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Our Lady of Mt. Carmel

Catholic School “Building a Bright Future”

2015-2016

School Handbook

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School

6703 Whitefriars Dr.

Houston, Texas 77087

(713) 643-0676

www.olmchou.org/school

The contents of this handbook are subject to change, updating, correction, and revisions at

any time with or without notice. A current copy can be viewed on the school website.

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Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School

6703 Whitefriars Dr.

Houston, Texas 77087

www.olmchou.org/school

(713) 643-0676 School Office

(713) 649-1835 School Fax

(713) 645-6673 Parish Office

Jimmy R. Ramos, M.Ed.

Principal

Rev. Abelardo Cobos

Pastor

School Board Members

Denise Zaebst

Lazaro Contreras

Parent Teacher Organization – PTO

Katherine Smith President

TBA Secretary

Tracy Murray Treasurer

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OUR LADY OF MT. CARMEL

CATHOLIC SCHOOL

School Handbook (Revised 8/15)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome .............................................................. 5

Absences ............................................................... 14

Academic Awards ............................................... 25

Academic Policy .................................................. 21

Academic Referrals ............................................. 25

Additional Dress Code Policy ............................ 28

Admissions Policy .................................................. 10

Admissions Requirements ................................... 11

After School Care ................................................. 18

After School-No Loitering Policy ........................ 18

Attendance Policy ............................................... 14

Cellular use………………………………………… 37

Code of Conduct ................................................ 30

Code of Conduct Regulations .......................... 30

Child Abuse and Child Neglect ........................ 14

Conduct and Discipline Policy .......................... 29

Communicable Diseases .................................... 13

Communication ................................................... 19

Crisis Management Plan ..................................... 19

Detention and ISS ................................................. 31

Disaster Drills .......................................................... 19

Disciplinary Probation .......................................... 32

Discipline ................................................................ 29

Dismissal and After School Activities ................ 18

Dismissal Policy ...................................................... 16

Dismissal Procedure ............................................. 16

Dismissal Times ....................................................... 16

Dress Code ............................................................ 27

Early Student Pick-up by Parent ........................ 15

Educational Accommodations ......................... 24

Educational Philosophy ..................................... 7

Emergency School Closing ................................ 19

Expulsion ................................................................. 32

Extra-Curricular Activities .................................... 34

Field Trips ................................................................ 26

Fundraising and Advancement ........................ 35

Governance .......................................................... 9

Grading .................................................................. 23

Handbook Procedures and Regulations ......... 10

Homework ............................................................. 21

Homework Late Policy......................................... 22

Honors and Awards ............................................. 34

Informal Conferences ......................................... 25

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Immunizations ....................................................... 13

Library ..................................................................... 20

Line of Authority .................................................... 31

Lost and Found ..................................................... 15

Lunch ...................................................................... 19

Major Changes/ Additions/ Clarifications ....... 6

Mandatory Tutorials ............................................. 24

Major Misbehavior................................................ 30

Medical Emergencies ......................................... 13

Medications at School ........................................ 13

Mission Statement ................................................ 8

Non-Custodial Parent .......................................... 26

Online Grade Book .............................................. 23

Other Dismissals..................................................... 18

Parent Conduct and Behavior .......................... 32

Parents Partnership .............................................. 35

Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences ............. 25

Party Policy ............................................................ 20

PE Dress Code Requirements ............................. 28

Playground/Use of School Grounds ................. 16

Personal Property ................................................. 15

Records .................................................................. 26

Report and Progress Report Cards ................... 22

School Dances ...................................................... 20

School Health Policy ............................................ 12

Student Life ............................................................ 26

Student-Parent Complain Process .................... 33

Suspension ............................................................. 32

Tardiness ................................................................. 15

Technology and Acceptable Use Policy ........ 35

Telephone Use Policy .......................................... 16

Testing Program .................................................... 26

Transfer Policy ....................................................... 11

Tuition Assistance Policy ...................................... 12

Tuition Policy .......................................................... 11

Use of Controlled Substances ............................ 33

Volunteers .............................................................. 35

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WELCOME

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to the 2015 -2016 school year at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School!

Here at OLMC School, we are building a bright future! By choosing OLMC for your child,

you have shown that you clearly understand the value of our philosophy of education –

in accordance with Diocesan policy, to educate the whole student in a diverse and

welcoming Catholic Christian family environment. We strive to attend to each child’s

spiritual, academic, physical, social and emotional needs, while integrating each family

into our school community.

We are in this communal process together – students, parents, teachers, pastor, and

principal. We are all here for the same reason, which is your child’s future! You have my

assurance that every decision made at the school is made with the best interests of our

students, school and community at large in the context of school and Diocesan policy.

It is important to me that we work closely together in the spirit of love and

understanding as taught to us by Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I do have an open

door policy, and will make every effort to be accessible to all members of the school

community; however, if not possible, I would invite you to make an appointment so that

we may speak regarding your concern. If it is a concern regarding your child with

regard to his or her teacher, as part of our protocol, the teacher should have already

been contacted in an attempt to resolve concern and or issue first.

The purpose of this handbook is to advise you of all policies and procedures which are

in place to set a foundation for teaching and learning. We must have structures in

place to nurture student success, but above all to ensure that each and every child at

our school is kept safe and secure as they engage in their academic and faith

formation endeavors.

It is critical that you read this entire handbook, and be familiar with its contents. I have

highlighted critical policies or changes on the following page of your handbook. We

have tried to address many issues and concerns in a clear and concise way, in an effort

to maximize learning and minimize confusion regarding school policies. After reading

the handbook, all families are required to sign agreeing that you understand and will

follow these policies.

I look forward to collaborating with you this year in our major community-building and

fund-raising activities such as our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), Christmas

Program, World’s Finest Chocolates sale, OLMC Bazaar, and many more! We are truly a

communal family here, as we work in under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, each day

for your child’s academic and spiritual success. God bless you.

Yours in Christ,

Mr. Jimmy R. Ramos, M.Ed.

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Principal

There are many changes in policy and updates to our handbook this year. Please note the following important changes in policy:

Uniform Dress Code

New Dress Code Guidelines – The uniform colors have been changed to Maroon

as we have contracted the services of Parker Uniforms. However, this year will be

a phase out program where students will still be allowed to use the uniforms from

the previous year 2014–2015 school year, but would be required to have the new

uniforms for the school year 2016 - 2017. Violators will be issued a verbal warning

for first offence; however, there may be a $5.00 fee for every other infraction of

uniform violations and additional fees will apply for further infractions.

Early /Tardy Policy

As part of our safety policy, students are not to be dropped off at school prior to

7:15 a.m., since the school does not officially open its doors until 7:15 a.m. The

dropping off of students prior to official start time compromises the safety of the

children being left at the school without proper supervision. 3 early arrivals of this

sort would result in a fee of $25.00 to be billed on FACTS account.

School officially opens at 7:15 a.m. and classes begin promptly at 7:55 a.m.

Students arriving after 7:55am are required check into the office for a tardy slip.

Students who accumulate 3 tardies will be assigned a detention or some type of

age appropriate consequence. However, parent will have the option paying a

$25.00 tardy fee in lieu of a student detention, to be billed on the family’s FACTS

Management account.

Early Student Pick-Up by Parent/Guardian

Parents will not be permitted to sign their child out earlier than 2:30pm on a

regular school day or 1:30pm on Fridays. In these cases, parents should instead

wait in their cars in the carpool line for school dismissal.

As part of our safety policy, vehicles without authorized car tags will not be

allowed to pick up student(s) from school. These parent(s)/guardian(s)/ and or

other, will be directed instead to drive out of the line and park in the parking lot

and wait until the entire dismissal is completed, at which time parent will be

allowed to go to parish hall and pick up child. If it is the case the original tag has

been lost or misplaced, the office will be able to re-issue for a cost of $5.00, which

would be billed on FACTS Management account.

Mandatory Tutorials

Students who have been identified as performing poorly academically – 74% or

below - in a particular class or classes, will be required to attend mandatory

tutorials on Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. – 4: 30 p.m. Students will remain on

mandatory tutorials until all academic obligations are met and grade average

has exceeded 75% or better. Parents will be notified by teacher and proper

arrangements are to be for student pick up at 4:30 p.m. Those students who are

not picked up by 4:35 p.m. will be required to sign in for Extended Day and will be

charged the applicable rates.

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EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY OF

OUR LADY OF MT. CARMEL CATHOLIC SCHOOL

The uniqueness of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School is its dedication to a personal

and positive approach to learning and discipline, in partnership with parents, the

primary educators of their children. Grounded in the values of the Catholic faith, the

multi-cultural school community, adults and children alike, are challenged daily to live

with Gospel values.

Additionally, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School celebrates our tremendous cultural and

linguistic diversity. We truly believe that all are welcome at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel

School, and we profess this in our daily actions and words.

Our role as Catholic educators demands that we collaborate our efforts to develop

children fully, not only intellectually, but also spiritually, physically, emotionally, and

socially.

Intellectual development is grounded in a sound basic curriculum provided by the

Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and delivered through multiple teaching strategies.

Students actively participate in lessons, for research suggests that the best learning

occurs if multiple senses are used. School is the child’s workplace, and the work is

appropriately demanding. Meeting high academic standards develops each student’s

self-esteem, not just as a fleeting “feel good” sensation, but as a lived experience of

competence based on successful completion of challenging academic work. This

success results in students who progress through the grades taking ever more

responsibility for their own learning; culminating in eighth grade graduates from Our

Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School who are confident of their ability to successfully

tackle high school.

A sound religious education program, coupled with many experiences in age-

appropriate liturgies, empowers students to develop their spiritual lives and to integrate

faith with life. As educators, our religious commitment must be deep and its translation

relevant for children, as they experience God’s love through us. Moral values are

deliberately integrated throughout the whole school day, so that religion is not only a

subject taught, but also a reality lived. Our students learn that the church and the

school together create the entity called Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Community.

Our parish has identified Catholic education as one of its primary ministries.

Physical education is an important component of the curriculum, and students progress

through a planned program of sequential motor development. Healthy, active

participation in athletics promotes sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership. Learning

and practicing healthy habits of exercise and nutrition, which prevent life-threatening

diseases in later life, is emphasized.

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MISSION STATEMENT

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School Mission Statement

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School, in the spirit of excellence, is committed to forming our students in

the gospel of Jesus Christ, while academically preparing them to become successful 21st Century

Learners, so that they may be empowered in taking on the academic and moral challenges of the world.

The Mission of Catholic Schools in the State of Texas

The ministry of Catholic education in general is the fulfillment of the educational mission of the Catholic

Church and has as its primary goal the continuous formation of the Christian person.

As a pastoral instrument of the church, the strength of the Catholic school is its ability to respond to the

needs of the whole person, the church in a time of transition, and the world with a global perspective for

a peaceful and sustainable future.

The Catholic school is a unique environment in which students can experience the presence of the Holy

Spirit. Its focus is on the individual person's spiritual, moral, intellectual, social, cultural, and physical

development. In the Catholic school, students and teachers are drawn to proclaim the Gospel message,

to unite in worship, to respond to the needs of the community through fellowship and social justice, and

to serve all people through the sharing of their spiritual gifts and temporal goods.

Intellectually, students are challenged to work to the best of their abilities. In a world of diversity and

absolutes, students need to be freed to appreciate and understand the living organism called Earth, the

peoples and cultures that inhabit it, and to develop global perspectives by which to form their lives and

consciences. Students are provided opportunities to develop basic academic and physical skills, pursue

knowledge, and critically study and analyze the world in which they live.

The effective Catholic school must call its students to the conviction that people are more important than

material gain; that justice is more important than success; that love is more important than esteem; and

that collaboration unites while competition divides. The truly successful Catholic school student is not

necessarily one who is successful in every endeavor, but one who accepts Christian responsibility for

fulfillment of personal potential and shares these gifts with others.

Texas Catholic Conference Education Department

Role of Parents

"Since parents have conferred life on their children, they have a most solemn obligation to educate their

offspring. Hence parents must be acknowledged as the first and foremost educators of their children.

Their role as educators is so decisive that scarcely anything can compensate for their failure in it.

It is particularly in the Christian family, enriched by the grace and sacrament of matrimony, which from

their earliest year’s children should be taught, according to the faith received in baptism, to have

knowledge of God, to worship Him, and to love their neighbor.

While belonging primarily to the family, the task of imparting education requires the help of society as a

whole. As for Catholic parents, the council calls to mind their duty to entrust their children to Catholic

schools, when and where this is possible, to support such schools to the extent of their ability, and to work

along with them for the welfare of their children."

Declaration on Christian Education

Proclaimed by His Holiness, Pope Paul VI

October 28, 1965

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GOVERNANCE

The Cardinal

The Cardinal, as the chief representative of the Church's teaching authority, is the head of the

Archdiocesan System of Schools. The administration of the schools is carried out by the Superintendent.

Religious Education is under the guidance of the Director of the Office of Continuing Christian Education.

Texas Catholic Conference Education Department (TCCED)

TCCED is the designated coordinator of all activities related to state accreditation. As such, it shall

establish standards which a diocesan system of schools must satisfy to be accredited and shall adopt an

accreditation process to be used in Catholic schools. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School received

its accreditation renewal in 2009.

Texas Catholic Conference Education Department Accreditation Commission (TCCAC)

Membership consists of all superintendents of the fourteen Texas diocese, other experts in the field of

education, and two bishop members who serve as Episcopal liaisons. The Commission, through

committees, is responsible for setting up the operations, ongoing planning of the accreditation process,

review of school compliance, and reporting of accreditation status.

Archdiocesan Board of Education

The Archdiocesan Board of Education is an advisory council delegated by the Cardinal and responsible

to the Archdiocese for archdiocesan-sponsored educational programs.

Superintendent

The Superintendent of schools is the organizational and instructional leader in the system of Catholic

schools of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. The superintendent's specific responsibilities include:

directing and coordinating the Catholic School office, coordinating and supervising the central

administrative services for the efficient operation of all Catholic schools, implementing all policies of the

Archdiocesan Board of Education and implementing the principles and standards for accreditation

(TCCED).

The Pastor

The Pastor is the spiritual leader of the parish and the ex-officio chief administrative officer of the parish

school. It is his duty to see that the teachings of the Church are clearly and accurately presented. The

immediate direction of the school and its instructional program is, however, to be delegated to the

Principal. Satisfactory and effective administration depends on the cooperation and mutual support of

both Pastor and Principal in matters of local educational policy.

The Principal

The Principal is the educational leader of the school, possessing full administrative responsibility for the

instructional program of the school. As the educational head of the school, the Principal is held

accountable for school policies outlined in the Texas Catholic Conference Education Department

Accreditation Principles and Standards, Archdiocesan School Goals, the Archdiocesan Board of

Education Policies, State Rules for Curriculum and the Catholic School Office Administrator's Handbook of

Regulations, and policies established by the local Education Council.

School Board

The Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School Board functions as an advisory council to the Pastor and Principal. As

such, the school board assists in establishing policies, goals, and objectives for the educational programs,

reviews policy implementation, assists in the development of the school budget and financial planning.

Development and committee leadership is an integral function of the school board.

The Teacher

The teacher's primary responsibility is classroom instruction. The teacher is responsible for supervision of

students, effective communication with the school community, and following guidelines of the curriculum

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for the grade, provided by the Archdiocesan Curriculum Guidelines in accordance with state (TEKS) and

national (Common Core) curriculum standards.

HANDBOOK PROCEDURES AND REGULATIONS

Given the complex nature of education, it is impossible to predetermine a policy to cover every

situation. Accordingly, the administration, after appropriate consideration, may be required to

make judgments as to the course of action in a given circumstance or to make changes to this

handbook. When necessary, exceptions or changes will be made with the greatest benefit to

the children and educational purpose in mind. The principal retains the right to amend the

contents of this handbook at any time.

ADMISSIONS POLICY

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School is a TCCED accredited school, offering pre-

kindergarten through eighth grade. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School admits all students

to the rights, privileges, programs, and activities made available to the student body. The

school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, or national origin in the

administration of its admission, athletic or scholarship programs. The school adheres to the

policies stipulated by the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and the Catholic Schools Office.

The following policies have been formulated in relation to student admissions:

Parents should visit school and tour facilities.

Parents have the option to observe a classroom by appointment, with Principal

approval.

Prospective students should visit the class he or she would be admitted to and at that

time an informal academic assessment may be given.

A letter of recommendation from the applicant’s current or former school must be

provided to the Director of Admissions prior to final admission.

Student and parents meet with the Principal prior to admission.

On completion of the procedures listed above, all of the applicant’s school records, test scores,

and recommendations will be reviewed for recommendation of acceptance.

Applicants must be scholastically qualified. All students must present acceptable

transcripts, current report cards, if applicable, achievement test results and not owe or

have any existing outstanding financial debt of unpaid tuition, fees, or any other type of

financial delinquency whatsoever to any previous Catholic school that student may

have attended.

For students with identified learning differences, copies of all educational testing must be

submitted for review by the principal. Copies of evaluation reports must be kept on file

at OLMC. Such educational evaluations must be current (within 3 years).

Eligibility for admission and attendance is contingent upon current payment of all tuition

payments and fees as indicated in the tuition fee agreement.

Priority admissions will be based on the following:

Students presently attending Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School, with

registration fee paid by the early registration deadline.

Siblings of students presently attending Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School,

for which a registration fee is received by the early registration deadline.

Parishioners of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel who currently do not have any children

attending the school.

Vacancies must exist within the established teacher/student ratio. A waiting list will be

formed for classes that are full.

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All required forms must be returned and fees paid before placement is assured,

including: having met with the Principal, application, special needs form, registration

information, record of birth and/or sacraments received, health records and medical

release form, achievement records, and tuition fee agreement. A non-refundable

registration fee is required at the time of application.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

A pupil entering first grade must have reached his or her sixth birthday on or before September

1st. Kindergarten students must be five years, on or before September 1st. Pre-K4 students must

be four years old on or before September 1st. Pre-K3 students must be three years old on or

before September 1st.

All new students are admitted on a probationary basis, while teachers and the principal

evaluate whether we can meet the student's academic, social, and emotional needs and

work in a successful partnership with the family. The probationary period is 9 weeks;

however, the principal makes the final decision regarding probationary admission status at

any time during the 9 week period or at the conclusion of the 9 week period.

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School remains committed to a philosophy of inclusion. The

Admissions office will carefully consider students for enrollment who have special needs,

based on the following criteria:

- Extent of accommodations needed.

- The academic, social and emotional make-up of the class.

Certain accommodations may be provided for students with special needs, dependent

upon consultation with the principal and teachers and review of current (within 3 years)

educational evaluation. Accommodations will be made where possible for students with a

diagnosed learning difference.

Re-enrollment of each student is on a year-to-year basis and the 9 week probationary

period applies each academic year, beginning with the first day of attendance.

TRANSFER POLICY

The parent of a student who plans to transfer to another school must notify the school office in

writing. Complete records, including a transcript of the permanent record card and health

records, will be mailed to the receiving school upon the school’s written request, once all

financial obligations to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School have been met, including any tuition,

fees and fundraising owed. Records for families/students with delinquent accounts will be held

until the full balance is paid in its entirety.

TUITION POLICY

TUITION PAYMENTS

Monthly tuition payments are due on 5th, 10th, 15th or 20th of each month and are payable

exclusively through direct withdrawal by FACTS Management. All families must complete

paperwork for a FACTS Management account, where all tuition and fees will be managed.

Tuition payments may be made on a 10 month, 12 month or single payment annual payment

plan. Please see the tuition schedule for details.

A Tuition Fee Agreement must be signed by the responsible parent or guardian. First month

tuition is non-refundable and is due by June (12 month payments) or July (10 month payments).

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Tuition is due in full for any month in which student has attended classes. For example, a

withdrawal on October 2nd will require the October tuition to be paid in full.

In the event that a family falls 30 days behind in tuition payments, school administration may

withdraw the student from the school. Prior to the 30 days, parents must make arrangements

with the school office in order to avoid this removal. Report Cards and/or Progress Reports and

access to Gradelink online will be withheld until any past due balance is paid. For accounts that

have been chronically overdue in the previous year, tuition payments may be required in

advance in order to maintain enrollment, at the discretion of the principal or his designee.

On the 10th day after the tuition payment due date each month, a $50.00 late fee is charged

A $30.00 fee for returned checks is also assessed. If financial circumstances do not allow for

payment of fees in a timely manner, it is the parents' responsibility to communicate with school

administration regarding the circumstances. Please note that all fees (including but not limited

to curriculum and registration fees) are non-refundable.

TUITION ASSISTANCE POLICY

The Tuition Assistance/Scholarship program at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School is

available to assist members of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, school staff, and other families

who desire a Catholic education for their children but who cannot meet all of the financial

obligations without some level of assistance.

All families must complete the diocesan PSAS application before any consideration can be

made for tuition assistance. Scholarships for OLMC Church parishioners may be available in

some cases, pending funds availability. These funds are available only to parishioners of Our

Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish. In order to be classified as a parishioner, the parent or legal

guardian must have been registered with the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish office for a

minimum of three months prior to receiving any assistance. After three months, new parishioner

families may apply for parishioner status. Some exceptions may be made at the discretion of

the principal and the pastor. The parishioner family must be actively participating, contributing

parishioners who support the ministries of the parish by giving of their time, talent, and treasure.

The Principal, the Pastor, the Admissions Director and optionally a member of the school board,

parish staff or a member of the faculty shall serve on the committee to determine any parish

scholarship awards. Eligibility for consideration is based on demonstrated financial need,

completion and on-time submission of the application for financial assistance to the school, on-

time completion of the PSAS application, and minimum scholastic achievement and

satisfactory conduct by all students on the application. Additionally, applicant families must

provide evidence of active participation school activities, complete extra volunteer service

hours, and demonstrate a genuine willingness to share their time and talent for the general

welfare and needs of the school.

SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School will follow the guidelines set forth by the Archdiocese of

Galveston-Houston Health Services. All medical information is confidential. Students must have

documentation of annual physical and physician’s clearance for participation in sports.

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IMMUNIZATIONS

As an accredited school, we comply with the State of Texas, Department of Health regulations

regarding immunizations. The only valid exemption is a medical exemption with physician’s

signature. We are subject to audit by the state and require strict adherence to the regulations

that keep all students safe and healthy. We may exclude your child from attending school until

he/she is properly immunized. Your physician, the City Health Clinics, and our Christus nurse can

serve as guides through the immunization process. You may also review immunization

information at http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/immunize/summary.htm.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

If your child contracts a communicable disease, he/she will be excluded from school until such

time that your physician provides a written clearance indicating that he/she is no longer

infectious. Exclusions may occur for the following: strep throat, impetigo, head lice, ringworm of

the scalp, fifth’s disease accompanied by fever, conjunctivitis, chicken pox and measles. In

addition, we will exclude students from school who are vomiting, have diarrhea, or have a

temperature greater than 100F. Your child must not have a temperature of 100F or at least 24

hours before returning to school.

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

Each child must have a completed Emergency Health Card on file at the school. It must have

the name of your child’s physician, hospital choice for your child, and a signature that gives Our

Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School the right to seek emergency medical care for your child.

We will attempt to contact you first in an emergency; however, we reserve the right to call an

ambulance to transport your child to seek appropriate medical care if, in our opinion, it should

become necessary.

MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL

Parents are encouraged to schedule the administration of student medicine in such a manner

that medication brought to school will be kept to a minimum. (For example, the physician may

be able to prescribe the medication before/after school and at bedtime.)

Medications (prescription and nonprescription) may be administered at school under the

following conditions:

1. A medication administration form is completed and signed by the parent and the

physician. It must be on file in the clinic before we administer any medication.

2. The medication is contained in a labeled bottle. The label must have the child’s

name; the name of the medication; the dose (# of milligrams per tsp. or tablet); the

amount to be administered (how many tsp. or tablets); and the time it is to be given.

For nonprescription medications, ask your pharmacist or physician for a label. If the

medication is to be given three or four times per day, ask your pharmacist for two

labeled bottles: one for school and one for home.

3. The medication administration form and the bottle label must have identical

information.

4. Inhalers must be in a labeled box and accompanied by the medication

administration form.

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CHILD ABUSE AND CHILD NEGLECT School personnel in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston have a moral obligation as well as a

legal obligation under state law to report any suspected child abuse or neglect.

Criteria for Reporting:

A report of child abuse is not an accusation or a proven fact, and Texas does not require

a reporter to know or to be certain that a child has been abused or neglected.

The degree of certainty that must be met is that the person reporting must have “cause

to believe” that abuse or neglect has occurred or will occur. This standard is based on

the reasonable person convictions. Confidentiality of the person making the report will

be upheld. The person who reports suspected child abuse or neglect is immune from

civil or criminal liability if the report is made without malice.

Failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect is a crime punishable by fine,

imprisonment, or both.

To Whom to Report:

Reports of child abuse or neglect are sent to the Texas Department of Protective &

Regulatory Services, Child Protective Services Division (CPS). CPS will investigate and will

determine the nature and extent of the problem, evaluate the child’s condition and

safety, and if appropriate, initiate action to protect the child.

School personnel are to call 911 if they believe a child is in immediate danger of harm.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

ABSENCES

Parents must call the school office or clinic at 713-643-0676 before 9:00 a.m. to report an

absence, giving the name and grade of the student, and stating if the illness will likely be

prolonged. This serves to alert the school of any communicable disease and lets school

personnel know you are aware of your child's absence. In addition, parents must submit a

written explanation of the absence to the homeroom teacher upon the student's return to

school. Absence excuse notes will be kept on file. Absences due to travel are highly

discouraged. We encourage you to work with the holidays and summer break provided in the

school calendar for travel. Please note that teachers may not be able to prepare work for

students to take with them on trips. However, students are responsible for all work missed due to

absence.

(From TCCED)

Students are to attend school unless there are valid reasons for absence. Excessive absences,

as well as habitual tardiness, seriously affect school performance. Parents should be contacted

when this situation arises, and consequences discussed. Ordinarily, a student may not receive

credit for a class unless the student is in attendance for at least ninety per cent (90%) of the

days the class is offered. Promotion or credit may be jeopardized if a student misses more than

eighteen (18) days, excused or unexcused (10% of the school year).

School absence is categorized as follows:

• Family Emergency - A death in the immediate family and/or serious or prolonged illness is

always handled on an individual basis.

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• Absence Due to Illness - If a student is unable to come to school due to illness, including all

dental and doctor appointments, the parent/guardian is expected to notify the school office

and send a written note upon return to school.

If it is necessary for parents or guardians to remove children from classes for reasons other than

family emergencies, illness or other medical concerns, a written request must be submitted to

the principal indicating the reason for the absence and the number of days the student will be

absent. Students who are absent shall be responsible for completing work missed, according to

the school’s requirements. For FAMILY EMERGENCY or ABSENCE DUE TO ILLNESS, students will be

given a reasonable amount of time to make up assigned work and tests. A suggested gauge

would be an allowance of one school day for each day the student was absent.

TARDINESS

A student who is late for class not only falls behind in his work but also disrupts the other students

as he/she enters late. Habitual tardiness will not be permitted. It is the responsibility of the parent

to ensure that children are at school on time for the beginning of the school day. The school

opens at 7:15 a.m. School begins promptly at 7:55 a.m. Students arriving after 7:55am must

check into the office for a tardy slip. If a student has 3 tardies or more, the student will be

assigned an age appropriate detention or parent will have option of paying a $25.00 tardy fee,

which would be billed on the family’s FACTS Management account. Please ensure that your

child arrives on time to school. If the late arrival is due to a doctor’s appointment, a doctor’s

note must be provided to the school office at the time of arrival in order to avoid a ‘tardy.’

EARLY STUDENT PICK-UP BY PARENT/GUARDIAN Students may not be picked up prior to dismissal time for reason of convenience and will not be

permitted to be signed out earlier than 2:30pm on a regular school day or 1:30pm on Fridays. In

the case of a doctor’s appointment, a note requesting permission for early pick-up should be

brought to the office by the student between 7:45-8:05 a.m., and a doctor’s note should be

turned in the following day to his or her teacher. At the pre-designated time, the parent must

sign the child out in the school office. In the case of an emergency or any other type of urgent

matter to where the child would have to be signed out prior to 2:30 p.m., would require the

authorization of Principal or designee.

LOST AND FOUND

All uniforms, P.E. clothing, sweaters, coats, lunch kits, book bags, pencil bags, and other articles

are to be marked with the child's first and last name. The lost and found is located in the school

office and unless the clothing article is clearly marked with child’s name, that item would not be

eligible for claim. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen property. UNMARKED AND

UNCLAIMED ITEMS WILL BE DONATED, disposed of, or placed in the used uniform sale to benefit

the PTO after 30 days.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

The school reserves the right to search anything brought on campus. Students should leave

valuable possessions at home in order to fully ensure no loss or damage to valuables. The school

is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items and will not replace them.

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Examples of valuable items include large sums of cash, valuable collectables or items,

electronic equipment, iPods, iPads, other tablet computers, eBook readers (such as Kindle),

electronic games, CD/music players, expensive jewelry, purses, designer clothing items, and

trading cards. These items should remain at home except as permitted by the completion and

appropriate signatures on an OLMC Technology Acceptable Use Agreement. Cell

phones/smart phones may not be utilized any time during school hours, including extended

day, tutorials, sports practice or extracurricular activities without explicit permission of a

teacher, staff member or coach. Portable video game systems should not be brought to school

at any time. There will be one warning for violations of the cell phone/smart phone/electronic

device policy. The item will be confiscated and held in the school office until the parent or

guardian comes to retrieve it in person. Infractions after the first warning will require a $25.00

cash fee and a parent to retrieve the item.

PLAYGROUND/USE OF SCHOOL GROUNDS Students are not allowed on the playground without adult supervision. School grounds may not

be used without the permission of the pastor or principal, and are used only for school/parish

groups after the completion of a facilities use form with the Parish Center staff. In addition to the

school building, this policy includes the soccer/baseball/softball field and the basketball court.

TELEPHONE USE POLICY

Except for an emergency, neither teachers nor students may be called to the telephone during

school hours. Important messages may be left in the office. The administration staff will convey

them at an appropriate time. Parents are encouraged to utilize email to leave messages with

the teachers. In unusual circumstances, teachers may permit students to use the classroom

telephone to call a parent only in urgent matters and that it be the exception; not the rule.

Also, in the event of an extra-curricular or tutorial schedule change, students will be allowed to

call their parents at an appropriate time to inform them of the change.

DISMISSAL POLICY

DISMISSAL TIMES

PK – 8th Grade 3:10pm (except on Fridays)

4:30 pm (Mandatory Tutorials on Weds)

2:10pm (on Fridays)

12:00pm (Early Dismissal)

NOTICE: PK-8th students not picked up by 3:30pm will be taken to extended day program and

parents will be charged the applicable rate.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURE

All students Pre-K through 8th will be dismissed from the front driveway of the school only.

Students will gather in the Parish Hall by class/grade level and each teacher is responsible to

see that his/her class is escorted to their cars, along with their older siblings/family group.

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Parent/guardian/adult cooperation is needed! Each authorized adult who is allowed (by

writing, previously arranged) to pick up a child must have his or her own unique car window tag

provided by the school. Parents/adults without their window tag must park in the parish parking

lot and visit the school office prior to picking up their child. As part of our safety policy, vehicles

without authorized car tags will not be allowed to pick up student(s) from school. These

parent(s)/guardian(s)/ and or other, will be directed instead to drive out of the line and park in

the parking lot and wait until the entire dismissal is completed, at which time parent will be

allowed to go to parish hall and pick up child. If it is the case the original tag has been lost or

misplaced, the office will be able to re-issue for a cost of $5.00, which would be billed on FACTS

Management account.

Children must be picked up immediately at the indicated dismissal time. Parents who know

they will be late due to unusual circumstances should call the school office as early as possible.

Office personnel will notify the student and the student's teacher.

Parents who may need to come to the school office to conduct official business after school

and during dismissal, once finished cannot check out their child or children from school. Parent

must either return to their vehicle and wait for their child in the parking lot or wait in the school

office until dismissal is completely over. Parents are not allowed to remain in the hallway area

during dismissal.

Parents are to remain in their cars, with window tag easily visible, and pull forward in the line for

your children to load. Parents are not permitted to park and walk up to pick up a child. For the

safety of all children, and in fairness to everyone, every parent must wait in the carpool line in

his or her car. Parents may not stand in front of the school exit doors, on the sidewalk or in the

parking lot, nor may they enter the Parish Hall door or school entryway at dismissal time. All

parents must drive through the pick-up line to pick up.

Also, for the safety of all children, parents are asked not to exit their vehicles while in the pick-up

line, and children must enter on the passenger side (right-hand, curb side) of the vehicle only.

Children may not cross in front of or behind cars at any time. This is to ensure the safety of your

child and those of others.

In an effort to expedite the dismissal process, parent student inquiry with regard to academics,

discipline or other various types of inquiries which would require an excessive amount of time

that would unnecessarily disrupt the flow of car line, is prohibited. We ask parents to discuss all

types of inquiries during a scheduled parent/teacher conference.

IMPORTANT NOTE: At no time may anyone park in the circle driveway.

Cars are not allowed to wait or park in the circle driveway at any time. Any parent needing to

get out of his/her car for any reason must park in the parking lot and come into the school

through the front doors. Vehicles parked in the circle driveway at any time without a driver

inside the car are subject to immediate towing at the vehicle owner’s expense.

Students, who are picked up by someone either than parent and or guardian, must have a

signed written authorized letter/form on file with the school office, with the specified person’s

name, current contact information and address. Or, parent may send an e-mail with same

information, but whose e-mail account is the same account on file with the school office.

Without this authorization, the school will not allow student to go home with anyone else either

than the authorized parent and or guardian. Exceptional cases are solely up to the discretion

and judgment of the Principal.

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STUDENTS WHO WALK HOME

Students who have written permission to walk home must vacate the OLMC school and parish

property immediately at dismissal time, unless they have supervision by a parent or an adult

who is on his or her parent-authorized pick-up list. Other parents may not supervise these

children on campus, nor can unauthorized adults pick students up without written permission

from the parent. Additionally, no student may leave campus on foot without a form signed by

the parent in the office and without the parent notifying the teacher of the instructions.

DISMISSAL AND AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Students wishing to stay for events after school in which they are not directly participating by

written permission must have a parent-authorized adult accompanying them at all times. The

adult must remain at the event and actively supervise the children. Students may not be

dropped off at the school event. The school staff is not responsible for students attending but

not actively participating in after school events. We encourage all families to attend school

events, actively upholding all of the same behavioral expectations that exist during the school

day.

OTHER DISMISSALS Students who are enrolled participants in extra-curricular activities will have teacher or parent

chaperones. Students must be picked up promptly when the activities are over. Before 6:00pm,

students who remain on campus will wait in Extended Day Program at applicable rates. Parents

of students remaining after 6:00 p.m. will be charged $2.00 per minute until the student is picked

up.

Only students who are supervised by a sponsor, as a participant of an approved activity, may

be on campus 15 minutes after dismissal. Others waiting for an activity must be directly

supervised by an authorized adult or they will need to attend extended day program at

applicable rates.

AFTER SCHOOL CARE

An extension of the school day is provided after school from dismissal - 6:00 p.m. If you have not

arrived within 20 minutes after dismissal, your child will automatically go to the Extended Day

room, from where he/she can be picked up. You will be billed for this service at applicable

rates.

AFTER SCHOOL NO LOITERING POLICY

OLMC school doors are officially closed at 4:00 p.m., M, T, Th, 4:30 p.m on Weds and 2:30 pm on

Fridays. Unless students have a valid, legitimate and verifiable purpose for being on campus

after official close door hours, such: as tutorials, extracurricular activity, office business, etc.,

students are to vacate the premises and not to be loitering on school campus for any reason

whatsoever.

Please note that students left beyond 6:00pm without parent contact by telephone, and for

whom we cannot reach someone by telephone immediately, may require that school

personnel telephone the appropriate authorities to report that we are unable to reach a parent

or authorized adult. For this reason, it is critical that you ensure that the school has current,

updated emergency contact information, including alternate contacts and working cell phone

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numbers. If/when you or anyone on your emergency list gets a new number; please

immediately contact the school with the new information.

LUNCH

The cafeteria food service company will provide a healthy lunch option for an established

price. Students may also bring sack or box lunches that do not require refrigeration. A

microwave oven will be made available for students in the parish hall for those requiring heating

their lunch. Lunch time is an important part of the school day and allows students an

opportunity to learn and practice social skills. Parents are not allowed to be in the parish hall

during lunch; however, may join students for lunch for special occasions with Principal’s

approval. Frequent visits are discouraged as students need lunch time to interact with peers

rather than with adults. Daily lunch visits by parents will not be permitted, unless the parent is

serving in a volunteer role, with principal approval, assisting all classes and all students.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT PLAN

The faculty is committed to the safety and well-being of all students. In keeping with this

commitment, a crisis management plan is in place in anticipation of crises or disasters. The crisis

management team, consisting of Principal and specific faculty members, is responsible for

implementation of the plan, if needed. Students are taught predetermined signals and

procedures in order to respond effectively in the event of an emergency. Drills will be

conducted on a regular basis. Cristo Rey Jesuit High School is our designated location should

we need to evacuate the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel campus.

DISASTER DRILLS

Disaster drills are conducted regularly at both announced and unannounced times. Students

learn safe and orderly procedures to use in case of fire, hurricane, or tornado warnings.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

In case of inclement weather emergencies, such as flooding, storms and icy streets, Our Lady of

Mt. Carmel School generally follows the closure schedule of HISD. Announcements are made

on local radio and TV. However, we will also utilize the IRIS notification system to inform you of

the decision by telephone and email. As such, it is critical that we have updated and accurate

telephone numbers and email addresses for all parents.

COMMUNICATION

The school will send and post on the School’s website, periodic newsletters and calendars to

inform you of upcoming events and to recognize the achievements of our students. The parent

has the responsibility to read the newsletter, to review the annual and monthly school calendars

in Gradelink and the website, and to keep up with upcoming events and due dates. Also,

teachers may send notes, weekly newsletters, calendars, post information on Edmoto and

information on a varying basis. Parents should check for notes from teachers, email and phone

messages (including IRIS), and teach their children to be responsible for giving school notes and

information to parents. For School Year, 2015-2016, Friday is “parent folder day,” so please

check your child’s folder on Fridays for important information, newsletters, calendars, and

updates on grades and class events.

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LIBRARY

The school has fully stocked library, including 15 computers and thousands of books. Parents are

urged to promote reading, research, and proper care of all borrowed materials. Each class has

a library skills class each week. Students must pay fines for overdue books and must reimburse

the school for the cost of any damaged or lost books or damaged computer equipment.

Students' checkout privileges, grades, and records may be withheld for unpaid fines.

PARTY POLICY

Only Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day, and earned academic or fundraising incentives

may be celebrated with classroom parties. We greatly appreciate our room moms/dads and

other willing parents who want to help with events. Please speak with your child’s teacher

and/or the school office to learn about other events for which the school needs your help!

Individual birthdays may be simply celebrated with a small snack during the lunch period, such

as cupcakes. Snacks are to be left with in the school office in the morning before the start of the

school day. Drinks, hats, balloons, favors, pizzas and other full meals are not allowed to be

provided for birthdays at school and gifts should not be delivered to or opened at school.

Delivery of flowers, balloons or other gifts may be disruptive to the educational process and

therefore is not allowed at OLMC during school hours.

PARTY INVITATIONS

We encourage parents to use the U.S. Mail service, telephone, Internet invitations or personal

emails to extend invitations to children's home birthday parties rather than distributing them at

school. If distributed at school, any party invitations must include all students in the child’s grade

level/class. In the case that the party needs to not include the entire class, the invitations then

may not be distributed on school property. No exceptions.

SCHOOL DANCES

On-campus dances for middle school are sometimes planned by the school or by club

sponsors. This is done with strict standards set by the chaperones, who are faculty members or

parents. These standards include but are not limited to the following:

Designated arrival and dismissal times are established ahead of time. Parents must pick up

students on time

Students must remain at the gathering at all times, in full view of chaperones, with no access

to any other areas of campus.

Parent or designee must pick up the child at the front door, on time.

Restrooms are monitored regularly throughout the evening. Only one student at a time

should visit the restroom.

Students are required to assist with set-up and clean-up of the dance.

Only OLMC students may attend, and occasionally 8th graders from the previous year may

be invited.

A music list and video list are required and screened for appropriateness, and student-

provided music is not permitted when a DJ is utilized.

Students must dress appropriately and modestly for a school function. Students dressed in

provocative or inappropriate clothing will not be allowed to attend and will be sent back

home.

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ACADEMIC POLICIES

HOMEWORK

OLMC teachers assign an appropriate amount of homework at the prescribed level that is

indicated by research and reported by Dr. Robert Marzano’s Classroom Instruction That Works.

Students should have a homework routine schedule where they dedicate time to school work

outside of the classroom. Research shows that homework is vital to the development of

achievement motivation and student becoming a mature learner. Therefore, students who

spend little to no time on doing homework cannot expect to be successful with regard to their

academics.

As part of the community approach in the education process, the parent role is absolutely vital

to the success of the student. Parents should assure that students are doing homework, asking

specific questions with regard to the assignment(s), consistently communicating with teacher to

monitor progress and develop a Homework Plan, and checking Grade Link or e-mail. If the

students see that parents are taking an active role in their education and holding them

accountable, the student will then become more motivated to achieve productively with

regard to their academics.

Students who state “I don’t have any homework,” Or “I did all my homework at school “are

statements we tend to hear from students; however this is not quite accurate. As part of our

Literacy Campaign, students nightly should be reading at least 30 – 45 min., studying assigned

vocabulary, or reading to your child or having your child to read to you. Also, there are many

websites such as: Khan Academy, which provides videos and math problems for students to

work on. For our textbooks, there are corresponding websites, where students can log on and

study. The goal is to have the student on a disciplined homework routine, take ownership and

responsibility for their learning, which is absolutely vital for the success and development in

academic achievement.

Grades K3-K 5-10 minutes

Grades 1-3 10-20 minutes

Grades 4-5 20-40 minutes

Grade 6 40-60 minutes

Grades 7-8 60-90 minutes

When assessing your child’s academic progress, the following questions are helpful:

Is my child on a Homework Plan? If so, how do I assure that my child is consistent?

How often do I see my child doing homework?

If my child consistently states: “I have no homework” or “I did it all at school,” do I check

with teacher?

Do I ask my child specific questions with regard to the homework assignment? For

example: If you ask: What are you working on? And your child answers: “Math,” ask:

“What specifically are you studying, Fractions, Multiplication, Exponents, Ratios, etc.?”

“What is your objective?” “What is the skill you are trying to master?” “How you will know

that you are mastering your objective?”

If my child is on the computer, laptop, tablet, etc., do I monitor or supervise for

academic integrity?

Do I check the graded work sent home or go on Gradelink to check for academic

progress?

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Do I assure that my child at least reads 30 – 45 min. nightly? Do I have my child read to

me, or do I read to my child?

Are you turning in your homework on time? If not, why are you turning it in late?

Students will be required to come to class fully prepared: having homework fully completed,

chapters or required readings entirely read, in possession of class materials or any type of

material required by the teacher. While in class, students are required to actively engage in the

lesson, pay attention and follow directions, behave accordingly to student code of conduct,

ask critical and intelligent questions, write daily homework assignments, class objectives, and

take notes in student notebook. The after school program provides a designated time and

place for study Monday through Friday.

It is the students’ responsibility to get homework and missed assignments when absent. Being

absent from school is not a valid reason or an acceptable one for not turning in assignments.

Lesson plans, and class syllabus will be posted on Teacher’s Edmodo Account and or Gradelink,

for students to keep up with assignments and communicate with teacher. If a student knows

that he or she is going to be absent, then this is to be communicated as soon as possible, or in a

reasonable amount of time, either by student or parent with teacher – no exceptions – so that

proper arrangements can be made to deal with any type of implications that may result. It is

recommended that e-mail be means of communications. When students are absent 3 or more

days consecutively, parents are to contact the teacher to arrange for pick up of assignments, if

applicable. Based on arrangements made with teacher, assignments are to be turned in upon

return of student absence(s). We are not able to collect assignments for students when they are

absent fewer than three days. This policy is necessary to minimize disruptions to daily instruction.

Please note that teachers may not be able to prepare work packets for students to take with

them on trips, if applicable; however, However, students will be responsible for work missed

due to absence.

HOMEWORK LATE POLICY

Barring all exceptional type cases, where a valid, just, and verifiable explanation can be

provided, ALL homework and all other assignments are to be turned in on time – especially

those which have been indicated on Teacher’s Syllabus, posted on Grade Link, Edmoto, and

copies distributed to students and parents. We encourage our students to value the

importance of being responsible; however, in those cases where home work is not turned in on

time, and based on the professional discretion of the teacher, the following policy will apply:

1 day late - 70%

2 days late - 50%

3 days late - 25 %

4 days late - 0 %

REPORT AND PROGRESS REPORT CARDS

Progress Reports are a means by which we communicate with parents to provide the current

status of your child’s academic status and progress. It is also an effective tool and indicator to

be able to assess how well your child is doing and if you should need to contact teachers if any

concerns should arise. Notices will be sent out to remind parents of the distribution date so that

they may be expecting them. Parents should sit with their child and go over the progress report

and ask questions with regard to their present grades. If they are not performing well, or as

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expected, questions should be asked as to what could be done to improve on their

academics.

Report cards for grades 1-8 are issued four times a year, at nine-week school intervals. The first

and third cards are distributed at a parent-teacher-student conference. Second and fourth

report cards are given to students for parents to review and sign. These report cards are

important messages from the school concerning the child's progress, not only in academic

subjects, but also in social skills, study skills, and emotional/moral development. Mid-quarter

progress reports also inform parents about student academic and behavioral strengths and

weaknesses. Parents should keep in mind that each child is an individual. Report cards should

not be compared.

Parents contribute to their child's motivation by showing a sincere interest in the child's work,

praising the child whenever possible, and encouraging improvement where needed. Parents

who have questions about the report card may arrange for a conference with the child's

teacher. Parents should call the school office or email the teacher to make appointments. For

safety reasons, please do not attempt to conference with teachers when they are receiving or

dismissing students.

Report cards and records are withheld when financial responsibilities to the school have not

been met. These include tuition, fees, fundraising, volunteer fees, after school program

payments, library fines, return of sports uniforms, payments for lost or damaged books, and any

other funds owed to the school.

ONLINE GRADE BOOK

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School utilizes Gradelink.com online grade book system.

Parent access is available, and login information will be provided to you by mail after the start

of school. Parents should be actively monitoring their child’s grades and progress. Please note

that access to Gradelink will be withheld when financial responsibilities to the school have not

been met in a timely manner.

GRADING

Pre-Kindergarten is not graded. Reporting methods to parents include a weekly teacher letter,

student work, and parent-teacher-student conferences. A written progress report of skills will be

provided twice annually.

Kindergarten reporting includes all of the above, plus an archdiocesan report card starting at

the end of the 2nd quarter.

First through eighth grades receive numerical percentage grades.

Grading Scale

A 93-100

B 86-92

C 78-85

D 70-77

F 69 and below

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Conduct Code

E Exemplary: Student exceeds classroom standards for conduct and participation; is a role

model for other students; considerate of other students and adults; self-disciplined.

S Satisfactory: Student meets the classroom standards for appropriate conduct and

participation.

N Needs Improvement: Student does not meet the classroom standards for conduct and

participation. This grade may require a student-parent-teacher conference to plan for

the child's success.

U Unacceptable: Student is inappropriate in conduct and participation. This grade may

require a Principal-student-parent-teacher conference to plan for the child's success.

MANDATORY TUTORIALS

Students who have been identified as performing poorly academically – 74% or below - in a

particular class or classes, will be required to attend mandatory tutorials on Wednesday from

3:30 p.m. – 4: 30 p.m. Students will remain on mandatory tutorials until all academic obligations

are met and grade average has exceeded 75% or better. Parents will be notified by teacher

and proper arrangements are to be for student pick up at 4:30 p.m. Those students who are not

picked up by 4:35 p.m. will be required to sign in for Extended Day and will be charged the

applicable rates.

Students who do not attend Mandatory Tutorials, for whatever the reason, will run the risk of

being placed on Academic Probation with the very real possibility of either being not being

promoted to subsequent grade level or being asked to withdraw from Mt. Carmel for not

meeting academic requirements.

EDUCATIONAL ACCOMODATIONS – RATIONALE AND POLICIES

The sole purpose of accommodations of any type is the appropriate instruction according to

the individual student’s special needs. As a result of diagnostic evaluation, a student meets

certain criteria to qualify for accommodations to his/her school work. There are diverse ways to

accommodate students’ learning needs.

The student diagnosed with a learning disability and/or mild learning deficit may qualify for

accommodations. Special (but limited) accommodations may be needed in delivery of

instructional for success in the classroom. Such accommodations must be noted in a student’s

educational evaluation, which must be on file at the school. The educational evaluation must

be current (within 3 years). Re-evaluations will be required every 3 years.

Accommodations may apply to the volume of work, the content covered, delivery of

instruction and grade reporting.

The following additional areas may be considered for accommodations:

Time allotments for students’ assignments/tests;

Number of items in the assignment (volume);

Percentage of grade can be given for being on task and organized , etc;

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Only diagnosed students who qualify with a learning deficit are eligible for accommodations.

Documentation and approval by the principal is needed before accommodations are

implemented.

Parents must be informed before accommodations to work/grades, etc., can be implemented.

Level(s) of operation may only be indicated when a student is functioning below grade level

and is using materials appropriate to the functional level. Additional documentation may

include anecdotal records.

ACADEMIC REFERRALS

If teachers and the principal believe there is a need to refer a student for educational testing,

the parents will be notified. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School does not require

evaluations by any specific provider, although names of providers may be provided to parents.

Educational testing is generally available without charge through the local school district, and

private providers are also available. As a part of the evaluation process, the school personnel

may be asked to complete paperwork regarding the child’s performance and/or behavior at

school. All such paperwork must go through the principal’s office. If such paperwork is

completed, it will be sent directly to the provider by the school. Parents will not be provided a

copy by the school. This policy exists to keep information regarding referrals objective.

ACADEMIC AWARDS

Principal's Honor Roll: A's in all subjects; E's and S's in conduct; working on or above grade

level in all subjects

Honor Roll: A's and no more than two B's; E's and S's in conduct

Recognition: All A's and B's; E's and S's in conduct

Any N or U in conduct disqualifies a student in all areas.

PARENT-TEACHER-STUDENT CONFERENCES

Formal parent-teacher-student conferences are held in 3 times a year. These three-way

communications are very beneficial, and it is important that your child attend. Your child wants

to celebrate his/her school success with you. Appointments will be made with the classroom or

homeroom teacher prior to the conference day. Parents who are divorced or separated will

be asked to conference together for the benefit of the child.

INFORMAL CONFERENCES

Parents may contact teachers to discuss their child's progress during the year. Teachers also

may initiate a conference at any time. Good communication between parents and teachers is

essential to every child's success; however, teachers are not free for discussions with parents

during class time or while receiving or dismissing students. Please contact the teacher by email

or the office to make an appointment with the teacher.

School policy requires that parents contact teachers first for any concerns involving their child.

For routine matters, parents may call the school office and leave a message for the teacher or

may email the teacher. Teachers normally respond within 48 hours. Parents may also email

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teachers. Email addresses are on the school website. It is helpful for a teacher to know if some

unusual or extenuating circumstance will cause a child to be upset or to act differently at any

time. If, for example, a child's teacher receives a short note from the parent explaining the loss

of a pet or a recent frightening experience, the teacher can be attuned to the child's needs

during this difficult time.

TESTING PROGRAM

The IOWA Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) is administered annually, typically in March, to students in

Grades K-8th. Please review the school’s annual calendar for current dates. In addition the

Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) will be administered in Grades 2, 4 and 6. The school

participates in this archdiocesan-wide achievement testing program both for the purpose of

monitoring individual achievement and for program evaluation. Each student's test results are

given to the parents and are recorded on the permanent record card. Test results to do not

affect the child’s grades or passing status.

RECORDS

Any request for official transcripts/report cards/records must be made by the receiving school in

the case of a student’s withdrawal from OLMC.

NON-CUSTODIAL PARENT

The school abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-

custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the 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. If a child lives with a custodial parent, a complete and signed

copy of the divorce decree is required to be on file in the office, by archdiocesan policy. If

parents share custody, the school provides duplicate copies of all relevant information upon

request.

STUDENT LIFE

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are a privilege which serve the instructional program by utilizing educational resources

of the community to supplement classroom work. Parents sign the field trip permission form to

permit that their child participates in a class trip, releasing the school and its personnel from

liability. When field trips are planned as a part of the curriculum, it is expected that students will

attend; unless, student is failing a class or currently has an average of a 74% or below, or has

been written up for conduct violations. Field trips are not optional unless stated. According to

state law, children are not allowed to attend a field trip without written permission from the

parents or guardians. School uniforms will be worn on field trips unless otherwise indicated on

the permission slip.

Transportation

The Archdiocese has determined that buses are the safest means of transportation and

are required for all school trips involving elementary through high school age

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participants. Participants will not be permitted to be transported to or from school trips in

any other form of transportation without explicit consent of the principal.

Field Trip Chaperones

Volunteer chaperones of field trips are provided with instructions defining their

responsibilities. Chaperones must devote their total attention to their charges.

Chaperones may not bring their own children or guests. All chaperones must have

attended VIRTUS training. Chaperones positions are provided on a “first come, first serve”

basis. Consideration is given to those

Field Trip Standards

Written field trip standards and expectations are prepared for each program and shared

with parents. Parents may be required to pick up a student who makes irresponsible

behavior choices on any field trip.

DRESS CODE

(# New Policy 2015 -2016) Our Lady of Mt. Carmel will be transitioning to new school colors for

the 2015-2016 School Year and will be phasing out the previous school colors. Returning

students will may wear the uniform from the previous 2014 -2015 school year, but would need to

be in compliance with new school colors for the 2016-2017 School Year.

Students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade wear uniforms. Uniforms are available

through Parker Uniforms, please check website for various locations: https://www.parkersu.com.

Students must be in complete uniform at all times.

*New Guidelines 2015 – 2016 for Standard Uniform for all Grades

Non-Mass Days

Girls / Boys Pants: Khaki pants or Shorts (Elastic Waist for Pre K3/4)

Skirts: Khaki, plaid or plaid jumper

Belts: Solid Black

Shirts: Maroon Polo Shirt with Monogram

Socks: White, Maroon or Black (2 inches above the shoes NO

No-Shows or ankle socks)

Tennis Shoes: Solid Black or White, or Soft two tone color of

Black and White

Uniform Shoes: Solid black, white, brown or regular dress

Shoes. (Sperry Topsiders are allowed with approved colors.)

Jackets/Sweaters: Maroon Sweater with Monogram or

Maroon Sweater Hoodie with monogram.

Mass Uniform

Girls PK3 – 8th grade Plaid Jumper or Skirt

Modesty shorts MUST be worn under the jumper or skirt

White Oxford Shirt

Maroon Tie

Maroon Sweater Vest with Monogram

White Knee Socks or White Tights

Black Dress Shoes (Mary Jane, Flats) No high heels or Tennis

Shoes

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Boys PK3 –8th grade Khaki Pants

Black Belt

White Oxford Shirt

Maroon Tie

Maroon Sweater Vest with Monogram

Black Socks

Black Dress Shoes

P.E. DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS

Depending on the activity or particular physical education class and or activity, may require

particular traditional P.E. dress. If so, P.E. Teacher and or Coach will notify parent of dress

required along with dress code guidelines.

ADDITIONAL DRESS CODE POLICY

As part of our Catholic Identity, the wearing of our uniforms reminds us that we are all one and

part of the same community. Therefore, we take pride in the proper display of the uniform and

require full compliance at all times from all our students as part of our mission of what it means

to be a Mt. Carmel Crusader.

NAILS: Nail color, artificial nails/tips, gel nails, etc, are not permitted.

HAIR: Artificial hair coloring or bleaching of hair is not allowed for boys or girls. (This includes

frosting, hi-lights and tinting) “Fad” hairstyles or distracting hairstyles are not permitted. Boys,

regardless of grade level or age, are not allowed facial hair of any kind and must be clean

shaven. Hair length may not cover the eyes and for boys may not extend past a standard

collar and must be neatly groomed. The principal is the sole determinant of what constitutes a

fad, distracting or messily groomed hair. Headbands, bandanas, caps, hats, or any other type

of variation are not allowed; to include hair ornaments or decorations which could be

construed as distracting; unless otherwise approved by the principal.

DRESS: Mass days require mass uniform. Non-mass days require standard uniform. Shirts are to

remain tucked in at all times. Tight or excessively loose clothing is not permitted. Skirts and shorts

must be no shorter than 2 inches above the kneecap. Hoodie jackets are to be worn strictly as

designed and not to be displayed in being tied around waist or any other type of variation.

SHOES: See guide lines above. Additionally, no high heels, platforms, cleats, sandals or boots.

Tennis/athletic shoes must be worn for P.E.

JEWELRY: Studs and small hoop earrings for girls. No more than one piercing per ear for girls. No

cartilage earrings. No earrings or piercings on boys. No tattoos, no body or facial piercing.

Watches and religious medals may be worn, so long as they do not cause a distraction, but

must be worn inside the uniform shirt/top.

MAKEUP: No visible make-up is allowed. Girls in 6-8th may wear a light foundation or powder if

needed to cover blemishes, but color must match skin tone, not be noticeable, and must be

applied only at home.

P.E. UNIFORMS: If your child has P.E. on Mass days and is not wearing suitable shoes for P.E.,

please send tennis shoes in their gym bag.

FREE DRESS or SCHOOL ACTIVITIES: Clothing must be modest and appropriate for the Catholic

school setting. Tank tops, halter tops, spaghetti straps, midriff shirts, short shorts, low cut blouses

or short skirts and/or any garments exposing too much, unreasonably or extremely tight (such

as biker short or yoga tights) are not permitted. No advertisements which promote offensive,

inappropriate language, message(s), graphics or symbols, or anything that could refer to the

occult, Satanism, witchcraft, or any other type or variation, are not allowed, other than OLMC

school logos or logos appropriate to a theme day (e.g. college t-shirt day or Texans day). Hats /

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caps are not allowed indoors or outdoors unless specifically allowed by the principal for a

special occasion – and would fall under the “No Advertisement” guidelines. Jeans, when

permitted by special occasion or when approved for a field trip, should not be tight or form-

fitting, or ripped with holes or any other type of variation, and should be standard non-designer

blue jeans of solid blue denim and in neat and good condition. Jeans with large logos, designs,

embroidery, and jeans of designer brands are not permitted.

CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE POLICY

Flagrant and Defiant Misbehavior, such as: disrespect, aggression - to include “bullying” and all

other various associated types - hostile, which infringes on human dignity, academic process

and moral code of conduct, will not be tolerated. A logical consequence for intervention will

follow. Parents will be notified whenever a child has seriously misbehaved. Parents are

expected to support the decisions of the faculty and the principal with regard to all disciplinary

interventions.

As part of our Catholic Identity, we encourage emotional and social development by moral

discipline which is both firm and just. Self-discipline leads to good discipline, which forms the

foundation of a lifetime of Christian discipleship. Well-established behavioral standards, which

hold a person accountable, helps that person, make increasingly more mature and morally

responsible decisions with each school year. Each child has a responsibility to himself and his

fellow students to use moral self-control appropriate to his age.

DISCIPLINE

Parents are the primary educators of their children, working in partnership with faculty. Discipline

begins at home and will be strongly reinforced by the school. As a community, it is essential for

students to experience parents and teachers working together cooperatively. The solidarity of

this partnership empowers students to focus on the development of moral self-discipline, which

is the ultimate goal.

It is important for all people to understand limits and boundaries, and to follow clear and

concise guidelines for expected behavior. Students are expected to show courtesy and respect

to each other, adults, themselves, and property. Defiance, violence, and insubordination will

not be tolerated.

Students and parents will be treated with respect by the faculty, and in turn, the faculty expects

to be treated with respect by students and parents. The faculty welcomes expression of

concerns as long as the communication is respectful and in keeping with the line of authority.

Prior to parent notification by faculty regarding a disciplinary problem, previous discipline

measures have usually been taken, such as an individual student conference, a student plan

for success, and/or withdrawal of privileges. The notification serves to alert parents that stronger

disciplinary action may be taken and that increased parent involvement is required.

Students are expected to be courteous and respectful to each other, to all school personnel,

visitors, and volunteer workers at all times, including assemblies, athletic events, church,

cafeteria, playground, field trips and social gatherings.

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CODE OF CODUCT REGULATIONS

Parents and students are required to read and agree to the Code of Conduct by signing the

Parent-Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form each year. The signed form is kept on file in

the office.

The Code of Conduct is not intended to be an exhaustive list. It is a guide to help parents and

students understand general expectations for conduct. The gravity of each misbehavior will

ultimately be judged on an individual basis, taking into account the specific circumstances,

age, and development of the child. The discretion of the principal, his designee and/or the

pastor will determine the appropriateness of consequences applied for a behavioral offense.

CODE OF CODUCT

Students will:

be respectful and attentive

use appropriate spoken and written language

follow directions of all school personnel at all times

control aggressive behavior

leave chewing gum at home

In the event that a student fails to observe the above expectations, the following notes

describe the usual approach and procedures for working with the student. The school reserves

the right to modify these procedures as it sees fit:

1. In the event of minor misbehavior, student and teacher discuss and work cooperatively

to resolve the problem.

2. Chronic misbehavior is reported to parents and principal by the teacher.

3. Major misbehavior, especially that involving injurious behavior is taken to the principal.

In the event of major or chronic misbehavior a student may be excluded from school activities,

suspended, or expelled at the principal’s sole discretion. The school expects full parental

cooperation in all aspects of the student’s life at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School. All

rules apply before, during, and after school, and at all times on school sponsored outings or

events, whether on campus or off campus.

MAJOR MISBEHAVIOR

The school considers the following to be examples of major misbehavior:

Interference with the rights of others, including physical abuse (such as hitting, punching,

kicking, or biting), verbal abuse (such as teasing, taunting, threats or intimidation),

bullying (such as physical aggression, social alienation, verbal aggression, cyber bullying

and intimidation);

Damage to, abuse of, or stealing any school or personal property;

Possession, use or sale of drugs listed in the current Federal Controlled Substances Act;

Possession, use or sale of weapons or explosives;

Unexcused absence from school or school activity;

Use of obscene, profane, suggestive, or intimidating written or verbal language;

Repeated disruptive or uncooperative behavior; and

Conduct committed off-campus and outside school hours that is illegal or reflects

negatively on the school

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Misuse of computer/internet/email detrimental to himself, to others or to the community

as a whole whether conducted on or off campus

Plagiarism or cheating (may result in no credit given on assignment in question)

Vandalism and other various types of destruction of school property and personal

property

Issues of physical aggression, such as - physical and verbal altercations - are of particular

concern. Students who are physically aggressive, such as physically attacking or striking

someone- will be sent to the principal who will conference with him/her or implement more

severe consequences, at the sole discretion of the principal. Students sent to the Principal for a

second incidence of physical aggression will be suspended from school for at least one day,

and a parent conference will be scheduled prior to their return to class. The Principal is the final

authority in all disciplinary situations and may waive any disciplinary rule for just cause at his sole

discretion, and may also apply more severe consequences at his sole discretion, based on the

circumstances involved in the infraction.

DETENTION AND ISS Detention is held every Thursday from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Parents will be notified by school office

and a disciplinary form sent home. Students are required to attend – no exceptions. If a

student fails to attend (No Show) without proper notification, or without Principal’s approval,

then student will be subject to an In-School Suspension (ISS) for a fee $70.00 to be billed on

FACTS to cover the cost of substitute teacher. If unable to attend, due to a valid and

reasonable circumstance, then parent is to contact office to request a reschedule - the

Principal being the final approval authority for rescheduling of detention. If the detention is

approved for rescheduling, then that student would still owe the originally assigned detention in

addition to the rescheduled one. If the request for a reschedule is not approved, then student

would be subject to an ISS.

LINE OF AUTHORITY

The Catholic Church abides by the principle of subsidiary which states that problems should be

solved at the lowest level possible. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School abides by this

principle, and implements it in the following manner:

If a concern or incident arises, the teacher will contact parents in writing or by phone. In

extraordinary circumstances, the Principal may make this initial contact. Faculty members

expect parental support in development and implementation of a plan to solve the concern.

If a parent wishes to discuss any concern or incident, the teacher is the first person the parent

must contact, in writing or by telephone. Teachers should be contacted through the office or

email. The teacher will respond within 48 hours, whenever possible. If communication with the

teacher does not resolve the concern, the Principal may be contacted.

Please respect the line of authority: 1. Teacher or faculty member first. 2. Principal is the final school authority.

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If a concern regards a broader issue than a child or a classroom incident, please call the school

office and make an appointment to speak with the Principal, should the need be to contact

the principal. (For example: a parent has a suggestion for uniform policy addition)

Misunderstandings may occur if the problem is not first investigated at the source. Personal

concerns are not appropriate issues with which to approach other parents in the school, other

faculty members, parent organization representatives, School Board members, or the parish

pastor, verbally, in writing or via email.

PARENT CONDUCT AND BEHAVIOR

Parents/Legal Guardians are expected to conduct themselves in a manner reflective of good

moral principles and which does not interfere with the operation of, or reflect adversely on Our

Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School. All communication, both written and verbal, must be

respectful at all times. Disruptive, threatening, disrespectful or illegal behavior of a parent may

result in the removal of the child (ren) from enrollment in the school. This decision is at the sole

discretion of the principal, and tuition refunds will not be given. This handbook serves as prior

notice of this policy.

DISCIPLINARY PROBATION

A student's continuous misbehavior or a single serious incident may result in disciplinary

probation by the Principal. The Principal will determine the length of time of the probation, and

will notify the student and his/her parents, in person if possible, of the reasons for the terms of the

probation. During the probation and at the end of the probation, the parents will be informed

of the child's progress. If there is a continued failure to meet disciplinary standards, the principal

and pastor reserve the right to end the child’s enrollment immediately following parental

notification. In these cases, tuition refunds will not be given. This handbook serves as prior notice

of this policy.

SUSPENSION

If, in the judgment of the Principal, a student is guilty of serious misconduct, he/she may be

suspended from class for up to five days. The student and parents will be advised of the reason

for suspension, in person if possible, by the Principal.

In school suspension may be assigned by the principal. If students are required to be at in-

school suspension, parents will be required to pay the cost of a substitute to supervise the child,

which is $70 per day.

Suspension may also be assigned "out-of-school" during which time the student is required to

remain away from school. Work will be given and parental supervision required for the full day.

At the conclusion of the probation or suspension, the Principal, in consultation with the student's

teachers, will determine if sufficient improvement in behavior has occurred. If insufficient

progress is noted, other disciplinary actions may be considered by the Principal, up to and

including expulsion or additional days of suspension.

EXPULSION

A student's continued enrollment at the school is subject to his/her meeting the scholastic and

behavioral standards set by the Principal and Pastor. If any student fails to meet these

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standards, and the Principal determines that continued enrollment of the student in the school

is not in the best interest of the student and/or the school, the Principal shall also advise the

pastor. In these cases, tuition refunds will not be given. This handbook serves as prior notice of

this policy.

If the Principal and the Pastor determine that the student should be expelled, the Principal will

arrange a conference with the parents or guardians and the student to explain the reasons for

the expulsion. A written notification of the expulsion, stating the circumstances and dates, shall

be sent to the diocesan Superintendent of Schools.

USE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School adheres to the diocesan policy, stated below, regarding the use

of controlled substances.

The use and unlawful possession of illicit drugs and alcohol is wrong and harmful. A student is

subject to removal from class, which may result in suspension, expulsion, or referral for

prosecution if, while on school property or while attending a school sponsored or school related

activity on or off school property, there is question of:

Chemical substance use, possession for consumption, sale or dispensing of illegal drugs and

narcotics (hard or soft drugs, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana or controlled substance).

Acting under the influence of an illegal drug-alcohol, narcotic, marijuana or a controlled

substance.

Medication misuse or over dosage. The school nurse, the counselor and the Principal should

work together with the student and family, towards bringing about a complete recovery

and elimination of the drug abuse for the student involved.

Giving medication, prescribed or over the counter, to another student.

When removing a student from class, for the reasons stated above, the Principal should:

Report the incident to the superintendent.

Notify parent(s)/guardian immediately and request a conference.

May notify authorities.

After the conference with the parent and student, the student may be suspended for a period

of three days or expelled. During this time, it is recommended that the parents enroll in some

type of family therapy with the student, as suggested by the Principal, a family physician, or the

diocesan office. At the completion of the suspension, the student will return to school with a

contract to continue the therapy until the therapist feels a complete recovery has been made.

STUDENT-PARENT COMPLAIN PROCESS

Although the Archdiocese endeavors to establish a harmonious Christian atmosphere within its

schools, it recognizes that misunderstandings or differences of opinion sometimes occur. Ideally,

such matters can be resolved informally by a parent or guardian meeting with the immediate

authoritative person to discuss the matter. If, however, the matter is not settled to the parent or

guardian's satisfaction, the parent or guardian may institute a formal grievance. A formal

grievance must be in writing and must be received in five (5) working days following the

occurrence of the event on which the grievance is based. Please contact the principal for a

copy of the Archdiocesan current appeals process/grievance procedure for further details and

forms. Also, please note that the current policy supersedes and replaces all previous policies

and statements regarding institution and processing of formal grievances within Catholic

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EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities. Students must maintain a

satisfactory grade average and conduct.

Altar Servers: Catholic boys and girls in fourth through eighth grades have the privilege of

serving as altar servers. Altar servers must attend altar server training meetings at Our Lady of Mt.

Carmel, regardless of where their original training was held.

Sports: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel has an excellent and well-rounded sports program for both boys

and girls at an intramural level for third through fifth grade and an inter-school level for fifth,

sixth, seventh, and eighth grade. The program includes for boys: soccer, basketball, track, and

baseball; and for girls: soccer, basketball, volleyball, softball, cheer/dance and track. To help

defray the cost of the program, a non-refundable sports fee is charged. Students must maintain

satisfactory grades and conduct. Students with an average(s) below “C” (77% or below) or

conduct grades below “S” are subject to suspension from sports until grades are satisfactory

once again – please see the OLMC Sports Handbook for more details.

Student Council: Sixth through eighth graders elected by their classmates form the Student

Council, serving the needs of the school community.

HONORS AND AWARDS

Awards Day

An Awards Day is held annually. Parents are encouraged to attend. Quarterly Awards are also

given for Honor Roll students.

Eighth Grade Graduation Activities

Eighth grade graduation activities include a graduation mass and reception. A fee is collected

from each student for these activities. A specific dress code is observed for graduation

activities.

Valedictorian/Salutatorian students are selected based on consistent GPA, academic

performance, conduct, and community service, for the particular graduating academic year.

In exceptional cases, other considerations could be but not limited to: principal/teacher

recommendation, length of time at OLMC or other relevant circumstances that would lend

themselves to a sound and just decision.

8th Grade Graduation Trip – this trip is offered to all graduating 8th Grade students; however, it is

one that is earned; not given. Students, in order to be eligible, students must not have been

written up more 3 times during the school year; not have committed a major violation(s); not

have served more than 2 detentions; have been suspended from school or have served an ISS

more than twice; and must be passing all classes by the day prior to the trip’s departure.

8th Grade Principal Recommendations for High School – recommendation forms are to be

turned into 8th Grade teacher as soon as they are made available. The cutoff date for all letters

of recommendation is Jan.31st. Unless a reasonable and valid excuse can be provided for not

meeting deadline date, all requests for recommendation(s) will be subject to denial.

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PARENT PARTNERSHIP

Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

The parent teacher organization, PTO, is based on the National Catholic Educational

Association’s guidelines and the archdiocesan guidelines for parent organizations.

Each family of a student enrolled at OLMC automatically becomes a part of this organization.

Organization dues are included in the school registration fees. The organization thrives on

member participation and active involvement. There are multiple officer and committee

positions available, all of which are filled each May to allow planning and work for the following

year. You are encouraged to actively participate in the PTO.

FUNDRAISING AND ADVANCEMENT

The tuition paid for each student does not represent the full cost of the student’s education. The

difference of the two must be raised in fundraising events. The advancement & fundraising

program provides for the future of the school by setting long-range goals to enhance the

school's financial stability and earn friends for the school. The success of our advancement

program is dependent upon the participation of each family. All the families are required to

complete a total of $500.00 of fundraising obligation for one student and $100.00 for any

additional students. Also, all the families that receive financial assistance are required to

complete an additional 5% of the financial assistance provided in fundraising obligation.

VOLUNTEERS

All parents are expected to participate in volunteer activities both in and out of the classroom.

Volunteering not only contributes to the educational process, but also allows parents and

friends to become an active part of the process. The faculty is greatly appreciative of the

volunteer help. Parents may sign up for various volunteer positions at the time of registration and

with the PTO, for every volunteer hour completed the family will receive a $10.00 credit toward

their fundraising obligation balance. Volunteers working near students must attend VIRTUS

training.

TECHNOLOGY AND ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (TAUP)

POLICY FOR 2015-2016

(Subject to revision in accordance with the policies of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

and the discretion of the principal or his designee)

For Parents and Students

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School is pleased to offer students access to technology

resources for educational purposes, which may include computer hardware and software. To

gain access to the technology resources, all students must obtain parental permission as

verified by the signatures on Media Release & Technology Acceptable Use Agreement.

Internet and E-mail

Access to Internet and/or e-mail will enable students to explore thousands of libraries,

databases, museums, and other repositories of information and to exchange personal

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communication with other students and teachers around the world. Families should be aware

that some material accessible via the internet may contain items that are illegal, defamatory,

inaccurate, or potentially offensive. While the purpose of the school is to use Internet resources

for constructive educational goals, students may find ways to access other materials. We

believe that the benefits to students from access to the Internet outweigh the disadvantages.

Ultimately, however, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying

the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources.

Therefore, we support and respect each family’s right to grant Internet permission.

Expectations

Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on the school’s computer network just as they

are in a classroom or on school grounds. Communications on the network are often public in

nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. It is expected that users

will comply with Archdiocesan standards and the specific rules set forth below. The use of

technology resources is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked if abused. The user is

personally responsible for his/her actions in accessing and utilizing the school’s technology

resources. The students are expected never to access, keep, or send anything that they would

not want their parents, teachers, principal or pastor to see.

Rules of Appropriate Use

Electronic Communication – Whether occurring within or outside of school, when a student’s

use of electronic communication jeopardizes the safe environment of the school or is contrary

to Gospel values the student can be subject to the full range of disciplinary consequences

including the expulsion of the student, at the discretion of the principal, his designee or pastor.

Cyber Bullying would be an example of this. This policy applies to communications or

depictions through e-mail, text messages, blogs, social media, and any other web postings,

whether they occur through the school’s equipment or connectivity resources or through

private communication.

Personal Safety and Personal Privacy – Students will not post personal contact information

about themselves. Personal contact information includes their address, telephone, cell

phone/txt number, full name, school address, etc. This information may not be provided to an

individual, organization, or company, including web sites that solicit or request such personal

information.

Social Networking - Accessing social networking websites, blogs, video sites (e.g. Facebook,

YouTube, Friendster, tagged, Vine, Twitter, etc., except those used with prior permission for

educational purposes) are off-limits on school property. The use of circumventors, such as proxy

servers, to get around school network security is prohibited and may result in revocation of

access to all technology on campus.

Illegal copying - Students should never download or install any commercial software,

shareware, or freeware onto network drives or disks. Nor should students copy other people’s

work or intrude into other people’s files. The download/upload of any material in violation of

any U.S., State, Board, Archdiocesan, or school policy is prohibited. This includes, but is not

limited to, copyrighted materials, threatening, violent, or obscene material, or material

protected by trade secret.

Inappropriate materials or language – No profane, abusive or impolite language should not be

used to communicate nor should materials be accessed which are not in line with the rules of

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school behavior. Use of technology resources for gambling, chain letter communication,

unauthorized email, chat or instant message, blogs, or discussion forums, is also prohibited.

Should students encounter such material by accident, they should report it to their teacher

immediately. A good rule to follow is never view, send, or access materials, which you would

not want your teachers and parents to see. Uses of cell phones to transmit unacceptable

language and/or photos that are harmful to self, other students, and/or to other people are

prohibited.

Permittable Electronic Devices – Certain electronic devices may be utilized by students with

parent and teacher permission for academic or research purposes, such as reading a book,

reading a textbook, or working on an assignment. Such devices include small laptop

computers, e-Readers (such as a Kindle or Nook), or tablet computers (such as an iPad or

Android tablet). Parents and students should remember that such valuable items are not

protected by the school or the teacher and may be damaged, lost or stolen when brought to

school. Parents and students must fully accept this risk when permitting such items to be

brought to school. The school staff and administration will be unable to take action with regard

to damaged, lost or stolen electronic devices. Furthermore, inappropriate use of such devices

will result in their confiscation in accordance with the policies outlined in this handbook.

Wireless Network (Wi-Fi) – The school Wi-Fi service is exclusively for use by faculty and staff for

official and academic purposes only.

Proper Care of Computer Hardware and Equipment

Students are responsible for appropriate care of school’s computers, to include not vandalizing,

mistreating, or in any way physically abusing or damaging the equipment, system and or

hardware. Student will be assigned a particular computer and those computers that have

been damaged due to intentional misuse or physical abuse, will be held accountable with

disciplinary measures and in paying for the assessed damages.

Cellular Use

The use and/or possession of cell phones and other electronic devices are prohibited during

school hours. Students may only use their cell phones after school if allowed by a teacher

(urgent calls).

Cell phone and electronics devices are prohibited in the classroom, locker rooms, hallways, and

bathrooms at all times during the school day. At any time a cell phone and/or electronic

devices(s) is/are confiscated, it/they will be kept for a full day at which time the student’s

parent or guardian may come retrieve the item(s) and pay a fee of $10.00. Our Lady of Mt.

Carmel Catholic School reserves the right to search through any and all activity and content on

the device. To receive the item(s) the student must show what activity he/she was doing with

the device(s) when it/they were confiscated (was the student texting, calling, taking pictures,

etc.). The school reserves the right to remove any content. Should any material on an

electronic device be found which is deemed inappropriate, students may face behavioral

consequences which may include expulsion.

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The OLMC Handbook contains important information about the school, and I understand that I

should consult the Administrator and or Director of Admissions regarding any questions not

answered in the handbook.

Since the information, policies, and benefits described herein are subject to change at any

time, I acknowledge that revisions to the handbook may occur. All such changes will

generally be communicated through official notices, and I understand that revised

information may supersede, modify, or eliminate existing policies. Only the Principal of the

School has the ability to adopt any revisions to the policies in this handbook.

I, as a parent or guardian of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School accept the terms of the

handbook. I also understand that it is my responsibility and that of my child (ren) to comply

with the policies contained in this handbook, and any revisions made to it. I further agree that

if I remain with the school, following any modifications to the handbook, I thereby accept

and agree to such changes.

I have received a copy of the OLMC Handbook on the date listed below. I understand that I

am expected to read the entire handbook. I will sign the Acknowledgment of Receipt listed

below on the date specified. I understand that this form will be retained in my child’s student

file.

____________________________________ ______________

Signature of Parent Date

Printed name of student(s):_______________________________________

Grade(s):______________________________________________________