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Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook LEARNING, LOVING & LIVING IN CHRIST

The material in this handbook may be amended by the Pastor or Principal at any time. There are many other regulations which may not be explicitly addressed but are implicit within the context of the school in its role of “in loco parentis.” Parents will be given prompt notice of any major change.

Telephone Numbers School • 215.333.3142 (Main Office) • 215.332.7242 (Fax) • [email protected] Nurse • 215.333.6653 Report Absence • 215.333.8370 Parish Rectory • 215.333.0585 Advancement Office • 215.821.1391 • [email protected] Pastor – Rev. Msgr. Charles E. McGroarty Principal – Sister Kathleen Touey, IHM

Saint Matthew School 3040 Cottman Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19149 http://teacherweb.com/PA/StMatthew/SchoolHomePage Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook Revised - September 2012 Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook

TABLE OF CONTENTS Mission Statement 5 Belief Statement 6 Saint Matthew School Song / Fight Song 7 Academic Policy

8 – 10

Admission Policy

11 – 12

Attendance 12 – 17 Curriculum 18 – 23 Discipline Code

23 – 25

Dress Code

25 – 26

Field Trips 26 Family Responsibilities 27 Elementary School Enrollment

28

Scrip Program

28 – 29

Health Services

29 – 32

Extended Services

32 – 34

Home and School Association

34

Philosophy 34 Tuition 35

Our parish school admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at our school. Similar policies apply to the school staff. Our school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, its admission policies, or in any school administration program. Saint Matthew School

Mission Statement Saint Matthew School is a parish elementary school staffed by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, who, along with their lay faculty and members of the extended school family, share the charism of joyful service with the community. We are dedicated to: • Disseminating the gospel values by promoting and fostering a strong Catholic Identity; • Appreciating the individual needs of our students by designing a relevant academic curriculum; • Offering each child support and respect by providing a safe, loving, and welcoming environment; • Cultivating moral and spiritual character in all the members of our school community by engaging them in service, athletic, cultural, and social activities; • Preparing our students for the future with the technological skills that colleges and careers will demand. We celebrate our accomplishments and pledge to look to the future with innovation and inspiration.

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BELIEF StatementS • We strive to be a Catholic faith community that fosters an environment in which the Gospel message facilitates our spiritual development and enhances our moral values. • We endeavor to support all members of our school community in their relationship with a loving God by nurturing their Catholic faith which is at the heart of all we do. • We seek to provide a rigorous curriculum that engages our students, recognizes their individual learning styles, and challenges each child to develop to his/her full potential by laying the foundation for lifelong learning. • We foster an atmosphere of love and respect within our school, by creating a welcoming and safe environment. • We encourage an understanding of our students as unique individuals by respecting the diversity of each other’s talents and gifts. • We are committed to the collaborative efforts of the school and parish leadership, faculty, parents, and students to promote the moral and spiritual growth of our Catholic faith, which we cultivate through liturgical celebration, prayer, religious instruction, community service, and social and cultural events. • We aspire to prepare students for their future educational endeavors and participation in the global society. The leadership and faculty of Saint Matthew School consistently promote the utilization of innovative technologies as a means of supporting an environment of academic achievement and excellence.

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Saint Matthew School Song 1. Join your voices now in song for a school we love. Academics, music, sports, praising God above. We’ll be true to our ideals: Family, Church and School. Now, with hearts and voices sing: Hail! Saint Matthew School.

2. Many years our school’s been proud, and we all acclaim: Teachers, students and our staff, and our hard won fame. In the future we will live faithful, strong and true. To the principles we’ve learned at Saint Matthew School.

Fight Song Cheer our team to victory! Sportsmanship we praise. Athletes strong and loyal too: Come on, team, today! Though the odds be great or small, our team’s out to shine. And the SPIRIT at Saint Matt’s will make us first each time.

Composed by: Sr. Regina Cecilia, IHM 1997

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Academic policy GRADING Class participation, home study, and test averages, as well as credit for projects in various subjects, are combined in order to obtain a report card average. This average shows the parent/guardian and the student what steps are necessary for further progress. If parents are not receiving test papers or other academic communications during the marking period, it is the responsibility of the parent to contact the teacher. Parents will be notified approximately one month before report cards are issued if the student is failing in any subject. Parents are also encouraged to contact the teacher concerning the conduct, progress, and effort of their child. Report cards are issued three times a year. Parents are requested to sign the report card and return it to school as soon as possible. CRITERIA FOR HONORS Honor Roll – The qualifications for being placed on the honor roll are as follows:

• Grades 4 – 8 High Honors – 92 or above in all subject areas and “3” or above in music, computers, art, effort and conduct. Honors – 85 or above in all subject areas and “3” in music, computers, art, effort and conduct. • Grades 1 – 3 High Honors – “VG” or above in all subject areas and “3” in effort and conduct. Honors – “G” or above in all subject areas and “3” in effort and conduct.

Grades 1 – 8 Achievement Group Improvement in two subject areas. No drop in any subject area and “3” or above in effort, conduct and specials.

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HOMEWORK To develop habits of independent and useful study, homework is a must. It supplements the daily classroom work. It also provides practice and review, depending on the needs of the student. Homework often does not refer to written assignments, but frequently to specific projects and study. A reasonable amount of homework is assigned to each grade level. Homework procedures will vary for each individual teacher. The Archdiocesan Office of Catholic Education sets a standard of suggested time allotment for both written and study assignments. • Grades 1 – 2 • Grades 3 – 4 • Grades 5 – 6 • Grades 7 – 8

30 minutes 60 minutes 90 minutes 120 minutes

Parents are requested to: • provide a place and time for study • check to see if work has been completed • assist but do not do the work for the student • oversee the neatness of the assignments • contact the teacher, by means of a written note, if a question arises concerning study

TeacherWeb.com As a backup, teachers post homework assignments, classroom news and reminders on the website www.teacherweb.com or under Teachers on our school webpage at: http://teacherweb.com/PA/StMatthew/SchoolHomePage.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES These conferences are held before the first report cards are issued. Special arrangements may be made by contacting the teacher. Parents are not to confer with teachers during school hours.

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TESTING The diocesan standardized testing, Terra Nova, is administered on a predetermined schedule to grades K-7. The results are forwarded to parents. K results are not given to parents. The results are used to assess the program only. It is possible that all grades will not be tested every year. Diocesan testing may alternate among even, odd or another structure of grade allocations from year to year.

GRADUATION – GRADE 8 In order to graduate from Saint Matthew School, the following requirements must be met: • The student must achieve a general average of 70.0. • A student who has earned a passing general average, but has received a final grade of “1” (unsatisfactory) in conduct may attend the graduation, but will be required to sit with his or her parents rather than the class. • All financial obligations must be settled.

NON-PROMOTION Each student is expected to use and develop the God-given talents in the academic program by consistent effort and meaningful application. Therefore: • Insufficient advancement in either Math or Reading or both indicates the need to repeat in grades 1 – 3. • If a child evidences emotional immaturity, it is advisable to repeat the grade. • If the general average is below 70 on the final report card, the student must repeat the grade. • Eighth grade students are not permitted to repeat in Saint Matthew School. • If an 8th grade student fails Math, or ELA, he/she must attend the Archdiocesan High School Summer School Program in order to be admitted in September.

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ADMISSION POLICY The family must be registered members of the (Saint Matthew, Saint Bartholomew, Saint Bernard, Saint Leo, Saint Josaphat or Our Lady of Consolation) parish(es), be in agreement with the philosophy of the school, agree to the tuition schedule and actively support their parish and Saint Matthew School. The Principal will determine if a child should not be admitted if there is evidence of an academic or emotional problem or if the present class size has reached full capacity.

KINDERGARTEN AND FIRST GRADE A child must be five years of age by September 1 in order to be eligible for kindergarten. A child must be six years of age by September 1 to be eligible for first grade. The child’s readiness for first grade will be determined by his/her skills. The kindergarten teacher’s recommendation is also considered.

CERTIFICATES NEEDED • A Baptismal Certificate is mandatory if the child was not baptized in Saint Matthew Church. • Documented doctor’s certification showing dates of immunization is absolutely necessary in order to comply with the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The school must be made aware of any physical limitations of the child. • A Birth Certificate is required in order to confirm the child’s date of birth/age.

FOR GRADES OTHER THAN FIRST Parents/guardians of children transferring from another parish due to a change of residence must: • Reside and be registered in the parish (Saint Matthew, Saint Bartholomew, Saint Bernard, Saint Leo, Saint Josaphat or Our Lady of Consolation) where their home is located, proof of residence is required. • Present a transfer slip. Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook

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• Present a copy of the Baptismal Certificate (if the child was not baptized in Saint Matthew Church). • Present the Pennsylvania Department of Health Record of Immunization. • Present a copy of the child’s Birth Certificate, report card, educational records, and portfolios if they are available. Parents or guardians of children transferring from a public school must: • Observe all of the above. • Be interviewed by the Principal or Vice Principal.

CUSTODY CASES If a child is in the care of one parent/guardian and has restrictions for which the school should be made aware, it is the responsibility of the parent/ guardian to send in the necessary information (legal documents, court order) to the school office in writing.

WITHDRAWAL Parents of students transferring from our school must notify the school office of the date the child is leaving and the school to which his/her educational records are to be sent. Proper transfer forms to the new school will be presented at this time. All financial obligations must be settled.

ATTENDANCE BELL SCHEDULE • Morning Bell

7:50 — Grades K and 4–8 8:00 — Grades 1-3

• Lunch

11:50 – 12:35 — Grades 4-8 12:00 – 12:45 — Grades 1-3 11:30 – 12:30 — full day Kindergarten

• Dismissal

2:30 — Grades K and 4–8 2:40 — Grades 1-3

Children should not be in school before 7:35 AM unless directed by a teacher or the administration for a specific purpose. Supervision of the students begins at that time. Children should go directly to their assigned classrooms and wait there until the bell rings. Proper behavior is expected at all times.

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ABSENCE Regular attendance is essential. In case of absence: • A Parent/guardian is required to call school each morning of a student’s absence. To report any absence call 215.333.8370. Please record your child’s name, room number, and reason for absence. This can be done from 6 PM the night before until 8:30 AM the day of the absence. • If absent only in the PM session, a parent/guardian must call after lunch to the school office 215.333.3142. For a student to be admitted to school after any absence, he/she must present an absence form provided by the school to the teacher on his/her return. ABSENCE FORM

Today’s date: Student’s Name: Grade: Room: Date(s) Absent: Reason (be specific): Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature:

APPOINTMENTS • Dental and medical appointments should be made at a time other than school hours. If appointments must be made during school hours, a note stating the time of the appointment must be sent to the school office prior to the appointment. • No student may leave school during school hours unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. • Students leaving school for whatever reason must be met by a parent/guardian at the school office where the parent/guardian will sign a release form before taking the student.

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FUNERALS If a student is attending a funeral at Saint Matthew Church, he/she must be signed out by a parent/guardian and taken to the funeral by the parent/ guardian. Children will not be taken by the teachers. We ask that the student sit with parent/guardian and not with other students.

VACATIONS Vacations are not encouraged during the school year and work will not be given in advance. It is the responsibility of the student to make up any work that has been missed due to absence.

LATENESS The importance and necessity of punctuality is stressed and highly encouraged by the faculty of Saint Matthew School. While aiming to prepare our students for a worthwhile contribution in their future vocations, we ask you to join us in our efforts to instill the values of punctuality and responsibility. • Students who arrive late for school will receive a late slip from their homeroom teacher. • No one may personally take children to their classroom. • The Vice Principal will be in contact with the parents if children are late three or more times during the course of the school year.

ARRIVAL Beginning on the first day of school, children are to be dropped off in the morning along the perimeter of the school using Wellington Street. Please continue to move as soon as students close the car door. Parent/guardian volunteers will be along the curb to help keep cars moving. These parents/ guardians will be identified by an orange vest. Students arriving to school via the school bus may enter school using the Cottman Avenue Main Entrance. Please refrain from double parking on Wellington Street. This presents a very dangerous environment for your children and other drivers. If double parking continues to be a daily occurrence, the 15th District will be notified and they will send an officer to issue parking violations.

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Kindergarten parents/guardians may walk their child to the door but may not enter the school building. Please abide by the no parking signs posted around the school. For the safety of the students, please adhere to the below guidelines. • Drive slowly and only around the perimeter. • Do not drive or park in the center of the lot. • Do walk in the center of the lot - not in the driveway. (Children and moving vehicles do not mix.) • Stay parked in the school yard until 8:00 am. All cars (those of teachers, kindergarten parents/guardians, Mass attendees) must enter the yard from Battersby Street. When dropping off students in the parking lot, please enter the south entrance (close to Wellington Street) and exit the north exit (close to Cottman Avenue). Also, cars should enter and exit very cautiously anticipating all pedestrians. Absolutely no entrance or exit to the lot from Wellington Street is permitted. Parent/guardian volunteers will be along the loop in the parking lot to help the students, and to keep cars moving along. These parents/ guardians will be identified by an orange vest. Faculty parking will be along the church and rectory. The church-goers may also park along the church, rectory, and parking slots adjacent to Battersby Street.

DISMISSAL Car riders from Grades 5-8 may be picked up from cars parked along Battersby or Wellington Streets. Car riders from Grades 1-4 must be picked up from the school yard. Kindergarten parents/guardians may wait for their children under the foyer. Older students who pick-up younger students should wait at the crossing corners (Cottman Avenue, Battersby Street, or Wellington Street).

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Consistent with the arrival requirements, all cars must enter and exit the school yard from Battersby Street. For the safety of the students, do not exit the school yard until 2:45 PM. Cones will be placed to close off Wellington Street. Students returning home after school via the school bus shall assemble in the gym before exiting school to board the bus. Please do not park along Hawthorne Street in the area where the school buses park waiting for the students to exit the gym.

LINES Children must walk to the corner (Cottman Avenue, Battersby Street, or Wellington Street) to cross the street. They should obey crossing guards and safeties at all times.

SCHOOL ACCESS AM: Children should not be in the school before 7:35 each morning. Supervision of the students begins at that time. Children should go directly to their assigned classrooms and wait there until the bell rings. Proper behavior is expected at all times. Please, no pets in the school yard before or after school.

EMERGENCY DISMISSALS Each student should be aware of a plan of action if there is an emergency dismissal. Parents/guardians, please provide your child/children with information regarding where they will go when they leave school in the event of an emergency dismissal. Please kindly make sure your child/ children are aware of these details and of any changes throughout the school year regarding these details. This information should be completed and included on the Family Information Form that is distributed at the beginning of the school year. Emergency dismissals will be communicated by telephone outreach through our school’s automated system, School Reach. Please be sure to provide the school office with your updated telephone numbers (home, work, cell) and email address whenever changes are made.

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SNOW CLOSING AND DELAYED OPENINGS Please listen to the radio for: “ALL PHILADELPHIA PUBLIC AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS WILL BE CLOSED” or “ALL PHILADELPHIA PUBLIC AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS WILL OPEN ONE HOUR LATE.” Saint Matthew School does not have a school number. Please do not call the school, convent, or rectory. KYW announces this information on the radio beginning at 5:30 AM. School closings and delayed openings will be communicated by telephone outreach through our school’s automated system, School Reach.

FACULTY MEETINGS When Faculty meetings are held, students will be dismissed at 11:30 AM. Please see THE COMMUNICATOR (monthly newsletter) for the exact dates. When necessary, there will be times when school information will be shared with parents/guardians by email outreach through our school’s automated system, School Reach. Please be sure to provide the school office with your updated email address whenever there is a change.

VISITORS All parents/guardians and visitors are to report to the school office. No parents/guardians or any other visitors are permitted to go to the classroom during class time. Teachers may not be interrupted while classes are in session, either to answer the telephone or to confer with parents. If you wish a conference with your child’s teacher, please send a written note requesting a conference. If an emergency arises, please call the school office. If a child should forget a lunch, books, etc., please leave them at the school office with your child’s name and room number on them.

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CURRICULUM Saint Matthew School offers nine years of continuous curriculum development with Religion as the core. Our school follows the course of study established by the school law of Pennsylvania along with the curriculum guidelines of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. It includes the content areas of elementary education, but is not limited by them. Students benefit spiritually, intellectually, culturally, and physically both within and outside the classroom. As parents are the primary educators, parental involvement is encouraged in the spiritual and academic growth of the children.

TECHNOLOGY Saint Matthew School addresses the Computer Literacy Program, established by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, which prepares students for and involves students in the technological culture in which they are living. Each class has a scheduled weekly computer period. Students must adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) signed by the student and the parent/guardian in the beginning of each school year. The Acceptable Use Policy includes but is not limited to: • Students must use computer technology responsibly. • Students may use flash drives in accordance with instructions given by their classroom teacher. • Students may not be in the computer lab or on the computers in the library or classroom without authorized adult/teacher presence and supervision. • Any attempt to interfere with the system security, guess passwords, or in any way gain access to secured resources is forbidden. • Students will not move, repair, reconfigure, modify or attach external devices to the systems. • The teacher/lunch moderator has the right to monitor all activities.

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• Any student deliberately defacing computer equipment will be suspended. Identified euipment includes but is not limited to: • Mouse

• Keyboards

• Mouse Pads

• Hard drive

• Earphones

• Monitor, etc.

• Software

Additional rules and restrictions may be added at any time. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in suspension or loss of any or all computer privileges for the remainder of the school year.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION In Physical Education class, students actively participate in physical activity. The class stresses safety, personal responsibility, self-discipline and cooperation. Saint Matthew Physical Education mandatory dress code is as follows: • non marking athletic sneakers that must be securely tied at all times • plain red gym shorts (no logos) • Saint Matthew gold shirt • Saint Matthew navy blue sweat pants and shirts • no jewelry (rings, chains, etc...) • jewelry is a safety hazard and is not permitted during physical education class under any circumstances • no fashions or fads • white or black socks (no “no-show” socks) Failure to comply with Physical Education regulations may result in loss of physical education privileges.

LIBRARY The library is an integral part of the school program and serves as a central resource for both teachers and students. Each class has a scheduled library period. The library may be used for research and/or projects. Students pay a fine for overdue books and are responsible for lost or damaged books.

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Science Labs Saint Matthew School’s state-of-the art science labs, utilized by teachers and students in Grades K-8, were funded through a generous grant provided by the Connelly Foundation. Students are instructed through the dynamic LabLearner program. Designed by scientists and teachers, LabLearner is a 100% hands-on science education system that includes a fully equipped in-school laboratory, complete curriculum, lesson plan, assessments, and teacher professional development. LabLearner is based on state and national science standards and integrates both math and ELA standards as well. Each topic of discovery in the LabLearner program is called a CELL, or Core Experience Learning Lab. CELL knowledge is used as the student advances through the grades.

MUSIC The Saint Matthew Music Department provides a quality music education to all students. Students in Grades K-8 participate in weekly music education classes which conform to the National Standards for Music Education. Students learn to read and write music, sing, play instruments, analyze and evaluate music and musical performances, study composers and music history, compose and perform music of various styles and cultures, and learn to listen to music critically.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AT SAINT MATTHEW SCHOOL • Band (Grades 4-8)– The Saint Matthew School Band is available to students in Grades 4-8. Students do not need to know how to play an instrument or how to read music. They will receive instruction in a group lesson that rotates during the school day. All groups then join together at the end of the school day in the auditorium from 2:30 to 3:00 pm for a band rehearsal. Members of the school band perform with the choir for a Christmas concert and in May for a Spring concert. The band also performs at Villanova University for the National Catholic Band Association in the Spring. • Choir (Grades 3-8) – The Saint Matthew School Choir is available for students in Grades 3-8. Students in Grade 3 are invited to join the choir in the Spring. Students in Grades 4–8 are invited to join the choir in the beginning of the school year.

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Choir members are assembled to sing during school liturgies as well as during the services for First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Choir members join the band for a Christmas concert in December and a Spring concert in May. There are also times when the Choir may be assembled to sing in school for special celebrations as well as to be invited to sing off-site at special venues for members of our neighboring community. • Swimming (Ages 5 – 15) • Track, (Grades 5, 6, 7 & 8) CYO • Football – Junior Varsity (Grades 5 & 6) CYO • Football – Varsity (Grades 7 & 8) CYO • Soccer – Boys, Cadets (Grades 3 & 4) CYO • Soccer – Boys, Junior Varsity (Grades 5 & 6) CYO • Soccer – Boys, Varsity (Grades 7 & 8) CYO • Soccer – Girls, Cadets (Grades 3 & 4) CYO • Soccer – Girls, Junior Varsity (Grades 5 & 6) CYO • Soccer – Girls, Varsity (Grades 7 & 8) CYO • Cheerleading, Junior Varsity (Grades 5 & 6) CYO • Cheerleading, Varsity (Grades 7 & 8) CYO • Basketball – Boys, Cadets (Grades 3 & 4) CYO • Basketball – Boys, Junior Varsity (Grades 5 & 6) CYO • Basketball – Boys, Varsity (Grades 7 & 8) CYO • Basketball – Boys, High School, Junior Varsity (Grades 9 & 10) CYO • Basketball – Boys, High School, Varsity (Grades 11 & 12) CYO • Basketball – Girls, Cadets (Grades 3 & 4) CYO • Basketball – Girls, Junior Varsity (Grades 5 & 6) CYO • Basketball – Girls, Varsity (Grades 7 & 8) CYO • Basketball – Girls, High School, Varsity (Grades 11 & 12) CYO • Baseball – Boys, Junior Varsity (Grades 5 & 6) CYO • Baseball – Boys, Varsity (Grades 7 & 8) CYO • Softball – Girls, Junior Varsity (Grades 5 & 6) CYO • Softball – Girls, Varsity (Grades 7 & 8) CYO The school upholds the philosophies of the C.Y.O. regulations. Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook

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STUDENT COUNCIL (Grades 1-8) The purpose of the Student Council is to foster leadership, enhance school spirit, and promote student activities within Saint Matthew School. The Executive Board is made up of eighth grade students. A representative from each homeroom will serve as a moderator.

MISSION MODERATORS (Grades 1-8) The purpose of the Mission Moderator is to help promote a Christian atmosphere where everyone learns to know, love, and to serve God. A representative from each homeroom will serve as a moderator.

Peer helpers (Grades 7-8) The Saint Matthew Peer Helper Program promotes peers as positive resources in our school. The Peer Helpers tutor younger students and provide a positive role model for the students. This program trains students to assist their peers through various school-based programs and projects utilizing positive peer modeling, leadership skills, and positive peer pressure. It is designed to enhance a student’s ability to help and lead others. Students complete an application for entry into the program in Grade 7. Once accepted into the program, students complete training during Grade 7 and are inducted into service in Grade 8.

LUNCH PROGRAM Children must conform to the lunch regulations which are sent home at the beginning of the school year. Failure to do so will deprive them of the privilege to remain for lunch. There is a family lunch fee (includes 1 or more children) that is due in September of each year. The family lunch fee is used to offset costs associated with providing lunch moderators for the classrooms during lunch time. The fee is subject to possible change. Saint Matthew School does not provide lunch to students. Children who remain in school for lunch are required to pack a lunch. Lunch recess for all grades is supervised by lunch moderators. When lunch recess is taken outdoors, each grade has its own section of the yard in which to play. The following is not permitted for any grade while in the school yard:

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• rough play, running • interfering in games others are playing • leaving the school yard for any reason without permission • sitting, jumping on cars Parents should not call the lunch moderators at home. All concerns about the lunch program should be directed to the Vice Principal.

DISCIPLINE CODE Students who attend Saint Matthew School are expected to behave in a respectful, courteous, and self-disciplined manner. These attitudes are necessary in school if there is to be an atmosphere conducive to learning. Students must realize that school rules promote good order and allow for maximum spiritual, mental, and emotional growth. Students are expected to have respect and reverence for: • their own person and possessions • the person and possessions of others • all school and parish property • all lawful authority in the school • all that is sacred and holy Discipline Referral Slips and Detention Slips are used to make parents aware of unsatisfactory behavior. It is imperative that parents realize the importance of these slips and strive to correct the inappropriate behavior of their child. Infractions that will warrant the issuance of a Detention Slip are:

• bullying • class disturbance • improper conduct during lunch period • refusal to comply with school dress code • disregard for regulations regarding haircuts and jewelry • repeated lateness • chewing gum • disregard for academic assignments • lack of material needed for class Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook

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• inappropriate behavior at dismissal, during fire drills, in the lavatories, at assemblies, or at church • repeated failure to follow teacher directives • copying other students’ assignments • unchristian attitude toward peers • writing on books, school property, etc. Detention Slips will be signed by the parent/guardian and returned to the student’s homeroom teacher. The detention day and time will be stated on the slip. After three (3 detentions), the parent/guardian and student must meet with the teacher. If three (3) additional detentions are given, the student may be suspended. Children who are staying after school will be notified in time for them to make parents/guardians aware of their detention. Disciplinary problems that will result in an IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION include: • truancy • fighting • forgery • immorality • smoking/matches, lighters, etc. • disrespect for authority, etc. • cursing • bullying Disciplinary problems that will result in an IMMEDIATE EXPULSION include: • vandalism/graffiti • drugs • alcohol • a weapon of any kind • physical or mental harassment • repeated acts of bullying

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If a student is suspended, he/she may not return to school without a meeting between the Principal and the parent/guardian. After two suspensions, a student will be expelled.

CELL PHONE POLICY Students are permitted to carry cell phones for emergency use only. Cell phones must be turned off and kept in the student’s school bag and cannot be used during school hours. A cell phone that is taken away from a student will be delivered to the Principal’s office. A parent/guardian must pick-up the student’s cell phone from the Principal’s office.

DRESS CODE All students must wear the required uniform. Schedules for the spring/ summer uniform will be reflected on the annual school calendar sent home at the beginning of the school year.

BOYS • white shirt (short or long sleeve) • dark blue dress slacks, with belt (no jeans or cords of any kind) • sturdy black tie shoes (no metal trim, no sneakers) • properly worn full socks, (navy or black) • school tie – navy blue • navy blue school sweater (only when it is cold) • spring/summer shirt (spring/summer uniform only) • dark blue dress shorts (spring/summer uniform only) • sneakers with white or black socks (spring/summer uniform only) • hair may not be below the collar (no extreme hair styles or colors: tails, shaved sides of any kind, or bleached) • no earrings • name badge (worn at all times)

GIRLS • white blouse (short or long sleeve) logo optional • school jumper of navy blue and white plaid Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook

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• navy blue knee socks (knee socks are worn up) • navy blue tights may be worn in cold weather • navy blue school sweater (only when it is cold) • all blue sturdy tie shoes (no sandals or clogs) • spring/summer shirt (spring/summer uniform only) • dark blue dress shorts (spring/summer uniform only) • sneakers with white or black socks (spring/summer uniform only) • no make-up – this includes nail polish, fake finger nails, nail tips, lipstick, powder blush, eye shadow, etc • jewelry – no jewelry other than a religious medal or a watch (only one post earring per ear) • 6th, 7th and 8th grade – (Fall/Winter) navy blue and white plaid kilt skirt, white blouse and blue sweater vest (vest does not have to be worn during the time when the spring/summer uniform is permitted to be worn) • 6th, 7th and 8th grade – (Spring/Summer) navy blue and white plaid kilt skirt, white banded polo shirt • navy blue docksiders may be worn by 6th, 7th, and 8th graders only • no extreme hair styles, colors, or highlighting • navy blue or white hair accessories are permitted with school uniform • name badge (worn at all times)

KINDERGARTEN • official Saint Matthew gym uniform and sneakers

FIELD TRIPS Field Trips are permitted. Adult supervision and written permission of parent or guardian and insurance information is required. Instructions on behavior should also be given by the parents. A class trip is a privilege, which a teacher may take away if conduct warrants it. If a parent does not wish a child to go with his/her class, the child must still attend school on that day.

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FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES Your family is an important part of the parish. To fulfill its mission of being a sign of Christ’s presence in this community, the parish needs healthy, growth-oriented, faith-filled families. Although there are many obstacles to achieving these qualities, the challenge still remains. The people of Saint Matthew Parish, especially through the parish education programs, have shown their willingness to help families develop their potential. This goal cannot be realized unless the parents and children of each family are willing to do their part in the education of children. At the heart of Catholic education is the students’ instruction in Catholic doctrine and Christian values. No other goal supersedes that of leading the students to a greater knowledge and more profound love of God. As an extension of its primary goal, the school’s aim is to develop the students’ intellectual competencies, to make them aware of their responsibility to use their God-given talents for the good of society, to encourage them to be sensitive to the needs of the local and global communities, and to be committed to the cause of peace and justice at home and abroad. We believe that these goals are best realized when family, school, and parish work together to assure the students that they are special, that they are loved, and that they are called to make a difference in the world. Saint Matthew School continually strives to provide a Christ-centered environment that permeates the intellectual, emotional, and social life of the students. The people of Saint Matthew Parish support the education of elementary school and high school students through their generosity to the various collections.

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Elementary School ENROLLMENT • To enroll in Saint Matthew School, the student and family must reside within parish boundaries and be members of Saint Matthew Parish or reside within parish boundaries and be members of Saint Bartholomew, Saint Bernard, Saint Leo, Saint Josaphat or Our Lady of Consolation parishes. • Students and their parents must be cooperative and supportive of the philosophy of the school. • Students and their parents are required to live up to the fundamental requirements of their faith. Not to do so contradicts the purposes for which Saint Matthew School has been established and also presents a conflict of values for the students who attend the school. Parents and students must attend the Eucharistic celebration of their home parish on Sundays and Holy Days. • In justice, parents of students who attend Saint Matthew School must use their envelopes and contribute weekly to the collection of their home parish. Elementary school students are encouraged to use their envelopes. • Parents are encouraged to attend parent meetings. • All families are expected to participate in the Scrip Program because it is such an important part of keeping the tuition at Saint Matthew School reasonable.

Scrip PROGRAM The Saint Matthew Scrip Program is a fundraising program for the school, and a tuition reduction opportunity for families of Catholic school students. Gift cards to a variety of stores are purchased by the school at a discount and are sold at face value. The profits are then shared between the school and families. All parishioners and families of students enrolled in Saint Matthew School are welcome to participate in this fundraising program. We also welcome future families of Saint Matthew School. You may start participating in our program before your child starts school. That way, you can earn rebates towards your future tuition.

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Scrip Program hours are: Sunday (School) – 9 to 11:30 am Monday through Friday (School) – 7:30 to 11 am Thursday & Friday (Convent) – 6:30 to 7:30 pm Saturday (School) – 9 to 10:30 am A list of participating stores is available at the Scrip office in the school office. The list of participating stores is subject to possible change.

HEALTH SERVICES Illness or injury during school hours A student who is ill will be permitted to report to the nurse’s office after obtaining the teacher’s permission to leave class. If illness should occur on a day when there is no nurse on duty, the student is to report to the school office. If there is a medical reason for your child or children to leave the room to use the lavatory during class time, please notify the teacher in writing. If emergency treatment is necessary, students are taken to the local hospital and parents/guardians are notified immediately. It is absolutely essential that each child have a Family Information Form on file with the home, work, and cell numbers and email addresses of the parents/guardians. This form must be up to date. These emergency forms will be distributed each year. It is vital that these forms be current. Therefore, if there is any change on your forms, please notify the school office. Every child in Pennsylvania must be completely immunized according to state law prior to admission to school. The immunization policy is as follows: (See next page.)

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Grades K – 1 Diphtheria & Tetanus 4 doses: at least one on/after 4th birthday (DTaP/DTP/DT/Td) Pertussis 4 doses: at least one on/after 4th birthday (DTaP or DTP) Polio 3 doses: (OPV/IPV) Measles 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Mumps 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Rubella 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Hepatitis B 3 doses: (HBV) Varicella 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (Varicella or MMRV) or documentation of chickenpox immunity proven by laboratory testing or written statement of prior chickenpox disease from a healthcare provider Grades 2 – 5 & 8 Diphtheria & Tetanus 4 doses: at least one on/after 4th birthday (DTaP/DTP/DT/Td) * Polio 3 doses: (OPV/IPV) Measles 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Mumps 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Rubella 1 dose: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Hepatitis B 3 doses: (HBV)

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Varicella 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (Varicella or MMRV) or documentation of chickenpox immunity proven by laboratory testing or written statement of prior chickenpox disease from a healthcare provider Grades 6 – 7 Diphtheria & Tetanus 4 doses: at least one on/after 7th birthday (DTaP/DTP/DT/Td) * Pertussis 1 doses: at least one on/after 7th birthday (DTaP or DTP) Polio 3 doses: (OPV/IPV) Measles 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Mumps 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Rubella 1 dose: on/after 1st birthday (MMR or MMRV) Hepatitis B 3 doses: (HBV) Meningococcal 1 dose: on/after 2nd birthday (MCV4) Varicella 2 doses: on/after 1st birthday (Varicella or MMRV) or documentation of chickenpox immunity proven by laboratory testing or written statement of prior chickenpox disease from a healthcare provider * Only 3 doses of Td-containing vaccine are necessary if series is started on/after 7th birthday if at least one dose is given as Tdap.

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Dates should be complete, and include month, day and year. Physical exams are required on entry to school and in the sixth grade. Forms will be provided for you to take to your physician. Dental exams are required on entry to school and in Grades 3 and 7. Please do not send medication to school without first consulting with the nurse about medication policy. The school nurse is available on a pre-determined schedule for medical emergencies. She may administer first aid for injuries occurring at school. The school nurse will screen your child for vision, hearing, growth, and Scoliosis according to the established schedule. Saint Matthew School is obliged to follow the School District of Philadelphia’s policies regarding the administration of medication in school. These policies periodically change, so please do not assume that medication will be administered without first consulting the nurse to determine the current policy.

SCREENINGS Speech – Grade 2 Audiometric – Grades 1, 2, 3 and 6 or 7 Scoliosis – Grades 6 or 7 (Grades 6 should be completed by family physician at time of physical exam) Vision – Annually Growth – Anually

EXTENDED SERVICES CORA CORA (Counseling Or Referral Assistance) is a private, non-profit multifunded service for children and family. CORA services may be initiated by a parent or teacher. In either case, parental consent is necessary. Services available are: • educational testing and remediation • counseling and guidance • psychological assessment

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• speech and hearing service • workshops on stress, study skills, and self control

CARES CARES (Children Are Receiving Extended Services) PROGRAM Saint Matthew School offers an after school program. Information and cost of the program may be obtained in the school office.

Title 1 Services Saint Matthew School provides Title 1 Services for the improvement of reading in Grades K-3, 5 times a week for 45 minutes a day. Two full time reading specialists instruct eligible students in Grades K-3 during the day and highly qualified teachers provide extended day services in reading and math 2 to 3 times a week to the students in Grades 2-6. The eligibility requirements for Title 1 Services are as follows: Students in Grades K-2 are eligible based on approved indicators, such as teacher observation, check lists and screenings. In Grades 3-6, students are eligible based on Terra Nova Scores and/or final report card grades. A score below the 50th percentile in reading comprehension and math concepts and application and / or a final report card grade of S or below or 79, or below in ELA and math determines eligibility for service. Title 1 teachers conduct lessons in their own classrooms. Saint Matthew School also receives the services of a Title 1 Merit Consultant two full days a week who provides professional development and demonstration lessons for all teachers.

Resource rooms Saint Matthew School provides a special education program for students in Grades 2-6 who have been identified through an educational psychological evaluation. These students will receive daily ELA and math instruction in the Resource Room. They are modified and accommodated in the regular classroom based on their individual needs.

Convent Program The Convent Program is a remedial program for students in Grades 3-4 designed to meet the individual needs of the students at Saint Matthew School who experience difficulty in English Language Arts. The children

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receive two hours of small group instruction daily. Classes are held in the convent which is connected to the school.

HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION The Saint Matthew Home and School Association is an active organization which works directly with the Pastor, Principal, and the faculty. They provide programs on behalf of the membership. There are four scheduled meetings of the Saint Matthew Home and School Association during the school year. Advance notice of all meetings is distributed. Parent/guardian presence at these meetings along with their support of the School policies and procedures is appreciated.

PHILOSOPHY At the heart of Catholic education is the student’s instruction in Catholic doctrine and Christian values. No other goal supersedes that of leading the students to a greater knowledge and more profound love of God. As an extension of its primary goal, the school’s aim is to develop the students’ intellectual competencies, to make them aware of their responsibility to use their God-given talents for the good of society, to encourage them to be sensitive to the needs of the local and global communities, and to be committed to the cause of peace and justice at home and abroad. We believe that these goals are best realized when family and school work together to assure the students that they are special, that they are loved, and that they are called to make a difference in the world. Saint Matthew School continually strives to provide a Christ-centered environment that permeates the intellectual, emotional, and social life of the students.

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We, the administration and faculty of Saint Matthew School, willingly assume the educational responsibility of those students entrusted to our care. In turn, we expect parents to be supportive of these efforts, not only through financial support of the parish, but by providing their children with a home environment conducive to the growth of Christian values.

TUITION A letter of explanation is sent home each year concerning tuition and payment dates. The oldest student in the family may bring the tuition payment to school. A receipt is given for each payment. Parents/guardians are responsible for paying tuition on time. If there is a problem regarding payment, parents/guardians must contact the Pastor before the due date to explain the situation. A $25.00 non-sufficient fund fee will be added to any check that is returned. Tuition schedules are available on the school webiste. Tuition is collected in the school office. If a tuition check is returned for non-sufficient funds, parents/guardians may no longer be permitted to remit a check for tuition payment.

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