2014-2015 Student-Family Handbook

2014-15 STUDENT-FAMILY

K O O B D N A

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www.girardcollege.edu 1

PHONE NUMBERS (All Area Code 215) Girard College Main Number 787-2600 President, Clarence D. Armbrister Vice President, Ava Willis-Barksdale Director of Administrative Services, Claudene Evans

787-2601 787-4468 787-2601

Lower School Offices Academic Dean, Cannie C. Shafer Residential Dean, Marge Holmes

787-2656 787-2698

Upper School Offices Academic Dean, David Ruiz Residential Dean, Kymelle Clark

787-2617 787-2610

Campus Safety Office/Administrator on Duty 787-2684 College Guidance/Young Alumni Support

787-4439

Development Office Dir. of Communications/Website, Polly Mitchell

787-4436 787-2735

Office of Enrollment Management 787-2621 General Admission Info: Teresa Coffey 787-4436 Founder’s Hall Director of Historic Resources, Elizabeth Laurent

787-4434

Health Services, Vanessa Miller, R.N.

787-3138

Contact Us Via E-Mail: first letter of first name + last name + @girardcollege.edu sgirard@girardcollege.edu CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR CURRENT INFORMATION www.girardcollege.edu

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This Student/Parent Handbook is provided as a guide, an introduction and a helpful tool for new and returning parents/guardians.

It is not to be considered a contract.

Given the fact that federal and state laws and also school conditions are constantly in flux, Girard College reserves the right to make changes to the policies, procedures, and other statements made in this handbook without immediate notice.

Please note that the handbook is on the Girard College website, www.girardcollege.edu –– Current Parents.

If updates occur during the course of the academic year, the online version will be edited and should be considered the most current and accurate version.

Please read thoroughly and keep for future reference.

QUESTIONS/CONCERNS: If you have questions about school policies, please contact the appropriate dean.

Lower School Grades 1-6 Academic Dean Cannie C. Shafer Residential Dean Marge Holmes

215-787-2656 215-787-2698

Upper School Grades 7-12 Academic Dean David Ruiz Residential Dean Kymelle Clark

215-787-2617 215-787-2610

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Table of Contents Mission Statement / Core Values.......................................... Back Cover Contact Information.................................................Inside Front Cover Map of Girard College ............................................. Inside Back Cover Introduction Parents Working with Schools‌....................................................... 6 All-Parent Meetings........................................................................... 7 Information & Records..................................................................... 7 Girard College Civility Policy............................................................ 7 Campus Visitation Policy.................................................................. 8 Upper School Student Government Constitution........................9-12 Lower School Academics Academic Overview.........................................................................13 Expectations....................................................................................14 Grading System...............................................................................14 Responsibility..................................................................................15 Honor Roll......................................................................................16 Academic Probation........................................................................16 End-of-Year Failure..........................................................................16 Upper School Academics Academic Overview............................................................... 13 & 17 Programs & Expectations.......................................................... 17-18 Grading System...............................................................................18 Honor Roll......................................................................................18 Academic Probation........................................................................19 End-of-Year Failure.................................................................... 19-20 Upper School Graduation Requirements.........................................20 Attendance Class Attendance.............................................................................21 Campus Lateness Policy...................................................................22 Special Arrangements......................................................................23 Regular Friday Departure................................................................24 Discipline Philosophy......................................................................................24 Loss of Privilege & Detention..........................................................24 Severe Misconduct Rating (SMR)................................................... 24 Restrictions......................................................................................25 Probation........................................................................................26 Plagiarism........................................................................................27 Suspension......................................................................................27 Dismissal.........................................................................................28 Point System....................................................................................29 Scholarship Review Board...............................................................29 Upper School Honor Code and Honor Council.........................30-32

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Campus Acceptable Use Policy................................................................ 33-34 Code of Living & Core Values Core Values........................................................................................... 35 Guidelines........................................................................................35-36 Student Relationships............................................................................ 36 Sexual Harassment Policy...................................................................... 37 Bullying Policy...................................................................................... 38 Residential Life

Study Hall – Guidelines.................................................................. 38-39

Residential Support...............................................................................39

Marking System....................................................................................39

Living Space..........................................................................................39

Dress and Personal Grooming......................................................... 40-42

Laundry/Tailor Shop.............................................................................42

Personal Property..................................................................................43

Cell Phones & Expensive Items....................................................... 43-44

Guidelines for Use of Electronics.................................................... 44-45

On-Campus Food Guidelines...............................................................45 Additional Information

Class Rings............................................................................................45

Lost/Damaged Girard Property.............................................................45

Student Use of Motor Vehicles..............................................................46

Residential Student Work Program.......................................................46

Dining Hall-Expectation and Guidelines........................................ 46-47

Community Service..............................................................................47 Activities Eligibility..............................................................................................48

Authorized Leave Passes........................................................................48

Student Employment............................................................................48

Co-Curricular Band and Choir.............................................................49

Extended-Day Programs.......................................................................49

Scouting Programs................................................................................50

Athletics: Regulations, Responsibilities, Eligibility.................................50 Student Services Library..................................................................................................51

Counseling & Career Guidance............................................................51

Health Services................................................................................ 51-52 Other Information

Parent-Teacher Conference Days...........................................................52

Family Association Meetings.................................................................52

Parent/Guardian Representatives...........................................................52

Ener/Exit Campus by Car.....................................................................52

Girard College Alumni Association.......................................................52

Founder’s Day/Founder’s Hall, History.................................................53

School Songs.........................................................................................54

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Introduction PARENTS WORKING WITH SCHOOLS/ SCHOOLS WORKING WITH PARENTS Girard College subscribes to the Principles of Good Practice as published by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). In April, 2014, all parents/guardians of returning students received a single-page brochure called the “2014-15 School-Family Compact.” The philosophy expressed in the compact is adapted from the NAIS guidelines and is consistent with the mission and Core Values of Girard. In it we stated: A School-Family Compact is an agreement that explains how parents, guardians, teachers, RAs and school staff share responsibility and will work together to make sure that: • we understand our joint responsibility; • we nurture effective partnerships; • we support the needs of our students; • we fulfill our school’s mission;

• we create safe, happy, challenging environments; • our students reach high and achieve success.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS Families Working with Schools:

Schools Working With Families:

Families are expected to support the Core Values and to participate actively.

Attendance at two of four All-Parent meetings is required, and attendance at both Family-Teacher conferences (December and March) is required.

At the same time, the school will maintain a safe environment that supports each child’s academic and social/emotional development.

Families are expected to provide proper diet, rest and exercise for their children when home, and to return students on time after weekends or holidays.

Faculty and staff will keep families informed of progress and will hold scheduled conferences during the year. We will make time to speak with family members at other times as needed.

We encourage families to get to know their children’s academic and residential deans, RAs and teachers; when in need of information, speak directly and first to your child’s teacher.

We value the family member’s perspective on each student and will treat family members with courtesy and respect in all communication.

Good communication is essential: Family members should share medical/other information that could affect the child’s ability to learn and should be courteous and respectful towards school staff.

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Staff will model the Five Core Values and uphold rigorous standards and expectations for every member of the school community.

All-Parent Meetings Research informs us that student performance increases when families are involved in the education of their children. We encourage all families to be positively engaged with Girard College and their student’s education.

There will be four All-Parents meetings scheduled throughout the year presenting helpful topics and sharing important information. Attendance at two out of four is required. Additionally, all parents/guardians are required to attend both of the two annual parent-teacher conferences (December and March).

STUDENT INFORMATION AND RECORDS POLICIES • Annual Enrollment Contracts Upon entry into Girard College, all new families are required to sign an enrollment contract; all returning families are required to sign the re-enrollment contract.

Enrollment is a privilege that Girard College has extended to your child and is entirely contingent upon the student maintaining good academic standing and positive citizenship. Continued enrollment at Girard College is by no means a right to which your child or you are entitled.

• Changes in Student/Family Information All changes and/or updates to student information (such as names, addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, guardianship status) should be shared with the Admissions Office. Please help us to serve you and your child by keeping this information current and accurate!

• Requests for Student Records We comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) that protects the privacy of student educational records. All requests to review student records and receive copies of transcripts need to go through Admissions staff.

• Withdrawal and/or leave of absence policy and procedures: In cases where there are extenuating circumstances, the school authorities will review requests for a student withdrawal or leave of absence. A parent and/or guardian is expected to complete the proper forms, and an exit interview will be conducted. Re-entry into Girard is subject to space availability, student’s current academic standing and approval of the Girard College president. Please direct any questions to Admission staff.

GIRARD COLLEGE Campus-WIDE CIVILITY POLICY All members of the Girard College community will treat each other with mutual respect, civility and orderly conduct so we may live, work and study in a safe and welcome environment. We shall all strive to observe Girard’s core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, self-discipline and compassion.

Positive communication is encouraged. Discourteous, volatile, hostile, profane, rude or aggressive actions or speech will not be tolerated.

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Any individual who disrupts or threatens the health or safety of students, staff or visitors; damages property; or uses language that could provoke a violent reaction will be directed to leave the school grounds by the campus patrol or security, a dean, vice president or president.

Dealing with Abusive Individuals If any individual uses profanity or speaks in a loud, demanding or insulting manner, an administrator or Girard College employee will calmly and politely warn the speaker to communicate in a civil manner and may ask the abusive individual to leave campus immediately.

If the abusive behavior is part of a meeting, conversation or telephone call, the Girard employee will verbally terminate it. If the meeting or conference is on school premises, the employee will then direct the abusive individual to leave the campus promptly.

If the individual refuses to leave the school grounds, Campus Patrol (215-787-2684) should be contacted immediately.

If / when a staff member determines that an individual is in the process of violating the provisions of this policy, the staff member should provide a written copy of this policy to that person at the time of the occurrence. The staff member will immediately notify his or her supervisor and provide a written report of the incident to the supervisor. Once the staff member has reported the incident to his/her administrator, the administrator will contact the individual who violated the civility policy and ban him/her from contact with the campus (by phone or visitation) until he/she meets with the supervisor/ administrator. At this meeting the individual will have an opportunity to tell his/her side of the story. The administrator will meet with the individual and explain how he/she violated our civility policy and the consequence for this violation. The administrator will follow up the conference in writing, detailing the consequence for this incident and provide a copy of the letter to the employee who reported the incident.

CAMPUS VISITATION POLICY Our goal at Girard College is to provide a safe environment for all of our students.

So, although we strongly encourage parent/guardian involvement at school events and meetings, we can’t accommodate unscheduled visits by our students’ families.

When you do wish to visit, we ask that you pre-arrange your visit by setting up an appointment with your child’s academic and/or residential dean beforehand, through the “special arrangement process” (see page 23). Therefore: • Parents/guardians will be permitted on campus for scheduled appointments only.

• Parents and visitors cannot be served meals in our dining halls, so please do not schedule your visits during meal times.

All students, staff and visitors (parents/guardians and other family members) are expected to observe Girard’s five core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, self-discipline and compassion. We exhibit common courtesy and civility in all our dealings with each other.

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Student Government CONSTITUTION: Upper School We, the student leaders of Girard College hereby establish the Girard College student government to provide a forum for student involvement and the effective communication, establish and maintain school spirit, develop leadership and self-government within our school and ourselves, to promote harmonious internal and external relationships with the student body and alien agencies, and to represent the students of Girard College.

ARTICLE I - NAME The name of the student governing body shall henceforth be called Girard College Student Government Association and may be referred to as the “GC SGA�.

ARTICLE II - PURPOSE The purpose of the Girard College Student Government (GC SGA) is to: (1) Promote better understanding and communication between the student body, faculty, staff, and administration. (2)Improve school spirit and organize student activities and endeavors. (3) To acknowledge good sportsmanship and athletic performance in our community. (4) Provide a model and expected standard from all members within the Girard College community to abide (5)Develop leadership and self-government through management of student activities. (6) Provide an avenue to discuss any issues regarding the Girard College community.

ARTICLE III - THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATORS The student body president shall administrate over all acknowledged committees and committee members within the student government. The GCSC advisor reserve the right to repeal any of the powers held by the student council. The Student Body President and GCSC Advisor must approve all activities.* There shall be no more than two adults who may hold the position as Girard College Student Council advisor(s) during any given year.

ARTICLE IV - SGA MEMBERSHIP (1) Officers: Each grade (seven through twelve) will have students as their class officers elected to the student council. The officers of the student council shall be as follows: Student Body President, President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer (2) Representatives: Each student representative must be a Girard College Upper School student from his/her current grade level.

Officers: (4) Requirements: Each student council member-in order to be a member must have and maintain a B average (a 3.0 on a 4 point grading scale) to remain on the student council. If a student council member grade point average for the marking period falls below a 3.0, they will be put on probation and/or giving a representative rest for three week.

ARTICLE V - THE STUDENT COUNCIL (1) The Girard College Student Council must consist of a seventh grade representative, an eighth grade representative, a ninth grade class president, a tenth grade class president, a senior class president,

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ARTICLE VI - DUTIES (1) Officers and Representatives: A. To represent the students of his/her class and express their opinions in relation to school matters.

B. To carry out the purpose of the student government association.

E. Carry out the duties of the committees of which they are elected and/or appointed F. To represent Girard College Upper School and Girard College in a positive fashion while attending student council events or school functions.

G. To attend all Student Government-related functions or events.

(2) Officers: A. The Student Body President shall preside at all official meetings of the student council. He/ She can call special meetings with the approval of the student council advisor. The Student Body President’s responsibilities are to appoint committee heads and organize all committees within the student government , coordinate the work of any committees that falls under he/she responsibility, represent Girard College, the student council, and the student body at public occasions, delegate council responsibilities and make academic and residential announcements to the student body.

B. The President shall perform the duties of which the Student Body President has assigned her/him. He/she must help prepare meeting agendas, coordinate the work of any committees that falls under his/her responsibility, and attend direct publicity and public relation programs. The President reserves the right to create any temporary council, committees, or groups within his/her grade to promote the student government purpose.

C. The Vice President shall perform the duties of the president in his/her absence, assist in preparing meeting agendas, assist with the coordination of grade specific activities, attend direct publicity and public relation programs, and assist in any further requests or duties of the President and/or Student Body President. The Vice President and Secretary are to collaborate cohesively with any requests from the President of his/her grade and/or Student Body President.

D. The Secretary shall keep the minutes of all student council meetings, be prompt, accurate, and have knowledge of the policies and general program of the Girard College Student Government Association. They shall keep a record of attendance; keep a list of all notions in the minutes which will be communicated with student council members and/or representatives, and act as the custodian of all records and reports, keeping them in order. The Secretary and Vice Presidents are to collaborate cohesively in any programs, activities, or any further requests from the President of his/her grade and/or Student Body President.

E. The Treasurer shall work with the secretary and GCSC advisor in maintaining records of receipts and expenditures of the student government association, advise funds, be prepared to give a financial report at each meeting on the balance of

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the treasury, help develop appropriate ways to increase funds, and understand the policies of the school in regards to finances. All transactions with SGA funds are to be authorized by both the Student Body President and GCSC advisor. Any unauthorized transactions or withdrawals from SGA funds account can/will result in the immediate suspension and/or termination from position the GCSC. ARTICLE – VII ELECTIONS (1) The Student Body President must first be instated before student body elections began.(2)Each candidate for class officer must give a public address, a videorecorded or live speech, stating what their goals are for their class if elected and personal qualities they hold that will contribute the student government experience, which will be shown during homeroom.(3) Student Council elections will take place on the third Wednesday of September, unless unforeseen events disrupt this from occurring. In the event that election do not take place on the third Wednesday elections will promptly take place the following Wednesday. (4) Each running candidate must sign a GCSC contract declaring they acknowledge his/her duties, responsibilities, weekly meetings, and the GCSC Code of Conduct. (5) Student Council elections will take place on the third Wednesday of September, unless unforeseen events disrupt this from occurring. In this event elections will take place the following Wednesday.

ARTICLE – VIII MEETINGS (1) The student council shall meet weekly.

(2) Special meetings may be called by the Student Body President upon one hour’s personal notification during normal school hours. Attendance may be excused.

(3) Student council must meet a minimum of three times every month during the regular academic school year. However, if unfavorable conditions preclude the opening of school on that day, the meeting is rescheduled.

(4) A quorum must be present at all regular meetings. A quorum consists of twothirds of council members.

(5) The class president for each grade is the senior officer and will be the single vote for each class, if an official voting session is held. However, in the absence of the president the vice president will act as the voting officer.

ARTICLE – IX REMOVAL FROM OFFICE In the event that a class office is removed from the student council immediate actions must be taken. In the temporary and permanent case , when a class officer is given a *representative rest the position may be filled immediately by a class member, who is appointed by the class president and/or Student Body President. In the event that a class president is placed on a representative rest ,the vice president from that grade will assure the role of class president immediately. He/She has the right to appoint a temporary vice president during his/her time in office. If the student body president is removed from office the council’s first priority is the immediately hold a reelection. * In the special case of a reelection of the student body president, the voting and instating powers lays with the senior officers, class presidents and representatives, of the student council.

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ARTICLE – X ADVISOR The Academic Dean may approve a member(s) of the faculty to serve as an advisor to the student council. The term of office for the advisor is left to the discretion of the dean and the advisor. The advisor will have no power to vote, but reserves the rights to suspend any GC SC member with a quorum approval vote from the GCSC or with the approval of the Student Body President.

ARTICLE –XI COMMITTEES The Student Body President by custom shall head all committees within the student government. However, he/she has may appoint a single governing committee head, with the option of a co-chair. Each committee shall be governed by a senior or junior student appointed or approved by the Student Body President. All committee power and responsibilities are delegated by the Student Body President and can be removed at any time. All committee action is subject to review by the Student Body President and/or GCSC advisor at any time. Final authority in all committee action rests with the Student Body President and GCSC advisor.

Code of Conduct (1) Members represent the Girard College Student Government, and Girard College at all times. Members are expected to act with courtesy and respect in all situations.

(2) Members are expected to show loyalty to Girard College and the Girard College student body.

(3) Bullying, harassment, fighting, and/or hazing will result in immediate dismissal from Student government.

(4) Student Council members are expected to be role models to the entire school, and ambassadors to other organizations and communities. Therefore, any of the following will not be tolerated.

Use, possession, concealment, distribution, sale, or being under the influence of: • Tobacco or tobacco products in any form.

• Alcohol or alcoholic beverages in any form.

• Illegal drugs, including, but not limited to, substances defined as controlled substances.

• Prescription drugs or patent drugs in violation of state and/or federal laws.

(5) Vandalism, theft or destruction of school property will not be tolerated.

(6) It is expected that Student Council members will treat GC administration, teachers, staff, and other students with utmost respect. (7) Any suspensions are considered grounds for immediate dismissal from the Council. (8) Girard College administration or the Student Council advisor can remove any student for disciplinary actions at any time with the approval of the Student Council.

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ACADEMICS CCSS and Mastery Grading Overview Girard College has adopted the Common Core State Standards.

Our academic and residential faculties have been professionally trained to deliver a standards-based curriculum meant to increase rigor and provide our students with a 21st-Century education.

The school has also adopted a system of “mastery grading.” Standards-based grading has many positive outcomes for students and educators. At its core, mastery grading is intended to reflect each student’s level of learning and identify areas in which additional support may be needed to ensure proficiency and understanding of course concepts. The grades students earn will allow all stakeholders to understand and communicate what students know and are able to do.

TRIMESTER SYSTEM The academic school year is divided into trimesters, three 12-week grading periods. Parents or guardians are notified every two weeks as to how their child is progressing. In addition, parents/guardians are notified if a student is having serious difficulty. Scholarship and citizenship grades are assigned for all areas of instruction.

ACADEMICS – LOWER SCHOOL All elementary school students experience self-contained classroom programs, a nurturing learning environment, and a strong academic program with related support services. The teachers in grades 1 through 6 instruct in all academic areas.

Students receive special instruction in music, art, physical education/health, library and science. All teachers work on the development of skills in each subject area and in the art of communicating. Correct grammar and Standard English are the norm at Girard. The cultural and personal development of each child is emphasized through a variety of activities, including off-campus field trips, celebration of monthly events and recognition of local and international events that affect their lives. Math and Reading specialists provide support for students requiring additional assistance in these subject areas.

A variety of campus activities, such as student council, choir and band provide opportunities for student involvement. Special events, such as monthly assemblies and the annual Book Fair, enable students and their families to participate in the life of the Girard community.

Counselors are available to assist students with personal problems, including adjusting to living in an academic residential setting.

We believe that high expectations, a challenging curriculum, and excellent instruction in a caring and orderly environment will foster social and emotional growth and enhance student achievement.

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ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS: Lower School At the end of each trimester, report cards are reviewed and each student’s academic status is determined. If a student is having academic difficulties, a variety of strategies are employed to help the student improve. Classroom teachers provide small group and individual tutorials, and Title I remediation is provided based on academic need and screening.

Lower School students are expected to maintain a minimum Total GPA (gradepoint average) of 2.0 or higher in all classes: a minimum Total GPA of 2.0 is required for promotion or to meet graduation requirements and to continue on scholarship. Students who have received a growth year opportunity must maintain a 2.5 GPA. The Academic Review Committee reviews the student GPAs before making a determination regarding a student’s progress and status, at the end of the year.

GRADING SYSTEM: Lower School Student progress is reported under the headings of two basic categories, Scholarship and Responsibility. There is also a section for teacher comments for each of the three trimesters.

Scholarship Category Students in first and second grades are evaluated in all subjects including special classes using the following grading codes: 4

Highly Proficient

3 Proficient 2

Needs more time and practice

1

Does not meet expectations

Students in third through sixth grades utilize the following grade code for subjects and special classes: A+ 98 - 100

C+ 80 - 82

F

Failure (64 and below)

A

95 - 97

C

77 - 79

I

Incomplete

A-

92 - 94

C-

74 - 76

B+ 89 - 91

D+

71 - 73

B

86 - 88

D

68 - 70

B-

83 - 85

D-

65 - 67

Teachers evaluate students using a combination of records kept from daily work and assessments in accordance with Common Core State Standards and NAIS best practices.

Assigned grades are an accurate reflection of the student’s academic standing in relationship to the expectations of the curriculum and are based on a representative sample of work. Report cards indicate reading levels, along with a statement as to whether or not the student is reading below grade level and receiving remedial instruction. Special teachers also assign achievement grades and responsibility grades.

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Responsibility Category Grades in this category reflect the standing of the student in the classroom with regard to conduct and citizenship. These grades also reflect the child’s attitude toward learning and his/her behavior. In 2014-15, this category will be under revision to align with our social and emotional learning competancies and Core Values. Students are evaluated for the following: Grades 1 to 3

Grades 4 to 6

Completes assigned class work

Completes assigned class work

Completes assigned homework

Completes assigned homework

Follows directions

Brings necessary materials to class

Brings necessary materials to class

Follows directions

Works independently

Uses time wisely

Uses time wisely

Listens attentively

Listens attentively

Works neatly and keeps materials organized

Works neatly and keeps materials organized

Cooperates in classroom activities

Cooperates in classroom activities

Requests help and accepts constructive suggestions

Requests help and accepts constructive suggestions

Demonstrates self-control

Works and plays well with others

Demonstrates respectful behavior

Demonstrates self-control

Displays a positive attitude

Demonstrates respectful behavior

Assumes responsibility

Displays a positive attitude

Follows school/classroom rules

Assumes responsibility

Takes pride in his/her work

Obeys school/classroom rules Takes pride in his/her work

The following codes are utilized in this area: 4 Exceeds Expectations 3 Meets Expectations 2 Needs Improvement 1 Below Expectations

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HONOR ROLL: Lower School Students in first and second grades are only eligible for Responsibility Honor Roll. Students in third through sixth grades can receive Honor Roll recognition for achievements in both Scholarship and Responsibility.

Scholarship Honor Roll is achieved by attaining no less than a B on the report card in all subject areas including special classes.

Responsibility Honor Roll recognizes those students who have attained all 3s and 4s in all areas of Responsibilities (including special classes.).

High Honors recognizes students who have attained both Scholarship Honors and Responsibility Honors.

ACADEMIC PROBATION: Lower School Watch List Any student receiving a D+ in Reading, Language, Mathematics, Social Studies or Science is placed on the Academic Watch List.

Academic Probation Any student receiving an F in Reading, Language or Mathematics or more than one D+ in any academic area is placed on Academic Probation.

END-OF-YEAR FAILURE: Lower School Senior administration reserves the right to consider all aspects of any student’s record and determine what is in the best interest of the student and Girard College.

Academic probation serves as a foundation for monitoring and making recommendations regarding all students who qualify. At the beginning of the third trimester, the Academic Dean along with recommendations from the classroom teachers will review all data with the Academic Review Committee. After consultation with the parent/guardian, a final recommendation is made to the president who determines a resolution. Recommendation choices include a growth year (repeating the current grade), provisional promotion, promotion, or dismissal. When appropriate, the Scholarship Review Board may become involved in the decision.

Growth-Year Students and Summer REACH Students Students offered a growth year are on Academic Probation for the first trimester of the year they repeat. Thereafter, probation status will be reviewed on a trimesterto-trimester basis. At the end of the second trimester, growth-year students who are not meeting expectations will be reviewed for dismissal. At the end of the school year, growth-year students must have achieved a total GPA of 2.5 and have passed all major subjects; otherwise s/he will be reviewed for dismissal.

Any student who is failing two or more major subjects, or is in any level of academic probation, must attend all after-school evening study sessions (during the school year), and must attend Summer REACH program classes in the subjects where s/he is experiencing failure/deficiency as determined by his/her Academic Dean.

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ACADEMICS – UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS: Upper School The Upper School (grades 7-12) is organized into academic departments. In addition to the majors of English, mathematics, science, social studies, and foreign languages, students also attend classes in art, music and health. Several electives are offered to complete the curriculum. Students also have available a computer lab and a library to assist them with their work during scheduled study halls.

All Upper School students are required to take four years of English, mathematics, science, and social studies and two consecutive years of the same foreign language during the 9th and 10th grades (although they may take foreign language all four years).

Senior Project The senior project is a graduation requirement that demonstrates competency in the knowledge and skills acquired by students during their years at Girard.

The project will assess student achievement with regard to Girard’s mission and performance-based curriculum. Students are challenged to use their writing and oratorical skills, apply knowledge and creativity, invoke problem solving and the life skills of time management, responsibility and productivity in a work setting.

If a student does not complete the senior project to the satisfaction of the senior committee, s/he may not graduate.

Seniors have a choice regarding their senior project: they may acquire a 40-hour internship or they may take a class at a local college for college credit. If they chose an internship, the student will select an off-campus internship relating closely to a potential career choice. Each senior will be responsible for defining and developing a project. This is an unpaid internship that meets the graduation requirement as outlined in the senior project manual. The senior project advisors approve all projects and provides oversight for the program. The successful completion of the project will involve a written paper, a presentation, and a question and answer session with the committee.

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS: Upper School Two Grade Point Averages (GPAs) will be computed each trimester. One is a “total” GPA, which averages all major and minor subjects. The other is an “academic” GPA, which only averages the major subjects. The Academic Dean will take into consideration both GPAs before making a determination regarding student progress and status.

At the end of each trimester, student GPAs are computed and printed on report cards. Upper School students are expected to maintain a minimum total GPA of 2.0 or higher in all classes. A minimum total GPA of 2.0 is required for promotion or to meet graduation requirements and to continue on scholarship.

Students who do not maintain a 2.0 total GPA at the end of the school year will be reviewed for dismissal. Students who have received a growth year opportunity must maintain a 2.5 GPA.

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Academic Support Faculty and peer tutoring are available on a regular basis. The Upper School library and the Upper School residential computer lab are available to students after school.

Students with total grade point averages below 3.0 attend supervised evening study on weeknights; students on academic probation and academic final probation have an additional study period after school. Students who have total grade-point averages below the minimum expectation of 2.00 may be assigned to Friday afternoon study.

Friday Study Students who earn below a 2.0 academic or total GPA at the end of each trimester may be assigned to Friday study from 3:30-5:00 p.m.

Upper School students are required to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Failure to maintain this required minimum GPA may result in dismissal. The recommendation will be made subsequent to a complete review of the student’s academic and behavioral performance.

GRADING SYSTEM: Upper School Student progress is reported under the headings of two basic categories, Scholarship and Citizenship.

Scholarship Category Grades are recorded on the basis of A, B, C, D, and F for each 12-week period. If students are in academic jeopardy, families will be notified at the mid-point of each trimester. Grading and a student’s GPA are based on the following scale: A+ 98 - 100

C+

80 - 82

A

95 - 97

C

77 - 79

A-

92 - 94

C-

74 - 76

B+ 89 - 91

D+ 71 - 73

B

86 - 88

D

B-

83 - 85

D- 65 - 67

F I

Failure (64 and below) Incomplete

68 - 70

The final average of all courses taken during a given year is used in determining that year’s GPA. This average is used in preparing records for prospective colleges and/or employers and remains a part of the student’s permanent record.

HONOR ROLL: Upper School Honor Roll status in the Upper School is attained when a student records an academic GPA of 3.0 to 3.49; no grade in any class, major or minor, can be lower than C. High Honors are achieved when a student achieves a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Upper School honors and AP (advanced placement) courses receive additional consideration. Both honor roll status GPAs must be met through the aca-

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demic grade point average for major courses only. Grades from other (non-major) courses will not be included in determining the GPA. Honor Roll students are recognized each trimester in assemblies where honor roll pins are awarded. Honor roll students are treated to a special activity or trip determined by the dean.

ACADEMIC PROBATION: Upper School A student is placed on academic probation for the following reasons: one F in any major subject two (2) or more grades below Cand/or a cumulative GPA of less than 2.0.

Students returning in September following summer school and those given a growth year are automatically placed on Academic Probation for the first trimester.

Academic Probation may result in athletic and/or extracurricular ineligibility. Students who are ineligible at the beginning of a trimester will be reviewed at the middle of the trimester.

Parents/guardians will be informed of a student’s academic probationary status by a letter from the Dean. There are many ways that parents can get information and help a student to improve his/her grades. Some ideas are as follows: attend parent-teacher conferences; request a conference with teachers; call teachers, counselors, and RAs on a regular basis; be supportive of the standards of Girard College.

If a student is on academic probation for two or more consecutive trimesters, his/ her re-enrollment contract will be withheld until the end of the school year at which time the Scholarship Reviw Board (see page 28) will determine whether or not the student will be allowed to return.

END-OF-YEAR FAILURE: Upper School Senior administration reserves the right to consider all aspects of any student’s record and determine what is in the best interest of the student and Girard College.

Students with one major course failure for the year and who have acceptable conduct records may make up the failure in a summer school program accredited by the Middle States Association. However, this is only an option. Successful completion of summer course work does not guarantee a Girard College scholarship in the upcoming year. Final determination will be made upon review of the summer transcript and, in some instances, taking a placement exam.

Parents will be responsible for registration and payment for any necessary summer school courses at accredited schools or programs of their choice. Students taking a summer school course must earn a B or better. Parents are responsible for contacting the summer school administrators and re-questing transcripts be sent to the Upper School office by August 15.

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Upper School students who are repeating a grade (growth year) must maintain a 2.5 grade point average, pass all major subjects and be in good disciplinary status. The respective administrative teams will review a student’s progress after each trimester.

When warranted, the committee may recommend that the Scholarship Review Board meet regarding continuation at Girard.

Growth-Year Students and Summer School Students Students offered a growth year are on Academic Probation for the first trimester of the year they are repeating. Thereafter it will be reviewed on a trimester-to-trimester basis. At the end of the second trimester, growth-year students who are not meeting expectations will be reviewed for dismissal. At the end of the school year, growthyear students must have achieved a total GPA of 2.5 and have passed all major subjects; otherwise he/she will be reviewed for dismissal.

Any student who is failing two or more major subjects, or is in any level of academic probation, must attend all after-school evening study sessions, as well as all classes in which the student is experiencing failure/deficiency as determined by the Dean of that division.

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS • Students must pass all major courses for the senior year • All seniors must pass all major courses and electives in the third trimester.

• At the discretion of administration, a senior who fails one course may be permitted to participate in the graduation ceremony and be allowed to make up the failed course that summer. Any senior who has significant disciplinary issues will not be permitted to participate.

• Four years of all full-credit major subject areas must be completed.

• Satisfactory completion of the senior project must be accomplished.

• All Health/PE requirements must be obtained.

• Seniors must be in good standing in both academic and non-academic areas, including citizenship.

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ATTENDANCE/LATE ARRIVALS/SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS Upper and Lower Schools CLASS ATTENDANCE Each student’s primary responsibility is to be in class on time, with needed books, materials and homework in his/her possession. Attendance will be taken in each class with a report sent to the office and recorded. Students who are late or absent from a class must have a pass that indicates the reason for the tardiness or absence. These passes must be returned to the office so that the attendance record is complete and accurate. The student is responsible for returning the pass to the office. Students who are absent from class without a pass, or students who are late to class, are subject to penalties. To miss a class, a student must receive written approval from the teacher prior to the meeting time for that class. Students who are absent for three days or more because of an illness are required to present a note from a physician upon their return to school.

Extended Periods of Excused Absence/Incomplete Grades It is critical that students not miss academic time for any reason short of an emergency. Families must contact the academic dean for permission to miss class.

Except as noted, a student who has more than 10 days of unexcused absences during the school year may lose credit for that school year. If there is a prolonged excused absence because of illness or other extenuating circumstances, deans, in coordination with counseling services, will facilitate the completion of coursework for credit for the school year. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to take the initiative to see that educational time is not lost unnecessarily.

Each situation requires an individual and specific response; nevertheless, the following may be used as guidelines: Upper School Students: • Any Upper School student who cuts homeroom or class will receive an automatic SMR (severe misconduct rating).

• Consultation with teachers who can supply study materials, texts, assignments, etc., and who will advise whether the completed off-campus work – along with remaining class room assignments – will satisfy the course requirements.

• Consultation (mandatory) with the Academic Dean, who may be able to suggest individuals who can tutor the student or a summer school program that could be used to make up missed work.

• Consultation with the Guidance Office and/or Health Services, especially where the returning student may need special assistance during the absence or following his/her return to campus.

• Should a student have an extended absence due to illness, death in the family, or other extenuating circumstances, the student will be allotted an equivalent time after returning to school to make up missing assignments. For example, if a student is absent for two weeks, he/she will have two weeks to complete his/her work. Assignments may be modified to suit the needs of the students and the time allotment, at the teachers’ and administrators’ discretion.

• If the make-up period extends beyond the end of a trimester, then the report card will be marked with I’s (incompletes) until the completion deadline has

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been reached. At that point, the report card will be filled in and mailed to the parent. A final GPA will not be computed using the incompletes, but will be calculated after all grades are recorded.

• An “I” may be given on a report card where there is a legitimate reason for a student not having completed his/her work. The incomplete cannot remain for more than two weeks after a trimester; after that, the “I” becomes an “F”.

An extended excused absence can be granted only if specific arrangements have been made prior to the end of the two-week period.

LOWER SCHOOL STUDENTS • Should a student have an extended absence due to illness, death in the family, or other extenuating circumstances, the student will be allotted an equivalent time after returning to school to make up missing assignments. Assignments may be modified to suit the needs of the students • If the make-up period extends beyond the end of a trimester, then the report card will be marked with I’s (incompletes) until the completion deadline has been reached. At that point, the report card will be filled in and mailed to the parent. A final GPA will not be computed using the incompletes, but will be calculated after all grades are recorded.

• An “I” may be given on a report card where there is a legitimate reason for a student not having completed his/her work. The incomplete cannot remain for more than two weeks after a trimester; after that, the “I” becomes an “F”.

An extended excused absence can be granted only if specific arrangements have been made prior to the end of the two-week period.

Upper and Lower Schools Campus Lateness Policy Only one lateness in returning to campus per trimester will be permitted.

A letter outlining the consequences for late arrival will be sent to the parent/guardian. It is the expectation that all students will arrive back at school on Sundays on time. Late returns are very disruptive to our residential and educational programs.

When returning to campus from the weekend or holidays, it is imperative that you return your student to campus during the following times:

Lower School Upper School

between 6:00-7:15 p.m. grades 7-8 between 6:00-6:30 p.m. grades 9-12 between 6:00-9:00 p.m.

School personnel will contact the families of students who are not in school on time. A pattern of lateness or unexcused absence will be treated as negligence and can place a student’s scholarship in jeopardy. This is a ‘no fault’ policy. The reasons for a late return are not brought into question, but we require compliance with these arrival times.

Late Returns to Residence Halls Parents or guardians of students returning late from special arrangements or long weekends must call their respective deans. Note: Calling does not mean that the student will be excused; only that the school has been informed. Phone calls from students are not acceptable.

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Upper School students who miss homeroom or any class will receive appropriate disciplinary action where warranted. If it is anticipated that transportation or other problem will prevent a timely return, students may return earlier than required.

In the event that a student does not return to school in time for class, and a call is not made to the appropriate instructional office (Lower School 215-787-2656, or Upper School 215-787-2617) explaining the reason for the absence, the student will not be allowed to make up any assessments missed during the time of absence.

Upper and Lower Schools SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS (ATTENDANCE) All requests for taking students off-campus must be personally approved by the academic dean during the school day or the residential dean for extended-day and evening times at least three (3) school/work days in advance. Emergency requests will be reviewed as needed.

Requests must be in writing, including fax or e-mail, or by telephone from the child’s legal guardian/parent to the administrative assistant who will receive a decision from the respective dean. Only the enrolling parent is allowed to make special arrangements or conduct any business regarding student unless authorized in writing by the parent. Also doctor and/or dentist notes on letterhead or letter validating a medical absence are to be turned in upon completion of the appointment. They may be faxed to 215-787-4421 (Lower School) or 215-787-2622 (Upper School).

Administrative assistants or other staff members are not authorized to approve or disapprove a special arrangement request.

Students are not permitted to make their own special arrangements.

For Special Arrangements during the school day: Lower School Academic office Upper School Academic office

215-787-2656 215-787-2617

For Special Arrangements or Absences that will occur after school: Lower School Residential office 215-787-2698 Upper School Residential office 215-787-2610 Students who will miss an announced test or other major assessment – emergency leaves excepted – must take the test, prior to departure unless the teacher approves another arrangement in advance. Any tests, quizzes or assignments missed due to an unexcused absence cannot be made up.

Official documentation may be required to substantiate the need for absences due to bereavement (family or friend), medical appointments, weddings, travel requests, etc.

Requests for off-campus sports participation are eligible for approval only when a specific sport or athletic program is not offered on the Girard campus. Residential and academic deans must approve all requests. Students requesting off-campus sports participation cannot be in any level of academic or disciplinary probation and must be in good standing with Girard administration regarding all instructional or residential matters. Participation cannot be in conflict with the academic day nor with required extended day and/or residential activities.

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Regular Friday Departures/Picking Up Your Student General Friday departure time is between 3:00 and 5:30 p.m.

As part of the Admission process, you submitted an “authorized representative list.” On Fridays, or anytime that your child leaves campus, only the designated individuals who are on that list will be permitted to sign your student out and take him/her off campus.

In case of emergency, you may request that a non-authorized person pick up your child, but “special arrangements” must be made (see page 23). Please notify this person that he or she will be required to show a photo ID to school staff.

If you want another Girard parent to pick up your child on a regular basis, please add him/her to your authorized representative list.

DISCIPLINE PHILOSOPHY All responses to an infraction are based on a student-centered philosophy mindful of the growth and welfare of individual students and their peers. Students must learn to make good decisions, accept responsibility for their actions and to be held accountable. As each student learns to accept fair and consistent discipline, he/ she will eventually internalize it. Students must work hard to develop values and a proper style of behavior. Our main goal is to help instill the values and strategies that will result in constructive student behavior.

Each teacher and residential faculty will establish classroom and residential expectations. Rules and consequences for not following them will be reviewed and reinforced with students. As a means of encouraging appropriate student behavior, verbal warnings will be given for minor violations of any regulations.

Instructional and residential staff may issue the following sanctions: Loss of Privilege and Detention Afternoon or evening detentions may be assigned for an accumulation of warnings or for any violations of school rules. Students who violate school rules may also lose privileges such as participation in school events and activities. Students who repeatedly violate school rules will be referred to the respective dean. Serious or chronic misbehavior will result in a Severe Misconduct Rating (SMR), Restrictions or Probation and place the student’s scholarship in jeopardy.

The divisional administrators will assess an appropriate sanction and inform the family of the student’s misbehavior and consequences. One or more of the following sanctions may be applied: • Writing or reflective project • Community service on campus • Loss of participation in a school trip or activity • Suspension

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Severe Misconduct Rating (SMR) Afternoon detainment with work assignments may be assessed for any continuation of behavior for which warnings and detentions have proven unsuccessful or for behavior that is considered willfully defiant or objectionable. By way of example, a Severe Misconduct Rating may be assessed for the following (Please note these are only examples; other infractions not listed below may also warrant an SMR.): • Aggressive horseplay • Leaving section, class or campus without a pass or permission/authorization; any unexcused absence from a scheduled meeting, activity, detention, academic class, assigned study period or mandatory campus event • Disrespectful or abusive treatment of a fellow student such as name calling, saying unkind things, cursing, using rude, vulgar, or obscene language or gestures, racial or ethnic slurs • Repeated failure to comply with dress code, hair care, grooming and house keeping expectations • Repeatedly returning late from weekend/vacation leave. All students are expected to return by their division’s designated time • Dorm disorder • Being in an unauthorized area or being out of bounds for an extended period of time • Possession of a cell phone, iPod or other restricted items (grades 1-6) • Possession of a cell phone and/or other unauthorized device (grades 1-8) • Misuse of cell phone, iPod or other electronic devices (grades 9-12; see pg. 43-44) • Refusal to comply with reasonable requests that directly impact/disrupt instructional or residential programming • Demonstrating poor response to correction or directions • Talking, laughing or playing during special programs • Displaying disrespectful or inappropriate behavior at any time Restriction A Restriction sanction may be issued and may include evening confinement, being ineligible for athletic competition as well as other age-appropriate restrictions or any combination of these restrictions.

A student may be recommended for Restriction if the behavioral record has reached a point where there is serious concern that the student is appropriate to remain at Girard.

A student may also be recommended for probation for a single flagrant act of misbehavior such as, but not limited to, the following (please note that these are only examples; other infractions not listed below may also be met with probation):

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• Being in an unauthorized area, prolonged absence without authorization, habitual running away or being out of bounds or repeated absence from required Girard functions • Disrespectful or abusive treatment of an adult, flagrant insubordination, defiance, and/or audible or visible disrespect toward any individual • Creating graffiti • The possession of mace, pepper sprays or similar defensive devices • Physical altercation or fight • Continued misconduct following initial receipt of SMR rating Probation Probation is effective for six weeks from the date of the probation letter, but may be removed after four weeks if the student has no further infractions including but not limited to detentions and/or warnings.

Any student who is on academic or disciplinary probation status is prohibited from participating in any of the following activities: extra-curricular events, team sports (including practice), drama, employment, talent shows, campus clubs, any offcampus activity or event, town passes, non-academic class trips, etc. Participation in extra- or co-curricular activities is at the discretion of the administration.

A student will be placed on probation for the following: • Continued gross misconduct while on restriction • Breaking and entering and/or stealing or abetting in the commission of probation violations. Knowingly being aware of or in the presence of some one committing these violations and not reporting the incident(s) to Girard administrators, including academic and residential deans, may be considered a violation based on the totality of circumstances • Shoplifting, possession of stolen property, possession of Girard keys • Harassment or bullying including intimidation, biting, tripping, punching, pulling hair or hitting others, performing or participating in hurtful or malicious pranks, repeatedly annoying other students, repeatedly saying unkind things about others, making threats or indirect threats towards other students. (See Bullying Policy, pg. 38.)

• Any behavior that violates the sexual harassment policy/guidelines • Accessing, sending or possessing pornography; “sexting” inappropriate messages or images • Any behavior that violates the student relationship policies/guidelines. (page 36-37) and the computer acceptable use policy(pages 33-34) • Intentional or malicious destruction or theft of Girard property, the property of a Girard employee or another student • Presence of a member of the opposite sex in the residential living area • Use of matches, lighters, firecrackers, or other incendiary devices or smoking products

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•

• •

Unauthorized publication or communication of passwords, combinations, or other privileged information belonging to another person Use of any unauthorized computer files or network Tampering with school locks, electrical wiring and fire-fighting equipment, or any other unauthorized Girard equipment

• Intentionally deceiving or attempting to deceive Girard staff by impersonating someone else through e-mail, phone calls, letters or other methods • Plagiarism Plagiarism Plagiarism is a very serious matter in schools, colleges, and in the world of work.

At virtually all schools and colleges, including Girard College, software is used to help teachers to identify this kind of dishonesty.

If a student takes original ideas, words, images, etc. from any source (e.g. the Internet, another student, book, television program) and use them in his/her own paper, presentation, lab report (for example), that is cheating/plagiarism UNLESS the student correctly cites the source.

Anyone who does not understand this definition should ask a teacher. Even if you believe you do understand, you should carefully look at all three of the following Web sites for a very clear explanation of plagiarism. http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/plagiarism/ http://www.plagiarism.org/ http://www.plagiarism.org/plag_article_what_is_plagiarism.html It is very important for a student’s Girard College classes, for his/her college career, and for the future that everyone understands what plagiarism is and that it is completely unacceptable.

Suspension Any student found in a residential hall during the school day or in the residential hall of a member of the opposite sex after hours will automatically be suspended, as will any student initiating or sustaining a physically hostile act towards another person, or intentionally causing physical injury to another. Any student found to be in violation of Girard’s disciplinary expectations may be suspended for a period of time determined by the administrator who is addressing the infraction. Suspension is used as an opportunity for reflection; therefore, a suspension should be restricted to the minimum extent possible. Senior administrators must approve any suspension greater than two (2) days.

In all cases of suspension, a re-entry conference must be held with the divisional residential and/or instructional administrator on the appointed day and time. The legal guardian or parent must accompany the suspended student and attend the re-entry conference.

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Accumulation of suspensions for lateness can cause progressive disciplinary penalties including probation status that may lead to dismissal from Girard.

Should a student be involved in serious misconduct such as posing an immediate threat to the life or property of any person or the orderly operation of Girard, the student may be summarily suspended from Girard pending a hearing on the infraction. Such a hearing is to be held within five school days of the suspension, unless changed at the request of the parent or guardian or by Girard for good reason. The length of any suspension shall be determined by senior administration.

Dismissal When a student reaches this level of discipline due to a single incident or continued severe misconduct, the student may be recommended for a dismissal hearing before the Scholarship Review Board. Points and further consequences assessed will be decided by the SRB at the conclusion of the hearing. The following acts of misconduct serve as criteria for making this determination: • Continued misconduct while on probation • Using, selling, distributing or possessing alcoholic beverages, marijuana, or any illegal or controlled substance, narcotic or drug; Being aware of or in the presence of someone committing these violations and not reporting the incident to Girard administration including academic and residential deans may be considered a probation offense based on the circumstances.

• Theft, possession or use of a Girard key, including a master key without express permission from a member of the senior administration • Arson or possession or use of an explosive • Possession of a weapon, designed and/or constructed for use as a lethal object; use or attempted use of such object or any other object that can be used to inflict serious bodily harm, including, but not limited to, the following: air rifle, starter or pellet pistol, blackjack, knife, ammunition • Unauthorized alteration of any official Girard document or theft or destruction of such a document such as a transcript, report card, detention record sheet, or grade book • Intimate sexual activity of any degree or level, whether consensual or not • Sexual intimidation or graphic suggestions (text, e-mails, spoken or otherwise) • Using recording device of any kind (phone, camera, or other) to record an act of violence, harassment, illicit drug use, or any inappropriate or sexual conduct • Cyber bullying of any kind • Any intentional and unsolicited sharing of another’s personal information, images or videos (see computer acceptable use policy, pg. 33-34) • Willful humiliation of another person • Intentional slander about another person’s character or behavior • Conduct that may threaten the life or physical well being of others • Conduct that brings Girard College into disrepute

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• Instigating or participating in individual or group assault(s) and/or aggravated assault(s) • Other acts that violate local, state or federal criminal laws If the act a student is accused of poses an immediate danger of bodily harm to any person or threatens to disrupt the normal operation of Girard, the appropriate administrator may remove or suspend the student immediately. When this happens, the parent/guardian is contacted; the reason for suspension is explained, and arrangements are made for the student to return home.

Additionally a suspension letter is given to the student to take home. The parent or guardian will then be informed via letter of the date, location and time of the scholarship review meeting. The procedures and protocol for the meetings are also explained.

If the SRB decides to retain the student, resulting consequences will be determined at the conclusion of the hearing.

Points System to Scholarship Review The points system described below is intended to address the occasional situation involving students who repeatedly receive Severe Misconduct Ratings or who are frequently placed on Probation or Academic Probation. This tracking procedure does not replace any other means by which students may have their scholarship reviewed, for example, serious academic deficiencies, or a single serious disciplinary infraction.

Severe Misconduct Rating = 1 point Restriction = 2 points Disciplinary Probation = 3 points A student is automatically scheduled to be reviewed by the Scholarship Review Board when: 6 points are recorded for any single school year.

9 points are recorded for any two consecutive school years.

Note: Points will be assessed, recorded and tracked. The Points System accumulates all points, into one system, from both the instructional area and the residential area in the Lower and Upper Schools.

Scholarship Review Board The president appoints the Scholarship Review Board annually. The board meets to consider the cases of students who have been recommended by administration.

Reports and evaluations are obtained from all staff who work with the student.

At the beginning of each hearing, the SRB chairperson explains to the parent/ guardian and student the procedures of the hearing. During the hearing, the student and parent/guardian are given an opportunity to explain the behavior or circumstances that necessitated the need for the hearing. All board members have the right to question the student. After the hearing, the board reviews the information and votes to either retain or dismiss the student. The recommendation is presented to the president for final approval of the recommendation. The student and parent/guardian are informed of the decision via a phone call and letter.

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UPPER SCHOOL HONOR CODE AND COUNCIL At Girard College we emphasize a belief in mutual trust and honesty. Integrity is at the heart of our core values and everything we do on a daily basis, whether in academics or student life. As a school, our Honor Code supports our beliefs that a person will respond to the trust that is given to him/her, and that every Girard College student has the right to live in an environment that embodies the school’s core values whether in academic affairs or student life.

The Honor Code supports us in our endeavor to ensure that academic and personal honesty are held in the highest regard, and that deviations from these expectations will be appropriately addressed.

The following academic violations are forbidden by the Honor Code: • Cheating “Cheating includes the actual giving or receiving of any unauthorized aid or assistance or the actual giving or receiving of any unfair advantage on any form of academic work, or attempts thereof. Such acts include, but are not limited to, deception; the use of talking, signs, or gestures during a quiz; copying from another student or allowing the copying of an individual assignment; passing test or quiz information during a class period or from one class period to members of another class period with the same teacher; submission of pre-written writing assignment at times when such assignments are supposed to be written in class; illegally exceeding time limits on timed tests, quizzes, or assignments; unauthorized use of study aids, notes, books, data, or other information; computer fraud; sabotaging the projects or experiments of other students; use of electronic devices during an assessment.”

• Plagiarism “Plagiarism includes the copying of the language, structure, programming, computer code, ideas, and/or thoughts of another and passing off the same as one’s own original work, or attempts thereof. Such acts include, but are not limited to, having a parent or another person write an essay (including the purchase of works on-line) or do a project which is then submitted as one’s own work; failing to use proper documentation and bibliography. Girard College Upper School employs a plagiarism detection service through Turnitin.com.”

• Falsification/Lying “Falsification includes the statement of any untruth, either verbally or in writing, with respect to any circumstances relevant to one’s academic work, or attempts thereof. Such acts include, but are not limited to, the forgery of official signatures; tampering with official records; fraudulently adding, deleting, or manipulating information on academic work, or fraudulently changing an examination or other academic work after the testing period or due date of the assignment; lying or failing to give complete information to a teacher or an administrator; the school work or materials of another student or the instructional materials of a teacher.”

The following Residential Life violations are forbidden by the Honor Code: • Lying • Refusing to cooperate with an investigation

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• Rude and disrespectful treatment of a fellow Girard community member, whether a student or an adult • Bullying • Harassment • Stealing • Defacing another’s property • Any other violations that are deemed unbecoming a Girard College student.

The Upper School Honor Council is in place to support the Honor Code.

The Honor Council will be comprised of: Academic Dean or his appointee, the Student Body President, two students chosen by an election (first preference given to a senior and a junior, both of whom must be an honor roll student or have the backing from their teachers saying they are making every effort in class), and one faculty member from the instructional area. The Honor Council will meet as needed regarding referrals and will be called together by the Academic Dean.

All students will be required to sign a contract stating that they will abide by the honor code.

If a student is suspected of violating the Honor Code, the staff person will complete an Honor Code referral. The referral will be handed in to the Academic Dean. The student will choose from one of three options on the referral: 1.) Admit the violation and accept the sanction given by the Honor Council.

2.) Admit the violation and accept the sanction given by the Honor Council; in addition, the student asks for and is given the opportunity to address the Honor Council before a decision is made regarding a sanction.

3.) Deny the violation at which point an investigation will take place by the Academic Dean, whose findings will be brought to the Honor Council. The student has the right to submit a written statement to the Honor Council.

Because there are two types of Honor Code violations – Academic and Residential Life – there are two types of consequences.

I. Consequences to academic Honor Code violations may include: First Offense: The assignment in question receives a grade of zero. Student will be assessed with Probation and two points toward scholarship review. Student will be excused from any honor societies of which he/she is a current member as well as from class office/ SGA. Student may not apply to any honor societies or run for any SGA/class office for 12 months after the first offense.

Second Offense: The assignment in question receives a grade of zero. The student will receive a Final Probationary Rating and three points towards scholarship review. The student will be assigned 15 community service hours. Student will be excused from any honor societies of which he/she is a current member as well as from class office/SGA.

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Student is ineligible to apply for any honor societies or run for any student offices for the remainder of his/her Upper School career.

Third Offense: The assignment in question receives a grade of zero. The student will receive a Final Probationary Rating, assessed three points and be automatically suspended pending a hearing by the Scholarship Review Board. Should the student be allowed to retain his/her scholarship, he/she will be assigned 20 community service hours.

II. Consequences to Residential Life Honor Code violations will be determined after reviewing each individual situation.

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COMPUTER ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY Due to the ever-changing nature of the technology involved with the Internet and computers, Girard College reserves the right to modify this policy at any time.

Internet access is available to the Girard College community for “educational and school business purposes” only to aid in seamless learning; this includes classroom activities, career development, research, and high-quality self-discovery activities, which will be limited to specific amounts of time determined by grade level and system resources. Non-educational use is a privilege and is allowed with the permission of the supervisor. It is the policy of Girard College that all use of the Internet, and the internal e-mail system is a privilege. Sanctions will be at the discretion of the school administrator or dean.

Girard College Limitation of Liability and Due Process • Girard College is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of the information obtained or stored on the system and on the Internet.

Girard College will not be responsible or accountable for financial or contractual obligations arising through the use of the computer system Internet.

• Girard College will cooperate fully with local, state, and/or federal officials in any investigation concerning or relating to any illegal activities conducted through the Girard College system.

• Girard College has acquired and is using software designed to block access to and from certain Internet sites. Although the software is updated frequently, it cannot block 100% of the sites that are inappropriate for student use.

•

System users have a limited privacy expectation in the contents of their personal files on the Girard College system. Routine maintenance and/or monitoring of the system may lead to the discovery that a user has violated, or is violating, the Acceptable Use Policy, the school disciplinary code, or the law. An individual search can and will be conducted if there is reasonable suspicion that a user has violated the law or the school disciplinary code.

System Security •

Users are responsible for the use of their individual account and should take all reasonable precautions to prevent others from being able to use their account. Under no condition should a user provide their password to another person.

• Users will notify the grade level computer teacher/lab supervisor or another faculty member if they have identified a possible security problem.

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Inappropriate Conduct • Users will not use discriminatory, obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, inflammatory, threatening, disrespectful, or offensive language.

• Users will not post information that, if acted upon, could cause damage or danger of disruption to the system, an individual, or the school.

•

Users will not harass another person. The definition of harassment is persistently acting in a manner that distresses or annoys another person or otherwise violates their privacy, reputation or character. If a user is told to stop sending e-mail messages to them or about them, they must stop.

Respect for Privacy • Users will not re-post or forward a message that was sent to them without obtaining permission from the author of the message.

• Users will not post information about another person.

Respecting Resources and Resource Limits • Users will use the system only for educational and school business purposes.

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Users will not download or install software applications on school-owned laptops or desktops without the approval of the technology department.

This includes (but is not limited to) peer-to-peer/file-sharing programs, games and screensavers. Staff members who require the installation of software for educational or operational use must submit a request to their supervisor, who will then forward it to the technology department Help Desk for review and approval. If the software installation is not approved, the technology department will recommend an alternative solution.

• Users will not store personal music files, photos or text and graphic files on the home drive or the shared O:Drive.

• Users of campus-based e-mail will not post chain letters or engage in “spamming.” Spamming is sending annoying or unnecessary messages to a large number of people.

• If a user intentionally damages equipment they may face disciplinary consequences as stated in the student handbook with respect to vandalism.

Social Networking Sites The acceptable use of any social networking site is covered by this acceptable use policy, the acceptable use policies of the site and the student handbook. In the event these policies contradict each other, the Student Handbook will take precedence.

Inappropriate photos, blogs, videos, or comments will result in consequences as outlined in the Parent-Student Handbook.

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CODE OF LIVING & CORE VALUES The Code of Living is a valuable tool in addressing a number of important issues on campus including health, respect for others, sensitivity to religious practices, and many other aspects of student life. The Code is useful both on and off campus.

Students are encouraged to abide by the principles spelled out in this document and to refer to it frequently.

GIRARD COLLEGE CORE VALUES The guidelines of the Code of Living are based on Girard’s Core Values: Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Self-discipline and Compassion.

Girard students exhibit courteous behavior toward Girard community members and visitors in all forms of communications.

• Use proper greetings and responses.

• Listen completely to all instruction when appropriate.

• Allow people adequate time to complete their sentences.

• When asked for information, give specific, complete, and concise answers.

Girard students respect the religious convictions, beliefs, property and individual differences of all persons.

• Ask permission to use something that does not belong to you.

• The various faiths of all people will be embraced and celebrated when appropriate.

• As a diverse community, students will respect the religious practices of others.

• Everyone will display respectful traits/characteristics.

• Students will learn to live harmoniously with each other, respecting each other’s space and property.

Girard students meet the expectations of classroom teachers and residential staff.

• Students will complete assignments.

• Students will participate in discussions, classroom exercises, campus activities, and all campus-required events.

• Students will maintain high academic standards as determined by the school.

• Girard students honor commitments made to participate in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.

• Students will attend practices regularly and will be punctual for all co-curricular and extra-curricular events.

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Girard students respect the authority of all faculty and staff.

• When an adult is speaking, a student will respond in a proper manner.

• Students will respond to a request in an appropriate and respectful manner.

Girard students will be well groomed at all times.

• Hair will be neatly groomed, at all times.

• Students will maintain proper dress for specific occasions as stipulated.

• Students will continually maintain the proper wear and care of Girard uniforms.

• Students will maintain good hygiene Girard students will exhibit good sportsmanship at all times.

• Students will maintain proper behavior en route to, during and returning from events.

• Students will be gracious in defeat and magnanimous in victory.

• Friendly rivalry without any display of physical aggression towards the opposing team will be demonstrated at all times.

• Students will encourage Girard teams and cheer them to victory in all sports and activities.

Girard students will be prepared for all activities.

• Students will wear appropriate attire for the event.

• Students will arrive prior to the start of the event.

• Students will report to classes, meals, and study on time.

Girard students strive consistently towards academic excellence.

• Students will do their personal best in all endeavors.

• A student will aspire to the honor roll and other forms of recognition.

• A student will always acknowledge the great and valuable person she/he is.

STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS An important responsibility of policy makers at Girard is the development of statements of behavioral expectations to which all will be held accountable. In no area of life in a co-educational boarding school is the responsibility of faculty and staff more important than in the policies governing behavior between male and female students. Girard recognizes that sexuality is expressed in many ways, some appropriate and acceptable, and others inappropriate and unacceptable. Students need to recognize this difference and the basis upon which their behavior will be judged.

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Sexuality is an important part of human development. Girard recognizes its obligation to assist all students to understand, appreciate and value this part of their being and to learn how to express this part of themselves in their relationships with others in ways which reflect respect for themselves and the other person, and which do not offend those around them.

Students are not permitted to engage in any of the following behaviors: • Kissing, necking, inappropriate hugging.

• Displaying of affection such as kissing games, using sexual gestures, suggestive dancing • Writing or sending vulgar or obscene notes, letters, texts, e-mails, or any other digital messages.

• Exchanging letters, which display warnings, hateful feelings, or threats.

• Possessing sexual paraphernalia.

• Using sexually suggestive language, sexual slang terms, profanity, and obscene and vulgar language, along with any words or terminology not considered ladylike or gentlemanly.

• Fondling or touching ones own or another student’s intimate body parts.

• Exposing one’s private body parts.

Girard advocates and promotes the practice of sexual abstinence. Intimate sexual activity is unacceptable under all circumstances and students engaging in such activity will be disciplined. In that case, separation from Girard is a likely consequence.

Depending upon individual circumstances, students who violate the above guidelines may receive age-appropriate counseling or other disciplinary actions.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY Girard will take action to prevent and eliminate sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It is subject to disciplinary action including suspension and withdrawal of scholarship.

Sexual harassment includes but is not limited to: • Comments of a sexual nature including lewd and suggestive remarks about dress or behavior.

• Any act that contributes to a learning environment that is hostile, intimidating, offensive, or adverse to students because of the sexual nature of the conduct.

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BULLYING POLICY Girard will take action to prevent and eliminate all forms of bullying. Bullying is subject to disciplinary action including suspension and withdrawal of scholarship.

Bullying is “an abuse of power by one or more person(s) through repeated hurtful or aggressive behavior with the intention to cause emotional or physical harm to another person. Bullying can range from physical violence to verbal abuse and being excluded from social groups. It also includes abusive text messages, e-mails or nasty notes put on websites (cyber-bullying.)

• If anyone feels that he/she is being bullied, it is vital that he/she tells someone about it. Do not suffer in silence. Tell a teacher, a residential advisor or any adult at school.

• Students who see someone being bullied should tell someone about it. Doing nothing allows the bully to win and makes the victim suffer longer.

• Students who are bullying others are encouraged to talk to a trusted adult to get help and support to stop bullying behavior.

RESIDENTIAL LIFE Girard College strives to prepare its students for advanced education and to develop students who are productive world citizens. Residential Life plays a key role in this development. Living in our boarding school community provides education that is just as valuable as what is learned during the academic day. Supervised by a diverse, supportive, nurturing residential faculty, Girard students are encouraged to excel, to try new things, to get along with many kinds of people, to learn about themselves and to find a place in the community. The results include personal growth, increased confidence and superior preparation for college and life.

STUDY HALL GUIDELINES Every student will attend scheduled supervised study periods. Details of these study arrangements will be consistent with age, maturation and need as determined by the instructional and residential staff.

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Students should be prompt for study hall.

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Students should have all necessary materials in their possession.

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Students should sit properly at their desks and apply themselves to academic materials as governed, or restricted, by the person supervising.

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There is to be no student visitation between rooms during study without the prior approval of the residential faculty.

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Telephone calls may not be made or received during study. Study will continue until officially ended by the supervising residential faculty. Students are encouraged to work vigorously without wasting time.

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Food and drinks may not be consumed, ordered or received by students during the assigned study periods.

• Electronic devices may be permitted at the discretion of the study hall monitor.

Residential Support Girard students receive support in both study and time-management skills.

Students are assisted daily in an organized, structured study period. For the Upper School programs, study is scheduled during the evening hours. Upper School students have mandatory study four nights a week. For the Lower School, study periods alternate between afternoon and evening depending on the schedule of after-school activities. During these study periods residential advisors closely monitor and assist students with their assignments.

Residential Marking System There are three 12-week grading periods. Students are evaluated by their Residential Advisors in interpersonal skills based on domains established in the Common Core State Standards: Self-Awareness and Self-Management; Establish and Maintaining Relationships; Decision-Making and Responsible Behavior. Students will receive progress reports each trimester that will indicate: 4 - Exceptional 3 - Effective 2 - Acceptable 1 - Developing Living Space It is important that students develop habits of neatness and learn to care for personal and Girard property.

Student rooms, common living areas, lockers and wardrobes are to be maintained in good order. Writing and/or painting on walls, desks or other furnishings are not permitted. Gummed stickers, nails, tacks, staples, scotch tape and other permanent markers are not to be used for decorative purposes without authorization. Irons, curling irons, and other electrical appliances (Upper School only) and extension cords represent a fire hazard and are not to be used without prior approval of the supervising residential faculty.

(Note: Lower School students may not use any electrical appliances.)

Posters, calendars, drawings, etc., displayed in student living areas are to be in good taste. Depictions of the human body should conform to standards that govern the manner of dress at a public beach or swimming pool. The cost of correcting damage to Girard property in student living areas in excess of that expected from normal use will be billed to the responsible parties. If the responsible parties cannot be

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identified, the cost of the repair will be equally divided among the students who share the room or who reside in the building, depending upon the circumstances.

All resident halls and common living areas must be in proper order by 8:00 a.m. and are to be maintained in good order throughout the day. Beds are to be made carefully every morning. Floors and bathroom fixtures are to be cleaned, furniture dusted and wastebaskets emptied daily. Closets, too, are to be kept in good order. Window screens are not to be adjusted for any reason. Food and drink are prohibited on the outside windowsills. Lights, fans, and radios are to be turned off when leaving a room for an extended period of time.

Dress and Personal Grooming The appearance of all Girard students must, at all times, be neat and clean.

Outerwear may not be worn in school unless the administration deems the temperature to be appropriate. When allowed, outerwear such as hoodies must be worn under a Girard College blazer.

School-Day Dress • • • •

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Body piercing (other than the ears for earrings) is not permitted.

Visible tattooing is not permitted.

Girard-issued clothing will be worn during class periods.

Student’s shoes must have solid backs and must be solid black, brown or burgundy. (Seniors may wear navy blue shoes.) Walking shoes in the colors mentioned are permitted; sneakers may be worn for PE classes only. High heels, open-toed shoes, or platform shoes are not permitted. Change to appropriate footwear will be required immediately.

Male students must wear dress slacks, dress belt, age-appropriate shirt, tie, blazer, dress shoes and socks to special events. Female students must wear a skirt, jumper, slacks, blouse, blazer, dress shoes and socks to special events.

Chapel dress is to be worn for Chapel and other special events as required. All clothing needs to be neat, clean and pressed.

Appropriate outerwear, governed by weather conditions, is to be worn.

Lower School students may wear one small pair of small earrings no larger than a dime. Upper School students may wear appropriate sized hoop and post earrings no larger than what can fit entirely within a 1.5-inch circle. No more than two earrings per ear are permitted.

Lower School maximum earring size = dime-size

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Upper School maximum earring size = 1.5 inches in diameter

• Students leaving campus during the school day on class field trips, special arrangements, etc., shall wear school uniforms unless otherwise notified.

• School-day dress is required for breakfast and for laundry pick-ups.

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No pajamas, athletic sweat suits, spaghetti straps, tube tops, shorts, form-fitting clothing, etc., may be worn as normal dress or as undergarments with other clothing, unless otherwise notified by a division change for specific occasions or events.

After-School Dress • Students must change from their school uniforms to appropriate after-school clothing immediately upon reporting to their respective residence halls at the end of the school day.

• Body piercing (other than for earrings) is not permitted.

• Visible tattoos are not permitted.

• Students in grades 7-12 may wear home clothing if it is neat and in good condition.

• Wave caps, do rags, bandanas, headscarves and sweatbands may not be worn outside or in public areas.

• In early fall and late spring, appropriate shorts may be worn so long as they are a maximum of 3 inches above the knee. Bicycle or similar form-fitting shorts or pants are not permissible apparel at any time.

• Appropriate outerwear, governed by weather conditions, is to be worn.

• Abbreviated tops (tank tops, halters, bare midriff, spaghetti straps, tube tops) and form-fitting clothing may not be worn.

• Swimsuits must be one piece and modest in style.

• No pictures, slogans, profanity, gestures, or any form of inappropriate wording, etc. may be on clothing.

• Any staff member has the right to require a student to change inappropriate clothing.

Personal Grooming/Hair Care It is the responsibility of the student’s family to provide appropriate care.

Regulations for Boys Hair is to be clean, neat and well groomed, and the length is not to impair the vision of the wearer or other students. Facial hair and sideburns are to be kept neat and trimmed at all times.

Regulations for Girls Hairstyles should be easy to maintain with minimal, age-appropriate assistance from the residential advisor and should be neat and clean at all times.

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Hair Coloring Female and male students may choose to have some solid-tone colored dye in their hair; however, it must be a natural color, tasteful, in moderation, and not detracting from their overall personal appearance. The color of extensions, weaves, etc., must be the same color/shade as the hair color. The deans are given the authority to determine hair grooming/color appropriateness. Interpretation and enforcement of these regulations is the responsibility of the deans.

Any student who wants to dye his/her hair for a specific event must seek approval from a dean prior to the event to avoid disciplinary action Laundry and Tailor Shop All students must be properly fitted by laundry staff in Girard-issued clothing to ensure that they are appropriately attired in clothing that is neat, clean, and in good condition, and to wear their clothing in the appropriate manner.

Clothing and bed linens for the Lower School students are routinely picked up and delivered to their living spaces on a scheduled basis. It is critical that LS students cooperate with their resident advisors in using the dirty laundry bags and hampers in order for dirty laundry to be returned on schedule and clean clothing to be returned to the dormitories on schedule.

Clothing and bed linens for Upper School students are issued to them directly from the laundry facility; students should return these items to the laundry on a regularly scheduled basis for cleaning.. It is also the responsibility of Upper School students to retrieve their clean clothing from the laundry using the published schedule.

Each grade will be assigned a specific day and time when they may receive service from the laundry. Depending on the school schedule, the laundry pick-up days may be adjusted for special events.

All students (Upper School or Lower School) who have clothing or cleanliness emergencies must also retain a pass to go to the laundry and procure clothing to address such emergencies.

Laundering clothing at home and not utilizing the Girard College laundry service is strongly discouraged. Students are accountable for the possession of Girard-issued clothing and laundry. Parents/guardians whose students have lost or damaged clothing will be billed.

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PERSONAL PROPERTY POLICIES Respecting Others’ Property Students must respect the property of others. The unauthorized possession of another’s property is a serious offense and will be dealt with accordingly.

• Students are discouraged from borrowing or lending money/personal property or selling personal property.

• Students are not permitted to have inappropriate literature, pornography, and or vulgar or explicit materials including song lyrics or music.

• Student ownership or possession of laser pointers, televisions, or beepers/pagers is not permitted on campus.

• Students are expected to safeguard personal property and treat Girard property with respect. Items of value should be in one’s personal possession or locked in a wardrobe or locker.

UPPER & LOWER SCHOOL EXPENSIVE ITEMS GUIDELINES Students should not have large sums of money or other valuables on campus.

Students should turn in their personal money to their residential advisor for safekeeping immediately upon returning to campus. Expensive items such as, but not limited to, cell phones, iPods, cameras, radios, hand-held video games, lap tops, tablet computers, or designer apparel (including but not limited to Uggs and other expensive footwear) that are brought to campus and lost, misplaced or stolen are not the responsibility of Girard College. If this recommendation is not followed, Girard assumes no responsibility in the event of loss, and there will be no reimbursement for said item. We discourage bringing these items to school at all.

LOWER SCHOOL EXPENSIVE ITEMS GUIDELINES Lower School students may not have expensive items on campus. Lower School students may not have cell phones or any electronic items on campus. This includes video games, game cartridges/disks and game systems (i.e.: XBox, Wii, DS, PSP, etc.), cameras, video cameras, phones, iPods, tablets, e-readers, iPads, laptops and all other hand-held electronics, games or music devices, CD players, boom boxes and/ or radios and any device that can access the Internet.

Guidelines for Cell Phones and other Electronic Devices 1. LOWER SCHOOL: Cell phones are not permitted on campus during the school week, no matter what the cost.

Lower School parents/guardians of students in grades 1 through 6 may make application to the Lower School deans for extenuating circumstances based on weekend travel/ visitation arrangements. If approved, students must turn their cell phone into their RA or Dean upon return to campus each Sunday. They will retrieve their phone each Friday.

(See guidelines on next page for seventh- and eighth-grade students).

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2. UPPER SCHOOL students in grades 7-8 are not permitted to have cell phones during the school week.

Our week begins Sunday evening when the child checks in with his/her residential advisor and ends on Friday when he/she checks out. Students in grades 7-8 who bring a cell phone to campus on Sunday evening must turn the phone in for safekeeping upon arrival. The phone will be returned on Friday afternoon. Grade 1-8 students are not allowed to use a cell phone between check-in and check-out.

Violation of this rule may result in loss of the phone and suspension.

3. UPPER SCHOOL students in grades 9-12 are allowed to have cell phones, but using the phone depends on the student’s grade and time of day. We encourage students not to have expensive electronics, so we strongly suggest that you do not buy an expensive phone for your student. Please note that Girard College is not responsible for lost or stolen student property.

4. For those grade 9-12 students who are permitted to have cell phones, the phones should not be visible or audible during the school day, during meals or after lights out, nor should they be used to record happenings at Girard College.

As educators, we have found that cell phones are a distraction in the educational and residential environment. Inappropriate use or misuse of cell phones or other electronic devices will most likely result in suspension.

GUIDELINES FOR USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES Student electronics (video games, radios, televisions, electronic games, etc.) may be played outdoors only with earphones. When played indoors, the volume should not disrupt the lives of others. Radios, MP3 players, DVD players, iPods are not allowed in the school buildings, dining rooms, auditoriums or Chapel. These items may be confiscated if seen. Headphones are not to be worn during inappropriate times and are to be removed before entering the instructional buildings, dining room, study or Chapel.

Television sets are provided for the use of students in common areas. Students may not have individual television sets. Television use after lights-out will be result in suspension of TV privileges.

Television, Movie, Video Programming Guidelines A committee of administrators, counselors, residential faculty, students, and parents has developed the following guidelines. STUDENTS WHO BRING MOVIES BACK TO CAMPUS ON SUNDAY EVENINGS MUST FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES. In addition to the following, please note that at no time may a ‘bootlegged’ movie or an unrated movie be shown. Movies/videos should never interfere with the homework or bedtime schedules.

Lower School Programming Guidelines • Students in grades 1-6 may watch G and PG movies.

• PG-13 movies are not to be shown at any time.

• Students in grades 1-6 should be shown age-appropriate movies/videos.

Adult-situation movies should not be shown.

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• Movies that depict vulgar language, sexual situations, and graphic language are not to be shown.

• Movies or programming with excessive violence are prohibited.

• This also includes off-campus trips.

Upper School Programming Guidelines • Students in grades 7-12 may watch G, PG and some PG-13 movies.

• R-rated movies must be previewed by the Residential Dean • Expurgated “R” movies/videos that are age-appropriate may be shown provided excessive vulgar language is not present.

• All movies shown should have some academic or socially redeeming qualities.

• All NC-17 films and unrated films are prohibited.

ON-CAMPUS FOOD POLICY Students are not permitted to bring large quantities of food to the campus from weekend, overnight or holiday leave. There are snack machines and snack food available after school. Upper School students may be allowed to “order-out” after 7 p.m. and prior to 10 p.m. on designated nights, if approved by the Upper School Residential Dean.

To ensure a healthy and insect-free environment for all students we ask that the following rules are observed: • Small quantities of food must be kept in airtight containers.

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If large quantities of food are brought to the campus, the food will be confiscated and stored in a secure area and returned so students may take it home on the weekend. Please check backpacks and belongings to ensure that large quantities of food are not being brought to campus.

• Parents must make Special Arrangements for bringing birthday cakes to campus. Because of food allergies, parents must purchase store-made cakes rather than bring homemade cakes to school.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CLASS RINGS Arrangements for the fitting and purchasing of class rings are made in the fall of the junior year.

LOST OR DAMAGED GIRARD PROPERTY Textbooks, library books, musical instruments, locks, Girard-issued clothing, athletic equipment and uniforms, Boy Scout equipment and all other Girard property issued for temporary use are to be returned in a satisfactory condition.

Where equipment or any other Girard property is lost or damaged, the student or students responsible will be charged expected to pay for the damage or loss.

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Lost Girard property should be reported promptly to the appropriate instructional or residential administrator. Following the report, the parent or guardian will be billed to reimburse the school for the lost property. Report cards and transcripts will be withheld until all bills are paid.

STUDENT USE OF MOTOR VEHICLES Girard does not permit student-owned or operated motorized vehicles, including automobile and motorcycles, on its property.

RESIDENTIAL STUDENT WORK PROGRAM A duty list of work squad assignments will be posted in each residence building.

Failure to fulfill these obligations may result in additional assignments and/or appropriate disciplinary action.

DINING HALL EXPECTATIONS AND GUIDELINES Student conduct and noise level in the dining rooms should be consistent with what would be acceptable in a public restaurant. Common courtesy requires that diners be well groomed and dressed appropriately, practice good table manners, and act at all times in a manner that respects the sensibilities and privacy of others.

Students are expected to attend all meals when on campus. Food and drink should never be removed from the dining rooms.

• Clothing should be appropriate for wearing in a public restaurant, should be worn appropriately, and should be clean and in good condition. For example: outerwear jackets and coats, and caps are to be removed; shirts are to be worn buttoned and tucked-in; sandal and slippers are not to be worn; undershirts are not acceptable • Appearance should be checked before entering the dining room. Hands and face should be clean and hair combed.

• Students should enter the dining room quietly and in an orderly manner.

• Outerwear should be removed before taking one’s seat and placed neatly on the back of one’s chair. Headsets should not be worn in the dining room.

• Chairs should be pulled up close to the table and a napkin should be placed on your lap before eating.

• Table conversations should be quiet and restricted to others at the same table (avoid loud talking, arguing, laughing, singing or talking about subjects that are upsetting or offensive to others). Never talk or call to others at a distance.

All at the table should be welcome to engage in the conversation. Girard guests who sit down at a table should be welcomed and included in the conversation.

• Talking with food in one’s mouth is inappropriate and distracting and should be avoided, as should playing with one’s food, silverware, dishes, napkins, salt and pepper shakers, napkin holder, etc.

• Reaching in front of someone is considered to be poor manners. Requests for something to be passed should be made politely (the use of the phrases “thank

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you” and “please” are common courtesy). Articles being passed should be done so hand-to-hand and not slid across the table.

• Foods that are not generally considered to be “finger foods” should be eaten with utensils; fingers should never be used to push food onto an eating utensil.

• Students should never use fingers/hands to scoop food onto utensils.

• Breads should be cut or broken in half before buttering. A small piece should be broken off a roll before buttering.

• The responsible person(s) should clean up accidental spills (floor or table promptly.

• Before leaving the dining room, students should check to see that the table is left in an acceptable condition (clean, soiled dishes and napkins removed, etc.) and chairs are pushed under the table.

COMMUNITY SERVICE Community Service is valued at Girard College. We honor the legacy of Stephen Girard, our founder, who said “My deeds must be my life ...” Additionally, community service is a natural outgrowth of our Five Core Values (respect, resonsibility, integrity, self-discipline, compassion). Students are motivated and encouraged to volunteer in their community, both on and off the Girard campus.

During their senior year, students may accumulate fewer hours of community service; instead they are expected to primarily focus on their senior project hours of completion. As part of the senior project, and during their senior year, all seniors must spend a minimum of 40 hours on an approved program. This is a graduation requirement. A dean will oversee the work and make periodic checks of student performance and progress.

Upper School-approved community service programs might include, but are not limited to, activities such as the following: On Campus

Off Campus

Concert Ushers

Hospital Volunteers

Founder’s Day Guides

Local Neighborhood Volunteers

Mentoring

Church Volunteer Work

Tutoring

Volunteering at a Community Center,

Peer Mediators

YMCA or YWCA

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ACTIVITIES Eligibility Students in good academic and conduct standing may participate in interscholastic and co-curricular activities (hereafter referred to as activities).

Students on academic probation are not eligible to participate in activities, but are allowed to participate in practice. If/when a student, at the mid-trimester point, has no D’s or F’s, he/she will become eligible for the remainder of that trimester.

Should a student be placed on disciplinary probation, the student will lose eligibility to participate in sports until she/he is removed from probation.

Campus Authorized Leave Passes All students in grades 1 through 11 will participate in on-campus required extended school day programming.

Because of this after-school programming, authorized leave passes are a privilege only for seniors in good or excellent academic and citizenship standing who have parental/guardian authorization. “Town passes” are granted only with approval by the senior RA and the Residential Dean.

Students use town passes for various reasons but most often to buy personal items and toiletries. Students who abuse the town pass privilege (e.g. late return or going to a destination other than that noted on the town pass request form) will have their town pass privilege restricted and will be subject to disciplinary action.

To ensure that our students maintain their academic grade point averages when they return from summer vacation, town passes may not be issued prior to the middle of the first trimester.

Student Employment Girard recognizes that there is value in work and that some Upper School students may need part-time employment because of economic necessity. However, Girard expects each student to give priority to completion of graduation requirements.

Additionally, students are encouraged to participate actively in Girard’s extracurricular and community service programs while taking full advantage of their annual scholarship. If off-campus employment is necessary, arrangements should be made for weekends and vacation periods. If this is not possible, there are a limited number of jobs available on campus during the week for students 14 years of age or older who are in satisfactory academic and behavioral status. No employment arrangements will be considered if a student is not in good academic standing and/ or it conflicts with extended-day activities, evening study assignment, attendance at required Girard programs or activities, or scheduled bedtime.

Students interested in requesting approval for weekday off-campus employment should obtain the appropriate form from their dean and submit it, well in advance and in writing. (No commitment or arrangement should be made with the prospective employer without the approval of the Residential Dean.)

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Co-Curricular Choir and Band The music department believes that every student at Girard can benefit from a regular, organized musical experience regardless of his/her native talent.

Fourth- through twelfth-grade students are eligible to participate in the choir and band. Both groups perform at the winter and spring concerts as well as at various school and community events.

Extended-Day Programming A natural outgrowth of our newly redesigned academic day curriculum, extendedday programming contributes to fulfillment of our mission “to promote intellectual, social and emotional growth.” Initiated in the fall of 2014, this outside-of-school (OST) academic and enrichment programming crosses five specific topical strands, which are: • Advanced Learning and Academic Support (ALAS), • Performing Arts and Culture (PAC), • Service and Community (SRC), • Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and • Wellness (W).

Activities will fall within the categories of these Five Strands as well as under one of Three Pillars – learning streams which also define school day curricula: • Curriculum and Pedagogy • Personalization • Connections The goal of the extended-day programming is to improve academic performance of all Girard students and to enrich and supplement our currcula. Additionally, extended-day programming strives to significantly increase parent involvement with students and school staff.

A few examples of the activities in the program are: Art Club, Book Club, Kids in the Kitchen, the Giraffe Heroes Project, Afterschool Activities Partnership Chess, Junior First LEGO League and First LEGO League, and Roots and Shoots.

Brief descriptions of three of these activities illustrate their scope: Afterschool Activities Partners Chess - students learn to play chess while improving academic achievement and increasing patience, self-control and sportsmanship.

FLL (First LEGO League) - students learn the fundamentals of robotics, build a display with moving parts, work in teams and participate in competitions.

The Giraffe Heroes Project - students investigate the characteristics of heroes, developing an appreciation for character traits such as caring, taking responsibility and good citizenship.

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Scouting Program An on-campus scouting program is offered to qualifying students at Girard from Lower through Upper School with age-appropriate activities throughout the year.

Among these activities are camping, swimming, hiking, environmental sciences and exploration, camp craft, cooking, wilderness survival training, and planned activities that foster student extra-curricular education.

Online Newspaper Upper School students who are interested in journalistic writing publish a newspaper throughout the school year.

Athletics Interscholastic Athletics Girard College places a high value on physical health, physical activity and the life lessons learned through participation in organized athletics. Sports offered at Girard each year depend on enrollment and student interest. In the recent past, we have offered the following sports: Fall Winter Spring Boys Soccer Boys Basketball Boys Baseball Girls Soccer JV Boys Basketball Boys Track Boys Cross Country Girls Basketball Girls Track Girls Cross Country Cheerleading Girls Softball Girls Tennis Wrestling Boys Tennis Regulations and Responsibilities for the Student Athletes • Sportsmanship is mandatory.

• No profanity or obscenity by voice or gesture will be tolerated on the practice field or athletic area, going to or from games and in any contests.

• Attendance at all scheduled practices is mandatory. Only a coach may excuse a student from practice.

• Possible conflicts must be discussed in advance.

• Good living and training habits are essential ingredients to any athlete. It is expected that each Girard athlete will acknowledge this and will obey the regulations established by his/her coach.

• The Girard athlete’s behavior is expected to be exemplary on and off the field.

• Students must maintain good behavior and grades.

• Dress code to and from games is determined by each coach.

Athletic Eligibility Athletic eligibility is governed by Girard rules and standards, including the academic expectations of Girard College (see our policies beginning on page 10).

The deans and Director of Athletics may review specific cases as they arise.

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STUDENT SERVICES Library The Upper School library is for the use of Girard students and staff. The main reading room occupies the west half of the second floor and is for the use of students in the Upper School. The Stephen Girard Papers and a century of issues of The New York Times are available on microfilm. A separate library is located on the third floor of the Lower School for the use of Lower School students. Students will be billed for lost or damaged library materials/equipment.

Counseling and Career Guidance Counseling service is made available to aid Girard students in their personal growth as individuals and as members of the Girard community. The staff, both residential and instructional, are trained and experienced professionals assigned to help students with their emotional, social and academic development. Counseling is available to all students during their attendance at Girard, a provision extending from the Lower School through Upper School.

The student, the parent, instructional or residential staff member, or an administrator can make appointments. Appointments should be made in advance and be cleared with the classroom teacher according to established procedure.

As early as possible, students are encouraged to explore careers suitable to their interests and talents. The guidance and college advising departments assists them in formulating college plans and in the preparation of applications and reports necessary for entrance to institutions of higher learning. In selecting colleges, aptitude, interest and achievement are formulated in consultation with the student, counselor, and parent/guardian. For Upper School students, a college counselor is on staff to assist in the college preparation and selection process. Additionally, this office provides support in helping students to secure internship opportunities, enrichment programs and part-time employment. Once a student graduates from Girard College, the Young Alumni Support office will continue to provide assistance through college graduation and beyond.

Health Services The health services department provides medical care to students. It is located on the first floor of the Hum. Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses staff the department. Leading specialists in Philadelphia provide consultative services as required. When necessary, students are cared for in approved medical facilities by our medical staff. The parent/guardian is financially responsible for the student’s health insurance. If a parent/guardian is not able to provide private health insurance, Girard can provide information regarding alternative forms of insurance.

All students must have a history and physical completed annually by their primary care physician. All immunizations must be in compliance with the Philadelphia Department of Health guidelines. In addition to this each student must have proof

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of at least one PPD (tuberculosis skin test) upon admission to Girard College.

Students must have a written doctor’s order to take medication on campus. All over-the-counter medication including vitamins, antacids, cold medication etc. that is delivered to Health Services must have a doctor’s note to dispense. Students may not take prescription medications without the knowledge of the Health Services office. All prescription medications must be held at the Health Services office and dispensed under the supervision of the nurse on duty; unless otherwise authorized

by Health Services. All medications expire at the end of each school year and require a new doctor’s order to continue for the next school year.

Students must have a written pass issued by a residential advisor or by the respective school office during the school day, to go to Health Services. In order to ensure timely arrival of students to morning classes, residential advisors will use discretion regarding issuing Health Services passes.

OTHER PARENT/GUARDIAN INFORMATION Parent-Teacher Conferences Two parent-teacher conference days are held during the school year, one in December and one in March. Attending these conferences is required and offers the opportunity for families to become acquainted and consult with students’ teachers, residential advisors and other Girard staff and administrators, regarding their students’ progress and challenges.

Parent/Guardian Representatives Parents/guardians may identify up to three individuals to represent them in picking-up and/or returning a child to Girard. These arrangements and subsequent changes must be made through the appropriate dean’s office. Subsequent changes must be registered with the Admission Office. All approved representatives must provide a government-issued photo identification when picking up a student.

Entering and Exiting the Campus by Car For the safety of our students, Girard College has a front gate that is manned 24/7 by campus security staff. Sunday through Thursday, parents and guardians should enter and exit through the front gates of Girard College, waiting for the security gate to be raised and following the traffic pattern counter clockwise around the circle. Security staff will appreciate your displaying the parent/guardian tag on your front mirror to identify you as someone who can safely enter our campus.

ON FRIDAYS AFTERNOONS, although you enter by the front gate, PLEASE EXIT BY THE BACK (north) GATE after you have picked up your child.

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Girard College Alumni Association Membership in the Girard College Alumni Association (GCAA) is open to all former students, offering an opportunity to maintain contact with classmates, fellow Girardians and Girard College itself. Members of the senior class are encouraged to maintain active membership in the GCAA after graduation. The Director of the Alumni Association and his assistant staff the alumni office, located on campus in the Armory. Learn more about the GCAA and scholarship opportunities it provides on our website, girardcollege.edu.

215-232-8822 GCAA Director Joe Garbarino ’71 Administrative Assistant Alex Cruz Founder’s Day Founder’s Day is a part of the very special spring weekend celebration held annually on the Saturday closest to May 20, the birthday of founder Stephen Girard.

Sponsored by Girard and the GCAA (alumni association), Founder’s Day is an opportunity for alumni to return to the campus.

Families and friends of our students as well as neighbors in the surrounding community are invited to participate in this festive occasion.

Founder’s Hall The imposing building with pillars that you see when you first enter the gates of our lovely campus is Founder’s Hall, the original classroom building for Girard College.

Today this National Historic Landmark houses two museum collections and the archives of Stephen Girard.

Parents, guardians, friends and the general public are encouraged to take a tour of Founder’s Hall. Visit our website to get the particulars.

A Proud and Unique History Learn more about our school’s history, our founder Stephen Girard and his extraordinary vision on our website. www.girardcollege.edu

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SCHOOL SONGS Hail Girard Hail Girard, our Alma Mater, Noble, fair and strong; Cradle meet for civic virtue, Praise her with a song.

First thou art in worth and beauty, First in our regard; Sing we then our Alma Mater, Mother dear Girard.

CHORUS: Children of the great Republic, Lovers of the flag be-starred, Mighty masters of the future, Swell the chorus, shout Girard.

Sing her shrine of marble wonder, Let no voice be still; Sing Girard and praise Girard, With a royal will.

Singing as we ever march, With a flag unscarred; One in voice and heart and will, children of Girard.

CHORUS Harvard loves her crimson banner, Yale her blue divine; In our pennant bold and stirring, Steel Garnet shine.

Brown is busy making scholars, So is valiant Penn; Our Girard, our Alma Mater, Strives to reach this end.

La Marseillaise (French national anthem in honor of our founder, Stephen Girard) Allons! Enfants de la Patrie, Le jour de gloire est arrivé !

Contre nous de la tyrannie, L’étendard sanglant est levé; L’étendard sanglant est levé, Entendez-vous dans les campagnes, Mugir ces féroces soldats?

Ils viennent jusque dans vos bras, Égorger nos fils, nos compagnes!

CHORUS: Aux armes citoyens, Formez vos bataillons Marchons, marchons!

Qu’un sang impur; Abreuve nos sillons!

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NOTES:

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LOWER SCHOOL GRADES 1-6

1. Founder’s Hall

9. Upper School

2. Chapel

10. Banker Hall (grade 9-12 boys)

3. Upper School Library

11. Laundry

4. Allen Hall

12. Armory / Gymnasium

5. Bordeaux Hall

13. Historic Mechanical School

6. Mariner Hall (grade 11-12 girls)

14. Power Plant

7. Merchant Hall (grade 7-8 boys)

15. Historic Foundry

8. The Hum (grade 7-10 girls) AKA “The Junior School”

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