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Accreditation of Saint Gabriel School
St. Gabriel Catholic School is accredited by the North
Carolina State Department of Public Instruction, The
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and by the
Diocese of Charlotte. Through these accrediting agencies,
Saint Gabriel Catholic School maintains a program of
academic excellence for its students.
Each faculty member is either certified or in the process to
be certified by the State of North Carolina in the filed of
his/her expertise.
(Index)
Mission Statement
The
mission of the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Charlotte
is to proclaim the Good News of the Gospel and to develop
each student spiritually, emotionally, physically, and
socially, so that each is prepared to live and serve in a
changing society as a self-respecting and responsible
Citizen. The catholic school proposes to create an
environment in which the teachings of Jesus are promoted and
proclaimed as the basis of the values they teach and uphold.
Because
the Diocese of Charlotte recognizes that all Catholics
benefit substantially from a strong system of Catholic
Schools, and is committed to maintaining the availability
and high quality of Catholic Education in the Diocese, we
are dedicated to the following goals:
(Index)
Objectives
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To provide a sound religion program that will deepen the
child's relationship with God through the sacraments,
personal prayer, liturgical, and para-liturgical
celebrations.
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To foster the Christian experience in which the child's
individual character and contribution are accepted and
are a vital part of the Catholic faith community.
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To strive for a proper balance in the curriculum which
will provide opportunities to demonstrate personal and
social responsibilities.
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To function as a center for community involvement,
educational and spiritual enrichment.
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To provide opportunities to strengthen a spirit of
family life through parental involvement in school
functions and activities.
(Index)
Academic Program
Curriculum:
The
curriculum is designed by the Diocese of Charlotte and is in
compliance with the North Carolina State Department of
Public Education. It includes a sequential program in
religion, language arts, mathematics, social studies,
science, music, art, computer, physical education and
health, and foreign language. The School has a library/media
center program which offers quality reading selections. St.
Gabriel has a school guidance-counseling program that
provides students opportunities, through classroom
instruction, to realize the importance of self-esteem,
decision-making, positive peer influence, and anti-substance
abuse information.
Standardized Testing:
Standardized tests are used as a part of the student
evaluation program. They provide a basis for educational
guidance and measure effectiveness of curriculum, teaching
procedures, and student achievement. The tests are
administered according to the schedule determined by the
Diocese of Charlotte.
Report Cards:
Report
cards are issued four times yearly. Please refer to the
school calendar for issue dates. Report cards must be
returned within two days of issuance. Progress reports for
Grades K-5 are sent home every six weeks.
Retention:
In such
cases that it is the recommendation of a student's teacher
and the principal that a child be retained in the present
grade, parents will be notified prior to the last grading
period of the academic year.
(Index)
Admission Policy
All
Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools admit students of any
race, color, sex, religion, national and ethnic origin to
all programs and activities generally accorded or made
available to students at these schools. A child must be five
years of age on or before October 16 of the year in which
the child is presented for enrollment, as verified by a
birth certificate. If a child has been attending school in
another state in accordance with the laws and regulations of
school authorities of such state before becoming a resident
of North Carolina, the child is eligible for enrollment in
school regardless of whether he/she has passed the fifth
anniversary of birth by October 16. For more information
please refer your questions to the Mecklenburg Area Catholic
Schools (MACS) office at 370-3273 or 1123 South Church
Street, Charlotte, NC.
Students
must provide proof of immunization and be in compliance with
North Carolina immunization requirements within 30 days of
starting school. Kindergarten and new students in grades 1-5
must provide proof of physical examination (completed no
more than 12 months prior to anticipated date of school
entry.) PARENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR
PROVIDING THIS RECORD.
(Index)
Animals In School
Household pets are not permitted in the school building at
any time. If pets are brought in the car during carpool,
please make sure these pets stay in the car at all times.
(Index)
Announcements
Each
morning we will begin with prayer and announcements. During
this time students should stand quietly in respect for God.
If you are in the hallways, stop immediately and wait until
prayers are completed.
(Index)
Arrivals
School
is in session from 7:45 AM to 2:20 PM for grades K-2, and
from 7:45 AM to 2:45 PM for grades 3-5. Before school care
begins at 7:00 AM and is provided free of charge. Students
arriving between 7:00 AM and 7:35 AM should report to the
school gymnasium and be seated in the designated class area.
At 7:35 AM students in the gymnasium will be escorted to
their classroom. Children arriving after 7:35 AM should
report directly to their classroom. Students are expected to
be in their seat by 7:45 AM for Morning Prayer. PLEASE DO
NOT LEAVE STUDENTS UNATTENDED BEFORE 7:00 AM.
(Index)
Athletic Program
St.
Gabriel Athletic Association (SGAA) is a non-profit
organization that provides competitive athletic programs for
members of St. Gabriel Parish and School. The SGAA is
composed of an Athletic Director, president, vice-president,
secretary, and treasurer. The sports and activities offered
include:
Basketball: Girls and Boys - Grades 3-12
Soccer:
Girls and Boys - Grades 3-6
Tennis:
Girls and Boys - Grades 4-5
Volleyball: Girls - Grades 5-8
Cheerleading: Girls - Grades 4-5
Please
contact the Athletic Director for further information:
704-364-5431 EXT 221.
(Index)
Attendance
State
law requires students and teachers to attend school for one
hundred eighty (180) days, exclusive of holidays.
When a
student must leave school before dismissal, a written note
from a parent or guardian stating the reason must be
presented to the teacher. No verbal requests from the
student will be honored. Students who come to school after
11:00 AM or who leave before 11:00 AM will be marked absent
for the day. Parents or guardians must come to the office
and sign a release for their child's early dismissal.
The
school staff will call the student to the office. PLEASE
DO NOT GO DIRECTLY TO THE CLASSROOM.
The
educational program at St. Gabriel School depends heavily
upon the content of each school day, and all areas of the
curriculum are considered valuable. Regular attendance is
vitally important to each student as it directly affects
his/her progress academically and his/her development of
attitudes and habits for later life. Studies of student
progress in school show a high correlation between
attendance and success, and absence and failure. For this
reason, every student is required to attend every class,
except when excused for illness or other reasons deemed
acceptable by the school. Vacations and holidays are planned
to provide both maximum conveniences in observing
traditional holidays and maximum benefits to the educational
process. When considering removing children from scheduled
classes, parents are urged to weigh carefully important
factors:
-
School represents a commitment to intellectual and
personal discipline. Unnecessary absences may weaken
that commitment. While such absences may be highly
educational and beneficial to the child, they are not to
be regarded lightly.
-
It should be recognized that absences and disruptions of
schedules (tardies) and procedures affect others in the
class and faculty.
-
In the primary grades in particular, instruction is so
often teacher-directed and activity-directed; it is not
usually possible to duplicate the experience outside the
classroom setting.
-
There is almost a month of free time within the school
year calendar, published well in advance, in addition to
the summer months, in which trips can take place.
-
The teacher is not obligated to plan special work or to
spend extra time on work that was missed by the student.
-
Students who have an excused tardy or absence are still
marked tardy. There will be no certificates given for
perfect attendance at the end of the school year.
(Index)
Birthdays
Recognition and celebration of a student's birthday is seen
to be an important aspect of that student's development. To
assist in this, parents may send to school or drop off in
the office, cupcakes, cookies, brownies, or doughnuts for
the class. The teacher will then distribute the items for
celebration t a time that is determined best for the whole
class. There are no class parties for birthdays. The
delivery of balloons, limousines, flowers, etc. should be
reserved for celebrations at home. Invitations to private
birthday parties may not be distributed at school unless the
entire class is invited. The teacher will return the
invitations to the student to be distributed from home
should the entire class not be invited. It is very difficult
for children to understand and not have their feelings hurt
when they realize they have not been invited. Please arrange
for all parties not to be part of carpool. There should be
no party pickup during carpool. Birthday party gifts may not
be brought to school.
(Index)
Carpool
The
"rule of thumb" is: IF THE CARS ARE MOVING, THE CHILDREN ARE
NOT. IF THE CHILDREN ARE MOVING, THE CARS ARE NOT!!!
CHILDREN WILL REMAIN IN LINE UNTIL THE HORN SOUNDS.
During
arrival and dismissal, all cars must enter the church
parking lot at the Providence Road entrance. Do not enter
from Sharon Lane since our campus becomes a one-way street
at this time. A school representative will direct you where
to stop and when to depart.
Carpool
sign-up forms will be available at the beginning of the
school year. Students will be allowed to leave school only
with those adults listed on the carpool form. A signed note
to your teacher will be required if someone else will be
picking up your child.
Rainy Day Carpool
Morning
carpool is the same during rainy weather as it is every day.
Please use extreme caution when dropping off children.
Please make sure they wear protective clothing.
Afternoon dismissal is not the same. On rainy days, please
park your car and enter the lobby and wait for directions
from the school staff to proceed to the gymnasium to pick up
your child. Enter the gym by the "coke machine door" and
exit by the "elevator door".
After the first week of school, parents are strongly
discouraged from walking their student into the building.
This is unsafe and can interrupt the planned carpool flow.
When it is necessary to assist a student into school, please
park in the parking lot adjacent to the Youth Center
building, and walk on the sidewalks to the school.
On those days when it is necessary to pick up early, parents
should send a note or call in advance to the Receptionist
explaining the necessity. Do not go to the classroom, the
student will be called down after the parent has signed out
the student in the Receptionist office.
Change of Address
It is
important that the school has an up-to-date phone number and
address, as well as an emergency number. If these facts
change during the year, a parent must call the school with
the new information. Please inform the MACS business office
of your address change.
(Index)
Communication
The
Thursday packet is a weekly information package detailing
the day to day activities at St. Gabriel School and an
overview of the MACS system. Please take the time to
assimilate the information it contains, and sign the
appropriate area as indicated on the envelope. The signed
envelope should be returned the following day. The envelope
is given to the oldest child in the family. The Thursday
packet may include:
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A weekly newsletter keeps you up to date on upcoming
school events, school policies, and other pertinent
information.
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The Bugle issued quarterly with the PTO minutes.
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Partners in Learning
(the MACS newspaper).
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All fund raising activities.
(Index)
Discipline Code
As a
Catholic school, St. Gabriel Catholic School is committed to
uphold the principles of a Christian and Catholic way of
life. Christian ideals should be foremost in the school's
code of conduct. It is the individual student's
responsibility, guided and supported by the school
administration, faculty and parents to contribute to an
atmosphere conducive to Christian living.
It is
expected that all students adhere to the established school
rules and regulations, as well as the ordinary rules of
courtesy, good behavior and respect for others. It is the
hope of St. Gabriel Catholic School that students learn the
necessity of a proper code of conduct for the formation of
their own characters and as a resistance to peer group
pressures.
Mutual
respect for the dignity of the individual, both student and
teacher, and a positive trust and understanding are the
foundation upon which responsible behavior is formed.
Emphasis on the positive qualities and contributions of
conduct builds that type of behavior, which will have
meaning and permanence.
The
authority of the teacher, rules of St. Gabriel School and
the Christian formation of all students are to be upheld.
When a student's behavior violates the rights of others, it
becomes subject to disciplinary measures. The teacher
concerned will handle discipline on an individual basis.
This may involve a meting with the principal, although the
violation may not be of a "suspendable" nature. We work as a
team in many situations and, at times, the principal and/or
counselor may be helpful in such a meeting. Parents should
not misinterpret such a conference as the "last step" before
suspension. If corrective conduct measures are to be taken,
parents will be notified.
Conduct
referral letters will also be issued to inform parents of
their child's behavior. These slips are to be signed by the
parent/guardian and returned to the student's teacher the
next day.
Parents
will be asked to come to school for a conference with the
principal, teacher and student for serious disciplinary
problems.
Continued or serious violations of school regulations and
disrespect toward authority are punishable by in school
suspension or expulsion.
Violations of school rules and a Christian behavior which
are subject to disciplinary action include, but are not
limited to the following:
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Refusing to obey a faculty or staff person.
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Talking back when admonished or corrected for behavior.
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Disturbing class, interrupting teacher by talking,
making noises or laughing when the situation does not
warrant it.
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Disrespect towards other student or school property.
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Name-calling.
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Making fun of other students.
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Pushing or shoving others, fighting or injuring other
students.
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Refusing to allow others to join in games.
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Speaking unkindly or rudely to other students.
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Tampering with other students' personal belongings.
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Leaving school without permission.
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Chewing gum on school premises (gum should not be
brought to school).
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Possession of any weapon or toy weapon.
(Index)
Dismissal
Regular
dismissal for grades K-2 is 2:20 PM (First Dismissal) and
early dismissal is at 11:30 AM. If parents do not arrive by
2:25PM for first carpool, the student will return to the
classroom to wait for second dismissal. Second Dismissal for
grades 3-5 is at 2:45 PM with early dismissal at 12:00 PM.
Before each dismissal, students will line up with their
class in the "flagpole" parking spaces (immediately adjacent
to the north side of the Parish Center). A school
representative will be present to supervise dismissal.
Students are to remain in line until the horn is sounded.
Parents, or a designated adult, will escort the students to
their vehicle at this time.
Any students in grades K-2 who are to be picked up at second
carpool will remain in school with a designated teacher.
Please understand that our focus is on the children during
dismissal. While we are most interested in communication
with families, the staff will not be available for
discussions during these critical time periods. Should you
have a questions, concern, or observation regarding your
child and/or school please leave a message in the front
office and we will make a follow-up contact with you as
quickly as possible.
REMEMBER:
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Drive carefully and slowly.
-
Obey carpool personnel.
-
Have patience.
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Watch for children!
(Index)
Dress Code
MACS and
Saint Gabriel Catholic School believe that an appropriate
dress code is important in educating our students in the
necessity of good grooming and acceptable appearance,
without an over emphasis on commercialization. Our students
are, therefore required to wear a school uniform, as
outlined below. All clothing should be free of designs,
emblems or labels, other than those of the school. In the
case clothing worn deviates from the policy, the faculty
member will notify the Principal, who will in turn notify
the parent.
A
uniform exchange program, sponsored by the PTO, is held at
the beginning of each school year and at the end of each
school year. This program allows parents the opportunity to
obtain a uniform jumper, St. Gabriel's sweatshirt or
T-shirt, slacks, short pants, sweaters, or cardigans, at no
charge/no exchange. Access to extra uniforms from this
exchange program is available during the school year by
contacting the school secretary.
Saint
Gabriel Catholic School emblem shirts, slacks, uniform
jumpers, 'skorts' and sweaters may be purchased through
Flynn and O'Hara Uniforms (1-800-441-4122). Slacks and
shirts may also be purchased from local retail stores or
through mail order catalogs.
Pants and
shorts
Solid navy
blue tailored and hemmed pants in twill or corduroy. Belts
should be worn with shorts or pants with belt loops. Baggy
and oversized pants are not permitted.
Jumpers
Girls in K-4 must have the blue and gray plaid jumpers,
which are available in two styles, from Flynn and O'Hara
Uniforms (1-800-441-4122). Any color shorts may be worn
under the jumper. Uniform jumpers are also available in
half-sizes. Only grade 5 girls may wear the Flynn and O'Hara
'skort'.
Shirts
Short or long sleeved white knit shirt with collar; white
turtleneck; short or long sleeve white blouse with peter pan
collar; St. Gabriel Catholic School emblem optional. Shirts
must be tucked in.
Sweaters
Solid navy blue cardigan or crew neck, which should be worn
over a regular uniform shirt.
Sweatshirts
Only the navy blue School sweatshirt, ordered through the
PTO, should be worn over a regular uniform shirt. Other
sweatshirts will not be worn during the school day as part
of the uniform.
Socks
White or navy blue socks, knee-highs, anklets or tights.
Shoes
Sneakers are worn. (No hiking boots, lite-ups or character
shoes/sneakers, clogs, or sandals).
Belt
Dark,
solid colored belts only.
Jewelry
Simple jewelry, e.g. single chains, small earrings
(non-dangling).
Physical
Education
Wear
uniform shorts with regular shirts and sneakers.
Mass Day On
days of a Mass, girls are to wear jumpers with white shirts,
and boys are to wear long navy blue pants with white shirts.
Fifth grade girls may wear the skort uniform.
Jeans Day
At the start of the academic year, a day in the first week
of each month will be designated Jeans Day. Students may
wear BLUE denim pants, shorts, jumpers or skirts. (No holes,
cutoffs, or overalls). A School T-shirt or School uniform
shirts may be worn. On special days, announced in the prior
week's packet or by the Principal, different shirts may be
worn.
Scouts/Brownies
Uniforms
may be worn on days the troop meets.
(Index)
Dress Down Day
On the
monthly dress down day, students may wear clothes other than
the school uniforms. Students will still be required to
dress appropriately and neatly within the conservative
standards of a Catholic school. Hats, headbands, sunglasses,
visors, etc. are not allowed unless a specific day is set
aside. Dresses, skirts with blouses, jeans and shorts should
be of a conservative length and not be such that sitting,
bending, or kneeling could cause embarrassment to the
student or to others around her. Strapless dresses,
'spaghetti' straps, tank tops, are not appropriate for
school. Any article, which advertises alcohol, tobacco,
drugs, or displays violence, satanic symbols or suggestive
words, is prohibited. The boys should wear shorts, pants, or
jeans that are neat with no holes, cuts or tears. Tanktops,
muscle shirts, midriff jerseys, see-through mesh jerseys,
and torn clothing are not acceptable wear for school. If a
student comes to school in clothing, which is considered
inappropriate by the school staff, he/she will be asked to
call a parent to bring something more acceptable.
(Index)
Field Trips
All
field trips will be instructional in nature and related to
the curriculum being taught. Students will not be allowed to
participate in a field trip without a school issued
permission form completely filled out and signed by a parent
or guardian. (Please note that a copy of this form is
located at the back of this handbook. Many parents make
multiple copies of this page so that they can be kept on
hand in the event that a child loses the form.) Telephone
calls will not be acceptable in lieu of the signed form.
Parent who drive for field trips must have a parent
Volunteer Driver Information Form on file in the school
office. This form can also be found in the back of the
handbook. Parents who drive their car for field trips are
legally liable for the safety of the children they are
transporting. Each child in the car must be fitted with a
seat belt and remain in the seat belt until the end of the
trip. No student is permitted to ride in the front seat of
the car. Drivers are not permitted to make additional stops
for food, drinks, etc. The role of the parent chaperone is a
very serious one. The total attention of the chaperone is
needed for the children. For this reason siblings are not
permitted on field trips.
(Index)
Health Education
The MACS
nurse in response to curriculum or student needs offer a
variety of health education programs each year. At the
elementary level, the following programs are currently
offered:
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FACT First Aid for Children Today An American Red Cross
program for first grade.
-
BAT Basic Aid Training An American Red Cross program for
fourth grade.
Nurses
may also assist with Family Life programs (fifth grade) and
HIV/AIDS education (K_5) as requested by teachers. Other
programs and topics, Dental Health, Halloween safety,
Nutrition, Heart Health, etc. have been offered as
requested.
(Index)
Health
Parents
must complete an Emergency card for each student so that the
school is able to reach parents quickly in the event that
the child is injured or becomes ill at school. Health
problems or allergies should be indicated. Any medication
your child is taking should be noted on the card. An
important part of that information is listing emergency
contact persons who may be available to assume
responsibility and/or pick up the child in the event that
the school is unable to reach a parent. It is helpful to let
these persons know that they are listed so that they can be
prepared to help out. If any of this information changes
during the school year, we ask that it be updated promptly.
Please
communicate any health problems, allergies, or special needs
to the classroom teacher, office personnel and school nurse
so that we can be prepared to help your student. If medical
equipment and/or supplies are required, it is the parent's
responsibility to provide the necessary equipment and
supplies.
If
possible, all medications should be given at home. However,
medications will be given to students who need medication to
sustain attendance, students with health problems or
students with special need. It is the responsibility of the
parent/guardian to provide any required medications, to
complete the required forms, to provide complete directions
concerning the administration of the medication, and to
obtain the signature of the physician when required. It is
also the responsibility of the parent to communicate any
changes in medication. Refer to MACS Administration of
Medication Policy for complete instructions. Medication is
given only by MACS nurses or by designated trained office
staff who work closely with the nurse and parents.
A Health
Room or area is provided in each MACS school where students
may come if they are injured or become ill. The Health Room
is staffed by a MACS Nurse (RN) two days per week. The nurse
is available for consultation by phone. The school office
staff is CPR and First Aid certified and able to manage
situations as they develop. In addition, at many schools we
have parent volunteers who are nurses and assist in the
Health Room and with health screening and teaching. While we
are able to provide for the initial evaluation of student's
injuries or illnesses, we are not staffed, nor do we have
the space to provide more than an initial evaluation. Nurse
volunteers or school staff will notify you in the event of
suspected serious illness or injury.
As we
all know, children do, despite our best efforts, become ill.
A few pointers about illness; please do not send your child
to school if he or she has experienced any of the following
within the past 24 hours:
-
Fever (Temperature over 100)
-
Vomiting
-
Rashes which may be infectious or contagious
-
Drainage from eyes or ears, yellow or green drainage
from the nose
If your
child has been diagnosed with a communicable disease (strep
throat or conjunctivitis (pink eye), please keep him/her
home until he/she is no longer contagious. For strep throat,
this means for 24 hours after the Penicillin is started or
36 hours if Erythromycin is used.
In
addition, we will ask you to pick your child up from school
if we see any of the following signs or symptoms:
-
Fever (Temperature over 101 with no other
symptoms).
-
Fever (Temperature over 100 accompanied by other
symptoms).
-
Rashes which may be infectious or contagious
(Scarlet fever, chicken pox, impetigo, and ringworm are
common examples) or about which we are uncertain.
-
Drainage from eyes or ears, yellow or green
drainage from the nose.
-
Cough that is productive (produces mucus).
-
Other symptoms if they exist so that they
interfere with the student's ability to learn and
participate in class (example, a student with the flu
may be so tired that he needs to go home and rest).
-
Lice (Must be excluded from school until after
one treatment completed with "nit-free", with written
Doctor's clearance.
-
HEALTH SCREENING
Height,
weight and vision screenings will be conducted by MACS
nurses and parent volunteers during the fall of each year on
students in grades 1 through 5 and the results will be
returned to parents. Fifth grade students will have the
opportunity to participate in Scoliosis Screening. Parents
will be notified in advance of all scheduled screenings.
(Index)
Homework
Homework
is an extension of the learning process, intended to help
the child learn self-discipline, accept responsibilities for
himself/herself, and to reinforce objectives taught during
school that day. The best way for parents to help their
child with homework is to provide an organized routine at
home for homework. The child will benefit from a planned
time (perhaps after dinner) and planned location (a good
working area, such as a table or desk with little or no
distraction). Children will appreciate parental support in
the way of a good, positive attitude about homework, shown
by all.
Teachers
often assign special projects to be done at home. Parents
should only assist children and refrain from doing
their child's work for the project. The learning experience
is in the doing not necessarily the end project.
Grades are given for effort as well as presentation.
(Index)
Internet Acceptable Use Policy
Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Schools
Acceptable Use Policy for Internet Usage
Please
read the following carefully before signing this document.
This is a legally binding document.
Internet
access is now available to students and teachers in the
Diocese of Charlotte Catholic School system. The Internet
offers vast, diverse, and unique resources to both students
and teachers. Our goal is to promote educational excellence
by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and
communication.
Students, faculty and staff will be able to: E-mail people
all over the world and exchange information with people from
other countries, access information & news from sources and
research institutions around the world, and access many
university libraries, The Library of Congress, and other
libraries around the world. In addition, the Internet can
enhance learning opportunities by focusing on information
retrieval, searching strategies, research skills, and
critical thinking.
The
purpose for the Diocese of Charlotte Acceptable Use Policy
(AUP) is to ensure that the Internet usage at school is for
constructive educational goals and is consistent with the
philosophy of the Diocese of Charlotte school system.
Because the Internet provides access to computer systems
located all over the world, families should be aware that
some material accessible via the Internet may contain
material that is illegal, controversial, inaccurate, or
potentially offensive. The Diocese of Charlotte cannot
control all the content of the information available.
However, the Diocese of Charlotte believes that the benefits
to students from access to the Internet in the form of
information resources and opportunities for collaboration
exceed the disadvantages. The Diocese of Charlotte does not
condone the use of inappropriate materials and will make
precautions to filter access to these materials. Users must
be aware that access to the school network and the Internet
is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked if abused.
Because ultimately parents and guardians of minors are
responsible for setting and conveying the standards their
children should follow when using media and information
sources, the Diocese of Charlotte supports and respects each
family's right to decode whether or not to allow access to
the Internet.
The
following are terms and conditions for using the Diocese of
Charlotte Networks or Internet connections:
A
Unacceptable Practices:
1) Giving
our passwords;
2) Using
someone else's account or user name;
3)
Harassing someone;
4) Any use
of sites that specifically involve unacceptable topics such
as sex, violence, or drugs;
5) Seeking
unauthorized access to any resource;
6) The use
of profanity or inappropriate language in e-mail or
electronic communications of any kind;
7)
Trespassing in another's folders, work or files;
8)
Transmission of any material in violation of and U.S. or
State regulation;
9)
Reproduction or transmission of copyrighted material without
explicit permission;
10)
Downloading, copying, installing or transmitting commercial
software, shareware or freeware without permission from the
school's designated computer specialist.
B Security:
Security on any computer system is a high priority
especially when the system involves many users. If you
identify a security problem, you must notify the school
computer specialist immediately. Do not demonstrate the
problem to other users. Note that electronic mail (e-mail)
is not guaranteed to be private; system administrators have
access to all mail. Messages relating to, or in support of,
illegal activities may be reported to authorities.
C
Vandalism:
Vandalism will result in cancellation of user privileges and
may result in suspension or expulsion. Vandalism is defined
as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy equipment and/or
data of anyone connected to the Internet or to any other
computer on the school property. This includes but is not
limited to, uploading, creating, or transmitting computer
viruses.
D
Netiquette:
1) Be
polite.
2) Use
appropriate language. Swearing, vulgarities or any other
inappropriate language is unacceptable.
3) Illegal
activities are strictly forbidden.
4) Do not
use the network in such a way that you would disrupt the use
of the network by other users.
5) E-mail
is not guaranteed to be private but all communications and
information accessible via the network and the Internet
should be assumed to be private property.
6) Do not
reveal your personal address or telephone number or those of
anyone else.
7) Notify
an adult immediately if, by accident, you encounter
materials that violate the rules of acceptable use.
8) Typing
in all CAPITAL LETTERS is seen by Internet users as
'shouting'.
9) Do not
print anything without permission from a teacher.
10) A good
rule to follow is never view, send or access materials,
which you would not want your teachers and parents to see.
11) The
Internet should not be used to meet unknown people. This is
a dangerous practice and could have extremely negative
consequences.
Consequences:
Be prepared to be held accountable for your actions and for
the loss of privileges if the terms and conditions of
acceptable use are violated.
Consequences include: restricted network access, loss of
Internet use, loss of use of school computers, disciplinary
or legal action including but not limited to suspension,
expulsion, and criminal prosecution under appropriate state
and federal laws.
Disclaimer:
The Diocese of Charlotte is not responsible for any damages
suffered, including loss of data resulting from delays,
non-deliveries, service interruptions, or the accuracy or
quality of information obtained from the Internet.
(Index)
Non-Custodial Parent
Saint
Gabriel Catholic School abides by the provisions of the
Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of the
non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to
the contrary, Saint Gabriel Catholic School will provide the
non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and
to other school related information regarding the child. If
there is a court order specifying that there is to be no
information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial
parent to provide the school with an official copy of the
court order.(Index)
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Personal
contact between parent and teacher is the most effective way
of discussing a child's development. The teacher, or parent,
may request conferences any time there is a need or concern.
-
Request for conferences by the parent or teacher should
be made by a note or telephone call. This request should
be made in advance to allow time for any necessary
arrangements to be made. Please do not call the teachers
at their homes.
-
Except in an emergency, the telephone is discouraged as
a means of effective communication.
-
Do not attempt to use carpool time for a conference with
a faculty member. The faculty has safety duties to
perform and one should not endanger other children by
attempting to discuss a concern at that time.
-
Scheduled conferences are held during the school year at
the end of each marking period. It is strongly
recommended that parents attend the conference for the
first marking period in order to share information
regarding your child's progress and to establish goals
and objectives for the future. The second and third
marking period conferences are by teacher or parent
request.
(Index)
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
Mission
The mission
of the Parent Teacher Organization is to assist the
principal, teachers, and families of our school in reaching
the goals of the school. We do this by serving two major
functions:
1) To raise
the needed funds to help implement our goal, and;
2) To help
foster a school community that will enable our teachers and
families to best care and nurture our children so that they
may learn and grow in faith as they strive to become the
adults that Jesus calls them to be.
Activities
and Events of the Parent Teacher Organization
-
Bingo
Bingo is one of St. Gabriel family activities.
Dinner is often provided before Bingo.
-
Book Fairs
This is a weeklong event in the spring and fall
during which books of all kinds and at reasonable
cost are made available to students and parents.
Monies raised from the two book fairs financially
support our Media Center.
-
Directory
The school directory provides a listing of all
families with students enrolled at St. Gabriel,
school faculty and staff, special committees, and
class lists. Copies are available for those parents
who pay their PTO dues.
-
Donuts for Dad
On this morning, our students are invited to bring
their fathers or a male guest in for breakfast and
to see their classroom.
-
Faith Advisory Committee
Parents, faculty and staff who met to supply support
in the area of religious education.
-
Family Night Party
This is a back to school event to give everyone a
chance to get acquainted and enjoy an old fashioned
Fall Fling complete with dancing, ice cream and
desserts.
-
Field Day
This daylong event is held at the end of the school
year during the school day. On Field Day students
participate in athletic activities.
-
General Mills Box Tops
In this program, the school participates by
purchasing merchandise through this company.
-
Gift Wrap Sale
This is the major fundraiser of the PTO which
involves the sale and distribution of gift-wrap and
is done in the early fall of the school year.
-
Harris Teeter
Families shopping at Harris Teeter with a VIC card
may have certain items credited towards our school,
if you sign up with them for the program. This is an
easy way to be of help to your school. Our number is
1770.
-
Health and Wellness
PTO nurse parent volunteers assist in teaching
various classes to our students and assist with the
various health screenings as well as staff the
Health Room.
-
Library
The Library Committee works closely with the School
Librarian in the library and in working on special
library projects.
-
Math Superstars
This is a math enrichment program for students in
grades 1-5. It is an optional program done outside
the classroom. PTO volunteers assist in managing the
program.
-
Moms in Touch
A
group of Mothers meet at the school weekly to pray
for intentions submitted by members of the school
community.
-
Muffins for Mom
On this morning, our students are invited to bring
their mothers or a guest in for breakfast and to see
their classroom.
-
Plant and Pansy Sales
An excellent variety of seasonal plants are
available at reasonable prices in the fall and
spring as a fundraiser.
-
Playground
The Playground Committee works on planning and
construction on the present playground as well as
plans for the future. Playground safety is also
considered.
-
Pre-Read Book Exchange
A book sale of used children's books conducted by
each grade to raise money for the classes.
-
Silent Auction
An adult party that raises money for the school by
selling donated gifts.
-
Teacher Appreciation Week
The PTO in appreciation sponsors a weeklong event
for our teachers. It is held during National Teacher
Appreciation Week.
-
Uniform Exchange
At the beginning of each school year, a uniform
exchange is held, during which students may borrow
uniforms from the school to use until they outgrow
them. This is a great money-saving event.
-
Yearbook
PTO volunteers work with the school office in
preparing the school annual.
(Index)
Sacramental Program
Saint Gabriel Catholic School participates in the parish
sacramental program. This program is under the direction of
the Parish Director of Religious Education operating out of
the Faith Formation Center.
While it is the privilege of Saint Gabriel Catholic School
to help prepare the students for First Penance and First
Eucharist, all other procedures are under the parish
direction.
All communications regarding the sacramental program are
sent to parents through the Faith Formation Center,
704-362-5047, ext. 271. Parents are encouraged to assist in
the program to help establish parish unity and community.
(Index)
School Lunch Program
Meals
The MACS
system contracts with a number of restaurants in the
Charlotte area to provide hot lunches to students at
affordable prices. Parents/students may choose from a short
list of entrees from the designated restaurant, while
applesauce, beverages, and ice cream are available from the
school cafeteria.
Detailed
ordering information will be made available at the beginning
of each school year.
Students
also have the option of bringing their own lunches. Those
who choose not to order the school entrees still have the
option to purchase applesauce, beverages, and ice cream from
the cafeteria.
Lunch
Periods
Lunch
periods begin at approximately 10:40 a.m. and continue until
12:30 p.m. Individual classes are scheduled at five-minute
intervals, beginning with kindergarten and proceeding
through the fifth grade. Students participate in prayer in
class before lunch.
Each class
has designated tables for lunch. The students are
responsible for:
-
Observance of good table manners.
-
Leaving the table and surrounding areas clean and
orderly.
-
Placing litter in proper containers.
-
Talking in quiet, conversational voices.
Parents are
and families are welcome to join students for lunch, and
should consult their child's teacher for specific lunch
times. Please do not forget to sign-in at the office desk
before proceeding to the cafeteria. Visitors may bring their
own lunch or include their order in advance on the student's
lunch order form.
Cafeteria
Rules
Students
are requested to follow certain rules of decorum to ensure
the efficiency and safety of the lunchroom. These are:
-
Be
polite to all cafeteria staff and volunteers.
-
Sit
in the place assigned for your class.
-
Stay seated while you are eating.
-
Talk quietly to the students around you.
-
Finish eating before you leave the cafeteria.
-
Clean up after yourself.
-
Leave the cafeteria and go outside when directed by
staff. Do not wait inside school for friends.
(Index)
Snow Delay
In case
of snow, St. Gabriel Catholic School WILL NOT
automatically follow the policy of the Charlotte Mecklenburg
Public School System. The decision to close school or to
open at a later hour of the day will be made by the Diocesan
Superintendent's Office. In case of storms or other
emergencies there will be an announcement on the local radio
or television stations concerning Mecklenburg Area
Catholic Schools. Please listen to the announcement for the
closing or delayed opening. Do not call the school or staff.
If inclement weather develops during the day and it becomes
necessary to close school, please listen to local radio or
television stations for an announcement. Please listen for
Charlotte Catholic Schools, St. Gabriel Catholic School, or
Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools on the announcements.
There
will be no before school care on days with delayed openings
- for example, a two hour delay would indicate that the
school will open at 9:45 AM, two hours after our normal 7:45
AM opening time.
After
school care is cancelled on days when students are dismissed
early due to emergency situations.
Phone
chains will only be activated at the direction of the
principal or assistant principal and when sufficient notice
cannot be given through television or radio. Thank you for
your help and cooperation.
(Index)
Student Records
It is
important that you keep your child's records up-to-date.
Changes in address, home and work telephone numbers, and
work schedules need to be reported to the office,
particularly for the emergency card. This is to facilitate
our contacting you concerning your child.
Parents
and legal guardians have the right to review their child's
official cumulative record. Requests should be made in
writing to the principal 24 hours prior to reviewing the
records.
(Index)
Tardies
Arriving
on time to begin class is critical towards a child's
successful, productive day. Students who arrive after 7:45
AM are marked tardy. Students who are late must come into
the office with a parent to sign him/her in for the day.
Tardies are disruptive to the students and the entire
school.
(Index)
Visitors to School
For the
safety of the children and to reduce interruptions, parents
and other visitors are not permitted to go directly to the
classrooms. Visitors should report to the school office upon
arrival, sign in and obtain a Visitor Pass. Parents and
visitors are not permitted to "sit-in" or attend a class.
Persons bringing lunch boxes, etc. need to bring the items
to the Receptionist office where they will be given to the
teacher.
We
encourage parents to join their student for lunch and/or
recess. It is a great way to observe your child interacting
with their peers, and to learn more about their friends.
Active participation by parent volunteers in school is
considered an integral part of their child's social and
scholastic development. There are many activities in which
parent volunteers may participate, such as, fundraisers,
room parent, playground helpers, and the PTO. Volunteers
working at the school during school hours should also stop
at the Receptionist office to obtain their Visitor Pass.
Visitor
Parking
Visitors
are asked to park in the "flagpole" lot, which is
immediately adjacent to the north side of the school. If
these spaces are full, please park in the "middle section or
the "grotto" parking section during school hours. No parking
is permitted in the school parking lot for up to 30 minutes
prior to the First Dismissal (2:20 PM). If you are visiting
the school during this time, please park in the lots
adjacent to the Ministry Center, the Youth Center, or the
Church.
(Index)
Volunteers
In
addition to the school cafeteria staff person, volunteers
are sought from among the St. Gabriel parents to assist with
cafeteria duties. Parental involvement and assistance is
encouraged, especially in the lower grades. Parents will be
contacted by a classroom parent representative throughout
the school year for various volunteer opportunities.
(Index)
Forms:
MEDICATION AUTHORIZATION -
FORM A
MEDICATION AUTHORIZATION - FORM B
FIELD TRIP PERMISSION FORM & MEDICATION RECORD
VOLUNTEER DRIVER INFORMATION FORM
(Index)
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