teacher Conferences (4:00-8:00pm) Thurs. Oct 12 11:30 Early Release; P/T Conferences (1:00-7:00)

Fri. Oct 13 NO SCHOOL – Conference Trade Off Fri. Oct 20 Fall Fest

Mon. Oct. 23 ES & MS Picture Re-Take Day at ES (9:00) Tues. Oct 24 NO SCHOOL – Staff In-Service

NOVEMBER TBA The Fall Fundraiser

Tues. Nov 7 Election Bake Sale Fri. Nov 10 Veterans Day am assembly/11:30 Early Release/Staff In - Service

Wed. Nov 22 11:30 Early Release/End of 1st Trimester Thurs-Fri. Nov 23-24 NO SCHOOL Thanksgiving Break

DECEMBER Fri. Dec 1 Report Cards Sent Home

Thurs. Dec 14 Christmas Concert (MS Gym - 1:00 pm and 6:30 pm) Grades K-5

Tues. Dec19 Kindergarten Christmas Concert – ES Gym – (2:00pm) Wed. Dec 20 Pre-K Christmas Concert – ES School Gym - (1:45pm) Fri. Dec 22 11:30 Early Release/ Last day of classes before Christmas

Mon-Mon. Dec 24–Jan 1 NO SCHOOL - Christmas Break

NOTRE DAME OF DE PERE 2017-2018 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR

Date Event

JANUARY Tues. Jan 2 Classes Resume

Tues.-Fri. Jan 2-26 MAPS Testing – Select Students Fri. Jan 19 NO SCHOOL - GRACE/Local AM-NDA PM In-Service Sat. Jan 27 Registration NDA – 2018-19 Freshman Sun. Jan 28 Catholic Schools Week Showcase

Sun-Sat. Jan 28 – Feb 2 Catholic Schools Week FEBRUARY

Fri. Feb 9 NO SCHOOL – Staff In – Service (GRACE) Wed. Feb 14 Ash Wednesday Sat. Feb 17 NDA Triton Fest

TBA Island Adventure MARCH Fri. Mar 2 11:30 Early Release/End of 2nd Trimester Sat. Mar 3 Solo & Ensemble (Middle School and gym location)

Thurs. Mar 8 Evening Optional P/T Conferences (4:00-8:00) Fri. Mar 9 Early Dismissal – Afternoon Conferences (1:00-3:30) Fri. Mar 9 Report Cards Sent Home

Mon-Fri. Mar 12 – 16 NO SCHOOL - Spring Break Wed. Mar 28 Donuts for Dads (7-8 am) Mass to Follow Fri. Mar 30 NO SCHOOL – Good Friday

APRIL Mon. Apr 2 NO SCHOOL – Easter Monday Tues. Apr 3 Classes resume Wed. Apr 18 Muffins for Mom (7-8 am) Mass to Follow

Wed.-Wed. Apr 11-May 2 MAPS Testing – All Students MAY

Fri. May 4 11:30 Early Release/Staff In-Service - Local Fri-Fri. May 4-11 Spring Book Fair

Mon-Fri. May 7-11 Teacher Appreciation Week Tues. May 8 Spring Musical Rehearsal Day Wed. May 9 May Crowning

Thurs. May 17 MS Spring Concert (MS Gym - 1:00 pm and 6:30 pm)

Wed-Fri. May 23-25 8th Grade Final Exams Thurs. May 24 Spring Instrument Concert –Gr. 5-8 Band & Guitar (MS Gym – 2:00pm)

Fri. May 25 Last Day for 8th Grade Mon. May 28 NO SCHOOL – Memorial Day Tues. May 29 8th Grade Graduation Practice @ St. Mary Tues. May 29 8th Grade Report Cards Distributed at Graduation Practice Tues. May 29 Graduation Mass at St. Mary Wed. May 30 Pre-K Graduation (ES Gym – 1:45)

Thurs. May 31 Kindergarten Graduation (ES Gym –2:00pm) JUNE

Wed. June 6 Last Student Day – Early Release at 10:30 Wed. June 6 End of 3rd Trimester - Report Cards Sent Home with Students Wed. June 6 Teacher’s Work Day PM

AREAS OF INTEREST ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: The lack of academic integrity (eg. cheating and plagiarism) is considered to be a behavioral offense. The consequences for any action(s) that violate academic integrity will be addressed in the following manner(s):

• The student will retake the assignment or test according to the teacher. This could be the exact assignment or test taken after school or a different assessment that demonstrates student knowledge.

• If the lack of academic integrity is part of a project, the student will redo the project.

• The teacher will arrange with the parent(s) and child a meeting as to the offense and how the teacher will address the lack of academic integrity.

• The student will receive two demerits for demonstrating a lack of academic integrity.

• It is up to the teacher to determine what is done to replace the assignment, project or other activity the student was cheating on.

Best teaching practice states that a lack of academic integrity should not compromise a child’s grades such as taking points off or giving a zero grade. Deducting points does not determine a child’s understanding of the material. Middle School Grade Check(s) During the Trimester:

• The principal will set three times during the trimester for grade checks on all middle school students. The purpose of this grade is to monitor the success of all middle school students.

• If a student falls below a 2.0 GPA or has a failing grade at the time of grade inspection, the student will remain after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:55-3:30 pm. for study hall. The student will remain in that study hall until his/her grades are at the minimum acceptable level.

• The purpose of grade inspections is to make the student accountable for his/her academic progress. At the same time it allows parents and teachers to provide academic support for the student. Failure to achieve minimum grade standards is an academic, not behavioral matter.

ADMINISTRATION: The immediate direction of the school and its administration is under control of the Principal, who is employed by GRACE. The Parish Administrator of St. Francis, and St. Mary’s Pastor are the co-spiritual leaders. The Site Advisory Council is made up of members from each parish and is advisory to the Principal. Site Advisory Council meetings are held each month at the middle school and are open to all.

ADMISSIONS AND REGISTRATION Everyone is welcome at Notre Dame of De Pere Catholic School. Families are encouraged to be registered members of a GRACE Parish. New families should register in the parish office before registering their children for school. For more information, visit www.gracesystem.org and click on the “Parent/Student Resources” tab. This tab allows you to register your child and has information on financial aid and tuition assistance through GRACE. Registration for the next school year typically opens by the end of January and is reserved first for currently enrolled families. Families may register at any time for the current school year, but must call the school to notify them of their intentions to enroll a student mid-year. The following fees have been approved by GRACE for the 2017-2018 school year: In GRACE System tuition is K-5: $2,700.00 for one child, 2 or more $2,600.00

6-8: $2,800.00 for one child, 2 or more $2,700.00 Out of GRACE Schools tuition is K-5: $4,700.00 for one child, 2 or more $4,600.00 6-8: $4,800.00 for one child, 2 or more $4,700.00 A non-refundable registration fee is required with each child’s registration. Any family having more than one child in a GRACE school will need to pay only one of the registration fees at the time of registration. ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL: The entrance bell at the elementary building rings at 8:00 A.M. The middle school building entrance bell rings at 7:55 A.M. Students should not arrive at school more than 15 minutes before the entrance bell, as there are no supervisors on duty before then. Students arriving too early will be required to remain outdoors, even in inclement weather. Dismissal at the Elementary School is at 2:55 PM Dismissal at the Middle School is at 3:00 PM ABSENCE POLICY: If your child is unable to attend school for any reason, you must report him/her absent. This can be done via phone call to either campus or through the email system by 8:15 am the morning of the illness. When parents call, they must give the Administrative Assistant the nature of the absence (illness or other reason). If a parent does not notify the office of the absence the same day, that absence will be marked as unexcused. If a student is absent more than 10 days during the school year, a written notice will be sent to the parent indicating that this has occurred. A parent principal conference may be called if the number of absences exceeds ten during the school year.

Tardiness Promptness is an important life skill as it emphasizes responsibility on the part of the student. If a student arrives after the morning bell, he/she is marked tardy. Said student must be signed in by the parent in the school office. If a student reports tardy without parent notification three times in a trimester, he/she may serve detention during recess or after school.

AFTER HOURS PROGRAM: Our After School Program has been very successful under the leadership of Jennifer Kopp. The program provides a valuable service to students and parents alike by providing a safe, supervised place for students from dismissal at 3:00pm until 5:30pm daily when school is in session. (Note: There is no After School Program on early release days.) Staffing and supplies for the program must be arranged in advance, so it’s important to have the children who are planning to participate pre-registered by the 15th of the prior month. The charge for unregistered students who participate in the After School Program is the “drop-in” rate. It’s important to include Jennifer (jkopp@gracesystem.org) in any emails of a change in plans (e.g. drop-in or absence for any reason), so she can plan appropriately and maintain a safe and well-run program. Parents are required to pay fees on time. Failure to comply may result in denied services. After School Program Fee Schedule:

§ $11/per day for 3 or more days during the week § $13/per day for 1-2 days per week § $16 /per day for drop-in’s § $1 per minute for late pick-up (after 5:30pm)

If you have any questions regarding the program, please contact Jennifer Kopp. ALLERGIES: All students with diagnosed food or other severe allergies will report it to the school and have an Emergency Care Plan on file at Notre Dame School. The Emergency Care Plan will be updated annually or when necessary. Emergency Care Plans will be distributed to all teachers, aides, Administrative Assistants, Cafeteria and Maintenance Staff and Recess/After Hour Workers.

• All parents of students with food or other severe allergies will meet with the student’s teachers and/or Principal prior to the start of the school year to discuss the Emergency Care Plan, medications and medication locations and any curriculum modifications.

• Parents of food allergic children will keep a box of safe snacks at school, stored by the student’s teacher in the classroom.

• All snacks brought into a classroom or provided by a teacher must be peanut and tree nut free. No exceptions!

• Parents of food allergic children should contact the Food Service Director with any questions on the hot lunch program.

• Special subject teachers, support staff and coaches will be aware of students with allergies and plan accordingly. No allergens are allowed in any classroom activities.

• Parents of food allergic children who go on field trips must keep their cold lunch boxes separate from other cold lunch boxes/bags. Parent of food allergic children will be allowed to act as a chaperone on field trips.

• Student allergy information will be included in substitute teacher plans as well as the Staff Handbook. The substitute teacher must be made aware in the substitute teacher folder the names of students who have food allergies and their Emergency Action Plan.

• If a parent does not submit an Individual Emergency Plan and a student shows signs of anaphylaxis Notre Dame of De Pere will follow the school’s Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Plan.

• All staff members will receive in-service training about the signs of anaphylaxis and their management. Specific training regarding the use of epinephrine auto injectors will also be included. This training will be reviewed annually. Students with allergies will sit at separate tables in the lunchroom.

• Students identified with allergies can have one friend sit with them at the table. This student cannot have any food items that indicate possible reactions as a result of allergies.

• Notre Dame of De Pere will maintain on site epinephrine auto injectors for use in the event of an allergy anaphylaxis emergency. Stock epinephrine will be kept in the office, in a tamper resistant box in the cafeteria and in a travel kit for field trips.

• If outlined in the Emergency Care Plan, students are allowed to self carry auto injectors and will be provided a designated storage area in each classroom and other areas deemed necessary to have such an injector.

• Notre Dame School of De Pere recognizes that allergen avoidance is critical to the health of students diagnosed with food allergy anaphylaxis. Notre Dame School is committed to:

1. Increasing awareness of food allergies and decreasing the potential of a severe life threatening situation

2. A campus wide no sharing rule 3. Good hygiene that includes washing hands with soap and water before and

after eating 4. Allergen free lunch tables 5. Students should have a “safe spot” where snacks and injection devices can

be placed in a classroom 6. The promotion of nonfood based incentives for rewards

• There is a useful website for all parents to educate themselves on food safety.

www.snacksafely.com. This website contains a listing for schools to use, so parents can go to the list and find snacks that their children can eat in the presence of peanut, tree nut and egg allergy students. Therefore, the foods are not allergy free but free from peanuts, tree nuts and eggs. If a parent wishes to find out about snacks that are recommended to consume in the presence of children with peanut, tree nut, and egg allergies they should refer to the website snacksafely.com. This plan will be reviewed each year with the collaboration of School Advisory Council and the Educational Staff of Notre Dame School of De Pere.

ATHLETICS: The following after-school athletic activities are offered at Notre Dame: Cross Country (Fall): Girls & Boys /Grades 5, 6, 7, 8

Soccer (Fall): Girls & Boys/Grades 5 & 6 Girls & Boys/Grades 7 & 8 Tackle Football (Fall): Boys/Grades 6, 7 & 8 Volleyball (Fall): Girls/Grades 5, 6, 7 & 8 Basketball (Winter): Girls/Grades 5, 6, 7, 8

Boys/Grades 5, 6, 7, 8 Girls & Boys/Grades 3 & 4

Track (Spring): Girls & Boys/Grades 6, 7 & 8 Tennis (Spring): Girls & Boys/Grades 6, 7 & 8 Co-Op with De Pere High School Wrestling: Boys 5-8

A concussion agreement form must be signed by a parent and athlete and returned to the Athletic director before a student is allowed to participate in practice or competition. An athletic fee is charged to each student athlete for each sport they participate in. Athletic information can be obtained on the school website. Please see the Athletic Policy at the end of this Handbook. ATHLETIC BOOSTER CLUB: All parents of Notre Dame children are considered members of the Athletic Booster Club (ABC). The ABC’s objectives are to support our children through the offering of athletic programs that have individual, physical and team building skills; follow the values and principles of the ND School Philosophy; aid the growth of our young athletes through overall spiritual, intellectual, moral, physical, emotional and social dimensions of life; assist the Athletic Director in planning and providing athletic recreation programs and events; and to provide funding for athletic programs, events related to athletics and the physical education program at Notre Dame. Refer to the school website for athletic information. BAND: Students in grades 4-8 have the opportunity to receive lessons on either a band instrument or guitar. Lessons that are done independently of the school such as piano lessons will be conducted before and after school or during study halls. BICYCLES: Students who ride bicycles to school must park them at designated places at school. Each bicycle must also be locked. If a student damages another student’s bicycle, that student assumes responsibility for any repairs to the bicycle that is damaged. Skateboards and scooters are not to be brought to school at any time. BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS All birthday invitations/thank you notes/etc should be distributed via EMAIL or SNAIL MAIL rather than through school. Parents have access to the ONLINE DIRECTORY – on the Notre Dame website which has all the information necessary to reach out to party guests for any celebration or event. Distributing these items during class time is time consuming, distracting, and ultimately hurtful to the other students in the class.

BULLYING POLICY: Our Bullying Policy is that of the Dioceses of Green Bay. Please reference the Bullying/Harassment Policy #5160 at this site address: http://www.gbdioc.org/images/stories/Resource_Site/Education/Board-of-Education/Documents/Policy-5160-Bullying-Harassment.pdf Please find the Bullying/Harassment Form at the end of this handbook BUSING: Children living within the De Pere District may be eligible for busing. Specific questions on busing can be answered by calling Lamers Bus Line at 336-5264. Students who act inappropriately on the bus will be held accountable under the Notre Dame Behavior Code under the term General Disobedience. CANCELLATION OF SCHOOL: De Pere public school officials will make an announcement over the radio should bad weather necessitate the closing of school. This announcement includes Notre Dame School. Notre Dame of De Pere follows the East De Pere School District in the event of school closings. Watch any of the major TV stations for news of school closings or snow emergencies, etc. Radio stations carrying the message are WDUZ, WGEE, WIXX, and WNFL. If school is dismissed early, every effort will be made to communicate to your child if a parent will pick him/her up. Parents may call the school to pick up their child if school is called off early. No teacher will leave school on an early dismissal day until every child is accounted for. Parents should use discretion when there is severe weather. Please look at the Excused Absence Section in the Parent Handbook. CELL PHONES: Middle school students may bring cell phones provided they are brought to the office or to their homeroom and deposited into the provided bin. Students who keep their cell phones in any other spot will be subject to the Notre Dame Behavior Code, and parents will be called to pick up the cell phone. CONFERENCES: Parent-teacher conferences are held in the middle of the first trimester. The principal, teachers, or parents may request a conference any time one is deemed necessary. Please do not wait until a major issue occurs with your child before contacting the teacher or administrator. Optional conferences are held in the middle of the 2nd semester. DISCIPLINE POLICY GRADES 3-8: The Student Conduct Code of Notre Dame School is the expectation that all students will behave in a manner that reflects appropriate behavior spiritually, academically and emotionally according to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Student Code of Conduct is rooted in the Great Commandment, in which Jesus instructs that we must love each other as we love ourselves.

Expectations of any student relative to conduct are also rooted in:

1. Proper choices students make in decisions, words and actions 2. Allowing students to learn in an environment that maximizes such learning 3. Allowing teachers to teach in an environment that provides for teaching

effectiveness 4. An environment of success for all students 5. It is the student, not the teacher who determines what positive behaviors or

consequences are issued

Notre Dame School follows the concept of Progressive Discipline. The definition of Progressive Discipline is that initial consequences include conversation with the student that proceeds to minor consequences that the teacher determines. Behavior that goes beyond what is viewed as minor consequences, increase in severity as based upon student choice, and/or repeated inappropriate choices by students. The consequences that are levied at this level are part of a demerit system. Demerits can be issued for the following infractions (not an exclusive list):

1. Repeated disruptions of class after constructive means of discipline are levied 2. Profanity 3. Inappropriate comments to a teacher that are disrespectful 4. Inappropriate lunchroom behavior that includes walking to and from the middle

school 5. Inappropriate behavior on the playground 6. Being tardy to class without approval of the teacher on three occasions during the

trimester 7. Misbehavior on any school sponsored events

Detention is served depending upon the day the demerit is issued. The student will take the demerit home for the parent to be signed. Middle school students will serve detention from 3:00-3:30 pm. During that time the student will assist maintenance in cleaning rooms or other janitorial tasks. The time served will not count toward the middle school service requirement. Elementary School students will serve detention at the homeroom teacher’s discretion. Consequences for student who makes inappropriate choices for repeated behavior:

• 3 demerits - Detention served plus meeting with the principal. • 4 demerits - Detention served plus ineligibility of extracurricular activities for two

weeks. • 6 demerits - one day in school suspension • 7 demerits - two day in school suspension • 8 demerits - two day out of school suspension

A student can be suspended immediately if any incident causes bodily harm to another student.

Consequences beyond 8 demerits or other severe inappropriate behavior will be determined by the principal in conjunction with the President of the GRACE System per Diocesan Policy. Students who serve out of school suspension will not be penalized academically for any work that is missed. The student will have three days to make up any work missed during the out of school suspension. Again, the purpose of Progressive Discipline has as it basis poor choices on the part of the student. At the same time it is up to the teacher to work with the student before he/she receives a demerit. It is the responsibility of the teacher to implement strategies before a demerit is issued. Parents have the opportunity to speak with a teacher when a demerit is issued. The Principal will not rescind any demerit unless it is determined that it is not issued in the proper procedural manner. Primary grades (K-2) will communicate with parents their expectations for behavior and conduct. Parents are asked to read the Notre Dame Anti Bullying Procedure as there are different consequences for bullying and harassment. The Principal reserves the right to add or delete consequences as he sees fit. Further disciplinary actions: Notre Dame School of De Pere complies with the policies of the Diocese of Green Bay pertaining to major disciplinary actions. DISCIPLINE POLICY FOR GRADES K-2: Students will uphold school and classroom rules and expectations. If expectations are not met, the following consequences will occur:

• Student will be given a verbal warning and discuss/review expectations with the teacher.

• Students will be given 3-5 minutes of “think time” as an opportunity to reflect on behavior(s) in order to focus on other options and more positive choices. This may take place during recess or at another time during the day that works best for the student(s) and teacher.

• Students will draw/write a note to bring home and share with parents explaining the behavioral choices made and what choices are more acceptable and appropriate.

• If behavior does not improve, a meeting with the principal and/or parent(s) will take place.

Teachers may use concepts of Love and Logic as an immediate method with student management and behavior. Love and Logic focuses on student input as to either natural or logical consequences for inappropriate behavior.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION: An emergency form for each child is required and is kept in the office. It should list persons to call when a child becomes ill at school. Please also include any important medical information about your child(ren) as well as the name of the family doctor to be called in case of emergency. Parents/guardians are also required to inform the school office of any changes to this information throughout the school year. EXTRA CURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY: Extra Curricular Activities at Notre Dame is considered an extension of the educational process the children receive during the school year. It is a privilege for a student to participate in extracurricular activities. Students who participate in extracurricular activities must achieve the following minimum criteria to be eligible for them:

• Minimum of 2.0 (C average) in all academic subjects. • No failing grades in any subject • Appropriate conduct as interpreted by Notre Dame Principal

Extracurricular eligibility grade checks will take place three times during each trimester. Parents and students will receive a week’s notice as to the timing of the grade check through the weekly Parent Newsletter. If a student is ineligible for an extracurricular activity, he/she may attend practices, but cannot participate in any games, or matches for two weeks. The Principal will assess the eligible student’s progress during that two week span. The student may rejoin the activity is satisfactory progress has been made. If a student has not made satisfactory progress, he/she will sit out another two week period. It is stressed that the above criteria are minimum standards. Notre Dame School expects that a student makes a choice as to whether or not he/she meets or exceeds these standards to participate in extracurricular activities. Students who receive a GPA under 2.0 will remain after school to work on missing work. Remaining after school for poor academics comes before participating in any extracurricular activities. FAMILY CHANGE OF INFORMATION: If there is a family address change during the school year, the parent/guardian shall notify the school of the new address and other contact communication. Parents who have custody arrangements for their child must inform the school as to any special arrangements for information and communication that the school will provide. Please also keep the information on the GRACE enrollment site current as we use these lists for information as well and only you are able to update it.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AS TO STUDENT RECORDS: Parents of students at Notre Dame School have the right to look at their child’s records that are held in the school office. The purpose of this procedure is to allow parents to see information on their child in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. (FERPA) Records that are normally covered under FERPA include academic records, behavioral reports, special education referrals and reports, and health records. Written permission is required to be given if a child’s records are to be transferred to another school. Parents ask for this request from the school in which the child will be transferring. Exceptions to this rule are for eighth grade students who will transfer to local high schools such as De Pere and Notre Dame Academy. Information that would be considered directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can be disclosed to school related organizations without a parent’s consent. Examples of directory information or release include the following: student name, address, telephone/email listing, school pictures, yearbook, date and place of birth, and grade level. Parents do have the right to deny the school to use information with a written note or paper indicating that such material may not be used. This documentation should be provided in a timely manner to either the Administrative Assistant at the middle or elementary school. Questions on release or viewing of records should be directed to the School Principal. FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT: Parents have certain rights regarding his/her child’s educational records. These rights are listed below and are not a completely comprehensive list:

• The right to inspect and review his/her child’s educational records maintained by the school. A parent who wishes to review records must submit a written statement to the Principal to review records.

• The right to seek amendment of such record that may be alleged to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights.

In the event of a student transfer, the parent of the child must sign a statement with the child’s next school to have his/her child’s records released so transfer of records can be done in as timely a fashion as possible. Student records of graduating eighth graders will automatically sent to either Notre Dame Academy or De Pere Public Schools unless a written request is made for a child’s records to be transferred to another school FIELD TRIPS: Field trips are a means to extend the student learning experience outside of the classroom. They provide a great reinforcement to the regular classroom curriculum. All field trips have an educational focus. There will be times when parents are asked to chaperone on field trips. All chaperones must have VIRTUS training. This is a requirement of all the schools in the Green Bay Diocese. Parents are asked not to bring other children along while chaperoning. Students who fail to turn in a written permission slip by the date listed on the individual Field Trip Permission Form may possibly not be allowed to go the field trip and will remain in school. This will be determined by the principal in collaboration with the teachers on a case by case basis. Parents may write a note or email the school if a permission slip is lost. Oral communication does not constitute permission for a child to go on a field trip.

FOOD SERVICE: Notre Dame of De Pere participates in the National School Lunch Program ensuring healthy meal options are offered daily. Hot lunch meals are provided through a private contractor, Konop Companies. Free and Reduced applications can be submitted at any point throughout the school year. The price per meal of a reduced lunch is $0.40 per meal.The 2017-2018 hot lunch prices are $3.25 per lunch (includes milk), $0.50 per additional milk. Monthly menus are posted on the school website. Adult Price per lunch is $3.90 Each child has a hot lunch account through PowerSchool. Parents add money to this account throughout the year which is then deducted for meals or milk. Balances can be checked by logging into your child’s PowerSchool account and looking at the MBA Café balance. You can also sign up through PowerSchool to get email reminders sent to you when your child/children's lunch accounts are low. Payments can be made using the Notre Dame hot lunch single use envelopes available in both offices. All checks should be made payable to GRACE/Notre Dame of De Pere. Please see GRACE Food Service Department: Meal Charge Guidelines below for more information.

GRACE Food Service Department: Meal Charge Guidelines *Please note this policy applies to all GRACE Schools with the exception of St. John Paul II and Holy Cross Schools

General Process: 1. Through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), the GRACE Food Service Department serves reimbursable lunches, which are charged to prepaid student lunch accounts. Lunch accounts should maintain a positive balance, and are issued per student, not per family. 2. Prepayment is accepted via cash, check, or credit card. Checks can be made payable to GRACE, and credit card payments are only available via the Clover Machine in the school office. Lunch Account Balances: 1.To maintain and encourage positive lunch account balances, the following occurs:

*Weekly letter alerts are sent home when student(s) balance is $10.00 or less. Letter alerts continue until the account maintains a positive balance above $10.00. * If payment is not received after weekly letter alerts, and the lunch account maintains a negative balance, once it reaches -$50.00 a final letter alert is sent from GRACE stating the negative balance will be added on to student(s) tuition account. *If payment is not received after adding the negative balance on to student(s) tuition account, GRACE has discretion to close student(s) lunch accounts; thus requiring payment for respective day’s meal service in hand at time of service. * In extreme circumstances only, if lunch account debt is ever considered uncollectable (as determined by the Director of Food Service and Director of Business Services), a transfer from GRACE will be made to cover the debt.

Student Transfers and Withdrawals: 1. If a student transfers between GRACE schools, their lunch account and balance (positive or negative) transfers with them. 2. If a student withdraws to attend a school outside of GRACE, or graduates from GRACE, their lunch account is analyzed, and the following occurs:

*As applicable, all balances (positive or negative) are transferred to sibling(s) who attend the same GRACE school the child was previously enrolled. *If transfer to a sibling is not possible, GRACE will try to collect the negative balance via phone∗ and/or the Lunch Account Balance Procedure outlined above OR GRACE will issue/send a refund check for the positive balance remaining. *PLEASE NOTE: GRACE does not issue refund checks under $5.00. If a family has a balance below∗ $5.00, and is interested in a refund, they can contact the Business Services Department at 920- 499-7330 or by emailing graceoffice@gracesystem.org. Free and reduced eligibility status also applies toward refunds and is issued accordingly.

Resources: Families may apply for free and reduced price meals via paper application any time during the school year. Applications are available at: school site offices, school site webpages, and in the GRACE Food Service

Department. Additionally, payment plans for delinquent debt are available. If assistance is needed regarding free and reduced applications, payment plans, or if families have any questions regarding the Meal Charge Guidelines, families should inquire by contacting Jamie Hurley, RD, CD, Director of Food Service at 920-499-7330 ext. 306 or email at jhurley@gracesystem.org. This institution is an equal opportunity provider Initial Draft: 6/22/2017, Updated 8/3/2017 FUND RAISING: This year each grade will be assigned two events where they will be requested to help work on the day of the event. Each event Chairperson will help coordinate with the grades to explain the areas where help is needed and provide a sign-up form.

Fundraising Committee: Alisa Conway, Debbie Ruggles, Kim Connelly, Stacy Blahnik

Third Source Funding Requirements:

For the 2017-2018 school year, Notre Dame of De Pere is required to raise $129,400 through third source funding to meet our GRACE financial commitment. The money raised to meet this requirement will be sent to GRACE to cover the operating costs for our school and other GRACE wide expenses. Once that commitment level is met, any additional money raised is used to benefit our school based on the priorities that Notre Dame of De Pere sets each school year.

Fundraising/Volunteer Event Categories: In order to provide school families with a better understanding of how our Fundraising/Volunteer Events are organized, below is a list of three event categories.

• Third Source Funding: Money raised from these events will be used to meet our Third Source Funding goal set by GRACE. Additional monies earned above and beyond this goal are used to benefit the school based on the priorities that Notre Dame of De Pere sets each year. • Athletics: Money raised from these events will be used to support the Athletics Department at Notre Dame of De Pere. • Home and School: The money raised from these events will be used to support the needs of the Notre Dame Home and School Committee.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE: Every parent and staff member at Notre Dame of De Pere School has the welfare of the child in mind. There are times where there are questions or concerns raised about an aspect of a child’s school life. When this occurs, the proper communication takes place in the following manner:

• If the concern requires a discussion with a teacher, the teacher is to be contacted.

• If the concern is not resolved, a conference can be requested with the principal and the teacher.

• If the concern is still not resolved, a conference can be requested with the principal alone.

• If there is still a concern, Mrs. Kim Desotell, the GRACE President is to be contacted.

It is most constructive to wait 24 hours before a conference is requested. Remember that every adult at Notre Dame School wants the best for each child.

HEALTH: State law requires all students to be immunized against certain diseases. Immunization records are kept in the school offices and must be updated when necessary. These requirements may be waived for religious, personal, or medical reasons with a proper signature on a waiver form. Parents MUST complete a consent form for any child who needs to take prescription medication or over-the-counter medications during the school day. A physician’s signature is required for prescription medications. All medications must be kept in the offices in the prescribed container. School personnel may NOT dispense medication that is not in either a prescription bottle or in the original over-the-counter container. HOMEROOM PLACEMENT: Parent input is accepted in the process of assigning students to classrooms. If you wish to provide input, the deadline to do so is May 18, 2018 for the 2018-2019 school year. Teachers will then finalize the class lists, and they will be confidential until they are posted right before school starts in the fall. The classroom teachers will make homeroom determinations with Mr. Balza’s input. Homerooms that are established at the beginning of school will have no changes made during the school year. HOMEWORK: Homework is an extension of lessons learned during classroom instruction. Homework is not meant to be punitive, repetitive, or given for the sake of giving homework. Homework must be beneficial, helpful and of good quality. Teachers perform what is called Formative Assessment which may include homework given for practice. Not every piece of homework is graded. The purpose of homework is to determine student understanding. The recommended guide for homework each evening is as follows:

• Pre-K - 2nd Grade: 20 minutes per evening • 3rd - 5th Grade: 30-60 minutes per evening • 6th – 8th Grade: 1-2 hours per evening

If a child consistently has more than this amount of homework each evening, the teacher should be contacted immediately. Each teacher should have a criterion to work that is assigned to a student. HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION: All parents of Notre Dame Students are considered members of the school organization. Home and School fosters a sense of community between our homes, school and communities through our events and sub committees Many opportunities are offered through Home and School for parents to become actively involved in their child’s education at Notre Dame. Special family activities are planned each year that give parents opportunities to have fun with other families. Please refer to the events calendar in the parent handbook for specific dates and information.

HONOR ROLL: Students in grades 5-8 who meet the proper educational criteria each trimester is eligible for the ND Honor Roll. Criteria are as follows:

• A= 3.5-4.0 • B= 3.0-3.49

Minus and plus on grades are ignored when Honor Rolls are tabulated. The Honor Roll is a way to recognize academic success not only for academic excellence but for academic improvement. IMPAIRED/HANDICAP ACCESS: Notre Dame School wishes to meet the needs of all students. If it is possible for Notre Dame School to accommodate any needs of a physical nature that may affect the learning, the parent is to contact the school. The school will accommodate that child’s physical needs to the best of his or her ability. LIBRARY: Notre Dame School is equipped with excellent Libraries/Media Centers in both buildings. Weekly library periods are scheduled for all classes in grades Pre K-5. The librarian makes other times available to both classes and individual students when requested. The librarian teaches library skills to all classes and schedules story times for the younger children. Volunteers are involved in assisting the librarian and students. LOST AND FOUND: Areas are kept in each school for items that are found. Children should check them when they lose an item. Parents/guardians are also asked to check the boxes/table when they visit the school. All items not claimed at the end of each semester are given to charity. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items. MIDDLE SCHOOL LUNCH/RECESS POLICY

• No child should go in the road without teachers permission • Any non issued school equipment needs to be ok’d by the daily supervisor • No kicking ANY ball unless you are playing KICKBALL • No touching any trees or fence • No hanging on rim of basketball hoop • No going on snow hill • No picking up or throwing snow • Must line up in a row with 8th then 7th and then 6th immediately when the

whistle blows to go over to lunch • When coming back from lunch must line up in one straight quiet line

Morning Playground Rules

• No balls on playground • No cell phone use on playground before or after school • Line up in homeroom lines when the bell rings line needs to be straight and quiet

MIDDLE SCHOOL SNACK POLICY: With one of GRACE’s focuses this year being wellness, we would like to reinforce the importance of students bringing healthy snacks to school. Snack time this year will take place ONLY during 3rd hour (1st hour on Wednesdays). Snacks will not be permitted during Study Hall, in the computer lab, the Learning Commons, or the art room. Just as a reminder, students should bring snacks for themselves only. Some ideas of healthy snacks include: fruit, vegetables, yogurt, trail mix, crackers, cheese, granola bars, etc. Students may drink only water in class. We ask that students refrain from bringing candy and unhealthy snacks to school to help promote healthy lifestyles. Thank you for your cooperation in adhering to this policy as we strive to become a healthier school and bring good nutrition to the forefront. MOVIE VIEWING PROCEDURE: Parents and Guardians will receive one week written notice if a movie is rated PG for elementary students and PG- 13 for middle school students. Such notice, in the form of a letter will include the title of the movie, a brief account of the movie, the rating of the movie, and a rationale for showing the movie from an educational standpoint. Rating guidelines for showing a movie in class: G- No signed permission slip is necessary PG- A signed parental permission slip is required for students under the age of 13. PG-13- A signed permission slip is required for any student who sees this movie. If a movie like this is shown, it is to be only for seventh and eighth graders. If a teacher desires to show a PG movie in elementary school and a PG-13 in middle school, the principal must consent before a permission slip is sent out to the parents. NON DISCRIMINATION NOTICE: Notre Dame School attempts to comply with all federal and state rules and regulations. Notre Dame School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender or disability. This is also applicable to all students who wish to participate in education programs and/or extracurricular school activities. ODYSSEY: Odyssey is an online portal with activities directly tied into NWEA and MAP testing. It is a computer program used both for remediation and enrichment. Students are given an individual seat based on teacher recommendation and MAP scores. This program can be utilized at home or during school hours. Notre Dame currently has 36 seats. This program can be used year round. If a student is not using it regularly he or she may be asked to give up the seat so that another individual may use it. PARENT COMMUNICATION: It is the responsibility of each family of Notre Dame School to read weekly information contained on the website. The site is updated weekly with timely information that includes upcoming school events, the Principal Newsletter, and changes in school procedure/policy. A parent may request a hard copy of weekly communication (this procedure is strongly discouraged) for a $50 fee. Teachers also update their webpage on a weekly basis.

PARENT VISITS TO CLASSROOMS: Parents are welcome to visit their child’s class at anytime during the day. The school does need a one day notice before the visit. Parent involvement and support is greatly appreciated at Notre Dame. PARKING PROCEDURE: Elementary School Parents who drop off their children at the elementary campus before school in the morning should drive his/her vehicle as far as possible at the corner of S. Huron and Charles St. If there is overflow, parents should park on George St. to drop off their child. Parents may also drop off their preschool or kindergarten student on Superior and Charles St. It is strongly encouraged that the same procedure be followed for students to be picked up at the end of the school day. Parents should not park at places such as Great Harvest Bakery to pick up his/her child. See photo on the next page for a visual.

Middle School Parents should drop off their children in the parking lot near the parish or on Lewis Street.

PICTURES: School pictures are taken annually in fall. Purchase of them is optional. A Memory Book/Yearbook is also published annually for K–8. Each family wanting Memory Books MUST order and pay for the number of copies requested. Only a limited number of extra books are ordered. Memory Book order forms will be sent home, generally in the winter. PLAYGROUND/RECESS: Elementary classes have a 15-minute supervised recess during the afternoon. All grades have a supervised recess around lunch time. Failure to follow rules of good behavior will result in loss of playground privileges for a definite period. Starting with the first snowfall, children grades K-5 are required to wear snow pants, boots, hat, and mittens whenever snow is on the ground. Middle school students should dress appropriately for the weather. Students will be kept indoors if it rains or the temperature or wind chill is below zero. Established playground rules and the behavioral code will be enforced during recess. POLICIES: Notre Dame of De Pere adheres to all policies established by GRACE and the Diocese of Green Bay.

POWERSCHOOL: Power School is the main web based communication device that tracks the progress of a student. Teachers are expected to update Power School at least once every two weeks. If a parent discovers that this procedure is not being followed, he/she must contact the Principal immediately. The school recommends that parents check Power School weekly to track the progress of his/her child. If there is a discrepancy in a grade, parents should contact the teacher immediately. RELEASE OF STUDENT PHOTOS, INFORMATION & DIRECTORY DATA: The educational interests of students require the collection, retention, and use of information about individual students and groups of students. At the same time, a student’s right of privacy under Federal and State law mandates careful custodianship and limitations on access to student records. Notre Dame School of De Pere has designated the information below as directory data. Unless a parent/guardian denies permission in writing, this may appear in news releases and may be released to the public under the open records law: Student name Grade level Age Diplomas, honors and awards received Participation in school sponsored activities and sports Photographs To deny the release of some or all of the items listed above, a parent must submit a written request to the principal by September 16, 2017 (or within two weeks after a student begins after the start of the school year). RELIGION: Instruction in religion is incorporated daily across the curriculum in all grades. The pastor will give guidance to the programs. All children participate in weekly Mass. Opportunities for students to receive the sacrament of reconciliation will occur during Advent and Lent. Second grade students prepare to receive the sacraments of reconciliation and first communion during the year. Both parishes and the school provide preparation for these sacraments. Respect for life and the teachings of the Catholic Church on morality are stressed and taught. REPORT CARDS: Progress reports are given each trimester. Grades are based on test scores, assignments (including homework), and daily class participation. Students can check their progress via the PowerSchool link on our school website. Please do NOT discard passwords as they will remain the same each year your child attends Notre Dame of De Pere. Students must have their user name and password to access this information. Should a conference with a specific teacher be necessary at any time, parents are to call the school office to set up an appointment. This handbook includes further information regarding the ways student progress is reported to parents in addition to Progress Reports.

SCHOOL SAFETY/SECURITY: The safety and security of each child at Notre Dame School is of utmost importance. Drills such as fire and tornado drills are conducted monthly. There will be one intruder lockdown drill during the school year. Parents will be informed during the school year about the Intruder Drill. Teachers will instruct all students as to procedures that accompany such drills. Each campus has a system that allows people to enter into the school by means of a buzzer that is pressed outside the door. The Administrative Assistant of each campus checks on the person who asks to enter the school. The person who requests to enter may also be asked for the reason he/she is coming into the building. Please be patient, often times the duties of the Administrative Assistants take them away from their desks. If any situation arises on the grounds of Notre Dame School that is seen to compromise the safety of the students and staff, an immediate call will be placed to the De Pere Police Department. It is important for each parent and child to know that each child and staff member of Notre Dame School has the right to feel safe and protected at all times. The school has the right to check any materials that belong to the school. The school does not have the right to check contents inside a jacket or backpack unless a teacher requests the student do so in his/her presence. Inspections of the sort may be done by any staff member. The principal also reserves the right to contact the De Pere Police Department should an incident require their involvement. The school will contact the parent(s) immediately if this takes place. SCRIP: SCRIP is a gift card program... a painless fundraiser. You purchase gift cards online (or through the SCRIP office) and earn 1% for Notre Dame, with the remaining percentage going toward your SCRIP commitment. Currently, the SCRIP commitment is $250 for K thru 8. There is no required SCRIP purchase amount for families that only have an Early Childhood student, although purchasing SCRIP through Notre Dame of De Pere can help you earn tuition credit. If you do not purchase enough gift cards during the school year to generate $250 in proceeds, you will be responsible for the difference between what your purchases generate and $250. After your commitment is met, the dollars are credited to your tuition account. You could save hundreds of dollars on tuition! The percentage for each retailer varies and ranges from 1% to 24%. The average is 5%. You will receive a SCRIP statement every other month showing you the amount you earned. Tuition credit is applied in January and June. You may opt out of purchasing SCRIP, the $250 would then be paid directly to Notre Dame School by check by January 1, 2018. Please check the Notre Dame of DePere website for more detailed information, hours, SCRIP sign up and much more. Should you have any questions regarding SCRIP please notify the SCRIP office at nddpscrip@gmail.com

SECURITY: For the safety of our students, doors at both sites will be locked during the school day. Visitors may access the buildings by ringing the doorbell at the playground entrance at the Elementary site and the parking lot entrance at the Middle site. You will then be buzzed in from the office. Once buzzed in, each visitor MUST report to the office and sign themselves in and get a visitor pass. The school offices are very busy and we will make every effort to attend to the doors as quickly as possible; however, we ask for your patience in this effort to protect our students. SERVICE HOURS: All two-parent families K-8 are expected to fulfill 24 school volunteer hours. Single parent families K-8 are expected to fulfill 12 school volunteer hours. There will be no commitment necessary for Pre-K families. It is required that half of the service hours (12 hours for two parent families, 6 hours for single parent families) be dedicated to fundraising activities. Any event that raises funds for the school (ie. SCRIP, Key Club, Magazine Sale, Golf Outing, Winter Carnival) will qualify for this portion of your commitment. The remainder of the family service hours can be fulfilled through a large variety of activities such as volunteering in the classroom, library, playground, serving in the cafeteria, etc. As in the past, the family service hours for the 2017 – 2018 school year must be completed by April 30, 2018. Hours worked after April 30, 2018 will count towards and may be recorded for the 2018 - 2019 school year. After April 30, 2018 all family services hours reported will be recorded and any unfulfilled hours will then be assessed at a rate of $12.50. Families may choose to buy out of their service hours. The charge for Two parent families is $300 and $150 for single parent families. Please note: School families can provide in-kind services to the school in replace of service hours at the principal’s discretion. Please contact the principal if interested. SOCIAL MEDIA: Unfortunately there are times when social media abuse and/or cyber bullying occurs. Normally this happens outside of school. Nonetheless, abuse of technology can be alarming to any parent of a child. After consultation with the De Pere Police Department, technology abuses regarding matters outside school will result in the following action(s):

• The matter is brought before the principal • Principal will contact the offended party and will give options of contacting the

party who instigated the abuse or call the police department • If a second issue takes place and is brought before the school, Mr. Balza himself

will contact the De Pere Police Department Abuse of technology and social media is to be addressed by the appropriate authorities, which is the De Pere Police Department.

TARDINESS PROCEDURE: It is important that students are on time for each class. They benefit a great deal if they are on time at the beginning of each school day as well as for each class during the school day. This is the rationale that a tardy procedure is implemented. It is meant to be for the benefit of each and every student while at the same time stressing a sense of accountability that is important for each child’s future education. The procedure is also used to insure the safety of each child at Notre Dame School.

The following occurrences are considered as excused reasons for school tardiness: • Illness • Medical, dental or any health appointments • Accident or family emergency • Severe weather or weather related emergencies • Breakdown of school transportation • School bus arriving late • Funeral • Car trouble The following occurrences are considered as unexcused reasons for school tardiness: • Failure to come in to sign a student as being tardy for school • Missing the bus or other transportation • Parents or students running late • Dropping off a sibling at another school • Coming from an event that is not school related • Arriving at school late because of an event the night before Consequences for unexcused absences during a trimester • Three unexcused tardiness for school- an email will be sent from the school

office as well as a demerit and informing the parent or guardian that the absence is unexcused

TEACHER DAILY HOURS: All teachers at Notre Dame School report to school at 7:30 am and remain until 3:30 pm. Teachers are permitted to leave at 3:15 pm on Fridays. Most of the teachers supervise and tutor students, supervise after school activities or work in classrooms. Faculty/Grade meetings are normally held each Wednesday after school. TESTING: The purpose of standardized testing is meant to assess student progress. Notre Dame School uses the MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) and ACRE (Assessment of Catholic Religious Education) to assess student progress. Students in K-8 grade take MAP tests while students in grades 5 and 8 take the ACRE tests. Standardized testing is but one way to assess student progress. Other means to measure progress include items such as report card grades, formative assessment and observations by teachers, parent/teacher conferences, homework, and others. There will be a data retreat for parents in the fall in which proper information is provided to understand MAP tests.

TEXTBOOKS/LIBRARY BOOKS: All textbooks are the property of the school. Students will receive fines for books that are lost, misplaced or damaged beyond normal wear. The School determines the amount of the fine based upon the age of the book and replacement value. UNIFORMS: Please refer to the Uniform Policy at the end of the handbook. VIRTUS/ BACKGROUND CHECKS: It is a mandate of the United Council of Catholic Bishops that all volunteers for school events receive VIRTUS training and instruction before participation as chaperones, helpers and other support roles in the school. There are VIRTUS sessions that volunteers can participate in during the school year. Parents can receive information on VIRTUS sessions through the diocesan website as well as information contained in parent newsletters and parish bulletins.

To register for a VIRTUS® session go to: virtusonline.org View and print all currently scheduled VIRTUS® workshop dates

BACKGROUND CHECKS

All priests, deacons, other ministers, and employees (who may or may not have contact with children, young people and individuals at risk) and adult volunteers who have contact with children, young people and individuals at risk as part of their volunteer duties are required to complete an online application form in which they:

1. Provide the Diocese with professional/personal references 2. Complete, sign and date the appropriate declaration form 3. Authorize a criminal background check and receive a satisfactory report 4. You will find more information regarding background checks and a link

to begin the process on the Green Bay Diocese website: http://www.gbdioc.org/protectingourchildren/background-checks.html

VISITORS: Parents are welcome to visit the school. It is important to make an appointment ahead of time. All visitors must enter with permission from the office. You must report directly to the office to pick up a visitor pass before you will be allowed to continue through the building. Entrance for the Elementary building is by the playground and at the Middle building by the parking lot in back of the school. If your child forgets something and you bring it to school, it must be brought to the school office. WELLNESS POLICY: Notre Dame of De Pere promotes healthy schools by supporting wellness, good nutrition and regular physical activity as a part of the total learning environment. The school supports a healthy environment where children learn and participate in positive dietary and lifestyle practices. By facilitating learning through the support and promotion of good nutrition and physical activity, schools contribute to the basic health status of children. Improved health optimizes student performance potential and ensures that no child is left behind.

Physical Activity: Notre Dame of De Pere School has a tradition of excellence in its offerings of interscholastic athletic opportunities. The School recognizes the value of regular physical activity and provides:

• ND Athletic Program • Education based approach in physical education classes which promotes physical

fitness and wellness • Community activities involving physical activity by offering and promoting

community programs such as the Bellin Run • Recess time daily • Additional extracurricular activities as deemed appropriate by administration. • Play 60/ Hoops for Heart • Compliance with Wisconsin’s Model Academic Standards in its physical

education programs

Nutrition Standards: In recognition of the effect that nutrition has on the ability to concentrate and perform academically, Notre Dame of De Pere will limit its offerings of foods and beverages before and during the school day, which could impair classroom performance. Notre Dame of De Pere strongly encourages the sale or distribution of nutrient dense foods, which are those that provide students with calories rich in the nutrient content needed to be healthy. In an effort to support the consumption of nutrient dense foods in the school setting, Notre Dame of De Pere has adopted the following Nutrition Standards governing the sale of food, beverages and candy on the school grounds in compliance with the Federal Nutrition Standards.

General Standard for Competitive Foods during the school day: • Snack items must be < or equal to 200 calories per item • Snack items must contain < or equal 230 mg sodium per item • Beverages must be caffeine-free • Acceptable food items must have < or equal 35% of weight from total sugar

served • Must meet all of the proposed competitive food nutrient standards • Acceptable grain items must include 50% or more whole grains by weight or have

whole grains as the first ingredient • Any given food item for sale prior to the start of the school day and throughout

the instructional day will have no more than 35% of its total calories derived from fat, have no more than 10% of its total calories derived from saturated fat and be trans-fat free

Beverages: • The vending and non-vending sale of soda or artificially sweetened drinks will not

be permitted on the school grounds both prior to the start of the school day and throughout the instructional day, but will be permitted at those special school events that begin after the conclusion of the instructional day.

• The vending sale of beverages, other than soda, with less than 100% fruit juice may begin at the conclusion of the instructional day.

• Milk (low-fat, unflavored; or nonfat flavored and unflavored); water and 100%

fruit juices may be sold on school grounds both prior to and throughout the instructional day.

Candy: • Non-vending sales of candy will be permitted at the conclusion of the

instructional day. • Up to two fundraiser exemptions per student organization per year are allowed

per the Wisconsin Fundraiser Exemption Policy. • Candy is defined as any item that has sugar (including brown sugar, corn

sweetener, corn syrup, fructose, glucose (dextrose), high- fructose corn syrup, honey, invert sugar, lactose, maltose, molasses, raw sugar, table sugar (sucrose), syrup) listed as one of the first two ingredients.

Nutrition Procedures:

School Nutrition Program: • The hot lunch program will continue to follow the U.S Government’s Nutrition

Standards. Lunchroom Climate: • A lunchroom environment that provides students with a relaxed, enjoyable

climate should be developed. • It is encouraged that the lunchroom environment be a place where students have:

o Adequate space to eat and pleasant surroundings o Adequate time for meals (the School Food Service Association

recommends at least 20 minutes for lunch from the time they are seated) o Convenient access to hand washing facilities before meals

• No fast food or soda is allowed to be brought into the lunch room.

Classroom Climate: • Students are encouraged to adopt healthy eating habits in the classroom.

Building nutrition knowledge and skills help make appropriate choices. • Drinking fountains are accessible at both school buildings and students are

encouraged to bring water bottles to school. • Parents should view special treats (i.e. holidays and birthdays) with respect to

good nutrition in choice and portion. • Treats and birthday snacks should be served after the lunch hour, preferably at

the end of the day. • In grades where children have a mid- morning snack, the snack should be served

at least 1.5 hours before the lunch period. • All food allergies will be addressed and monitored within each classroom for

appropriate food choices for all children. Fundraising: All fundraising projects are encouraged to follow the U.S. Government Smart Snacks Standards. Teacher-to-Student Incentive: Strong consideration should be given to nonfood items as part of any teacher-to-student incentive programs (extra recess time, dress down days etc.). Should

teachers feel compelled to utilize food items as an incentive, they are encouraged to adhere to the U.S Government Nutritional Standards.

Student Nutrition Education: Notre Dame of De Pere is committed to the development of comprehensive curriculum approach to nutrition and physical activity in preschool through 8th grade. All instructional staff will be encouraged to integrate wellness themes into daily lessons when appropriate. Notre Dame of De Pere policy reinforces education to help students practice these themes in a supportive school environment.

Parent Education: • Nutrition education will be provided to parents beginning at the elementary level.

The goal will be to continue to educate parents throughout the elementary/middle school years.

• Nutrition and physical activity may be provided in the form of handouts, posting on the Notre Dame of De Pere website, or presentation that focus on nutritional value and healthy lifestyles.

• Parents are encouraged to pack healthy bag lunches, healthy snacks, and healthy special classroom treats.

• Teachers are encouraged to share healthy ideas/tips with parents.

Policy Implementation: The building administrators shall have the operational responsibility for the implementation and monitoring of the Notre Dame of De Pere Wellness Policy. The Wellness Committee membership includes the School Food Service Director, physical education teacher, School Administrator, parent representatives and has input from student representatives. The Committee will serve as a resource to the school sites and will help to monitor and make revisions as necessary.

WISCONSIN CENTER FOR ACADEMICALLY TALENTED YOUTH (WCATY): WCATY is a learning community for 5th-8th grade students that have been identified by GRACE as high achieving students in the areas of language arts, reading and math. These students have an opportunity to participate in an online course where they will be led by a certified teacher to utilize higher level thinking skills as they converse and learn with each other. An introductory course (4 weeks) is offered in the fall. Courses are offered again in the fall, winter and spring. Each is 9 weeks in length. This opportunity is offered by invitation only. WITHDRAWALS/TRANSFERS: Parents who make the decision to withdraw their child(ren) from Notre Dame School should contact one of the school offices at least one week in advance so the school can process the transfer of records.

NOTRE DAME OF DE PERE Uniform Policy/Dress Code Policy

2017-2018

NOTRE DAME OF DE PERE UNIFORM/DRESS CODE POLICY ~ UPDATED 10/2016

The purpose of the student uniform/dress code policy is to foster a respectful, professional learning environment with an emphasis on neatness and modesty. Uniforms can also help build a sense of community and increase academic focus. Parents/guardians are expected to support the school’s enforcement of the uniform/dress code policy, helping reinforce an environment best suited for learning and faith development.

PANTS/SHORTS (K-8):

• Solid navy blue or solid tan khaki (cotton twill, broadcloth, or corduroy) uniform style pants.

• Solid navy blue or solid tan khaki (cotton twill, broadcloth, or corduroy) shorts or Capri pants may be worn from April 1 through October 31 each year.

• Shorts may not be worn shorter than 1 inch above the knee. • Cargo pants/extra pockets/extra zippers, yoga/jogging pants, denim pants, excessively

baggy or tight pants such as leggings/jeggings/spandex are not permitted.

SKIRTS/SKORTS (Girls K-8): • Solid navy blue or WHITE PLAID** (cotton twill or broadcloth) pleated uniform style

skirts. • **WHITE PLAID available through LANDS END catalog and www.landsend.com:

#473437BQ8 School Uniform Girls WHITE PLAID Box Pleat SKIRT

#458605BQ0 School Uniform Girls WHITE PLAID Pleated SKORT

#407088BQ0 School Uniform

Girls SOLID NAVY Box Pleat SKIRT

#458611BQ6 School Uniform Girls

SOLID NAVY Pleated SKORT

• Skirts/skorts may not be worn shorter than 1 inch above the knee. • Extra pockets/extra zippers, excessively baggy or tight skirts/skorts are not

permitted.

#065010BQ4 School Uniform Girls

WHITE PLAID JUMPER

#068176BQ1 School Uniform Girls

SOLID NAVY JUMPER

JUMPER (Girls K-8):

• Solid navy blue or WHITE PLAID** (cotton twill or broadcloth) uniform style jumpers.

• **WHITE PLAID available through LANDS END catalog and www.landsend.com:

• Jumpers may not be worn shorter than 1 inch above the knee. • Extra pockets/extra zippers, excessively baggy or tight jumpers are not permitted.

SHIRTS (K-8): • Solid plain red/white/navy shirt with a collar - short or long sleeve -

“Notre Dame of De Pere” embroidery acceptable - NO OTHER LOGOS. • Solid plain red/white/navy shirt may be worn under collared uniform shirt - NO

LOGOS. • Optional: Notre Dame of De Pere TEAM JERSEYS may be worn with a uniform

shirt and bottoms on GAME DAYS. • Optional: Scouting uniform tops may be worn with uniform bottoms on

MEETING DAYS. • ALL shirts (uniform, game day jerseys, etc) must be tucked in during the school

day. • T-SHIRT TUESDAYS/SPIRIT DAY: students may wear any Notre Dame of De

Pere top with uniform bottoms - current/previous THEME T-shirts and Raider wear acceptable.

SWEATERS (K-8):

• Solid plain red/white/navy button down or zipper cardigan or vest style - waist length - NO LOGOS or HOODS.

• A uniform shirt must be worn under sweaters.

SWEATSHIRTS/FLEECE JACKETS (K-8):

• Official Notre Dame of De Pere crewneck sweatshirt, fleece and/or partial zip pullover.

• Uniform shirt must be worn under uniform sweatshirt or full zip fleece. • Solid non-collared red/whit/navy shirt may be worn under collared partial zip

pullovers.

SOCKS (K-8): • Socks must be worn at all times and should be visible above the shoes. • Solid plain red/white/navy footless tights/leggings are permitted UNDER

skirts/skorts/jumpers; however, socks must also be worn with the footless tights/leggings. PLEASE NOTE: socks must touch the hem of footless tights/leggings - no skin showing between.

SHOES (K-8):

• Gym/deck/flats/dress shoes are acceptable - closed toe/heel required - laces must be tied.

• High heels/wedges, sandals, flip-flops, clogs, Crocs or Wheelies styles are not permitted.

• Boots above the ankle are not permitted during the school day - no UGG style/tall boots. • All students must have non-marking sole tennis shoes available at school for use in

the gym.

GENERAL UNIFORM GUIDELINES: • Clothing must be neat, clean and free of rips/tears/fraying. • Clothing must not be excessively tight or excessively baggy. • Hats and sunglasses are to be removed upon entering the school building. • No outerwear is permitted to be worn or carried during the school day. Official

Notre Dame of De Pere fleece, pullover ¼ zip jacket, or uniform sweater as listed in the above uniform/dress code policy are acceptable.

HAIR/GROOMING: • All students’ hair must be kept neat, clean and a natural hair color.

Extreme hairstyles are not permitted. • Boys’ hair no longer than collar-length. • Simple earrings are acceptable (no dangling or hoops) for girls in grades K-8. • Simple and natural colors of nail polish are acceptable for girls in grades K-8. • Natural and lightly applied makeup is acceptable for girls in grades 6-8.

DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS: Parents and students are expected to abide by this uniform/dress code policy. When in doubt, ask for clarification from the administration. A student is subject to disciplinary action for any dress that violates the specific requirements of the uniform/dress code policy. Violations are referred to and interpreted by the administration, whose decision will be final.

• 1st Violation = students will be given a verbal warning, and parents will be

notified via email. • 2nd Violation = students will be asked to change into uniform appropriate

clothing (borrowed from school uniform closet) and parents will be notified via phone call.

• 3rd Violation = parents will be notified via phone call and asked to bring uniform appropriate clothing from home for the student.

• 4th Violation = student will receive a demerit/detention and parents will be asked to meet with the administration.

DRESS DOWN/NON-UNIFORM DRESS CODE: Non-uniform days and school sponsored events will continue to reflect the spirit of the uniform/dress code policy, reflect modesty, and still foster a respectful, professional learning environment.

• Shirts must have sleeves - tank tops or low-cut styles are not acceptable. • Writing and graphics on all clothing should reflect positive images. • Shorts, skirts, and dresses may not be worn shorter than 1 inch above the knee. • Yoga/jogging pants, excessively baggy or tight pants such as

leggings/jeggings/spandex are not permitted. • No undergarments should be seen at any time. • Socks/shoes must abide by the uniform/dress code policy as listed above.

GRADUATION DRESS CODE: Graduation is a special occasion! All attire must be in compliance with school policy: Shoulders must be covered. Necklines must be appropriate. Dress/skirt length may not be more than 1 inch above the knee. Boys must wear dress pants, a collared dress shirt, a tie and dress shoes. A suit coat is optional. Graduation gowns (provided by the school) will be worn during Mass.

REVISIONS OF PARENT HANDBOOK

The administration of Notre Dame School with the advice of the Site Advisory Council (SAC) retains the right to revise the Parent Handbook as it sees fit. Parents will receive notices of these changes through the weekly newsletters or by constant contact.