CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK. For Students and Families

CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK C ATHEDRAL 7-1 2 H I G H S C H O O L • B O STO N For Students and Families CONTENTS STUDENT LIFE ...
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CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY

GUIDEBOOK C ATHEDRAL 7-1 2 H I G H S C H O O L • B O STO N

For Students and Families

CONTENTS

STUDENT LIFE

20

ATTENDANCE.................................................................................. 20 Absence Tardiness

INTRODUCTION

2

HEAD OF SCHOOL WELCOME................................................... 2 WE ARE CATHEDRAL..................................................................... 5 Our Mission

ATHLETICS........................................................................................ 20 Requirements to Participate Sports Offered

EXTENDED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES........................... 23

About Cathedral

FIELD TRIPS / APPLIED LEARNING...................................... 24 EXPERIENCES

Our Motto

FOOD SERVICES. ........................................................................... 24

OUR PROUD HISTORY.................................................................... 6 SCHOOL HOURS................................................................................ 6 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR.......................................................... 8 Key Dates for 2015-2016

HEALTH OFFICE............................................................................. 25 Health Requirements Health and Sports Participation Students with Medications

Early Release Days for 2015-2016

SCHOOL ENTRANCE AND EXIT DOORS................................ 9 SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS.......................................................... 9 FACULTY & STAFF. ......................................................................... 10 Leadership

Health Screenings Food Allergy Guidelines

SCHOOL UNIFORMS..................................................................... 27 SUPPORT SERVICES..................................................................... 28 Guidance Office

House 1 Faculty (Grades 7-8)

The Planning Center

House 2 Faculty (Grades 9-10)

TRANSPORTATION........................................................................ 28

House 3 Faculty (Grades 11-12)

MBTA Passes

School-Wide Faculty

Cars

Administrative Staff

ACADEMICS

Free and Reduced School Lunch

12

SCHOLAR EXPECTATIONS......................................................... 12 CURRICULUM OVERVIEW........................................................... 12 Advanced Placement Courses (AP)

STUDENT LIFE EXPECTATIONS

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY................................................................ 29 DISCIPLINE........................................................................................ 30 Suspension Probation

Electives

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS & SUPPORT............................. 13 REPORT CARDS & PROGRESS REPORTS............................ 13 GRADING STANDARDS AND SCALE...................................... 15

RESPECT............................................................................................ 30 Anti-Bullying Policy Harassment Policy Hazing Policy

ACADEMIC HONORS..................................................................... 15

Non-Discrimination Policy

ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPTS & STUDENT RECORDS.......... 16

Physical Conflict

SUMMER INTERNSHIPS................................................................ 16

Respect of Property

SUMMER PROGRAMS: AUGUST INSTITUTE........................ 16 FOR LEARNING

WORKING WITH FAMILIES

17

FAMILY EXPECTATIONS............................................................... 17

Sexual Harassment Policy

SAFETY AND SECURITY............................................................. 35 Assault of Staff Drug Free Fire Alarm Policy Weapons

Contact Information

TIPS & RESOURCES........................................................................ 19 Website

Sexual Conduct

Locker Rooms

Communication

EdLine

29

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE.......................................... 36 Electronic Device Use

USE OF THE CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL BRAND......... 36

Parent Council

COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES

1

DEAR CATHEDRAL FAMILY,

WELCOME TO TH THE 2015-2016 AC AT CATHEDRAL.

2

CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

HE START OF ACADEMIC YEAR We are excited to have you as a part of our school community. We hope this community guidebook will serve as a helpful resource to you year-round. The guidebook contains information about our school, helpful tips, key information, and describes school policies and expectations. Sincerely,

Oscar Santos, Ed.D. Head of School

COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES

3

INTRODUCTION WE ARE CATHEDRAL Our Mission Cathedral High School is an urban, multicultural, independent, Catholic, college preparatory school in Boston’s historic South End serving boys and girls of all faiths from grades seven through 12. Rooted in gospel values, we prepare students for college and leadership for life.

About Cathedral Founded in 1926, Cathedral 7-12 High School offers a rigorous program of academic studies and small class size in a safe, nurturing school to allow each student to reach his or her full potential. Cathedral is an independent school, governed by a board of trustees, and made possible through the generosity of the school’s trustees, community partners, and alumni. Cathedral is a member of the Association of Independent Schools in New England, the National Catholic Education Association, and is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Our Motto The school’s Latin motto, Vigor in Arduis, is taken from the episcopal coat-of-arms of its founder, Most Rev. William Cardinal O’Connell, former Archbishop of Boston. It means perseverance and strength in the face of difficulty, challenges, or adversity. The motto highlights the resolve of Cathedral scholars who persevere through academic and personal challenges to achieve great success.

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OUR PROUD HISTORY In 1926, His Eminence the Most. Rev. William Cardinal O’Connell, Archbishop of Boston, founded Cathedral High School to serve the youth of the city of Boston. The school was elevated from a parish high school to an archdiocesan central high school in 1950 and became an independent Catholic high school in 2004 through the generosity and under the guidance of the school’s board of trustees.

MOST. REV. WILLIAM CARDINAL O’CONNELL, ARCHBISHOP OF BOSTON

Cathedral added a new 13,000 square foot gymnasium and multi-purpose space in 2006 and expanded to include 7th and 8th grades in 2010. In 2014, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission Grammar School in Roxbury and Cathedral High School announced a Catholic Urban Partnership creating a more seamless and supportive pre-kindergarten to college pathway for Boston youth.

Today, the school serves more than 300 students from across Boston. Thanks to a dedicated lay and religious faculty, an updated school facility, and a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, 100% of Cathedral’s seniors have graduated high school and 100% have earned college admission for the last 12 years straight. Cathedral continues its 90-year history of providing an exceptional private, college preparatory education to the young people of Boston.

SCHOOL HOURS The school building and main office opens at 7:00 a.m. The main office closes at 3:30 p.m.

The formal school day: • 7:35 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. (all grades)

Extended Learning Opportunities: • 2:45 p.m. to 3:35 p.m. (required for grades 7-9, Monday-Wednesday) The school reserves the right to keep students after dismissal for academic or disciplinary reasons. Students are not to be in the school building or on school grounds before 6:50 a.m. or after 3:45 p.m. on school days, or at any time when school is not in session, except for the following purposes: • to meet with or be under the supervision of a member of the school staff • to participate in a supervised extracurricular or athletic activity • to attend a scheduled event as a spectator and only in the area designated • to use the outdoor basketball court

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CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR

CALENDAR A printable school year calendar is available from the school website on the Parent & Student Information page or by calling the main office. Key dates, holidays, early release days, and school vacations are listed below for the 2015-2016 school year.

KEY DATES FOR 2015-2016 AUGUST 3-21

August Institute for Learning: Grades 7-9

SEPTEMBER 1



First Day of School: Grades 7 & 8

SEPTEMBER 2



First Day of School: Grades 9 & 10

SEPTEMBER 3



First Day of School: Grades 11 & 12

SEPTEMBER 4-7



Labor Day Weekend: No School

OCTOBER 12



NOVEMBER 11

Columbus Day (observed): No School

NOVEMBER 26-27

Veterans’ Day: No School

DECEMBER 21-JANUARY 3 JANUARY 4



JANUARY 18

Winter Recess: No School Students Return from Recess



Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day: No School

FEBRUARY 15-19



February Recess: No School

FEBRUARY 22



Students Return from Recess

MARCH 25



APRIL 18-22

MAY 30 JUNE 17

Good Friday: No School

APRIL 25

8

Thanksgiving Recess: No School



Spring Recess: No School Students Return from Recess Memorial Day: No School



Tentative Last Day of School if no days are lost to cancellations

CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

Early Release Days for 2015-2016 On select days throughout the school year students are dismissed at 11:20 a.m. for the purpose of staff professional development. On these days, lunch is not served at school. Below are the scheduled early release days. Additional days may be added through announcements.

EARLY RELEASE DAYS

SCHOOL ENTRANCE AND EXIT DOORS The school building has several doors, however all students, parents/guardians, and visitors are required to enter and exit using the main front door on Union Park Street. No student is permitted to let anyone into the building, and no student is allowed to leave the school building without permission. Parents/guardians and visitors are to ring the bell to enter the building and must report first to the main office on the second floor to sign in and to receive a visitor’s pass before picking up a student or going elsewhere in the building.

SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS When Cathedral High School is closed unexpectedly for inclement weather or other reasons, it will be announced on local radio and television stations which serve the Boston area. The school website will reflect a message about the school cancellation.

SEPTEMBER 24 OCTOBER 22 NOVEMBER 19

Additionally, an IRIS message will be broadcast to all employees and parents/guardians via registered telephone numbers and SMS text message.

NOVEMBER 25 DECEMBER 18 JANUARY 21 FEBRUARY 25 MARCH 17 APRIL 28 MAY 19

COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES

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FACULTY & STAFF MAIN PHONE NUMBER FAX NUMBER SCHOOL WEBSITE SCHOOL OFFICE HOURS

617-542-2325 617-542-1745 http://cathedralhighschool.net Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (During the academic year)

LEADERSHIP Oscar Santos, Ed.D.

Head of School

216

[email protected]

Helenann Civian, Ed.D.

Principal

215

[email protected]

Carmel Lynch, M.Ed.

Assistant Principal

213

[email protected]

Aní Mwalimu, M.Ed.

Director of Instructional Design

[email protected]

HOUSE 1 FACULTY (GRADES 7-8) Alexandria Catherall

English

402

[email protected]

Liam Doherty

History

403

[email protected]

Linda Klotzbeecher

Science

304

[email protected]

Clinton Lassiter

Mathematics

401

[email protected]

Sr. Judy O’Brien, IHM

Religion

410

[email protected]

Jillian Vaccaro

Art

205

[email protected]

HOUSE 2 FACULTY (GRADES 9-10) Anna Judy

Science

306

[email protected]

Benjamin Maher

English

404

[email protected]

Kathleen Murphy

Mathematics

406

[email protected]

Andrew Parsons

History

405

[email protected]

Jonathan Ray

French

302

[email protected]

Armando Reyes

Religion

301

[email protected]

Samantha Rosenbaum

English

305

[email protected]

Luis Uribe

Spanish

303

[email protected]

HOUSE 3 FACULTY (GRADES 11-12) Stephen Belyea

Art

206

[email protected]

Philip Dujardin

Religion

208

[email protected]

Subhasri Gangopadhyay, Ph.D.

Anatomy & Biology

307

[email protected]

Jerry Howland

College Readiness

101

[email protected]

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CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

Robert McGurrin

Mathematics & Physics 307

[email protected]

Kaitlyn Mikalaitis

English

210

[email protected]

Mikaela O’Connor

History

204

[email protected]

Jayashree Pillai

Mathematics

209

[email protected]

413

[email protected]

SCHOOL-WIDE FACULTY Lucas Baistrocchi

Physical Education & Health

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Ed Blakely

Director of Food Services

108

[email protected]

Sr. Nancy Brennan

Teaching Support

407

[email protected]

David DiGuardia

Data Specialist & Registrar

[email protected]

Mary Esposito

Director of Admissions 312

[email protected]

Sr. Charlotte Gulino CSJ

Guidance & Student Support

113

[email protected]

Michael Kieloch

Director of Communications

313

[email protected]

Dick Ladner

Business Manager

212

[email protected]

Nancy Lane

Director of Guidance

106

[email protected]

Cheryl Madruga

Director of Alumni Relations

315

[email protected]

Larry Merritt

Athletic Director

413

[email protected]

Stephanie Merritt

Director of Family & Community Partnerships

218

[email protected]

Catherine Murray, RN

School Nurse

211

[email protected]

Shannon O’Leary

Social Worker

314

[email protected]



Jim Rice

Chief Financial Officer 214

[email protected]

Lois Stuart

Administrative Assistant

[email protected]

100

COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES

11

ACADEMICS SCHOLAR EXPECTATIONS All subjects, all the time performance criteria: Students are responsible for the following languagerelated performance criteria every day in every class. Failure to meet these criteria will have an impact on students’ performance and grades. Students will always: • Use precise academic language • Speak with appropriate volume and clarity • L  isten carefully to other students’ responses and signal when they can’t hear or don’t understand • Write complete sentences in all compositions • Read and listen for main ideas and important details • Identify key words in questions, prompts, and word problems; ignore distracters • Respond directly to the question, prompt, or problem • Show all their work and thinking, following proper procedures • Explain their thinking; support ideas with sufficient details and examples • Use their own words when making notes • Revise their notes when another student identifies additional, important ideas or information • Represent and label numbers and data accurately • Use proper tenses • Demonstrate proper noun-verb agreement • Use correct punctuation and capitalization Teachers will post these scholar expectations in each classroom and review them with students at the beginning of the year. Teachers will frequently reinforce, remind, re-teach, and review to achieve student mastery of the skills associated with these criteria. Students will be held accountable for them.

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW Cathedral students are engaged by an active faculty in a rigorous academic program that challenges each scholar to excel. The 6-year college preparatory course of study requires: • Mathematics: 6 years • History & Social Sciences: 6 years • English: 6 years

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CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

• Theology: 6 years • Science: 6 years • College Readiness: 4 years — grades 7-12 • Foreign Language: Minimum 2 years. French or Spanish. • Electives: 5 years

Advanced Placement Courses (AP) Advanced Placement (AP) is a program created by the College Board to offer high school students college-level courses and examinations. Many American colleges and universities grant placement and course credit to students who score well on the AP exams. Cathedral offers four Advanced Placement courses: • AP English • AP Calculus • AP U.S. History • AP Government

Electives Students choose from several electives to tailor curriculum to their interests. Students may currently choose from electives including: art, advanced Spanish or French, and physical education.

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS & SUPPORT Cathedral High School provides students with a rigorous college preparatory program and maintains high standards. Students are expected to take a serious approach to academic study, participate in extracurricular activities, share faith through liturgical celebrations, and serve others. The minimum required GPA for all students is 2.0. Students who fail to achieve an overall GPA of 2.0, or who are failing in any class, will be placed on academic review and will receive additional academic support after school. In order to be eligible for promotion to the next grade, students must achieve a minimum overall GPA of 2.0 and a 70% or greater in each course. If a student fails a class, he or she must repeat the class. If a student fails two classes (math, English, history, science, or religion) he or she must repeat the school year.

REPORT CARDS & PROGRESS REPORTS Quarterly progress reports are mailed home to give parents and students an update of their academic standing, grades, and areas for improvement. Report cards are distributed to parents four times per year at the end of each quarter during Report Card Night. Parents and students are invited to the school to meet with their son’s or daughter’s teachers to discuss their grades and academic performance.

COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES

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GRADING STANDARDS AND SCALE GRADING AREA

PERCENTAGE

Homework

15%

Classwork (product-based work with notebooks, etc.)

25%

Projects

25%

Assessments (Tests & Quizzes)

25%

Quarterly Assessment

10%

NUMERICAL GRADE

ALPHA GRADE

AP COURSES

HONORS COURSES

COLLEGE PREP COURSES

97-100

A+

5.3

4.8

4.3

94-96

A

5.0

4.5

4.0

90-93

A-

4.7

4.2

3.7

87-89

B+

4.3

3.8

3.3

84-86

B

4.0

3.5

3.0

80-83

B-

3.7

3.2

2.7

77-79

C+

3.3

2.8

2.3

74-76

C

3.0

2.5

2.0

70-73

C-

2.7

2.2

1.7

67-69

D+

2.3

1.8

1.3

64-66

D

2.0

1.5

1.0

60-63

D-

1.7

1.2

0.7

Below 60

F

0.0

0.0

0.0

ACADEMIC HONORS Academic honors are presented in an academic awards ceremony at the end of each quarter. Students may earn the following academic distinctions: • Headmaster’s List Minimum 3.7 GPA and no grade lower than a B+ • Principal’s List • Honor Roll

Minimum 3.3 GPA and no grade lower than a B Minimum 3.0 GPA and no grade lower than a B-

The Cathedral High School chapter of the National Honor Society recognizes students in grades 10 through 12 who excel in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. An NHS candidate is invited by the Principal. He or she must be at least a sophomore, earn a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, complete an application portfolio, and submit letters of recommendation.

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ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPTS & STUDENT RECORDS The Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s educational records. Requests should be directed to the Principal. The school will allow an inspection of academic, scholastic, or other records concerning the student that are kept by Cathedral High School regardless of the age of the student within 45 days of the receipt of a request by a parent or guardian or student over the age of 18. The Cathedral High School guidance office will provide free academic transcripts to students who are transferring or applying to colleges and post-secondary education upon request. Students should request these transcripts through Naviance.

SUMMER INTERNSHIPS Cathedral collaborates with businesses in a variety of Boston industries to give students the opportunity of paid and unpaid internships during the summer and throughout the school year. Students learn from seasoned professionals, explore potential careers, and network at prestigious companies such as Fidelity Investments and WilmerHale. Internships offer students an opportunity for hands-on learning in an encouraging and real-world environment. Mentors teach students about various career paths, professionalism, and workplace expectations. To learn more about internship opportunities for students, contact Stephanie Monteiro-Merritt ’92, Director of Family & Community Partnerships at (617) 542-2325, extension 218 or smerritt@ cathedralhighschool.net.

SUMMER PROGRAMS: AUGUST INSTITUTE FOR LEARNING The August Institute for Learning engages students entering grades 7 through 9 in project-based applied mathematics, problem solving, and summer reading to prepare for the school year. Students are required to attend the summer initiative for three weeks during August at no additional cost.

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CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

WORKING WITH FAMILIES Families are critical to student success. The school’s entire faculty and staff wish to work closely with students and families to ensure success for every Cathedral scholar.

FAMILY EXPECTATIONS In order for students to succeed in school it is important for parents/guardians to be active participants. The school expects all parents/guardians to attend five parent meetings per school year: the parent open house, three report card nights, and at least 1 school-wide activity such as a parent meeting, sporting event, or talent or art show.

Communication • P  arents/guardians (families) and teachers, working together, can maximize effective communication when: • The school welcomes families as partners in the educational process • T  he school shares general information so that families are informed on a regular basis and know whom to contact with questions or concerns • F  amilies become familiar with information distributed by the school (for example, signing up for emails, providing updated contact information for emergency alerts, and following the school’s social media) • F  amilies who seek information about their child’s progress first speak directly with the student’s teacher or guidance counselor • A  dministrators and teachers are open to family concerns and offer opportunity for respectful discussions • F  amilies and school staff act respectfully at meetings and forums and are considerate of speakers in asking questions or making comments. These gatherings are important vehicles for sharing information and creating conversation between home and school. • F  amilies and school staff acknowledge the volume of information that circulates each day and are respectful of time demands. For example, it may not be possible for a parent/guardian or staff member to respond immediately to a phone call unless it is an emergency. • Families and students are expected to review the contents of this Student/Family Guidebook.

Contact Information It is the responsibility of all parents/guardians to keep Cathedral High School updated with current contact information for all students. The school should have the current legal residence for each student, as well as address, telephone numbers, and email addresses for each parent or guardian. The school must also have current contact information for two emergency contacts in the event that parents or guardians are unable to be contacted or are unavailable. Parents/guardians may update their contact information or their emergency contacts any time information changes by contacting the main office at 617-542-2325.

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TIPS & RESOURCES EdLine EdLine is the electronic communication system and online community for Cathedral High School. It is a primary communication vehicle between school and home so it is very important that all families register on EdLine and check it regularly. EdLine can be accessed by clicking on the menu link on the school’s website or by visiting the shortcut: www.cathedralhighschool.net/edline

Website A wealth of information is available on our school website at www.cathedralhighschool.net to include events and athletics calendars, school news, school forms, faculty and staff contact information, and other important information.

Parent Council Parents and guardians are the most important influence throughout a child’s education. Everyone benefits (students, parents and teachers) when parents and schools work effectively together to support learning. For this purpose, Cathedral High School has an active parent council that focuses on improving school services and programs. Council members support the school in the following ways: • Capture the unique and varied skills, interests, knowledge and experience that parents can offer • Support the school and teachers by developing strong home/school partnerships • Provide suggestions and input to address school needs identified by parents, students and staff • Provide opportunities to build communication and community among parents and the school • Provide input and feedback on proposed plans to support student success The parent council meets monthly. For more information or questions regarding the parent council, please contact the Director of Family & Community Partnerships at (617) 542-2325, extension 218 or [email protected].

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STUDENT LIFE ATTENDANCE Absence Students are expected to be present at least 90% of the quarter. Students should have no more than 4 unexcused absences per quarter. Parents/guardians are required to call the main office (617-5422325) in advance when a student will be absent from school. A note from parent, guardian, or medical care provider will be accepted if received in the office on the day the student returns to school. Care should be made to schedule routine appointments outside of school hours. Any appointments made during the school day may not necessarily be considered an excused absence. The Principal determines if an absence is excused or unexcused. If a student receives five or more days of unexcused absences in a quarter, he or she will automatically receive an F in his or her courses for the quarter, subject to review by the Principal.

Tardiness If a student is late to school, he or she must report to the main office first and receive a pass. A parent/guardian call is required for all students who arrive to school after 8:30 a.m. Students who are tardy more than five times will require a parent conference to address the issue.

ATHLETICS The Cathedral 7-12 High School athletics department mentors scholar-athletes to be champions both on the playing field and in the classroom. The Cathedral High School Panthers are members of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) and the Catholic Central League (CCL). The athletic department views sports as an opportunity for the development of character, teamwork and sportsmanship. The playing fields are an extension of the classroom. Thirteen sports teams are offered across the fall, winter, and spring seasons for boys and girls at a variety of levels. Updated game schedules and field locations are available on the Cathedral website or by calling the athletics department at 617-542-2325, ext 413. Tufts University School of Medicine teams up with Cathedral to provide scholar-athletes with sports medicine services.

Requirements to Participate Students interested in participating in athletic programs must maintain a 2.0 GPA, not be failing any class, and must have submitted a physical examination form signed by a primary care provider for that school year. Scholar-athletes who fall below the minimum GPA or grade requirements may be removed from a team until the next progress report. After this period the administration, athletic director, and coaches will conduct an evaluation. If the situation has improved, the student will be declared eligible to participate.

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CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

Students who fail three or more courses are ineligible for the entire quarter, as determined by the MIAA. Evaluation of academic performance will be conducted at the conclusion of the next marking period and if the student improves above the failures they may be declared eligible to participation in the following season. To be eligible for the fall quarter, students must have met the academic criteria for the fourth quarter of the previous school year.

SPORTS OFFERED Fall: • Boy’s Football — Varsity • Coed Soccer — Varsity • Girl’s Volleyball — Varsity, JV • Girl’s Cheerleading — Varsity

Winter: • Boy’s Basketball — Varsity, JV, Freshmen, Middle School • Girl’s Basketball — Varsity, JV, Middle School • Coed Indoor Track — Varsity • Girl’s Cheerleading — Varsity

Spring: • Boy’s Baseball — Varsity • Girl’s Softball — Varsity • Coed Outdoor Track — Varsity

EXTENDED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES A number of extracurricular enrichment opportunities are made available to Cathedral scholars. During the school year, Extended Learning Opportunities are offered Monday through Wednesday during an additional, final period (H block). All students are encouraged to participate in extended learning, but grades 10 through 12 are not required to attend this period. The current extended learning opportunities include:

Art Club Cathedral scholars have opportunities for artistic expression and creative outlet through the Art Club under the direction of skilled fine arts faculty.

CHS Voices Students in CHS Voices write and perform their own original slam poetry, spoken word, and other creative writing.

Mock Trial Sponsored by the Massachusetts Bar Association, students competitively debate opposing sides of a legal case in a courtroom. COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES

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Newspaper Students learn tenets of journalism, photojournalism, and editorial oversight by managing a schoolfocused, student-run newspaper.

Social Media Club Students run the school Instagram account while learning social media applications, photography, and copywriting.

Student Council Students in each grade run for class officer positions and help represent student interests with the administration.

Yearbook Yearbook club designs, photographs, edits, and prepares the Cathedral High School yearbook, which has been published annually since the 1930s.

FIELD TRIPS / APPLIED LEARNING EXPERIENCES Cathedral faculty often make use of resources and settings outside of the classroom to enhance learning. The faculty member or chaperone organizing the field trip will send students home with a permission slip with details of the trip including the dates, times, destination, the cost (if any), and other important information. In order to attend any field trip, students must bring to the main office a permission slip signed by a parent or guardian. If a student loses a permission slip, parents may download a new permission slip from the school website (Student & Parent Information page) and fax it to (617) 542-1745 or scan and email it to the Assistant Principal at [email protected]. Phone calls are not a substitution for a signed permission slip.

FOOD SERVICES Cathedral High School believes that proper nutrition is a key support to learning. The school provides a breakfast and full-service lunch on school days. Lunch may not be served on certain school days, such as early release days or field trips. Free breakfast is available to students from 7:00 a.m. until 7:35 a.m. Students must leave the cafeteria by 7:35 a.m. No food or drink is allowed outside the cafeteria. Daily lunch consists of a balanced meal with a protein, grain, vegetable, fruit, fruit juice, dairy, and water. In addition, a full salad bar is available daily. Students who choose to bring a lunch also have access to a microwave to reheat food.

Free and Reduced School Lunch Students who attend Cathedral High School may be eligible for free or reduced school lunch under the National School Lunch Program. Eligibility is based upon an application to the program. Parents or guardians can complete one application for all students in the household. An application is good for one school year. Households must send Cathedral a new application each year, unless the school has informed them that their child is already eligible.

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CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

Households may also apply at any time during the school year if the situation changes. For example, a child with a parent or guardian who becomes unemployed may potentially become eligible for free or reduced price school lunch. Once the application process is complete, students are issued a photo ID card for lunch purposes only. Information about the School Lunch Program at Cathedral High School, eligibility criteria, how to apply, or questions about applications or status can be directed to Ed Blakely, Jr., Director of Food Service at (617) 542-2325, extension 108, or (617) 596-2325.

HEALTH OFFICE For the safety and health of students, the Cathedral High School health office has a registered nurse on staff.

Health Requirements Both Cathedral and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have various requirements for every student before they may attend school. At the start of the school year, health forms will be distributed to families. These forms must be completed and returned by the start of school. If these forms are lost or need to be updated during the school year, they are available on the school website (on the Parent & Student Information page) or from the school nurse at (617) 542-2325 ext. 211 or [email protected].

Health and Sports Participation Students who participate in sports must have a new physical examination, signed by a provider, each school year before they may participate in athletic activities.

Students with Medications Students who require medication during the school day must have the “Consent for Medication in School” section of the physical examination form completed by their primary care provider. Permission is required for all medications, including over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol or Advil. All student medications will be kept in the health office, including EpiPens. Students may not have any medication on their person or in their lockers. The only exception is students may carry an inhaler, when prescribed. The school suggests an extra inhaler be kept in the health office and that students keep an inhaler with them especially during sports activities. Medications sent to the school must be properly labeled with the medication name, student name, the prescribing doctor’s name, and the dose and frequency of its administration.

Health Screenings Students in grades 7 and 9 will be screened for vision, hearing, and scoliosis. They are not a diagnostic service but can provide information about possible issues which might require professional attention. Students will be screened unless you send a letter to the school nurse requesting they be exempted from these screenings.

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Food Allergy Guidelines The Cathedral High School health office adopts steps to minimize the risk of exposure to allergens that may pose a threat to students. Notify the school nurse if your student has a known allergy. Our goal is to assist students in assuming more individual responsibility for their health and safety as they grow older and to optimize full participation in education and school-sponsored activities.

SCHOOL UNIFORMS Uniforms create a professional and learning-oriented environment at the school. Respect is conveyed through behavior and appearance. Members of the school community should think of the school as a professional workplace and not a social or casual scene. Students are required to wear the Cathedral uniform to school every day and are expected to maintain a neat, well-groomed appearance at all times. The school uniform consists of required components and several optional add-ons. • P  olo shirt: All students will wear a Cathedral High School logoed polo shirt. These are available in green, yellow, and white and in both long and short sleeved. A white short-sleeved undershirt may be worn under the uniform polo shirt; colored undershirts or t-shirts may not be worn under the polo shirt. • P  ants: All students wear a pair of khaki dress slacks worn at the waist with a belt. Shorts are not permitted. • S  kirt: Girls may also choose to wear the khaki pleated uniform skirt. The skirt must drop from the waist to no shorter than two inches above the knees. • Footwear: Students may wear sneakers or dress shoes. No flip-flops, heels, or slippers are permitted. • S  weaters: Cathedral also offers CHS logoed sweaters and zip-up fleeces which students may wear over their uniform. Students may not wear other sweaters, hoodies, jackets, or clothes over their uniform during the academic day and while inside the building. Students may not wear coats, jackets, sweatshirts, or any hooded attire while in school. When students first arrive to school they must remove clothing that is not in accordance with this uniform policy and store it in their lockers before they may enter the cafeteria, library, or classrooms. Book bags and backpacks are not to be carried throughout the school during the school day. All book bags and backpacks must be left in the lockers. Students may access their bags and books during designated locker times. Uniform parts must be purchased directly from J. B. Edward Uniform in West Roxbury. Uniforms can be purchased online at www.jbedwarduniforms.com.

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SUPPORT SERVICES Guidance Office Students work with their guidance counselor from the beginning of their time at Cathedral through their graduation. Guidance counselors help students in a variety of areas including course selection, academic management, crisis interventions, and college and post-graduate options and admissions. Students and parents can make appointments to see their counselor at any time or can communicate through email or telephone.

The Planning Center The Planning Center serves as the cornerstone of our disciplinary program. It is designed to help students accept responsibility for their behavior in school. The Planning Center is a source of help or referral for various problems and is a place of dialogue and support for students experiencing difficulty. It is also a place where students can go when they feel the need for adult help or intervention.

TRANSPORTATION Most students take public transportation to and from Cathedral High School. The school is located on the SL4 and SL5 Silver Line busses at the Union Park Street stop.

MBTA Passes Students are eligible for monthly student MBTA passes valid for unlimited travel on Bus, Subway, Express Bus, and Commuter Rail Zones 1A, 1, and 2 on school days. Students who are in grades 7 and 8 who live in the Boston Public Schools North Zone and live more than 1.5 miles from the school receive the passes for free. Students in grades 9 through 12 who live within the city of Boston and live more than two miles from Cathedral High School also receive the passes for free. Eligibility for a free pass is determined by the student’s address of record with the school. All other students are provided the opportunity to purchase the student MBTA passes from the school at a cost of $26 per month. Students must bring $26 in cash or check (payable to Cathedral High School) to the main office during the last ten school days of the month to obtain a pass for the following calendar month. Students who do not utilize the MBTA frequently may opt to use the MBTA “S Card” instead of a monthly student pass. The “S Card” is a Student CharlieCard which may be loaded in advance with money at any MBTA CharlieCard machine and permits students to use the MBTA at the reduced student fare (about 50% off standard fares). Lost monthly passes and “S Cards” may be replaced, usually within 72 hours, by contacting the main office.

Cars There is no student parking available on school grounds. The parking lot in back of the school is reserved for faculty and staff. Students’ cars must be parked on the street. Students are not permitted to leave the building to go to their car at any time during the school day.

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STUDENT LIFE EXPECTATIONS ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Students at Cathedral High School are taught how to properly cite sources used in their academic work. Plagiarism is the act of using someone else’s words or ideas without properly citing the source. Whenever a student takes someone else’s ideas, whether or not the ideas are written in the exact words, are paraphrased or summarized, the student must give proper reference to the source according to the standard rules of citation, usually the American Psychological Association (APA) or Modern Language Association (MLA). The rules apply to electronic and written sources. As an academic institution which values integrity, Cathedral will not tolerate plagiarism and ignorance of citation rules is not an excuse. If a student needs help, he or she should ask a teacher or refer to a reference guide for citation. Likewise, cheating will not be tolerated at Cathedral. Students are responsible for their own work and for using their minds and creative talents to accomplish their work. Any student caught cheating on any test or assignment will not be given credit for that work and may be subject to disciplinary action.

DISCIPLINE The keys to effective classroom climate are engaging in learning and teaching positive relationships. Students are expected to act responsibly, adhere to rules, accept authority, display self control, and treat individuals fairly and with respect. Students are responsible for their behavior at any and all school related activities, both at and away from the school campus (including athletic events, college visits, dances and proms, field trips, on the MBTA and busses, etc.). All disciplinary policies apply to students before, during, and after school. If a student exhibits any type of behavior that is dangerous and/or harmful to another person or persons, property, or may cause damage to the reputation of Cathedral High School, the student will be placing his or her status as a student at the school in jeopardy. The disciplinary code does not contain every rule or regulation imaginable. It is understood that students will respect themselves, respect others, and act in a courteous manner. Cathedral High School reserves the right to change the rules and regulations as needed during the school year. The Principal along with the Assistant Principal are charged with the enforcement of student rules and regulations. In imposing disciplinary action, the Principal and Assistant Principal may consider the seriousness of the incident, the student’s past disciplinary record, and the amount of disruption caused by the incident.

Suspension Suspension is a temporary separation from the school, ranging between 1 and 10 days, and will be assigned by the Assistant Principal. The Assistant Principal will notify parents/guardians when a suspension has been issued and will arrange a conference to discuss it. A suspension also results in probation. A second suspension results in final probation. A third suspension results in automatic dismissal from Cathedral High School.

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Participation in school-sponsored activities is a privilege, not a right. The Assistant Principal may suspend students from all school-related activities. Actions which may result in a suspension include, but are not limited to: • Truancy • Constant disruption of class • Leaving a classroom or school grounds without permission • Cutting class • Defacing or destroying school property • Offensive language or rudeness • Gambling • Smoking on school grounds • Repeated use of personal electronic devices

Probation Probation is a serious matter. Students are placed on probation when they have jeopardized their proper functioning at the school.

Appeals Students and families have the right to appeal suspension and dismissal. Appeals are to be made to the Head of School who will make the final determination.

RESPECT All students and members of the Cathedral High School faculty and staff deserve the opportunity to work and learn in an environment of mutual respect and trust. This requires that all students and members of our community regard each other with courtesy, consideration, appreciation, and act accordingly. Student life expectations and policies have been developed to ensure that the educational opportunities of all are not threatened or limited by unacceptable behaviors. Creating and maintaining a school culture of respect demands that all individuals recognize disrespectful behaviors and take appropriate action. Every student at Cathedral has the potential and the responsibility to affect the school culture and is expected to act according to the following guidelines: • Treat others with courtesy, consideration, and respect. • T  ell individuals behaving in a disrespectful manner toward you that you want them to stop. Use respectful language in doing so. • Tell individuals behaving in a disrespectful manner toward someone else that you want them to stop. • Report the behavior if it does not stop. If a student believes that he or she has been subjected to bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, or hazing by a student, employee, or any other person or has witnessed such acts against another student, the student should report the incident immediately to the Head of School, Principal, or Assistant Principal.

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Anti-Bullying Policy Bullying is defined as the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal, or electronic expression or physical act or gesture or any combination thereof direct at a victim that: • causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damages the victim’s property; • p  laces the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself or of damage to his or her property; • creates a hostile environment at the school for the victim; • infringes on the rights of the victim at the school; or • m  aterially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of the school Bullying is never tolerated on Cathedral school grounds, property immediately adjacent to school grounds, at school-sponsored or school-related activities, functions, or programs whether on or off school grounds, at school bus stops, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased, or operated by the school, or through the use of technology. Retaliation against a person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation into bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying is prohibited by law. Any student violating the anti-bullying policy will be dismissed from Cathedral. A full copy of Cathedral High School’s anti-bullying prevention and intervention plan is available through the school website at www.cathedralhighschool.net.

Harassment Policy Cathedral will not tolerate any student behavior which constitutes harassment of other students on the basis of race, color, age, sex, religion, or national or ethnic origin.

Hazing Policy The practice of hazing is not tolerated at Cathedral. All schools are required by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to provide a copy of the following state laws regarding hazing from Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 269, Sections 17-19: Section 17 Whoever is a Principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment. The term “hazing” as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which wilfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.

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Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action. Section 18 Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars. Section 19 Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided, however, that an institution’s compliance with this section’s requirements that an institution issue copies of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution’s recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations. Each such group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of each such group, team or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the institution an attested acknowledgement stating that such group, team or organization has received a copy of this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, that each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group, team or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a full time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall file, at least annually, a report with the board of higher education and in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with its responsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full time student enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen and also certifying that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook or similar means of communicating the institution’s policies to its students. The board of higher education and, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such report.

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Non-Discrimination Policy Cathedral High School will not discriminate against any student or applicant for admission on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, or age. It is expressly understood that as a religious institution which is operated for charitable and educational purposes, Cathedral High School shall not be barred from taking action with respect to matters of employment, discipline, faith, internal organization, ecclesiastical rule, custom, or law which are calculated by such organization to promote the religious principles for which it is established or maintained.

Physical Conflict Whenever members of the school community find themselves to be in conflict, they are expected to resolve their differences in a nonviolent manner without resorting to physical or verbal abusive behavior. Any student who initiates physical conflict, accepts the challenge to physical conflict, or encourages physical conflict between others is subject to disciplinary action. Participating in or encouraging physical conflict will result in a minimum of one day of suspension and up to 10 days of suspension, including potential prohibition from participation in all extracurricular and athletic activities.

Respect of Property Students are expected to respect the possessions of other members of the community and school property. Students can expect disciplinary consequences for handling or possessing the school’s or others’ belongings without permission. Students will also be subject to disciplinary action for willfully defacing or destroying the school’s or others’ belongings. This extends to graffiti, which is not tolerated. Massachusetts General Law chapter 266, section 126A and 126B defines graffiti as intentionally, willfully, and maliciously or wantonly painting, marking, scratching, etching, or otherwise marking, marring, injuring, defacing, or destroying the real or personal property of another including but not limited to a wall, fence, building, sign, rock, monument, gravestone, or tablet.

Sexual Conduct To maintain an environment conducive to learning and in keeping with Cathedral High School’s values as a Catholic school, students are expected to refrain from all activities of a sexual nature while on school grounds, at school activities, on field trips, or while representing Cathedral High School in any capacity. This includes, but is not limited to, physical contact, such as inappropriate touching or kissing, or any other sexual activity.

Sexual Harassment Policy Students are prohibited from making unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and from engaging in any other verbal or physical conduct of a nature when those advances, requests, or conduct have the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with the education of another student or the working environment of any employee or volunteer of the school by creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating, or sexually offensive environment, either on or off school grounds. This includes conduct during field trips and other school-sponsored activities or via telephone calls, emails, texts, or other means of electronic communication. Any retaliation is prohibited against a student who has made a sexual harassment complaint and any student who assists in the investigation of sexual harassment. The administration will make a determination for each incident on a case-by-case basis.

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The following are some examples of sexual harassment: • Making sexual comments, gestures, or looks; • Touching, pinching, or grabbing; • Leaning over or cornering; • Pressuring to do something sexual; • Pestering for a date after being told no; • Sending obscene letters, notes, pictures, email, text messages, or drawing obscene graffiti.

SAFETY AND SECURITY Assault of Staff Any student who assaults an administrator, teacher, or any employee or volunteer of Cathedral High School, on or off school grounds, including at school-sponsored events and athletic games, shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including permanent dismissal from Cathedral. This includes not only harmful offensive contact but also threatening such contact or assault.

Drug and Alcohol Free The use of drugs, controlled substances, and alcohol by students is never permitted. Students shall not possess, consume, or be under the influence of any alcoholic beverage, controlled substance, or drug while on school premises or at a school-related event or activity, to include athletic events. If a student is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or drugs he or she will be referred to the school nurse and Assistant Principal.

Fire Alarm Policy The fire alarms in the school are for the purpose of alerting people to the danger of fire. Misuse of the alarms is intolerable. Falsely calling the fire department to the school is illegal and jeopardizes the lives of others who may be in serious danger. A student who falsely activates a fire alarm will be responsible to pay any fines the school receives and will be permanently dismissed from Cathedral.

Locker Rooms Students are not to enter the physical education and athletic locker rooms during the school day except during their assigned physical education periods. After school, only members of in-season athletic teams are permitted in the locker rooms. To help prevent theft, students are encouraged to report instances of unauthorized persons in the locker rooms.

Tobacco Section 36 of the Educational Reform Act of 1993 prohibits the use or possession of tobacco products within the school building, the school facilities, on the school grounds, or on any school busses by any individual. Tobacco is a public health issue affecting others as well as the primary user. E-cigarettes are included in this prohibition.

Weapons Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in use or possession of a weapon, including but not limited to a gun or knife, will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including permanent dismissal from the school.

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Students should be aware that the federal Gun Free Schools Act mandates that any student who brings a firearm to school be expelled for a minimum of one year with exceptions only granted by the Head of School. Under this act a firearm includes not only a gun but also an explosive device.

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE Acceptable Use All students are expected to comply with the technology and Internet acceptable use policies adopted by the board of trustees and as amended from time to time. Copies of the acceptable use policy will be provided to students.

Electronic Device Use The use of a personal electronic device for any purpose of function, including but not limited to, telephone calls or text messaging, is not permitted at any time before school or during the school day. Use of personal electronic devices in school is detrimental to the learning process. The presumption is that if a personal electronic device can be seen, it is in use. All electronic devices must be locked in the lower half of the student’s locker or may be brought to the main office for safe keeping. The Principal will make exceptions.

USE OF THE CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL BRAND No student or student’s parent, guardian, or family member may use the school’s name, logo, identifying mark, or other brand element without proper prior permission for any purpose including, but not limited to the following: • To open up a bank account • To solicit funds on behalf of the school • To collect money on behalf of the school • To sell products on behalf of the school • To schedule any field trip, vacation, or other accommodations • T  o post on any website for any purpose including, but not limited to, support of a particular social or political agenda Any unauthorized use of the school’s name, logo, or brand may result in disciplinary or legal action.

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www.CathedralHighSchool.net CATHEDRAL 7-12 HIGH SCHOOL

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74 UNION PARK STREET

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BOSTON MA 02118

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P 617.542.2325