2014-15 Student-Parent Handbook

BRAVES LIFE 2014-15 Student/Parent Handbook

www.justin-siena.org 4026 Maher Street | Napa, CA 94558 | 707.255.0950

A Catholic High School in the Lasallian Tradition

Justin-Siena is a Catholic high school in the Lasallian tradition called to provide educational excellence in a loving, Christ-centered community that prepares students to serve and to lead in an ever-changing world.

1

Table of Contents Accreditation ..............................................................................................................................................................3 Statement of Good Standing and Continued Enrollment ...........................................................................................3 Non-Discriminatory Policy.........................................................................................................................................4 2014-2015 Class Bell Schedule ..................................................................................................................................5 Special schedules ........................................................................................................................................................6 Academic Policies and Procedures.............................................................................................................................7 PowerSchool and Schoology………………………………………………………………………………………..7 Graduation Requirements ...........................................................................................................................................7 Grading Policies……………………………………………………………………………………………………..8 Class Schedule Changes……………………………………………………………………………………………13 Academic Integrity Policy ........................................................................................................................................16 Computer, Internet and Electronic Media Use Policy ..............................................................................................18 Student Social Media Policy.....................................................................................................................................20 Technology Standards……………………………………………………………………………………………...21 Attendance Policies and Procedures.........................................................................................................................23 Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures .....................................................................................................28 Additional Policies and Procedures ..........................................................................................................................32 Harassment and Bullying Policy ..............................................................................................................................37 Resolution of Conflicts and Concerns Policy...........................................................................................................39 Policy for Possession/Use of Controlled Substances ...............................................................................................40 Dress and Appearance Codes ...................................................................................................................................44 Physical Education ...................................................................................................................................................49 Athletics....................................................................................................................................................................50 Transportation Policy ...............................................................................................................................................53 Additional Student Services Information .................................................................................................................55 2014-2015 Tuition Schedule and Fees .....................................................................................................................58 Bus Pass Charges 2014-2015 ...................................................................................................................................58 School Map...............................................................................................................................................................60 Frequently Asked Questions………………………………………………………………………………………61 2014-2015 Student/Parent Handbook Agreement……..…………………………………………………………. 62 Justin-Siena Student Pledge for Acceptable iPad Use and Parent Agreement……..……………………………...63

2

ACCREDITATION Justin-Siena High School enjoys accreditation granted by the Western Catholic Educational Association and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. These Associations are non-governmental, nationally recognized organizations whose members include elementary schools through collegiate institutions offering post-graduate instruction. Accreditation of an institution by these Associations indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality periodically applied through a peer review process. An accredited school or college/university is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives clear evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future.

JUSTIN-SIENA MEMBERSHIPS National Catholic Educational Association Western Catholic Educational Association The College Board National Honor Society California Scholarship Federation National Association of Independent Schools

National Association for College Admission Counseling Western Association for College Admission Counseling American Association for School Counseling Marin County Athletic League North Coast Section of the California Interscholastic Federation

STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK Submitting registration and enrollment materials for a student at Justin-Siena High School is deemed an agreement on his/her part, and on the part of his/her parents/guardians, to comply with all policies, rules, guidelines, and regulations of the school as outlined in the current Student/Parent Handbook and in any subsequent updates or revisions of the Handbook. This agreement also applies to the Justin-Siena Student Pledge for Acceptable iPad Use and to the Justin-Siena High School Parent/Guardian Agreement appended to the Handbook.

Parents/guardians and students agree that Justin-Siena High School has the right as a private academic institution to make rules that require specific conduct on the part of the parents/guardians and students. Parents/guardians and students agree to comply with required conduct and to support the policies and procedures contained herein, and intend to cooperate fully with Justin-Siena High School and its personnel as educational partners.

Justin-Siena High School reserves the right to amend or waive provisions of this Handbook when deemed necessary by the President or Principal. Parents will be given notification of amendments made.

Observance of any such amendment is expected by all as soon as the change is made known to the community.

This handbook exists to foster the efficient operation of Justin-Siena High School. The school administration is given flexibility to meet this objective and has the discretion to take actions other than those specified in this handbook. This handbook is not intended and should not be considered to create any additional rights for students or parents/guardians. The contents of this handbook are subject to change at any time when this is determined to be necessary by the school administration. If changes are made to the handbook, parents/guardians and students will be notified in a prompt manner.

The contents of this handbook are to be accepted by the parents/guardians and students as an essential element of the contract between home and school. Violations of the spirit, intent or letter of the policies, rules, and regulations found in the handbook will be considered just cause for administrative action. Under no circumstances may a parent/guardian excuse a student from observance of the policies, rules, and regulations of Justin-Siena High School if the parent/guardian expects the student to remain in good standing with the school.

STATEMENT OF GOOD STANDING AND CONTINUED ENROLLMENT Students are enrolled at Justin-Siena High School on the basis of a yearly evaluation and acceptance. The school reserves the right to dismiss students at any time for infractions of regulations whether on campus or off campus, unsatisfactory academic standing, or other reasons that affect the welfare of the individual student, the school, or the school community.

3

In order to continue enrollment at the school, a student must be in “good standing.” A student considered to be in “good standing” is one who has not become subject to dismissal for academic reasons, one whose record of conduct is satisfactory, one whose family supports the school faculty, policies and procedures, and one who has met all financial obligations to the school or made satisfactory arrangements for his or her discharge with the Administration including the Director of Finance. Continued enrollment, then, is a privilege earned by cooperative personal conduct and fulfillment of academic requirements and financial obligations. The school reserves the right to refuse registration or re-registration. When the school judges that the parents/guardians do not support school policies, the school reserves the right to terminate the student’s enrollment.

NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY Justin-Siena High School, mindful of its mission to be a witness to the love of Christ for all, does not condone any type of unlawful discrimination. School policy prohibits discrimination based on the following legally protected characteristics: race, color, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

4

2014-2015 Class Bell Schedule Monday-7per

Tuesday-A1

1st Period

Flex Time 8:00-8:40 (40 min.)

8:00-8:45 (45 min.)

Passing 8:40-8:50

2nd Period

1st Period

8:50-9:40 (50 min.)

8:50-10:10 (80 min.)

3rd Period 9:45-10:30 (45 min.)

Break 10:10-10:25

Wednesday-B4

Thursday-A3

Friday-B7

Flex Time 4th Period 8:00-9:20 (80 min.)

Break 9:20-9:30

2nd Period 5th Period 9:35-11:00 (85 min.)

8:00-8:40 (40 min.)

Passing 8:40-8:50

3rd Period 8:50-10:10 (80 min.)

Break 10:10-10:25

7th Period 8:00-9:20 (80 min.)

Break 9:20-9:30

5th Period 9:35-11:00 (85 min.)

Break 10:30-10:45

4th Period 10:50-11:35 (45 min.)

2nd Period 10:30-11:55 (85 min.)

2nd Period 10:30-11:55 (85 min.)

6th Period

th

5 Period 11:40-12:25 (45 min.)

Break 11:00-11:10

Lunch

11:15-12:35 (80 min.)

11:55-12:35 (40 min.)

Break 11:00-11:10

6th Period Lunch

11:15-12:35 (80 min.)

11:55-12:35 (40 min.)

Lunch 12:25-1:00 (35 min.) th

6 Period 1:05-1:50 (45 min.)

Lunch 3rd Period

12:35-1:15 (40 min.)

12:40-2:00 (80 min.)

Lunch 1st Period 12:40-2:00 (80 min.)

7th Period 7th Period 1:55-2:40 (45 min.)

Flex Time 2:05-2:40 (35 min.)

12:35-1:15 (40 min.)

1:20-2:40 (80 min.)

Flex Time

4th Period 1:20-2:40 (80 min.)

2:05-2:40 (35 min.)

A1, A3, B4, and B7 days alternate every week.

Dark gray bars indicate 5-minute passing periods Announcements will take place during the first five minutes of the second period of the day.

5

SPECIAL SCHEDULES (The following special schedules will be standardized and designated on the calendar as either 30, 45, 60, or 75-special schedules)

8:00-8:45 8:55-10:15 10:15-10:30 10:35-12:00 12:00-12:05 12:05-12:35 12:35-1:15 1:20-2:40 2:50

30 (Flex) (80 period) (Break) (85 period) (passing) (Activity) (Lunch) (80 period) (Buses leave)

8:00-8:30 8:40-9:55 9:55-10:10 10:15-11:35 11:35-11:40 11:40-12:40 12:40-1:20 1:25-2:40 2:50

60 (Flex) (75 period) (Break) (80 period) (passing) (Activity) (Lunch) (75 period) (Buses leave)

45 8:00-8:30 8:40-10:00 10:00-10:15 10:20-11:45 11:45-11:50 11:50-12:35 12:35-1:15 1:20-2:40 2:50

(Flex) (80 period) (Break) (85 period) (passing) (Activity) (Lunch) (80 period) (Buses leave)

8:00-9:20 9:20-9:30 9:35-11:00 11:00-11:10 11:10-11:20 11:20-12:35 12:35-1:15 1:20-2:40 2:50

75 (80 period) (Break) (85 period) (Break) (passing) (Activity) (Lunch) (80 period) (Buses leave)

6

Academic Policies and Procedures GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS The following requirements must be met before a Justin-Siena student is granted a diploma signifying Graduation from the school. Students must successfully complete 260 credits. These 260 credits must include the following discipline-specific requirements: • • • • • • • • •

Students must successfully complete 40 credits of Religious Studies.

Students must successfully complete 40 credits of English.

Students must successfully complete 20 credits of one World Language (though 30 units is strongly recommended).

Students must successfully complete 30 credits of Mathematics.

Students must successfully complete 5 credits of Health Education and 10 credits of Physical Education.

Participation in a Varsity-level sport during the junior and/or senior year will count as 5 credits each.

Students must successfully complete 30 credits of Science.

Students must successfully complete 30 credits of Social Studies.

Students must successfully complete 10 credits of Visual and/or Performing Arts.

Students must successfully complete 5 credits of Educational Skills.

It is required that all students successfully complete 70 credits each school year to be eligible for promotion to the next grade level (Study Hall, which earns no credits, may substitute for up to 20 credits during the four years of high school). Please refer to the 2014-2015 Course Catalog for specific details as to how each discipline-specific requirement is to be met.

POWERSCHOOL/SCHOOLOGY Schoology is Justin-Siena’s “learning management system” (LMS), a virtual classroom that extends student learning and engagement beyond the actual classroom. Through Schoology, students see upcoming assignments, submit assignments, send messages to teachers, participate in discussions, take quizzes, watch video, read the Daily Announcements, collaborate with classmates, and interact with some clubs and teams. Schoology is effective in helping students stay organized, complete assignments that more readily make real-world connections, and communicate efficiently with teachers and counselors; Schoology and is used by students on a daily basis. Parents can keep track of their student’s use of Schoology by using login credentials for parent access which are provided by the school.

PowerSchool is Justin-Siena’s “school information system” (SIS), which acts like a virtual filing cabinet that records, processes, and reports grades on individual assignments, attendance, end-of-term grades, GPAs, and transcripts. It is also the system that students use to request their courses for the upcoming school year and the administration uses to build the class schedule. Students and parents should check PowerSchool approximately every two weeks to keep current on progress in students’ classes. Login credentials for the PowerSchool Parent Portal are provided by the school.

Teachers are required to keep information on Schoology and PowerSchool current. This means that faculty must post grades in PowerSchool for assignments and assessments that have been collected within a reasonable period of time. A general guideline is that grades for daily work that has been collected should be posted within two weeks; teachers are given a comparable amount of time to correct and post grades for major assignments to what students were given to complete the assignment. Information regarding assignments and assessments that will be collected in the upcoming two weeks will be posted in Schoology. Parents and students should note that because assessments are formative, upcoming daily work, including major assessments, might change; normally, upcoming assignments are posted in Schoology by 3:30pm the day they are assigned.

Schoology and PowerSchool are the primary tools used by faculty and staff to communicate academic progress.

Progress reports and quarter and semester grades are not mailed home. It is expected that students and parents will 7

make extensive use of Schoology and PowerSchool to remain informed about academic progress; parents should check student academic progress though PowerSchool every two weeks at a minimum. Please note that access to PowerSchool is closed temporarily at the end of grading periods and is reopened when grades are finalized.

REGULAR COMMUNICATION A valid parent email account which is checked regularly is REQUIRED of all families. Students will have a school email account and are expected to check it at least every 24 hours on school days. Computer access at school is available to those families without internet access at home; parents in need of this access should contact the school for more information.

Email is the preferred method of communication; all Justin-Siena employees have email addresses that begin with first initial followed by last name @justin-siena.org. Voice mail extensions may be found on the school website (www.justin-siena.org) under the “Contact Us” tab—select “Personnel Directory.” You may also click on the employee’s name in this directory to be linked to email.

A weekly phone message from the Principal is sent on Friday evenings to the home phone on record; these are subsequently posted on the school website. Periodic, important all-school emails are sent to the home email on record. The Braves Bulletin, the school’s bi-weekly newsletter, is sent to the email address on record and posted on the website. Daily student announcements are made at the beginning of second period and posted on the website.

REPORT CARDS Semester report cards can be viewed by using PowerSchool Parent Portal. Physical semester report cards are not mailed home but are available by request only for those who do not have ready access to the Internet. Contact the Director of Academic Services or the Assistant for Academic Services for assistance. Student progress at the quarter can be viewed by using PowerSchool Parent Portal. Quarter grades are not official (except for CIF purposes—see the Athletics section) and will not be posted on student transcripts. Grades noted on semester report cards are official and final. These grades are a part of the student's transcript and will be reported to colleges and universities.

Student academic information may only be accessed by students, parents, and legal guardians.

CRITERIA FOR SUBJECT ACHIEVEMENT MARKS A – Outstanding Achievement B – Good Achievement C – Satisfactory Achievement D – Minimum Achievement F – Failure to Pass Minimum Standards Grading/percentage of breakdown of grades: A+ 98-100 A 92-97 A90-91 B+ 88-89 B 82-87 B80-81 C+ 78-79 C 72-77 C70-71 D+ 68-69 D 60-67 F Below 60 8

Plus and minus grades may be used for grades A through D; grade points are not affected by the plus or minus notation.

It is expected that students will complete all major assessments; failure to submit a major assessment may jeopardize the achievement of a particular grade regardless of point calculation.

HOMEWORK EXPECTATIONS On average, students may expect to complete approximately two hours of homework each day. Some students may require more or less time than this depending on their abilities and/or course schedule. Homework may consist of written and non-written assignments, reading, and assessment preparation.

FINAL EXAMINATIONS Final examination schedules are published on the calendar and take place at the end of each semester. Final exams must be taken during the scheduled seating. If a student misses a final exam, there is a make-up period scheduled on the last day of finals; if a student still needs to make up a final exam, he/she should contact the Director of Academic Director of Academic Services to schedule a make-up. Finals may not be taken early.

Students who miss a final exam will be assigned a grade of incomplete until the exam can be taken and graded.

HONOR ROLL At the conclusion of each semester, the Director of Academic Services will publish a list of students who have earned a place on the Honor Roll (according to their grade point average). Students who earn a D and/or F grade are ineligible for the Honor Roll. Likewise, students with an incomplete grade are also ineligible.

GRADE POINT AVERAGES (GPA) Grade point averages are calculated in the following way: 1. Add the number of total grade points for all courses (A=4, B=3, C=2, D=0, and F=0; + and – do not count).

2. Divide this sum by the number of courses; round to the nearest hundredth.

3. Students who earn a grade of C or higher in an Honors-level or Advanced Placement course receive an extra grade point. Courses designated as Advanced-level do not receive this extra point.

4. The following courses are not calculated into a student’s grade point average: Instructional Assistant, Office Assistant, Study Period, Student Tech Support, and Driver Education.

GRADUATION WITH HONORS Students whose cumulative grade point average through the first semester of their senior year is 4.00 or above will graduate with highest honors. Those whose grade point average is 3.50 to 3.99 will graduate with honors.

PARTICIPATION IN GRADUATION EVENTS In order to participate in activities related to graduation, students must meet graduation requirements and be considered in good standing. Those who are not eligible to graduate due to any deficiency that cannot be corrected through summer school at Justin-Siena in the summer directly following graduation (normally a maximum of 15 units may be remediated in summer school) may not participate in the Senior Presentation, Baccalaureate, or the Graduation Ceremony.

AWARDS ASSEMBLY The Academic Awards Assembly for all students is held after the third quarter to recognize the most outstanding students in each department. Each department establishes the criteria for the selection of award winners. The Academic Affairs Council establishes the number of awards for each department. Families of students receiving awards are invited to attend this ceremony. Special academic awards are presented to students who maintain a straight A average and whose GPA is among the highest in their class.

9

LEADERSHIP, CITIZENSHIP, AND SPIRIT AWARDS At the Graduation Ceremony, special awards are given to graduating seniors who have demonstrated outstanding service, class leadership, and school spirit. Similar awards are given to students in other classes at their respective orientations in the fall. These awards are voted on by the members of each class and approved by the Administration.

SELECTION OF VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN Near the end of the school year, two senior students, who represent the finest in academic achievement, are asked by the Administration to offer remarks at the upcoming graduation ceremony. These students are selected in the following way: 1. A determination of the top ten senior students will be based on the sum of the numbered rankings in three categories: 1. Weighted grade point average 2. Number of A semester grades 3. Number of semester honors credit courses The highest ranked student would receive a 1 ranking, second a 2, third a 3, etc. Tied positions would share the same rank. The tabulation of rankings will occur after the seventh semester. The tabulation will include only those classes that appear on the student’s official Justin-Siena transcript. All such classes must qualify under existing guidelines as stated in the Student/Parent Handbook and Faculty Handbook.

2. The top ten senior students (and ties) will be asked to submit written remarks to the Valedictorian/Salutatorian Selection Committee for review. This committee is comprised of faculty and staff members chosen by the Principal.

3. Students who submit written remarks will present these remarks to the Selection Committee at a time and place designated by the Committee.

4. Based on these presentations, the Selection Committee will determine which students best represent the mission, philosophy, and learning expectations of Justin-Siena. The student the Selection Committee deems the best example of these fundamental concepts will be named the Valedictorian and give the Valedictory address at graduation. The student the Selection Committee deems the next best example will be named the Salutatorian and give the Salutatory address at graduation. These determinations may also be made based on the content of the two speeches selected.

ACADEMIC REVIEW BOARD AND ACADEMIC MONITORING Once grades are posted at the end of each quarter and/or semester, the Academic Review Board meets to review the academic progress of all students who have failed to achieve the minimum expectation of a 2.0 grade point average.

The Academic Review Board is chaired by the Vice-Principal for Curriculum and Instruction and includes the following members: all Guidance Counselors, the Student Support Coordinator, the Academic Monitoring Coordinator, and one additional faculty representative (chosen by the faculty). The Principal, Vice Principal for Strategic Initiatives, the Director of Academic Services, and the Dean are invited to participate in Academic Review Board meetings.

The Academic Review Board makes recommendations regarding how best to meet the academic needs of struggling students. In extraordinary situations or when a student has been on academic probation more than once, the Academic Review Board may recommend to the Principal that a student be asked not to continue at JustinSiena. Whether or not a student is asked to leave the school is the sole decision of the Principal. Decisions by the Academic Review Board are communicated to students and parents.

All students who fail to achieve the minimum expected 2.0 grade point average must participate in the school’s Academic Monitoring Program. Requirements of the Academic Monitoring Program include the following: 1. Students meet regularly with their counselor to review their academic progress; 10

2. Students attend Mandatory Study Hall during all Flex Periods with the Academic Monitoring Coordinator; and, 3. Students’ academic progress will be reviewed at the conclusion of each grading period while participating in the Academic Monitoring Program.

The purpose of the Academic Review Board and the Academic Monitoring Program is to support students through their academic development while at Justin-Siena.

ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY According to California Interscholastic Federation, North Coast Section, and Marin County Athletic League regulations, students who do not achieve the minimum expected 2.0 grade point average in any grading period (quarter and semester) are ineligible to participate in interscholastic sports or cheerleading (this includes practicing). Students (excluding freshmen and sophomores) are permitted to request a one-time exemption of this rule. To do so, students must submit a Request for Athletic Eligibility Waiver form to the Athletic Director for approval. If approved by the Athletic Director and the Principal, ineligible athletes or cheerleaders may participate through the remainder of the current grading period. Athletes and cheerleaders are reminded that the eligibility exemption may be exercised only once during a student’s high school career (see also the Athletics Section below).

REMEDIATING FAILING GRADES Students who earn an F grade at the conclusion of either semester of a course receive no credit for this semester, and they are ineligible to return to Justin-Siena in the fall prior to remediating this grade. Students have four options for remediating a semester F: 1. Students may remediate a semester F by attending Justin-Siena Summer School; 2. Students may remediate a semester F by attending summer session at a community college; 3. Students may remediate a semester F by attending summer school at a high school other than Justin-Siena (if prior-approval is given by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction); or, 4. In extraordinary circumstances, students may remediate a semester F through an alternative arrangement, if approved by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction.

Students and parents should be aware of five very important policies in this regard: • Failing grades remain on student transcripts even if remediated; however, the remediated grade replaces the F grade in terms of GPA. • Failing both semesters of a course requires that the student repeat the course in the subsequent school year.

• Students are permitted to remediate no more than 15 credits in any one summer. Students in need of remediating more than 15 credits over a single summer are ineligible to return to Justin-Siena; a student may re-apply to Justin-Siena once he or she is on track with enough units to meet graduation requirements.

• Online course credit is not accepted by Justin-Siena without prior permission by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction.

• D grades in certain courses may meet graduation requirements, but the student may be ineligible for a four-year college. Students may also be ineligible to advance to the next level course.

REMEDIATING NON-ADVANCING GRADES Students who earn a D grade at the conclusion of either semester of a course receive credit for this semester, but they may not be eligible to advance to the next level course. A grade of D is also not recognized by many colleges and universities in most college-preparatory courses. In this circumstance, students have four options for remediating a semester D: 1. Students may remediate a semester D by attending Justin-Siena Summer School; 2. Students may remediate a semester D by attending summer session at a community college; 3. Students may remediate a semester D by attending summer school at a high school other than JustinSiena (if prior-approval is given by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction); or, 11

4. In extraordinary circumstances, students may remediate a semester D through an alternative arrangement, if approved by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction.

In some circumstances, grade validation may be possible. Grade validation takes place when a student who earns a D in the first semester consequently earns a C or higher in the second semester of a course. In this circumstance, the student may be eligible to advance to the next level (even though a D was earned the first semester). Grade

validation may be possible only in certain courses offered by the World Languages Department and the Mathematics Department. Students should consult their counselors about the complicated grade validation process as well as check the requirements of the colleges and universities to which they are applying.

Students and parents should be aware of five very important policies in this regard: • D grades remain on student transcripts even if remediated or validated.

• Earning D grades both semesters of a course requires that the student repeat the course in the subsequent school year.

• Students are permitted to remediate no more than 15 credits in any one summer. Remediating F grades takes precedence over remediating D grades.

• Online course credit is not accepted by Justin-Siena without prior permission by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction.

• D grades in certain courses may meet graduation requirements, but the student may be ineligible for a four-year college. Students may also be ineligible to advance to the next level course.

INCOMPLETE GRADES Students who receive an incomplete semester grade (for any reason) must complete the semester course requirements within one month of the posting of the incomplete grade. Time extensions for completing semester course requirements may only be given by the Director of Academic Services or the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction. Incomplete grades not completed within one month of the grade’s posting are indicated as F grades (or the grade as indicated by the teacher) on the student’s transcript.

EXCESSIVE ABSENCE AND LOSS OF CREDIT Students who are absent from a particular class (whether excused or unexcused) more than 20% of the class meetings (approximately 10 absences) may receive no credit for the semester and may need to remediate this course according to the policies stated in this handbook. Students with extended illnesses or disabilities may be referred to a home study program in their local public school district.

GUIDELINES REGARDING SCHOOL-RELATED AND EXCUSED ABSENCES In light of the policy regarding loss of credit due to excessive absence, and realizing that any absence from class has an impact on learning and achievement, students and families should carefully plan calendars and participation in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities to minimize absence from classes. While participation in co-curricular activities is encouraged, the following guidelines should be considered: • Students should participate in several-day co-curricular activities only once per semester (Kairos, Kairos leader, VENAVER, etc.)

• Students should consider the impact that participation in a sport will have when combined with a severalday co-curricular activity in the same semester.

• Students should consider the impact that participation in a co-curricular performing arts performance (such as a play or musical) will have when combined with a several-day co-curricular activity in the same semester.

• For students enrolled in a performing arts class (such as Dance and Music), the performance requirements of the class take priority over participation in other activities.

• College visits should be planned to coincide with non-school days whenever possible; a longer college visit trip should not be taken in the same semester as participation in a several-day co-curricular activity.

• Family travel should take place during non-school days only.

• Potential illness is also a factor to be considered in the tally of absences.

12

CLASS SCHEDULE CHANGES Students may initiate changes to their class schedule through the first calendar week of each semester; requests for placement or class changes based on teacher preference or the desire to be with one’s friends are not valid and will be denied. To initiate a class schedule change, students must submit a completed Schedule Change Request form (available from their counselor) by 3:00 pm on the Friday of the first week of each semester: August 22, 2014, in Semester 1 and January 9, 2015, in Semester 2. Courses that are dropped from a student’s schedule prior to these deadlines will not be reflected on a student’s transcript. There is a $50 fee for student-initiated course changes after June 11, 2014, for Semester 1 of the 2014-2015 school year and after the first day of classes in Semester 2 (these also require approval by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction).

After the first week of each semester, class schedule changes may only be initiated by a student’s teacher or counselor on his/her behalf. Courses that are dropped for a level change at this time will not be reflected on the student’s transcript. Other changes will be noted as a Withdrawal (indicated by a W), and no credit will be awarded.

Any course that is dropped from a student’s schedule after the third week of each semester will be reflected on the student’s transcript as a Withdrawal if the change was initiated by the school. Other changes will be noted on the transcript as an F. Students who enter a new course after the third week are only eligible for half-credit for the semester. Schedule changes made after the third week of each semester are strongly discouraged and will only be approved by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction in extraordinary circumstances.

Students who wish to make changes to their schedule should begin with a conversation with their counselor. All student schedule changes must be approved by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction.

Students transferring from an AP, advanced, or honors-level course into the non-AP, advanced, honors-level equivalent after the semester has begun will have the existing grade factored into the final grade of the new course.

TRANSFER CREDIT Students who take courses off campus with the approval of the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction (community college courses, extension courses, adult education courses, courses at other high schools, online courses, etc.) must submit a certified transcript of their work to the Director of Academic Services if it is to be recorded on the official transcript (by June 15 of the school year in which it was taken). A limit of four courses may be included for credit on the Justin-Siena transcript over the student’s career at Justin-Siena.

All off-campus work will be added to the appropriate year in a student’s transcript if it is to be included in the Justin-Siena GPA. Off-campus courses that meet one of the following requirements may be used in calculating Justin-Siena GPA’s: 1. If the course work made up a D or F grade. However, at no time will a D or F grade be eliminated from a transcript because of a made-up class.

2. If the course satisfied a Justin-Siena graduation requirement and was taken through an accredited school. Students need approval from the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction prior to taking any off-campus course that they wish to use for a Justin-Siena graduation requirement.

All other off-campus course work will not be considered for Justin-Siena GPA nor included on the Justin-Siena transcript. However, students may list these courses on their college applications for 13

college credit or for establishing their UC or CSU GPA even if these courses are not reflected in their Justin-Siena GPA. ONLINE COURSES The goals of the online courses policy are to augment Justin-Siena’s course offerings and to provide access to opportunities that promote 21st century literacy while ensuring that reasonable demands are placed on students. An online learning experience might not be advisable for all students. All policies above regarding the remediation of failing grades, remediation of non-advancing grades, and transfer credit apply to online courses in addition to the following policies: • • • • •

•

• •

•

Students should initiate discussion about online courses with their counselors. Online courses must be pre-approved by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction.

Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders who have consistently demonstrated the necessary academic skills for success in independent study (generally evidenced by cumulative GPAs of 3.0 or higher) will be eligible to opt to take high school courses online that are not offered by Justin-Siena.

In exceptional cases, qualified students may apply to take a high school class online that is offered

by Justin-Siena only if a schedule conflict is genuinely irresolvable, as determined by the counselors, the Director of Academic Services, or the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction.

Rising 11th and 12th graders who have attained a 3.5 cumulative GPA and specified scores in national tests administered at Justin-Siena will be eligible to opt to take online collegiate classes.

Counselors will guide students to courses that are approved on the UC-list or to appropriate college courses available to high school students. For a list of UC-approved online providers, see http://www.ucop.edu/a-gGuide/ag/online_course.html *Important Note: Online courses may not be used to satisfy UC requirements in the “f” Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) area or the “d” Laboratory Science area, unless science courses require an on-site, wet-lab component.

Students considering applying for and enrolling in online courses through other institutions are advised that dates and deadlines for other schools’ course selection/registration processes and terms (semesters, trimesters, quarters, etc.) often do not match those of Justin-Siena. Students should take great care to follow the deadlines specified by the host school.

Students are advised that online courses generally require significant amounts of reading, writing, assessment, and online interaction with other class members and the instructor. While they may be more convenient than traditional courses in a classroom, they should not be regarded as easier.

As part of the online course approval process by Justin-Siena, the student and family must grant official access to the student’s online course portals by the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction, the Director of Academic Services, and/or the student’s counselor so that school personnel can monitor student progress, grade, assignment completion, assignments pending, course work, etc.

Students and families must pay all costs of the online provider. Attempts will be made to offer some scholarship money toward online courses for qualifying students, but the school may not be able to meet all demonstrated needs.

STUDY ABROAD Justin-Siena strongly discourages students from studying abroad while enrolled at the school. Should a family still choose, against Justin-Siena’s advice, to enroll a student in a study abroad program for a year or a semester, we encourage the student to enroll in an International or English-based school. Further, the following conditions must be understood: 1. Parents must inform the student’s counselor and the Director of Admissions; the family is encouraged to discuss the impact of study abroad with the guidance counselor.

14

2. The parent and student must take great care to ensure that the courses will meet the standards for JustinSiena; it is not Justin-Siena’s responsibility to do so.

3. There is no guarantee that courses taken abroad will meet Justin-Siena graduation requirements or requirements for application to UC, CSU, or other colleges and universities.

4. Justin-Siena teachers and staff are not responsible for translation of course information or any other documents.

5. Parents are required to obtain translation services for transcripts and provide Justin-Siena with translated information explaining the content of the study of courses taken, how many hours the student studied each course, and what types of assessment were used to determine a student’s grade.

6. Parents may be required to provide a transcript which has been converted by an official agency into a typical US transcript based on semester credits.

7. Honors credit may not be granted for study abroad courses.

8. Upon a student’s return to Justin-Siena, any student wishing to enroll in AP, honors or elective courses must follow the established application processes but recognize there is no guarantee as to placement.

9. A decision to study abroad may impact a student’s athletic eligibility.

10. A student must pay $2,000 during the study-abroad year to ensure a space the following academic year.

11. Students who study abroad during the senior year must withdraw from the school and will not receive a Justin-Siena diploma.

TESTING PROGRAM The following tests are administered each year, and more information is available in the College counseling Center in the Christian Brothers Center: • • •

•

The Preliminary Scholastic Assessment/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which helps predict what scores students may achieve on the SAT, is given in October. This test is also important for students as it may qualify them for participation in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

The ACT Aspire test, which helps students predict what scores students may achieve on the ACT Assessment, and includes an interest inventory, is given in October or in the spring.

Seniors and juniors may choose to take either the ACT Assessment or Justin-Siena’s code the Scholastic Assessment Test I (SAT I) or both, one of which is number for all college required for admission to four-year colleges. These tests are given at testing and applications nearby test centers. Registration information for the SAT and ACT is is 052-082. available in the College Counseling Center. Dates for the SAT and ACT tests can be viewed on the college counseling page at www.justinsiena.org and are also indicated on the school calendar. Seniors should complete these tests by December, especially if they are applying to 4-year competitive colleges.

Advanced Placement (AP) tests are administered to students enrolled in Advanced Placement classes.

Students in AP classes are required to take the appropriate test(s) that are offered on national test dates in the spring. A student who does not take the appropriate exam will not receive AP designation for the class on the Justin-Siena transcript. Families are responsible to pay the College Board fee for each test taken.

15

Academic Integrity Policy Academic integrity is highly valued at Justin-Siena and is a tremendously important concept to establish well and to carry into all future academic work and employment of any kind.

Students, unless otherwise directed, must always submit work that represents their original words or ideas in order to demonstrate their own mastery of the stated outcomes and expectations. If any words or ideas used in a class or assignment submission do not represent a student’s original words or ideas, then the student must cite all relevant sources and make clear the extent to which such sources were used. All assignments except those explicitly designated as “group” or “collaborative” assignments are meant to represent the effort and thinking of each individual student. Group projects and assignments should represent equal efforts by all group members; students should be prepared to describe in detail the contributions they individually made to group or collaborative assignments.

Words or ideas that require citation include, but are not limited to, all hard copy or electronic publications, whether copyrighted or not, and all verbal or visual communication when the content of such communication clearly originates from an identifiable source.

Whether or not a student has violated the school’s academic integrity policy is determined by the actions of the student; the intention of the student, whether or not the student deliberately attempted to deceive, or the impact of any negative consequences are irrelevant in determining whether or not the policy has been violated. A teacher or a dean makes the determination that the academic integrity policy has been violated in his or her own classroom or in his or her observation and reports this violation to the dean who will notify the appropriate counselor and vice principals.

Definitions CHEATING Cheating includes, but is not limited to, the following: 1. Providing or getting unauthorized help on an assignment, quiz, or examination; 2. Receiving from any other student or giving to any other student any information, answers, or help during an exam; 3. Taking notes or books to an exam when such aids are forbidden, and referring to any books or notes while taking the exam unless the instructor indicates it is an “open book” or “open notes” exam (in the case of an “open notes” exam, students may rely on their own notes only and not those of another student); 4. Obtaining exam questions illegally before an exam or tampering with an exam after it has been corrected; 5. Copying the homework, tests, or other assessments of another student; 6. Taking or possessing any electronic or other types of images of tests or student work; 7. Possessing a “dummy” phone or electronic device as a decoy to the use of another device; 8. Accessing web materials during an assessment unless authorized by a teacher.

PLAGIARISM Plagiarism means submitting work as your own that is someone else’s. For example, copying material from a book, electronic source, or another source without acknowledging that the words or ideas are someone else’s and not your own is plagiarism. If you copy an author’s words exactly, treat the passage as a direct quotation and supply the appropriate credit citation. If you use someone else’s ideas, even if you paraphrase the wording, appropriate credit should be given. You have committed plagiarism if you purchase a term paper or submit a paper or a portion of a paper as your own that you did not write.

16

Some examples of violation of the Academic Integrity Policy include, but are not limited to, the following: TESTS • Using notes in any form on a closed book/closed notes test • Talking to another student during a test • Looking at another student’s paper during a test • Stealing or possessing copies of tests in any form • Photographing a test, obtaining photos or images of a test, or being in possession of photos or images of a test • Allowing another student to copy your test in class or for make-up work • Getting test information from a student who has previously taken the test • Text messaging during a test, having your phone out during a test, or using any device with a camera during a test • Altering or adding any information to a corrected test WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS • Using research materials without proper documentation • Quoting without proper documentation • Copying any part of another student’s homework assignment • Allowing another student to copy any part of your homework assignment • Writing out responses in advance and submitting them as work done in class • Submitting an assignment which is identical, in whole or in part, to that of another student Consequences of Violation of the Academic Integrity Policy If any member of the faculty or staff (including substitute teachers) suspects a student of violating the school’s Academic Integrity Policy, evidence of this infraction must be given to the Dean immediately. The Dean will investigate the situation and make the determination as to whether the policy was violated. Consequences for violation of the policy include, but are not limited to, the following: • A “zero” given on the assessment • Notation on disciplinary record • Notification of parents • Suspension • Conference with parents • Referral to the Academic Review Board • Referral to the Disciplinary Review Board • Removal from the course • Dismissal from school

17

Computer, Internet, and Electronic Media Use Policy DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP is a term encompassing the ability to be a safe and productive citizen online while also contributing to the global interconnection of the programmable and social Web. It can be defined as the ability to think critically, behave safely, and participate responsibly in the digital world. The policies which follow seek to provide guidelines to ensure that all Justin-Siena users of technology are responsible digital citizens.

ACCEPTABLE USE To ensure that all students comply with School rules regarding electronic equipment, the following policies and procedures have been established for using computers, electronic devices, the wireless network, the Internet, and all peripherals. No set of policies and procedures can lay down rules to cover every possible situation.

Instead, what follows is designed to express a framework and to set forth general principles when using electronic media and services. All policies are inclusive of the use of computers, electronic devices including but not limited to iPads, the wireless network, the network, the Internet, and all peripherals.

Permission of the administration is required for the use of Justin-Siena’s name, initials, logos, pictures, property, or representations of the faculty, staff, students, or other individuals. Students are strictly prohibited from using Justin-Siena’s name, initials, logos, pictures, or representations of the faculty, staff, students or other individuals without permission, especially when, in the determination of the school administration, the content is harassing, discriminatory, obscene, lewd, violent, threatening, unlawful or in violation of School Policy. Deliberate publication or postings of such material on the Internet may result in serious disciplinary action including dismissal from the school. Illegal downloading on an electronic device may result in the student’s loss of the privilege of using electronic devices and Internet access on campus. Students could be asked to withdraw from a class and could receive no credit for the course.

Regardless where it takes place, students have no right to add, copy, delete, or alter any operating system software, application system software, and system setup or equipment configurations of devices owned or issued by the school.

It is a violation of School rules to bypass security systems, to access systems areas without instructor permission, to change any configurations, such as “jailbreaking,” or to alter in any way the setup of school owned or issued electronic devices, wireless network, network, or peripherals.

USE GUIDELINES The use of the Internet including email systems requires that students abide by accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following: • BE POLITE. Do not send abusive, harassing, discriminatory, violent, threatening messages or messages pertaining to unlawful activity to anyone.

• USE APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE. In all messages, do not swear or use vulgarities or any other obscene language. Anything pertaining to illegal activities is strictly forbidden.

• RESPECT PRIVACY. Do not reveal the passwords, personal addresses, or phone numbers of self or any person via the Internet. Students should not access other students’ communications and information that may be accessible via the network. Note that electronic mail (email) and messaging is not guaranteed to be private. Any communications that are backed up to a school server, even from a personal device, have no guarantee of privacy. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activity may be reported to the authorities.

• RESPECT PRIVACY. Do not reveal the passwords, personal addresses, or phone numbers of self or any person via the Internet. All communications and information accessible via the network should be treated as private property. Note that electronic mail (email) and messaging is not guaranteed to be private.

Messages relating to or in support of illegal activity may be reported to the authorities.

18

• •

CONNECT APPROPRIATELY. Do not use the network in such a way that would disrupt its use by others.

USE APPROPRIATELY. Students are strictly prohibited from using computers or email systems in ways that are disruptive, offensive to others, or harmful to morale. Some examples of such prohibited use include sexually explicit images or messages, ethnic slurs, bullying, or racial comments. Make informed choices regarding what technology is appropriate to use for achieving academic course outcomes, as well as when and how to use this technology in keeping with Lasallian Core Values and effectively and appropriately assessing web content for validity and credibility.

When using an electronic device on campus, the following rules apply: • All users must log on to their school-issued account. Students may use only their own accounts. Sharing of account and/or account information is prohibited.

• All users may never move, change, or disconnect any of the hardware or wires/cables.

• CD burners may only be used for school-approved activities.

• Activities on electronic devices deemed inappropriate by school personnel are not allowed and may result in disciplinary action. Headphones may be used with the permission of school personnel. Safety concerns require that students are always able to hear directions given by school personnel.

• All Internet and electronic device use will be confined to the parameters set out in the Student/Parent Handbook.

• Electronic devices (including cell phones) are not permitted at all-school events (liturgies, prayer services, rallies, and assemblies). These devices should remain with personal effects in the locked classroom.

SECURITY If a student thinks he/she can identify a security problem on the computer, he/she must notify a member of the faculty or staff or the network administrator. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to schoolowned or issued devices.

ACCESS Students have no right to privacy in their use of Justin-Siena’s electronic equipment.

Justin-Siena reserves the right, at its discretion, to review any student’s electronic devices, files, and messages, including but not limited to email, photos, texts, video, and other applications to ensure compliance with all School rules. Students must comply with all requests for access. Students should not use Justin-Siena’s electronic resources for communications they would like to keep private.

USE OF PERSONAL COMPUTERS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AT SCHOOL iPads are the primary device for use on campus, When other personal computers or electronic devices are brought to school, the following policies (in addition to those above) apply: Security - The security of the network is the primary concern. Students must work with school personnel to protect school networks and systems. Students must log on with their school account if the device is attached to our network. Security measures must not be bypassed.

Licenses - When software licensed to Justin-Siena is used on a personal electronic device, the owner of the device must purchase a license or agree to have the network administrator remove the software from the computer when he/she leaves.

Updating/Upgrading - When software is updated or upgraded, the policy is the same as it is for software licenses, but for operating system upgrades, the owner of the electronic device must agree to buy the license or order it.

Virus Protection - Virus protection software that is compatible with Justin-Siena’s network must be installed on personal electronic devices.

Theft and Damage - Justin-Siena will not be responsible for the theft of or damage to any personal electronic device or applications regardless of the cause of such theft or damage; the owner assumes all risk. The school 19

reserves the right to seek financial restitution for any damages to school property caused by a student or other user.

Troubleshooting Priority - With respect to problem solving, priority is given to the school-owned electronic devices.

Repair and Maintenance - Repair and maintenance is the responsibility of the owner of the electronic device.

CONSEQUENCES FOR VIOLATION OF THE COMPUTER, INTERNET, AND ELECTRONIC MEDIA USE POLICY Students who violate the rules set forth in the Computer Internet, and Electronic Media Use Policy and the iPad Use Agreement will be subject to one or more of the following consequences. The School reserves the right in its sole discretion to determine which type of discipline to issue in response to a violation of this Policy. The School is not required to follow any type of progressive discipline policy and prior policy or rule violations will be taken into consideration. Consequences may include the following types of discipline that may be issued in any order in the School’s sole discretion: • Verbal warning • Confiscation • Cancellation of a student’s privilege of access to equipment, peripherals, the network, or the Internet for a period of time; under no circumstances may this student use another account to access the system.

• Payment for labor charges and/or parts necessary to undo changes or restore any equipment or system to its proper operating configuration as determined by the network administrator and Justin-Siena Administration.

• Removal of the student from a course of instruction, suspension, and/or expulsion from Justin-Siena.

• Contact of law enforcement; filing criminal or civil charges through the California court system against the offending student and his/her parents if the student is a minor.

Social Media Policy Use of social networks may be limited by school personnel. Students who use social media must adhere to the Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures, the Computer, Internet, and Electronic Media Use Policy, and the Harassment and Bullying Policy. In addition, students who express non-school-related opinions must clearly state that these opinions are solely those of the student. Students must state and assume full responsibility and liability for the content contained on all social media. Students are reminded that they are Braves 24-7 and that ALL electronic content is public and permanent. Justin-Siena reserves the right, at its discretion, to review and/or request removal of any students’ social media content. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action.

Social Media Guidelines • Before participating in any online community, students should understand that anything posted online is available to anyone in the world. Any text or photo placed online becomes the property of the site(s) and is completely out of the student’s control the moment it is placed online – regardless of privacy settings.

• Students should not post any information, photos, or other items online that could embarrass them, their families, their friends, their athletic teams, or the Justin-Siena community. This includes information that may be posted by others on their pages.

• For safety reasons, students should never post home addresses, local addresses, phone number(s), birth dates, or other personal information. They could be a target of predators.

• Colleges and universities, potential employers, and internship supervisors may also monitor these websites or request access to student sites as a way of screening applicants. In addition, scholarship committees also search these sites to screen candidates.

• Law enforcement agencies monitor social media content regularly.

• Regardless of intention or supposed or promised security or privacy settings, all electronic content is public and permanent.

20

Technology Standards for Students Justin-Siena students apply these technology standards based upon the nine ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) National Educational Technology Standards (NETS) and Performance Indicators for Students and the ISTE Standards for Students (2007). Justin-Siena students will create and present their learning in ways that show excellence and understanding of the standards. All students should meet the following standards and performance indicators.

1. Creativity and innovation Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using technology. a. Apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes through the synthesis of information b. Create original, creative, and innovative works as a means of personal or group expression c. Use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues d. Identify trends and forecast possibilities 2. Communication and collaboration Students use digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a distance, to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others. a. Interact, collaborate, and publish with peers, experts, or others employing a variety of digital environments and media b. Communicate information and ideas effectively to multiple wide varieties of audiences using a variety of media and formats c. Develop cultural understanding and global awareness by engaging with learners of other cultures both within and outside our country d. Contribute to project teams to produce original works or solve problems 3. Research and information fluency Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information ethically. a. Plan strategies to guide inquiry b. Locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and ethically use information from a variety of sources and media c. Evaluate and select information sources and digital tools based on the appropriateness to specific tasks d. Process data and report results

4. Critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources. a. Identify and define relevant problems and significant questions for investigation b. Plan and manage activities to develop a solution or complete a project c. Collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed decisions d. Use multiple processes and diverse perspectives to explore alternative solutions

21

5. Digital citizenship Students understand human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology and practice legal and ethical behavior. a. Advocate and practice safe, legal, and responsible use of information and technology that serves others and promotes social justice b. Develop an awareness of how technology can diminish or enhance human relationships 6. Technology operations and concepts Students demonstrate a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations. a. Understand basic technology systems, how operating systems work and interact together, and understand WiFi and networks that affect school protections b. Understand and troubleshoot devices and applications effectively c. Transfer current tech competencies knowledge to learning of new technologies

Â

22

Attendance Policies and Procedures Punctuality and consistent attendance in classes are important for student success at all levels, both for the experience of participation in the learning environment as well as for skills development. Excessive tardiness and absences almost always have an adverse impact on a student’s academic performance. All students are to be on time for school each day, to attend school daily, and to be prompt in arriving for scheduled classes. Attendance is required in all classes. In addition, attendance is required for all assemblies and FlexTime activities that have been identified as mandatory for some segment of or the entire student body.

All routine matters concerning attendance are handled through the Attendance Officer in the Brother Bede Center.

Non-routine matters (e.g., truancy, excessive tardiness) will be referred to the Dean.

ABSENCES A student’s parent/guardian must phone the Attendance Officer (2550950 Ext. 677) between 7:45am and 9:30am to report the absence to the school.

All students who arrive late to school for any reason must report to the Attendance Officer in the Brother Bede Center and pick up a green slip. Students will not be admitted to class without a green slip.

EXCUSED ABSENCES Students with “excused” absences are permitted to make up all schoolwork missed during their absence (in the amount of time equal to their absence—see below). Students who miss school for any of the following reasons will be given an “excused” absence: • Illness, injury, or medical appointment; • School-related absences (such as sports, retreats, meetings with Administration, etc.); • Attendance at a funeral; or, • Absences excused IN ADVANCE by the Dean.

Whenever a student is not at school, unless it is school-related, he/she must provide a parent-signed note to the Attendance Office in accordance with the above-stated policies and procedures.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES Students with “unexcused” absences are NOT permitted to make up any schoolwork missed due to this absence (unless the teacher deems the assignment to be a “major assignment”). Students who miss school for any reason (other than those listed in the preceding paragraph) will be given an “unexcused” absence. A distinction will be made regarding an unexcused absence that is deemed a “cut” and an unexcused absence as described below. A “cut” may result in the inability to make up missed work regardless of its designation as a “major assignment” and may also result in consequences such as detention or suspension.

Students who wish to have an “unexcused” absence “excused” must submit a completed “Excused Absence Request” form to the Attendance Officer for approval by the Dean AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE of the absence. Requests for “excused” absences submitted within one week of the absence or after the absence may not be approved.

Absences may be excused for the following reasons: • •

Vocational activities (college visits, outside of school sports and activities, etc.)

Family gatherings (weddings, reunions, etc.) – not all days of the absence will necessarily be excused.

The school does not concede to parents the right to alter the school’s published calendar for their convenience.

Family vacations occurring when school is in session are rarely, if ever, excused. Students and parents are reminded that the school provides ample time each calendar year where students have no on-campus 23

responsibilities. Additionally, upper-division students are encouraged to make use of three- and four-day weekends already scheduled during the year for college visits.

If a student requests that an absence be “excused,” and this request is approved by the Dean, the Attendance Officer will notify the student so the student can make arrangements with his/her teachers to make up any missed work.

If a student requests that an absence be “excused,” and this request is denied by the Dean, the Attendance Officer will notify the student and the parents of this decision. The teachers of this student will also be contacted by the Dean informing them that they are not permitted to allow this student to make up any missed work (unless deemed by the teacher to be a “major assignment”).

The school strongly discourages vacations which extend beyond school holiday and vacation periods. The Dean will not necessarily nor easily approve requests for such absence, especially during the time allocated for final examinations. Parents must consider the effect such vacation plans have on the student’s ability to resume studies and the burdens placed on teachers.

ATTENDANCE POLICY RELATED TO RETREATS All students are encouraged to participate in the school’s retreat program. Teachers and coaches are expected to fully support students in their retreat participation. As such, students who participate on retreats (whether mandatory or optional) are not to be penalized in class for their retreat participation. Students are strongly encouraged to make arrangements with teachers before the retreat to be proactive in minimizing make-up work.

Teachers are strongly encouraged to excuse all assignments a student misses due to participation on a retreat. If this cannot be done, teachers are expected to carefully consider the missed assignments and reduce the number of assignments the student is responsible for making up. At a minimum, teachers are required to allow students who participate on retreats two (2) school days for each day of school missed for retreat to complete whatever missing assignments are required. Students will not receive a “zero” for any missing assignment until after the appropriate number of days that students have to make up their assignments. Students are expected to coordinate with their teachers to complete any missed assignments due to retreat participation.

When a retreat is designated “mandatory,” class work and homework are to be excused, though students are still held responsible for learning the material.

Athletes are strongly encouraged to participate on retreats that do not conflict with their season of sport. If retreat participation does conflict with a sport, the athlete’s full participation in the sport is not to be jeopardized.

MAKE-UP WORK POLICY FOR EXCUSED ABSENCES 1. “One day” is defined as a class meeting day, not a calendar day.

2. If a student is present for material prior to an excused absence, and an assessment is given on that material on the day the student returns, the student should take the quiz as scheduled.

3. If a student is absent on the day of an assessment (and was present for the presentation of the material), he/she should take the assessment upon return.

4. Students should communicate with teachers prior to planned absences to determine an appropriate timeline to make up excused work.

EXCESSIVE ABSENCE AND LOSS OF CREDIT Students who are absent from a particular class (whether excused or unexcused) more than 20% of the class meetings (approximately 10 absences) may receive no credit for the semester and will need to remediate this course according to the policies stated in this handbook. Students with extended illnesses or disabilities may be referred to a home study program in their local public school district.

GUIDELINES REGARDING SCHOOL-RELATED AND EXCUSED ABSENCES In light of the policy regarding loss of credit due to excessive absence, and realizing that any absence from class has an impact on learning and achievement, students and families should carefully plan calendars and 24

participation in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities to minimize absence from classes. While participation in co-curricular activities is encouraged, the following guidelines should be considered: • Students should participate in several-day co-curricular activities only once per semester (Kairos, Kairos leader, Venaver, etc.)

• Students should consider the impact that participation in a sport will have when combined with a severalday co-curricular activity in the same semester.

• Students should consider the impact that participation in a co-curricular performing arts performance (such as a play or musical) will have when combined with a several-day co-curricular activity in the same semester.

• For students enrolled in a performing arts class (such as Dance and Music), the performance requirements of the class take priority over participation in other activities.

• College visits should be planned to coincide with non-school days whenever possible; a longer college visit trip should not be taken in the same semester as participation in a several-day co-curricular activity.

• Family travel should take place during non-school days only.

• Potential illness is also a factor to be considered in the tally of absences.

MEDICAL, DENTAL, AND SPECIAL APPOINTMENTS If circumstances should necessitate appointments during school hours, the student is to present a note from his/her parent/guardian requesting that the student be dismissed from school for the appointment. The time and nature of the appointment is to be clearly stated. This note is to be presented to the Attendance Officer in the Brother Bede Center before 8:00am. Students are not allowed off campus without permission from the Dean.

When a student returns to school after an appointment, he/she must present a note from the doctor, dentist, etc. Most medical offices have a special form for this purpose. This note is to be presented to the Attendance Officer as soon as the student returns to school. The student is responsible for any schoolwork missed during this time.

All medical/dental appointments should be made outside of school hours whenever possible.

If the appointment is before school and will cause the student to miss class, a note from a parent/guardian is required as well as one from the doctor or dentist in order to excuse the absence.

TARDIES All students who arrive late to school during the first period of the day (or whenever they first arrive), regardless of the length of the tardiness, must check in with the Attendance Officer in the BBC and receive a green slip for admittance to class; a note is required for tardies over 15 minutes. Oversleeping is considered an automatic tardy.

Students already at school who are late to class during the day will be marked tardy when attendance is taken; students may be considered tardy if they are not in their seats ready to begin class when the second bell rings for any class period. Once attendance has been taken, a tardy student must report to the Brother Bede Center and receive a green slip for admittance to class.

Measures that may be taken to eliminate tardiness include meeting with the student, parent contact, detention, and/or other disciplinary actions.

Tardy Policy Per Semester 1-3 Tardies 4th-5th Tardies 6th Tardy 7th Tardy 8th Tardy 9th Tardy

= = = = = =

Notification in PowerSchool Detention and parent notification by email Detention and parent notification by email; warning of meeting Saturday Detention Detention and Conference with Dean and parents Detention and Probation

25

ILLNESS DURING SCHOOL Students becoming ill during the school day should report in person to the Attendance Officer in the Brother Bede Center. If it is necessary for the student to go home, the Attendance Officer will inform the parent/guardian and the student will be released from school. Students who go home ill are required to present a parent/guardian note regarding their absence upon returning to school. Under no circumstances are students to leave the campus without first checking out in person with the Attendance Officer or Dean. A student who leaves campus without checking out will be considered truant and may receive disciplinary action.

It may be necessary on occasion for students to rest briefly in the Brother Bede Center if they are not feeling well.

Should a student require a period of rest longer than 40 minutes, the Attendance Officer or Dean will call a parent/guardian for the student to be released for illness. Students are to be picked up in the Brother Bede Center (the Attendance Office off the main breezeway). Students who become ill during the school day and leave campus without checking out will be considered truant and may receive disciplinary action. Visits to the office for prolonged stays as described above constitute an absence.

NOTES REQUIRED Notes from parents are required for the following reasons: • Absences • Tardies (when more than 15 minutes late for school) • Medical appointments • Illness during school Notes must include the following information: 1. Current date 2. Student’s name 3. Dates and/or periods missed 4. Reason for absence 5. Signature of parent/guardian 6. A note form a physician may be required for extensive absences

Absence notes may be faxed to school using our fax number: 707.255.1334

Notes should be presented to the Attendance Officer before 8:00am. Justin-Siena is required by law to have on file a note written by a student’s parent/guardian verifying all absences and tardies that cause a student to be more than 15 minutes late for school. Students returning to school without a note verifying their absences will be given one additional school day to turn it in. After the second day, the student will receive a detention and may not be able to attend class until the note is provided or until the school has reasonable assurance that the note will be forthcoming.

ADDITIONAL ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS Activity Eligibility Requirement To be eligible to attend or participate in any after-school activity, students must attend 50% of a school day (or a majority of class periods) and have no outstanding detentions to serve. School activities will not count as absences. Students who go home for illness during the school day may not participate in any activities the same day regardless of percent of attendance.

Age Requirement Regardless of age, all students at Justin-Siena are required to comply with all rules and regulations as found in this Student/Parent Handbook. Students 18 years or older are not allowed to write their own attendance notes.

Bathroom Visits Policy It is important for students to remain in their classes for the entire class period. The school recognizes, though, that there are times when it is necessary for a student to leave the classroom for a bathroom visit. We expect students to request a visit to the bathroom only when it is absolutely necessary. The teacher will monitor such 26

requests. Students should not take longer than needed and may not take their cell phones with them when leaving the classroom to make a bathroom visit.

Excessive bathroom use may result in conversations with the Dean or Guidance Department.

Residency Requirement Justin-Siena expects its students to reside with parent(s) or approved guardian(s) while enrolled at Justin-Siena.

Contagious Disease Students whose absence from school is due to a contagious disease (e.g., hepatitis) will be asked to provide the school with a doctor’s note certifying their well being prior to returning to school.

Closed Campus Justin-Siena maintains the policy of a closed campus. Students may not leave the school grounds during the school day for any purpose without the permission of the Dean or the Administration. On days when there is an afternoon flex period, students who are not required to attend a specific activity and who are driving may leave campus at the start of the flex period, but they may not subsequently return. Once students arrive on campus for the day, they may not leave and return during a flex period. Students who leave campus without permission are considered truant and may receive disciplinary action.

Flex Periods Flex periods are considered part of the school day; as such, all policies that apply in the classroom apply during flex periods inside and outside the classroom. Students must be in dress code; students whose first period after a flex period is a PE class may NOT change into PE or sports clothing earlier. Except for arrival at school, the parking lots are off-limits during flex periods and the entirety of the school day. Except for moving from one locale to another or getting needed materials, breezeways, hallways, and locker areas are off limits during flex.

Students may be in any classroom where a teacher is present, meeting with a counselor, meeting with any other teacher or administrator, in the Dining Hall, in the Gasser Center, in Patron’s Plaza, or in the Clark Gym if supervised by a teacher/coach. Once students arrive at school, they may not leave during flex periods (except as set forth above in the “Closed Campus” section).

Orientations Attendance is required at student orientations before classes begin. Students must receive prior approval from the Dean or the Administration to miss Orientation. All students are to arrive in dress code properly groomed as school pictures are taken this day. Those students who do not comply will have to take their pictures on make-up day; they will not have their ID to enter games and other activities, nor will their photos be included in the yearbook unless the photo is taken on make-up day in approved dress code.

Campus Visitors Visitors to the campus must apply to the Receptionist in the Christian Bothers Center for a Visitor’s Permit.

Guests are not allowed on campus before, during, or after school without permission from the Dean or the Administration.

Parent Visits Parents are asked to use the Christian Brothers Center as the main access to campus. Dropping off materials for students and picking up students during the school day should be handled with the receptionist in the Christian Brothers Center. Visitors may enjoy the comfort of the Welcome Center in the CBC if waiting is required.

Change of Address/Emergency Form Updates If a family moves, it is very important that the school be notified immediately of the new address and any change in phone number. Please make these changes in writing on a form available online or in the school offices. The following staff members will receive the forms and make necessary changes: Silvia Villalobos, Letty Herrera, Cynthia Paniagua, and Alma Gallegos.

27

Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures CONDUCT INTRODUCTION The values of Catholic, Lasallian education, rooted in the Gospel, are the foundation for all interactions and relationships at Justin-Siena. The mutual respect that flows from these values is rooted in the belief that all persons are created by God who is continually calling us to grow in faith, caring, and compassion. A student is considered at all times and places a member of the Justin-Siena student body. This is, first of all, an honor and privilege and therefore, students must be conscious of their actions at all times, whether on or off campus, including but not limited to games, dances, rallies, assemblies, service projects, and other gatherings. Courtesy and respect should be manifested at all times.

Social media and easy access to the Internet have blurred the traditional lines of “on-campus” and “off-campus.”

What takes place off campus is immediately a school issue because of the public nature of these media. The school follows up on information that is communicated to us or that becomes part of a normal investigation; the school does not normally “fish” for information otherwise.

There is no place at Justin-Siena for any behavior or attitude that stands in opposition to the Lasallian Core Values. Therefore, any attitude or action of a disrespectful nature on the part of a student whether they take place on or off campus, toward faculty, staff, guests, one another, or anyone in the broader community will be viewed as a very serious violation of the school’s code of conduct. Disrespect includes, but is not limited to, verbal, physical, and emotional abuse as defined by the School Administration. Crude language and other expressions of ungentlemanly and unladylike conduct are unacceptable. Justin-Siena reserves the right to handle cases involving student conduct and actions, regardless of when or where such actions take place, if they are of a nature to bring discredit upon the school, are in conflict with the values for which Justin-Siena stands, or are in violation of criminal or civil law or the reasonable rights of others.

Actions which violate the law, threaten or cause physical, psychological, or emotional harm to students or staff members, disrupt or impede the welfare and progress of the school, are detrimental to the reputation of the school, or damage or destroy school property will not be tolerated. Such actions or other severe violations of the code of student conduct or actions which express an incompatibility with the mission and philosophy of the school, whether they take place on or off campus, may result in students being barred from participation in school activities, and furthermore, subject students to a full range of disciplinary sanctions, including suspension and expulsion.

GENERAL COURTESY All members of the Justin-Siena community are to show courtesy and good manners at all times. The following guidelines for conduct and courtesy should be observed by all: • Be courteous at all times, especially in the classroom. Students and faculty should be prepared to begin class when the second bell rings and remain on task until excused by the teacher at the end of class.

• Be considerate of others. Give respectful attention to the speaker whether the speaker is an instructor, a fellow student, or a guest speaker. Speak politely and distinctly when appropriate. Do not disrupt the class or assembly by talking out of turn or by any other distracting behavior.

FAILURES IN GOOD ORDER The following infractions of good order are examples of actions that are considered serious (and illegal in some cases) and will be dealt with according to the procedures outlined below. Students should be aware that they represent their school and that any activity on or off the campus that is detrimental to the reputation of the school community may be viewed as a failure in good order. Such activities include but are not limited to the following: • Possession of any knife or firearm (air or combustion) or any instrument or device that may be used as a weapon (i.e., martial arts device, club, bat, pipe, piece of wood, etc.) on campus or at school functions off campus.

28

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Possessing, selling, giving away, soliciting, or being under the influence of a controlled substance or possession of drug paraphernalia, alcohol, medicine, vapor products, or tobacco products.

Hosting at any time any gathering at home or elsewhere where any controlled substances are provided or made accessible to minors.

Sexual, physical, visual or verbal harassment or abuse of staff, students, or guests of the school.

Stealing, malicious damage, or destruction of property.

Cheating or dishonesty of any kind.

Insubordination, disobedience, rudeness, threats or violence directed toward another student, a member of the faculty, administration, staff, member of the broader community, or a guest of the school.

Targeting any member of the school or broader community in a harassing or abusive manner.

Serious violation of the Internet use policy.

Pranks that cause a disruption to the good order of the school.

Conduct or language that conflicts with the values of the school (as interpreted by the Administration).

Truancy and/or cutting class.

Possession and/or distribution of pornographic materials, either printed or in electronic or other form.

Harassment, annoyance, or intrusion of neighbors’ homes or property.

Hazing.

Forging parent signatures.

Bullying in any form.

Excessive unexcused tardiness or absenteeism.

“Sexting” or the sharing of such communication with others, including any digital or other material showing any inappropriate explicit imagery. It should be noted that sharing explicit images of minors can result in serious legal action.

Violation of the Electronic Media Policy.

DISCIPLINE When behavior described in the preceding section is directed by one Justin-Siena student against another, or against a member of the Justin-Siena staff or community, even when the behavior occurs off campus, the school may become involved, and disciplinary sanctions will apply. Where appropriate, law enforcement may be contacted. Justin-Siena is committed to providing a safe environment for its staff, students, and guests. To educate in the most complete sense is the philosophy of Justin-Siena. The sole purpose of the rules enacted and enforced by the school is to further this goal. Students are encouraged to discipline themselves. However, recognizing that guidance and direction are required and correction is sometimes necessary, the following policies will be carried out to maintain discipline in the school. Behavior which violates any policies contained in this handbook may be reported or discovered long after the behavior took place; investigating, notifying students and parents, and administering the consequences may follow this discovery.

DISCIPLINE RELATED TO STUDENT BEHAVIOR OUTSIDE OF THE SCHOOL YEAR All school policies related to discipline apply to behavior outside the school year including summer and vacation periods. Consequences for behavior that takes place during these periods may be administered when school resumes or when the behavior during these periods is reported or discovered. Because of the nature of vacation periods, there may be a substantial delay in reporting, investigating, notifying students and parents, and administering the consequences.

DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS The following sanctions may be imposed upon students in the sole discretion of the School in any order based on the circumstances and any prior disciplinary actions: Non-Participation in End-of-the-Year Celebrations Seniors who commit serious failures of good order within the last 45 school days of the year may have the privilege of participation in Senior Celebration, Founders Day, Senior Trip, Baccalaureate Mass, and Graduation removed. If it is so determined, the parents of the senior would be contacted by the Dean. Any appeal must be made to the Principal in writing and include a specific justification for the appeal. The Principal must receive the 29

appeal within five business days of notification to parents/guardians of the Dean’ judgment. The Principal’s decision is final.

Detention Students are assigned to detention by the Dean or an Administrator or at the request of a faculty member after school. Detentions are normally served on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays on either the day the detention was earned or the next time detention is scheduled. During detention, a student may be assigned work to do around the campus. Detention takes precedence over any co-curricular or extra-curricular activity, such as sports, class activities, drama, work, etc. Written notification of all detentions will be given to the student. Failure to serve detention will result in additional disciplinary action. The only way a scheduled detention can be rescheduled is with a note or phone call from a parent/guardian to the Dean at least 24 hours prior to the detention. Students are normally assigned to detention for the following infractions: • Tardiness • Unexcused absence • Minor infractions listed under “Failures in Good Order” Violation of the Academic Integrity Policy Saturday Detention Saturday detention, which takes the form of doing chores at the school while under supervision, is reserved for chronic or serious offenders of school rules or those who have been given long-term sanctions. Work, athletics, and club activities may not take precedence over an assigned school day or Saturday detention.

Probation The Dean will inform parents when their son or daughter has been placed on probation because of an infraction of school regulations or incidents of misconduct. Students placed on probation are expected to participate in practice for any extracurricular activity in which they are currently involved, but they may not participate in student activities (play in a game, perform in a production, go to a dance, etc.) for the period of their probation. The assigned period may be from one to six weeks in length depending on the severity of the infraction.

Repetition of similar offenses will result in one of the following types of suspension, at the sole discretion of Justin-Siena: On-Campus Suspension A student may be placed on on-campus suspension if, in the judgment of the Dean, the student will be best served by remaining on the school grounds isolated to a degree from the rest of the student body. During an on-campus suspension, the student must perform either academic or manual work. The parents will receive notification of the suspension and must confer with the Dean before the student is readmitted to a daily school schedule.

Suspension A student will be suspended from school for serious misconduct. Suspension is not meant to be corrective in and of itself, but it rather sends the message that the kind of behavior for which the suspension was given does not belong in the Justin-Siena community. Parents will receive notification of the suspension from the Dean and must confer with the Dean before the student is readmitted to school. Should the same or any other offense of a serious nature occur during the remainder of the school year, the student may be dismissed.

Expulsion Expulsion is the final and irrevocable dismissal from the school. The Principal is the administrator empowered to expel a student. Expulsion is incurred by misconduct of a nature serious enough to call for immediate removal of the student without suspension or by repetition of conduct leading to one or more suspensions. Note: In some cases, a period of home study (without penalty) for the student may be assigned during the investigation of an accusation.

30

DISCIPLINARY REVIEW BOARD The Disciplinary Review Board is composed of the Dean, three faculty members who are elected by the faculty annually, and two faculty members who are appointed by the Principal annually. The purpose of the board is to review the disciplinary status of specific students in light of the mission and philosophy of Justin-Siena. Situations that may cause the Dean to call a student before the Disciplinary Review Board include, but are not limited to, the following: • Continuous disregard for the school rules.

• Major disciplinary infractions that by their nature affect the school community.

• Serious actions by a student that are not addressed directly or clearly by the Student/Parent Handbook.

The Dean chairs the meetings of the Disciplinary Review Board. It is both desired and expected, but not required, that the student and the student’s parents be present. A counselor will be present when available. The meeting is not open to outside parties except by the Chair’s invitation. The Board’s recommendation(s) shall be presented to the Principal for consideration. The decision of the Principal is final.

31

Additional Policies and Procedures MAIN ENTRANCE The main entrance to the school is through the main doors of the Christian Brothers Center (CBC) facing Maher Street. Parents may drop off items for students with the receptionist at the main desk.

DELIVERIES TO STUDENTS ALL deliveries to students MUST be made through the Main Office in the Christian Brothers Center (CBC).

Students may NEVER pick up any items delivered by anyone curbside or at any other location (with the exception of the BBC or with approval from administration).

CARE OF SCHOOL GROUNDS AND PROPERTY It takes the care and efforts of all students, faculty, administration, and maintenance/custodial staff to keep the school grounds clean and attractive. Each student should personally contribute to this effort by placing garbage, recyclable items, and papers in the proper receptacles located throughout the campus. At times students will be asked to take part in the physical preparation for school-sponsored events.

Any student damaging or destroying school property is liable for repair or replacement of the damaged property and is subject to disciplinary action by the Dean or Administration.

HALLS, CORRIDORS, CLASSROOM AREAS Classroom areas should be quiet while classes are in session. It is therefore necessary to keep hallways free of traffic during these periods in the 400 and 500 wings and to keep away from the windows of the 100, 200, and 300 wings. Lockers may be used between classes only. Students should not ask to be dismissed by a teacher to go to their lockers during class time.

The Faculty Room is located in the 400 wing. It is exclusively reserved for the school staff and is not available to students at any time unless a staff member accompanies them.

Students may not eat in the halls of the 400 or 500 wings but are welcome to have lunch with teachers in their classrooms with permission.

CONSENT TO SEARCH The school reserves the right to search any area of campus and school property including all lockers and school computers and electronic devices. Furthermore, the school administration and its agents reserve the right and responsibility to conduct, and the student must submit to, a search of his/her person, automobile, clothes, bags, cell phone, and electronic equipment when reasonable cause exists. A search of a student’s person would occur only in rare cases and with appropriate supervision by a faculty member of the same sex. Searches of the school grounds and lockers using dogs specifically trained to identify controlled substances may take place. Refusal to comply with a search process will be grounds for disciplinary action, which may include expulsion.

DEALING WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT If a law enforcement officer arrives on campus and asks to interview or meet with a student, the officer is referred to the Dean or the Principal who will confirm the officer’s identity and credentials that he/she is acting in an official capacity and arrange to have the student brought to the Brother Bede Center to meet with the officer privately. The school will follow the instructions of the officer regarding contacting parents; if there is no restriction, parents are to be contacted prior to the interview and be given the opportunity to be present.

If the officer states that he/she is taking the student, the school will find out where the student is being taken and contact the student’s parents or guardians with respect to the incident and inform them where the student is being taken.

32

BOUNDARIES The following areas are considered “out of bounds” during the school day, including Flex Time, breaks, and lunchtime. Students may not visit any of these areas at any time during the school day: • The area in front of the school outside the iron gates • The area around the north, east, and south sides of the North Gym • The lawn areas around the Convent and the Christian Brothers Center • The area to the west of the 100 wing • The stage area of the Dining Hall (except with teacher supervision) • All parking areas • The athletic fields • The park across the street and surrounding neighborhood (at all times) • Any construction area on campus • Any area not easily observed by a faculty member RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT The use of athletic equipment is restricted to approved places on campus: the Clark Gym, the North Gym, the North Lawn, the East Field, the Softball and Baseball Fields, and Dodd Stadium with appropriate supervision and permission.

FOOD, DRINKS, AND CHEWING GUM Food, drinks, and chewing gum are not allowed in the classrooms or Gasser Center during scheduled class time unless permitted by the teacher. However, Justin-Siena expects its students to treat the campus with respect and clean up after themselves.

POSSESSION/USE OF AUTHORIZED MEDICATION Students who take medication at school on a regular basis must have written notification from parents and/or their physician on file in the Attendance Office. Parents must immediately report in writing to the Attendance Officer any change to a student’s prescription or dosage. Additionally, parents must notify the Attendance Officer in writing immediately that a decision to terminate the use of any medication has been made.

The school does not provide any medication of any kind to students. Students may carry over-the-counter pain relievers, cold medication, etc., but may not share these medications with others. The Attendance Officer must have notification of student prescription medications; these may be left with the Attendance officer who can provide the medication to the student at prescribed times, or the student may carry the prescription in daily doses only, not to be shared with others. Medications must be in the original marked and child-proofed bottle.

LOCKERS Lockers are, and always remain, the property of the school. Each student is assigned a locker for the storage of materials. Students may not trade nor use other lockers unless given permission to do so by the Dean. It is the student’s responsibility to see that the locker is kept locked and in order. Students will be charged for any damage (including graffiti) to lockers. Students are advised, for their own protection, to be certain that their lockers are always locked and that the combinations are kept confidential. Only school-authorized locks may be used.

Unauthorized locks will be removed and discarded, and articles inside the locker will be collected and stored for up to one month. Students are not to share lockers with other students or to exchange lockers. Students are encouraged to identify all of their belongings and lock all property in their lockers.

LOSS, DAMAGE, OR THEFT OF ITEMS Justin-Siena is not responsible for loss, damage, or theft of items from lockers or any school location or event.

THEFT Theft is considered a serious infraction; depending on the nature of the theft, law enforcement may be involved.

Theft may include, but is not limited to, taking possessions belonging to another, taking school property without permission, keeping possessions which are not the student’s own, and obtaining the possessions of another from a 33

third party when it is known the third party was not given permission by the owner to dispose of the possessions.

Attempted theft and possession of stolen materials will be considered the same as actual theft. It should be noted that the food service provided in the Dining Hall, the snack bar, and at athletic events is provided by a third party who is contracted by the school. This party may choose to involve law enforcement when theft occurs, an action supported by the school.

When theft or attempted theft is discovered, these consequences will result: 1. First offense: Restitution, suspension, and a conference with parents is required. Depending on the offense, administration may choose to impose other requirements or penalties and/or call law enforcement.

2. Second offense: Restitution and a conference with parents is required; up to a 3-day suspension will be imposed. Depending on the offense, administration may choose to impose other requirements or penalties and/or call law enforcement.

3. Third offense: Law enforcement will be called. Depending on the offense, administration may choose to impose other requirements or penalties including expulsion.

All cars should be parked, locked, and left immediately in designated school parking areas upon arrival at school.

PARKING AUTOMOBILES AND MOTORCYCLES Students wishing to drive a car or motorcycle must register their vehicles in the Office of the Dean. Students are not allowed to return to their cars during the school day unless a school administrator grants permission. Sitting in, loitering around, or visiting cars is strictly forbidden while school is in session and before and after school. No car is to leave the campus during the school day without permission of the Principal or the Dean. A speed limit of 5 miles per hour is to be observed on the school grounds. Students who drive in an unsafe manner may have their driving/parking privileges revoked and may receive other disciplinary action.

Junior and senior students may park their cars in the south campus parking lot or along the east side of Maher Street. Sophomores may park their cars in the north parking lot or along the east side of Maher Street. NO students may park next to any curb painted red or yellow, on Students with illegally parked cars or cars not the west side of Maher, in an unmarked parking space in the displaying student parking stickers south lot, OR OFF-CAMPUS. The two enclosed parking areas may be subject to a fine of $10.00 for each offense. in front of the school are reserved for faculty, visitors, and guests and are not available for student parking. Students tampering with any vehicle on campus are subject to severe disciplinary action that may include expulsion and possibly law enforcement. There is reserved parking for the Napa School of Music near their facility, the Zeller Building.

Gates are locked each evening and weekends. After gates are locked, exit is only possible through the automatic gate on the north side of the campus. The Justin-Siena campus is private property, and the administration reserves the right to tow any vehicle left without permission.

DANCES At all school dances, the school rules and dress code requirements for dances apply. Freak dancing and other styles of dance that involve inappropriate actions will not be tolerated. Students who violate this instruction will be warned, and then on the second occurrence, will be required to have time away from the dance floor and a conference with the Dean or an administrator. If there is a third violation during a dance, the student’s parents will be called and he/she will be sent home and excluded from the next dance. Other disciplinary action may be applied. In addition, no glow sticks or other glow-type items may be present. The Dean may have a Breathalyzer present at all dances; all students must submit to a Breathalyzer test when requested by a school representative; if they do not consent, it will be considered a violation of the policy regarding controlled substances, the student will be asked to leave the dance, and parents will be called. Students considered to be under the influence of a controlled substance will not be allowed to drive and parents will need to pick them up. A breathalyzer test may be used randomly and or if a student is thought to be under the influence of alcohol. Safety Dogs may also be present at dances. See also “Policy for Possession/Use of Controlled Substances.�

34

Dances are for Justin-Siena students and when appropriate their guests, who are expected to observe the same dance regulations as the Justin-Siena students. Once students check in at the dance, they may not leave and expect to return. When students leave the dance, they should plan to leave the campus or venue immediately. Students are not allowed and should not ask permission to go to their cars during the dance. All students must observe the Justin-Siena dance dress code. Students are to be at the dance no later than 30 minutes after the published start time and may not leave until 30 minutes before the published end time unless prior arrangements with the Dean have been made. Guest passes must be given to the Dean 48 hours before the dance. Guest passes will not be accepted for the first dance of the year.

SKATEBOARDS/SCOOTERS/BICYCLES Students should not ride skateboards, scooters, and bicycles through the school campus at any time. Bicycles are to be parked in provided racks, and other items stored in the BBC during school. All bikes are to be locked. For the protection of the owners, regulations pertaining to cars apply equally to bicycles. Students tampering with any vehicle on campus are subject to severe disciplinary action.

PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES Students may use electronic devices during class or during breaks or before or after school with permission from the Dean or faculty members. See also the Computer, Internet, and Electronic Media Use Policy.

LASER DEVICES Students are not allowed to bring laser devices to school at any time. These will be confiscated and not returned.

PETS Pets are not allowed on campus without prior approval from administration.

PREGNANCY Acknowledging that human life at all stages, including the human fetus, is a sacred gift from God, and recognizing that abortion is not a choice that a Catholic school can support as an alternative at any stage of pregnancy, pregnant students deserve and need the full support of the administration, teachers, and other students.

Ordinarily, the expectant mother (and father if he is a student at the school) will be allowed to remain in school.

This is not because the School condones pregnancy outside of marriage, but is meant to underscore the sacred gift of life of the unborn child and to extend love and compassion to those involved.

If attendance in the classroom is judged not to be in the best interests of the student(s) or the school community, other arrangements will be made to help the student(s) continue academic studies. The school will continue to assist the student through graduation, including the ceremony itself and other related activities. Counseling will be required of these students.

All parties involved in obtaining an abortion may face disciplinary action.

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT REPORTING ACT COMPLIANCE Justin-Siena is legally required to comply with the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act. All employees (and those acting on behalf of the administration) of Justin-Siena are considered “mandated reporters� and are responsible to report suspected occurrences of child abuse or neglect to the proper authorities (Child Protective Services, police department, sheriff department, etc.). In any investigation of suspected child abuse or neglect, all persons participating in the investigation of the case shall consider the needs of the child victim and shall do whatever is necessary to prevent further harm to the child victim.

SUMMER AND NON-SPONSORED TRAVEL Students of Justin-Siena may participate in trips that are sponsored by outside student educational travel organizations. While Justin-Siena students appear to have enjoyed a positive relationship with the entities that plan these trips, Justin-Siena is in no way affiliated with those entities. Because we have no control over the 35

sponsoring companies, these trips are not considered Justin-Siena sponsored events, and Justin-Siena neither encourages nor discourages its students’ participation in such programs.

Justin-Siena receives no form of compensation in relation to these trips and has no control or say over the manner in which these entities carry out their business. Justin-Siena allows representatives of these travel organizations to distribute literature and hold informational meetings on Justin-Siena property because it believes travel can serve a positive educational role for its students. Nevertheless, Justin-Siena makes no representations or endorsements regarding the quality or nature of the services provided by these entities, or the safety and well being of those who participate in them. Students and their families should thoroughly consider all of the possible ramifications incumbent in the decision to participate in these programs, as well as the dangers and risks associated with travel in general.

Students and their families should be aware that Justin-Siena retains no control over its students while they are participating in these events and does not purport to insure their safety or well-being. While persons and chaperones may be associated with Justin-Siena, they do so as individuals, not as employees, agents, or representatives of Justin-Siena. Justin-Siena cannot and does not make any promises regarding the quality of the services its students will receive from the organizations which plan and promote these trips and cannot be held liable for any damages that one might incur while participating in a travel program.

School insurance coverage does not extend to these travel experiences, and additional medical insurance may be required. Families should verify coverage with their own insurance companies and/or purchase coverage offered through the tour company.

Justin-Siena may make restrictions regarding the participation of individual students.

Students who are credit deficient at the end of a school year must remediate the deficiency during the summer prior to returning in the fall—students may not advance to the next grade level credit-deficient. Therefore, a student may have to attend summer school for such remediation; this may jeopardize planned participation in summer travel.

Students whose families owe money to the school may not participate regardless of the source of payment for the trip; students on financial aid need to be cleared by the Business Manager and President.

36

Harassment and Bullying Policy Justin-Siena is committed to provide a learning environment that is free from harassment and/or bullying in any form. Harassment or bullying of any student by another student, lay employee, or religious employee is prohibited. Likewise, harassment or bullying of any employee or other member of the broader community by a student is prohibited. The school will treat allegations of harassment or bullying seriously and will review and investigate such allegations in a prompt, confidential, and thorough manner. Justin-Siena is committed to a “zero indifference” approach, which means that any and all witnessed or reported incidents of bullying or harassment will be addressed appropriately. All definitions and consequences in this section extend to members of the general community as well.

A charge of harassment or bullying shall not, in and of itself, create the presumption of wrongdoing. However, substantiated acts of harassment or bullying will result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.

Students found to have intentionally filed false or frivolous charges will also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.

Harassment or bullying occurs when an individual is subjected to treatment or a school environment that is hostile or intimidating, often because of the individual’s race, creed, color, national origin, physical disability, sexual orientation, or sex (but not limited to these categories). Bullying includes many of the same behaviors including badgering or intimidating another in any way. Harassment/bullying are not allowed at any time (during school, during school-related activities, or off campus). Harassment/bullying include, but are not limited to, verbal harassment/bullying, physical harassment/bullying, visual harassment/bullying, social harassment/bullying, sexual harassment/bullying, and cyber harassment/bullying. Systematic or ongoing harassment/bullying is especially egregious, but the school may determine in its sole discretion that isolated instances of these behaviors require the same consequences, depending on all the circumstances involved.

Verbal harassment/bullying includes, but is not limited to, name-calling, mocking, derogatory comments and jokes, and belligerent or threatening words spoken to or about another person.

Physical harassment/bullying includes, but is not limited to, unwanted physical touching or contact, assault, deliberate impediment or blocking of movements, or any intimidating interference with normal work or movement.

Social harassment/bullying is the diminishment of another’s sense of self and/or damaging the social status, relationships, or reputation of another through any means that results in: • Ignoring, isolating, excluding, or shunning; • Behavior in which a student or group of students picks on another student or treats him/her in a way that makes him/her feel uncomfortable or alienated; • Spreading false and/or malicious rumors; • Gossiping or revealing personal information; • Embarrassing or publically humiliating another.

Sexual harassment/bullying includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It is especially serious when any or all of the following occurs: • Submission to such conduct is made, either explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of a student’s academic or co-curricular status or progress.

• Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis of academic or co-curricular decisions affecting the individual.

• Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic or cocurricular performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

37

Specific examples of sexual harassment/bullying include, but are not limited to, the following: • Making unsolicited sexual advances and propositions.

• Using sexually degrading words to describe an individual or an individual’s body.

• Displaying sexually suggestive objects, pictures, websites, or emails.

• Telling inappropriate or sexually explicit jokes.

• Making reprisals, threats of reprisals, or implied threats of reprisals following a negative response to sexual advances.

• Spreading sexual rumors or making sexually suggestive or sexually abusive remarks.

• “Sexting” or the sharing of such communication with others. It should be noted that sharing explicit images of minors can result in serious legal action.

Cyber harassment/bullying includes but is not limited to, offending, harassing, or threatening others through technological means including email, instant messages, web pages, blogs, video and digital photo images, and/or text messages.

Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, intimidation, coercion, discrimination, or retaliation in any form against an individual who reports or threatens to report harassment/bullying, or who testifies, assists, or participates in any manner in an investigation. Retaliation will be treated as any other form of harassment or bullying and may result in expulsion.

Hazing is defined as initiated by exacting humiliating performances from or playing rough practical jokes upon another. This practice is strictly forbidden by the school and will be treated as any other form of harassment or bullying.

Students have the following responsibilities: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Conduct themselves in a manner that contributes to a positive school environment.

Avoid any activity that may be considered discriminatory, intimidating, harassing, or bullying.

Immediately inform anyone harassing or bullying them that the behavior is offensive and unwelcome.

Report all incidents of discrimination, harassment, or bullying to a dean or other administrator.

If informed they are perceived as engaging in discriminatory, intimidating, harassing, bullying, or unwelcome conduct, discontinue that conduct immediately.

Reporting and Investigating Claims The school will investigate all claims of harassment or bullying which may be made to the counselor, the dean, or any school administrator. Any disciplinary action recommended will relate to the nature, context, and seriousness of the harassment/bullying and can include all disciplinary actions up to and including immediate expulsion. The Principal has determined that decisions of the Dean regarding disciplinary actions to be taken in harassment cases short of expulsion are final.

When the Dean has concluded that the disciplinary action warranted is expulsion, an appeal of this judgment may be made to the Principal by the parents/guardians. Such an appeal must be made to the Principal in writing and include a specific justification for the appeal. The President/CEO has determined that the decision of the Principal regarding any appeal is final. The Principal is the administrator empowered to expel a student. If the complaint is against a non-employee or non-student, such as a parent, volunteer, or vendor, the school will take steps, within its power, to investigate and eliminate the problem.

38

Resolution of Conflicts and Concerns Policy While Justin-Siena students are blessed with committed parents who support their children in navigating high school, parents may occasionally need specific information to help their child. The following communication guidelines between students, parents, and teachers/coaches will contribute to more effective problem resolution: 1. Discuss the problem with your child first.

If you are the one who identifies what appears to be a problem, present your observations and concerns to your child, ask a few questions to gain clarity, and then LISTEN. If your child presents the problem, ask him or her to give you as much information as possible. In either case, help your child to develop a strategy for meeting with the teacher or coach.

2. Encourage your student to talk with his or her teacher or coach.

Students need to learn how to communicate with their teachers and coaches about their own grades and issues. This promotes dialog between the student and teacher or coach and often provides students confidence and a sense of control over their own affairs.

3. Communicate with the teacher or coach.

Talking to the teacher before contacting his or her counselor might provide you with the most immediate classroom or athletic update and give you the answers that you need to solve any problems or misunderstandings. E-mail is an excellent way to contact teachers or coaches who are required to respond to parent concerns within 24 business hours.

4. Contact the department chair (for academics) or the Athletic Director.

Department chairs work very closely with faculty and can help mediate issues between students, parents, and teachers. The Athletic Director will do the same for all athletic issues.

5. Contact your child’s counselor.

Counselors serve as the advocate for your student both academically and personally. If you do not know the name of your child's counselor, consult the Counseling link on the school website.

6. Contact the Vice Principal.

If resolution has not been achieved after following steps 1-5, contact the Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction for academic issues..

7. Contact the Principal.

If all of these steps have been followed in order, and resolution of the issue has not been achieved, the last contact is the Principal whose determination will be final.

Please note that it is not appropriate to contact the President or the Board of Trustees for issues which fall under the supervision of the Principal.

39

Policy for Possession/Use of Controlled Substances PHILOSOPHY Justin-Siena recognizes the adversity created by drugs and alcohol at the individual and community levels. In so doing, we unite to provide a drug-free environment, safe for student growth and learning. While we recognize the need for compassionate treatment of those addicted and The school is bound by law, as are individuals and seeking help, we also insist on the importance of providing a families, and it will act in compliance with the law drug-free environment and hold to the standard that use or when circumstances indicate certain actions are possession at any time, whether on or off campus, is not necessary. Under certain circumstances, even the association with those who possess or traffic drugs acceptable and will not be tolerated. Student presence at a exposes one to legal prosecution by civil authorities. gathering (other than a private family gathering) where controlled substances are made available to minors constitutes a violation of the policy on controlled substances. There will always be consequences for the violation of this standard.

In accordance with Justin-Siena’s school philosophy, this community is committed to providing for the well-being and development of each individual in an atmosphere that reflects God’s healing love. In this spirit, on-campus services are provided to facilitate prevention efforts among students. The school will also, when necessary, refer students to appropriate agencies for assessment, testing, treatment, and aftercare and provide support services to returning students while they participate in the appropriate aftercare program.

POLICY FOR POSSESSION/USE/PROVIDING/SELLING The term “Controlled Substance” for the purposes of this handbook includes all the substances noted in the Controlled Substances Act as well as drinking alcohol, use of tobacco, tobacco products (including e-cigarettes and vapor cigarettes) or the intentional misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medication. The school is guided by the following policies when dealing with problems of use and dependency among students.

Suspicion of Possession/Use/Providing of Controlled Substances When the school becomes aware that a student may be possessing, using, or providing/selling controlled substances, an investigation will commence.

Possession/Use of Controlled Substances First Violation When evidence exists that a student has, for the first time, been in possession of, under the influence of, and/or using controlled substances, look-a-likes, or paraphernalia, the unauthorized substance or paraphernalia will be taken away from the student. The police may be contacted whenever any individual is found in possession of illegal substances or in violation of the law. Parents will be contacted to take the student home. If emergency services are needed, such services shall be contacted, and the expense borne by the student and his/her family.

Attendance at a gathering (other than a private family gathering) where controlled substances are made available to minors constitutes a violation of this policy.

Disciplinary Action: Any student in violation of the above policy may be subject to suspension, expulsion, or other disciplinary actions, at the sole discretion of Justin-Siena. A minimum one-day suspension from school is typical.

• Any student in violation of the above policy may be subject to a probation period of up to 6 weeks. If fewer than six weeks remain in the semester, the restriction may extend to include the following semester.

• Disciplinary action for seniors in such matters may include exclusion from participation in graduation activities, including, but not limited to, Senior Trip, Senior Presentation, the Baccalaureate Mass, and Graduation exercises. This decision is reserved to the Principal.

40

•

• • •

As a condition of re-admittance, the student and his/her parents may be required to meet with a drug/alcohol counselor or psychologist or other qualified health practitioner recommended by JustinSiena who will complete a professional assessment. The results of such assessment must be communicated back to the school prior to the student’s return.

Students may also be required to participate in an educational support program approved by the Dean.

The student will be subject to unannounced and periodic drug testing at the family’s expense for the remainder of the student’s tenure at Justin-Siena. The student may also be tested during all random drug testings. A positive test for any controlled substance will constitute a second violation of these policies.

Should a family refuse the recommended professional treatment, which might include regular outpatient or inpatient care, the school may suspend the student for an indefinite period of time or may permanently dismiss the student from enrollment.

Second Violation Any repeated violation of the school controlled substance rules will result in suspension from school pending the results of a professional assessment. This assessment will then be used to direct the appropriate set of school requirements. The student and/or family must complete the assigned requirements before the student may return to school. Possible actions may include, but are not limited to, the following: required treatment for abuse, attendance in and completion of an approved program, personal and/or family counseling, family education, and/or a separation and disenrollment from the school for a period of time.

Third Violation A third violation may result in the student being expelled from Justin-Siena.

All policies in this section may also apply to the use of controlled substances off campus when such use comes to the attention of the school and can be substantiated (this may include but is not limited to photographic evidence). Please see the “Introduction” paragraph under “Conduct” in the Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures section.

Solicitation If a student is caught or found to be soliciting (asking for or seeking out any controlled substance), it will be considered and handled as a first offense (unless the student already has a first or second offense when it will be considered a subsequent offense).

Providing/Selling If a student is caught providing (i.e., selling, providing, or exchanging) any controlled substance, the unauthorized substance (including any paraphernalia) will be confiscated and not returned. The parents will be called to take the student home. A conference with the student, parents, and administration will follow such an incident. The police may be contacted. A student caught providing or selling controlled substances will be subject to immediate expulsion.

Other Special Circumstances • When observation and/or evidence of prior inappropriate behavior indicate a possible dependency problem, a qualified professional assessment at the family’s expense may be required as a condition of the student’s continued enrollment.

• In cases in which the student is engaged in assessment, outpatient treatment, inpatient care, a 12-step program, or aftercare, the school reserves the right to be kept informed by the treatment agency about the student’s progress, and the school will assist the student with his/her educational programs during this period of time.

• Likewise, should parents, administrators, guidance counselors, and the professionals involved judge that the student has successfully completed treatment, and should they recommend that the student by readmitted, the school may accept such a recommendation provided the student successfully maintains the prescribed aftercare program.

41

SELF-REFERRAL TO GUIDANCE COUNSELORS A student involved with alcohol/drugs who comes forward on his/her own accord to seek help can expect JustinSiena to be willing to work with and advise him/her and the family as long as the student is willing to follow the stated policy of Justin-Siena regarding use, distribution, etc., and reasonable progress (as defined by school administration) is being made toward wellness. Such advising will be held in confidence with the exception of situations where the student is deemed to be a danger to self or others or when there is a legal requirement to report; administration will also be informed. Provided reasonable progress toward wellness is maintained under the supervision and direction of the counselor and school administration, a self-referral will not result in any negative consequences. A student may not initiate a self-referral to avoid the consequences of a situation which has already been reported or which is already under investigation.

If reasonable progress should cease (as determined by school administration), the referral will at that time be considered for the record at least a first offense violation of the controlled substances policy with consequences to be determined.

REFERRAL BY OTHERS Students, parents, or staff may refer individuals to guidance personnel or administration. These students will be invited by the guidance counselor to enter into advising under the conditions outlined above in Self-Referral to Guidance Counselors. Faculty members, peers, and others may refer students to advising when they exhibit behaviors that interfere with learning and well-being. A student may not be referred by others to avoid the consequences of a situation which has already been reported or which is already under investigation.

SAFETY DOGS If a safety dog alerts on any of the belongings of a student, his/her car, or his/her locker, the student and all of his or her belongings, car, and locker will be subject to a search. If controlled substances are found in the course of this search, the student will be subject to the policies stated in this handbook for controlled substances.

If no controlled substances are found in the course of this search, the student’s parent/guardian will be notified that a safety dog has alerted on the residue of a controlled substance or other contraband on the belongings of the student.

If a safety dog alerts on any of the belongings of a student, his/her car, or his/her locker, two or more times, a conference with the Dean, the student, and the parents may take place.

STUDENT DRUG TESTING PROGRAM Random Drug Testing In an effort to ensure a safe and drug-free environment, Justin-Siena may conduct random drug testing (urine, saliva, or hair analysis) on students selected from identified groups as indicated below: • • • • • • •

All students currently enrolled at Justin-Siena may be included in the testing pool.

Any student with a previous violation may automatically be included in the testing group; any student whose belongings, locker, or car has been identified two or more times by a safety dog may be included in the testing group.

Consent to testing is implicit for any student at Justin-Siena based on information provided in this handbook.

Testing is handled by a contracted agency.

The record keeping and results of all testing will be kept in confidence.

Students will be selected randomly for testing with the following exceptions: any students with previous violations may be included in the testing group each time; a student may be referred for testing by any school employee if there is reasonable suspicion to suspect a violation of the controlled substances policy.

If a student fails the test, such failure is deemed a substance abuse violation and the student is subject to the penalties applicable to students stated herein.

42

• • •

•

If a student is found to falsify or compromise the test in any way, this will be construed as a substance abuse violation, and the student is subject to the penalties stated herein.

Refusal to participate in a test will be construed as a substance abuse violation, and the student is subject to the penalties stated herein.

Students who are taking prescription medication should disclose this to the agent conducting the test. The student will be required to provide a copy of the prescription or a doctor’s verification (prescription predating the test day) within 24 hours of the test. Students who do not disclose and/or fail to provide verification and test positive will be subject to the actions specified in this policy for violations.

No student shall be penalized academically for testing positive for illegal drugs. The results of drug tests pursuant to this policy will not be documented in any student’s academic records. Information regarding the results of drug tests will not be disclosed to criminal or juvenile authorities absent legal compulsion by valid and binding subpoena or other legal process, which the school shall not solicit. In the event of service of any such subpoena or legal process, the student’s custodial parent or legal guardian will be notified.

Designated Drug Testing Students may be asked, at the expense of the family, to provide a result of a drug test from a school-authorized drug-testing facility. Any student with a previous controlled substance violation may automatically be included in this testing group; any student whose belongings, locker, or car has been identified two or more times by a safety dog may be included in this testing group. A student may be referred for testing by any school employee if there is reasonable suspicion to suspect a violation of the controlled substances policy.

DISCLAIMER Nothing in the school’s drug and alcohol policy should be construed to mean that Justin-Siena has undertaken a duty to detect, prevent, or treat drug or alcohol use by students, even when such use becomes apparent as a result of this policy.

43

Dress and Appearance Codes PHILOSOPHY The following guidelines for grooming and dress code are provided to help each student make correct decisions in these areas and to allow for some individuality in a Christian environment. Students need to recognize different requirements for dress as different occasions demand. School is not unlike the work or professional world where a certain dress requirement may be expected in representing one’s profession and in performing one’s task.

The student’s clothing should be modest in nature. Modesty is defined as reserved and unobtrusive, not showy or distracting. This would require students to cover their torso and refrain from showing underwear, cleavage, or midriffs; undergarments (bras, straps, thongs, briefs, boxers and underpants of any kind) are not to be visible at any time. A standard for the length of skirts and shorts is that they be modest in nature. Students shall likewise not wear clothing that promotes drug or alcohol use, violence, bigotry, discrimination, harassment, and/or intolerance against people based on race, ethnicity, religion, and sexuality, or any other protected characteristic or that displays profanity.

For school, all dances, and academic and major social functions, students are to wear clothes that are neat, clean, and appropriate to the occasion. Grooming or dress that is sloppy, outlandish, distracting, or offensive in nature is never acceptable. Clothing that is too revealing or low cut is prohibited. Dressing in an appropriate and neat manner fosters responsibility and signals to self and others that school is a place where a seriousness of purpose can be found. The administration cannot anticipate every fashion trend that may develop and therefore reserves the right to make judgments regarding the application of these general guidelines to specific items at any time.

GROOMING Students’ hair should be neatly groomed and not cut in extreme styles (e.g. mohawks, spikes, shaved head for girls, etc.). Tinting of hair using natural colors is acceptable; however, tipping and streaking in a manner that looks unnatural is not allowed. A general guideline is that the length of boys’ hair should not exceed their back collar, ears, or eyes. Boys who have hair that is not straight nor does not lay flat must have hair trimmed so that when pulled straight, it does not exceed the stated guidelines. No ponytails are allowed for boys. Boys must be clean-shaven, although a neatly trimmed mustache is allowable. Sideburns shall not exceed the earlobe. Studded or small hoop earrings are acceptable; piercing (other than ears) is not acceptable; facial and body-piercing rings or studs (other than earrings) may not be worn at any time. Gauges and other exaggerated jewelry are not allowed.

Students who need an exception to the above rule because of a disability or sincerely held religious belief should contact the Principal. The School will comply with all reasonable accommodation requirements.

DRESS CODE Pants A variety of pants are acceptable. Any pair of pants that is worn out, patched, or with holes or frayed hems is not acceptable. Athletic wear, sweatpants, and/or pajama bottoms are not acceptable. Students are required to size their pants correctly. They are to avoid the two extremes of tightness and looseness. This applies to all styles of pants. A general guideline is that pants may not be worn lower than two (2) inches below the natural waist.

Shorts/Capris Shorts must be hemmed and of acceptable length. Girls may wear appropriately fitted capris. No athletic shorts are allowed.

Dresses/Skirts Dresses and skirts (including those with slits) should be of modest nature and must comply with the same general standards established for shirts and blouses. Strapless, sleeveless, and backless dresses, clothing that reveals the midriff, and dresses and shirts with spaghetti straps are not acceptable except as announced for formal and semiformal dances. Skirt hems must reach the knee when standing. If tights or leggings are worn under skirts or 44

dresses, the length of the skirt or dress should be modest in nature. Students are expected to size skirts and dresses appropriately—extremely tight skirts/dresses are not permitted.

Shirts/Blouses Three options are available for boys and girls: • Polo or golf-style collared buttoned shirts (short or long sleeved).

• Buttoned-down-the-front, collared shirts (short or long sleeved). These collared shirts must be worn with the buttons buttoned in a manner that is modest (the recommendation is to button all but the top button), neat, and free of phrases or slogans. For boys and girls, at least one shirt must be tucked in to ensure that midriff and underwear are covered. The practice of Hooded sweatshirts are considered layering a longer shirt under the collared shirt to outerwear; a collared shirt must be accomplish this is also acceptable. Appropriate and worn and the collar visible underneath. modest undergarments must be worn with the required collared shirt. Tops made of sheer or see-through material All students must be in collared shirts or tops tied to reveal midriff areas are not permitted. on regular dress days, unless otherwise Shoulders must be covered by shirt sleeves. Students’ announced. outer shirt must be collared (and worn all day).

• Turtleneck shirts or turtleneck sweaters (not “mock” turtlenecks or cowl-neck tops).

Sweaters and Sweatshirts Modest sweaters and sweatshirts are appropriate as outer-garments worn over the above shirts and blouses and may be worn in the classroom at the teacher’s discretion in light of climate conditions. Hoods should be removed from the head when indoors. Henley-style shirts are not allowed. Symbols or phrases that are harassing, discriminatory, obscene, or violent are not allowed on these articles of clothing. The school will be the judge in this matter.

Shoes Appropriate shoes are to be worn at all times during the school day, including physical education classes.

Socks/stockings are optional but required for physical education classes. All shoes/sandals must have a back that covers the back of the foot or a strap across the back of the foot. Flip-flop style shoes (and sandals worn with the back strap not across the back of the heel), slippers, and shoes with rollers are not allowed.

Hats and Bandanas Hats, beanies, or any other head coverings may not be worn in any of the buildings during school hours. Bandanas are not acceptable attire even if used hanging from a pocket.

Belts/Belt Buckles Belts must be worn by all male students to prevent sagging. Any excessively large belt buckles or belts that are too long are unacceptable. Belts must be tucked into belt loops. No chains of any kind are allowed.

Miscellaneous • Long john bottoms and tops cannot be worn under shorts, skirts, shirts, or dresses.

• Swimwear and athletic wear are not acceptable attire.

• Sweat pants or athletic warm-ups are not acceptable.

• Visible tattoos are not acceptable.

• Sunglasses are not to be worn by students in the school buildings.

• Tops made of sheer or see-through material are not allowed.

• Sleeveless shirts and tank tops are not allowed.

• More than two piercings in earlobes or ears or other facial piercings are not allowed.

Makeup Makeup must be in good taste and not excessive.

45

ENFORCEMENT It is recommended that students have a change of clothing (appropriate top, pants, shoes, and belt) among their personal effects at school so that a parent need not be inconvenienced.

Violations of dress code policy will result in disciplinary action that may include detention, probation, and suspension. Cases of chronic and willful disobedience regarding the dress code policy may lead to permanent dismissal from the school.

ATHLETIC TEAM COMPETITION DAYS Members of athletic teams may wear approved tops and or jerseys on competition days with the approval of the Coach, Athletic Director, and the Dean; all other criteria of the dress code apply (e.g., a basketball player may not wear basketball shorts). All members of a specific team will wear the same outfit.

NON-APPROVED APPARREL Apparel which has the Justin-Siena name or any logo representing Justin-Siena or any of its programs must be issued and approved by the school. Any apparel of this kind obtained from an alternate source without the prior approval of the school may not be worn at any time, on or off campus.

DRESS-UP DAYS (this policy is under review) There are occasions when an event or activity requires a different and more formal style of dress. More dignified attire is required on the part of the students to lend dignity and set a proper attitude for these occasions. On such days, students will be expected to come to school in “dress up” clothing similar to business or professional dress and remain dressed properly for the entire day. Shorts, hats, and blue jeans are not acceptable on these days. On such occasions, modesty should prevail and a distinction should be made between dressing up for church and dressing up for a date or going out to dinner.

BOYS DRESS UP DAYS

Button-down-the front, collared dress shirt with the top button buttoned, tucked in (no turtlenecks; boys may not use Hawaiian shirts or shorts that are extreme in nature), appropriately worn tie, appropriate trousers (not jeans), and dress shoes are required. No denim clothing or athletic shoes are permitted. Informal shirts (e.g., Hawaiian shirts) are not permitted on dress-up days.

GIRLS DRESS UP DAYS

Appropriate dresses, blouses or sweaters and skirts, or dress slacks or other combinations of clothing that are of the quality and style suitable for business or formal church wear (avoid extreme footwear like stiletto heels and “cocktail” or “clubbing” attire). No shorts, capris, or denim jeans are permitted. Dress shoes are required; Ugg-type boots, athletic shoes, etc., are not permitted. Dress slacks should be dressier than pants normally worn to school (not corduroys, colored denim, etc.); girls’ attire on dress up days should be clearly distinguished from regular school attire.

FLEX PERIOD DRESS The dress code applies during all flex periods. Students may NOT change for PE or sports practice unless they remain in the gym or weight room during the flex period under the supervision of the PE teacher or coach.

Official practices may not begin during flex periods.

AFTER SCHOOL DRESS Students are expected to remain in dress code after school except to change for a sports practice. When a sports practice ends, students need not change back into dress code to use the Gasser Center. However, the practice clothes may need covering to meet the modesty requirement. Students who use the Gasser Center in practice clothes need to be sensitive to offending others should their practice clothes be soiled, sweaty, or smelly. In such cases, the student is asked to change clothes or not use the Gasser Center. Students may NOT change into practice clothes early and then use the Gasser Center; they must change just prior to practice. The adult supervisor is authorized to monitor compliance and ask students to leave when any of these rules are violated.

46

DANCE DRESS CODE The dress code applies for all dances unless announced otherwise by the Dean.

SEMI-FORMAL DANCE CODE Homecoming and Turnabout are both considered semi-formal dances, and student attire should be appropriate for a Catholic high school dance. If students have any doubt about the appropriateness of their attire, they should ask ahead of the event rather than be placed in the embarrassing situation of being turned away at the door. No visible tattoos, no baseball caps, no canes, and no backpacks are allowed. Students may slip into more comfortable shoes (not flip-flops) later in the evening. Shoes are required at all times. Guests are required to follow the same guidelines as Justin-Siena students, and it is the responsibility of the Justin-Siena student to make sure his or her guest is in compliance.

Any questions should be directed to the Dean. Students, including guests, who are not appropriately dressed will not be admitted to the dance, and their parents will be called. Students must remain appropriately attired for the duration of the event, including the time used for taking photos. As it is impossible to anticipate all trends, styles, and accessories, the judgment of the dean regarding any individual’s attire is final; when in doubt, obtain approval from the Dean prior to the event.

GIRLS SEMI-FORMAL DANCE CODE DRESS

Dress, skirt, blouse/top, or pants outfit that is formal in nature with complementary formal shoes are required (please note that students may bring a comfortable pair of shoes to wear while dancing, but not flip-flops). A girl’s outfit should be appropriate in length (not so long that it may cause a tripping hazard) nor shorter than at the knee; should be age-appropriate; can be strapless, but should fit properly, needs to be modest and in good taste. Dresses should not be backless, have cutout areas, be see-through, expose any midriff area, or be so low cut as to show excessive cleavage.

BOYS SEMI-FORMAL DANCE CODE DRESS

Semi-formal attire is required. This means a suit, sports coat, or sweater with shirt, tie, dress pants, belt, and dress shoes.

FORMAL DANCE CODE The Prom is considered a formal dance, and student attire should be appropriate for a Catholic high school dance.

If students have any doubt about the appropriateness of their attire, they should ask ahead of the event rather than be placed in the embarrassing situation of being turned away at the door. No visible tattoos, no baseball caps, no canes, and no backpacks are allowed. Students may slip into more comfortable shoes later in the evening (but not flip-flops). Shoes are required at all times. Guests are required to follow the same guidelines as Justin-Siena students, and it is the responsibility of the Justin-Siena student to make sure his or her guest is in compliance.

Any questions should be directed to the Dean. Students, including guests, who are not appropriately dressed will not be admitted to the dance, and their parents will be called. Students must remain appropriately attired for the duration of the event, including the time used for taking photos. As it is impossible to anticipate all trends, styles, and accessories, the judgment of the dean regarding any individual’s attire is final; when in doubt, obtain approval from the dean prior to the event.

47

GIRLS FORMAL DANCE CODE DRESS

Long or short dress that is formal in nature with complementary formal shoes is required (please note that students may bring a comfortable pair of shoes to wear while dancing, but not flip-flops). A girl’s outfit should be appropriate in length (not so long that it may cause a tripping hazard) nor shorter than four (4) inches above the knee; should be age-appropriate; can be strapless, but should fit properly, needs to be modest and in good taste. Dresses should not be backless, have cutout areas, be see-through, expose any midriff area, or be so low cut as to show excessive cleavage.

BOYS FORMAL DANCE CODE DRESS

Formal attire is required. This means a tuxedo, suit, or sports coat with formal or dress shirt, tie, dress pants, belt or cummerbund, and dress shoes. No extreme styles—if other than a traditional look is considered, prior approval is required from the Dean.

48

Physical Education LOCKERS Every student enrolled in a physical education class will be assigned a locker to be used only during the physical education class period. Athletic lockers in the team room may be used for physical education. Students must use the locker rooms to change for PE. LOCKS Students are to use only school locks for physical education. Any non-school locks will be removed by the staff.

Valuables are to be locked in the locker provided. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

UNIFORMS All students enrolled in Physical Education (P.E.) classes and some VPA classes are required to wear a JustinSiena P.E uniform or specific class uniform which are available at the online Braves Store (www.justinsiena.org.) For P.E., socks and tennis shoes are also required. Sweats are optional, but if worn, they must be Justin-Siena sweats, which are also available at the online Braves Store. Students are encouraged to put identifying names inside their clothing. Students cannot participate in their P.E. class if they are not properly dressed, which will directly affect their grade.

ATHLETES All Justin-Siena students who are in PE and participate in any of the athletic teams are required to dress for PE and participate in PE on game days.

SUIT CUTS Suit cuts will be cleared through a doctor’s excuse only. Notes from parents are not accepted as an excuse for a student not dressing for physical education classes.

TARDIES All students must be in the locker room prior to the ringing of the second bell. A maximum of fifteen minutes is allotted to dress and be at the assigned area.

DISMISSAL FROM CLASS At the end of class, students must remain in the locker room or hallway immediately outside the gymnasium with the teacher until dismissed. Students may not be in the Dining Hall at that time.

49

Athletics The athletic program at Justin-Siena offers students the opportunity to compete in a wide variety of competitive interscholastic sports. Currently, the school offers 26 Varsity sports and over 40 teams of various competitive levels such as varsity, junior varsity, and freshman levels. Each team is coached by qualified and knowledgeable coaches committed to providing outstanding programs and opportunities for the Justin-Siena student athletes.

INFORMED CONSENT Parents and students need to be aware of the potential dangers of participation in athletics since there is a risk of being injured in all sports. The risk of injury may be severe, including, but not limited to, varieties of fractures, sprains, concussions, contusions, brain injuries, paralysis, or even death. Risk of injury may be reduced through parent insistence that student athletes carefully follow all of the guidelines given by coaching staff, Athletic Trainer, and school regarding training rules, safety procedures, proper use of equipment, legal and safe playing techniques, and any other safety procedures as warranted by each particular sport or situation.

UNIFORM/SPIRIT PACK/EQUIPMENT/CAMP FEES Specific sports have uniform, spirit pack, and other equipment or camp costs. The specific sport Head Coach will provide a list of these additional costs; see the online Braves Store (www.justin-siena.org). Need-based financial assistance is available; contact the LEAP Director for more information.

SPORTSWARE ONLINE REGISTRATION

Prior to participating in athletics at Justin-Siena High School, student-athletes must provide the Athletic Department with a current address, emergency contact, insurance, medical alerts, health history information, and a physical. To expedite this process, Justin-Siena High School uses an online data entry system called SportsWare Online. Information on how to register on SportsWare Online is located on the Justin-Siena website—go to “Quicklinks,” select “Student Forms,” and then select “Athletics: there will be a choice for continuing students and for new students. Contact the Athletic Trainer with any questions.

ATHLETIC PACKET During the registration process, students/parents were asked if the student was interested in participating in sports at Justin-Siena. If “Yes” was selected, then they were prompted through a series of questions that indicated the sports of interest, as well as the acknowledgements of the Athletic Department Policies. This information is used in school rosters and mailing lists; if families are unsure that the correct information was entered, they should contact Debbie Skillings. Also, if “No” was selected at the time of registration, and the student subsequently wishes to participate, please contact Debbie Skillings for the correct forms and information. Forms are available on the school website.

STARTING DATES The starting dates are the CIF-issued first date of practice for seasonal sports. However, due to playoffs and scheduling, many sports overlap. Athletes who try out late due to overlapping seasons will be given the opportunity to make a team. A minimum 3-day tryout will be given to each overlapping athlete.

PARENT VOLUNTEER INFORMATION Justin-Siena Athletics depends on the support of Braves parents, family members, and friends in order to create a great athletics atmosphere. Volunteers are needed for various duties, including ticket sales, Snack Bar operations, scorekeeping, announcing, etc.

ATHLETIC PASSES An individual Athletic Pass may be purchased by families of current students, alumni, and friends of the school for all home (non-championship) games.

50

GENERAL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT POLICIES Justin-Siena will provide the student athlete with the best possible opportunity to participate in athletics. Certain sports have a no-cut policy where all student athletes trying out for these teams will be able to participate. These sports are Cross Country, Football, Wrestling, Track, and Swimming. Other sports may not be able to accommodate all student athletes who try out. These sports are Golf, Soccer, Lacrosse, Tennis, Volleyball, Water-Polo, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, and Cheerleading.

After joining a team, a student athlete must finish that season before going out for another sport unless there is agreement between the two coaches and the Athletic Director. Any student athlete who quits a team after the roster has been established (or in the case of no-cut sports, after the first two weeks of practice or after the first competition, whichever comes first) may not try out for the next sport until the first season of sport is completed.

No student athlete should miss a practice or contest due to participation in another co-curricular school activity, with the exception of school retreats, unless approval is given ahead of time by the coach or administration.

Students must serve school detentions within 24 hours of notification regardless of other obligations; it is the responsibility of the student to notify the coach of the need to serve a detention. The student athlete may be suspended or dropped from the team if this policy is violated.

School retreats are encouraged by coaches. The student athlete shall not be penalized for attending such retreats; students are asked to try to attend a retreat outside the season of sport.

Seniors who have participated the previous three years in a program will be given special consideration in making a team provided that they understand their role on that team as determined by the coach.

No interscholastic games or practice shall occur on Sundays, Christmas Day, Good Friday, or any other Catholic Holy Day as indicated by the Athletic Department or the Administration. The league may make additional restrictions for regarding competitions on other non-Christian holy days.

PROCEDURES FOR TRYOUTS • Athletes who try out late due to overlapping seasons must be given the opportunity to make a team.

• A minimum 3-day tryout will be given each student athlete.

• Any students cut from a team may ask and receive an explanation from the coach.

• Anyone cut from a team is eligible to try out for another team if the coach of the second team is agreeable.

• Any student who quits a team after the final cuts have been made will be ineligible for any other teams for the remainder of the season.

PRACTICE REGULATIONS • All student involvement is a sport may not exceed 18 hours per week; this includes a competition (standard designation of 3 hours), all practices, all film viewing, and all conditioning. If any team member participates in any of these activities, it counts for the time allotted to the entire team.

• Practices should begin and end at the time stated by the coach on his/her practice schedule. Locker rooms will be supervised until the last student athlete has departed. Coaches will remain after practices until all student athletes have left the school premises.

• The athlete must contact the coach prior to practice if he/she is going to be absent from practice. If an athlete fails to contact the coach before the practice, then it will be considered unexcused.

• An injured player must have a release in writing from the doctor and be cleared by the Athletic Trainer to participate in practice or a game. The Athletic Trainer will communicate to the student athlete and parents when a physician’s clearance is needed to return to play.

• All injured players must check in with the Athletic Trainer upon their first day back at school.

51

CIF REGULATIONS All eligibility requirements are set by the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), local CIF Section and Justin-Siena.

Age Requirement No student whose 19th birthday is on or after June 15th shall participate or practice on any team in the following school year. A student whose 19th birthday is on or before June 14th is ineligible.

• •

A student shall not participate in an interscholastic varsity football game or scrimmage until the student has reached his 15th birthday.

High school teams shall not compete or practice against other individuals or teams in football or wrestling unless the players on such teams meet the age requirements of the CIF.

Scholastic Eligibility • Each student athlete must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 during the previous grading period. Grading periods at Justin-Siena are the 1st quarter, 1st semester, 3rd quarter, and 2nd semester.

• If the student fails to maintain a 2.0 GPA during the next grading period, the An academically student will become ineligible for athletics. The student can regain athletic ineligible athlete eligibility when he or she achieves a 2.0 GPA at the subsequent grading period. shall not practice • Summer school grades may count towards athletic eligibility. For the purpose of or compete with eligibility, grades achieved during the summer may be substituted for the a team. previous grade in the same subject or class. Other courses will be averaged.

• Schools in the MCAL may allow an athlete one probationary period his/her entire high school athletic career governed by the following policies: • Athletes must apply for probation.

• The probationary period shall be no longer than one grading period – a quarter.

• Juniors and seniors only will be grated probation as determined by the Athletic Director or the Principal.

School Attendance Requirements To be eligible to attend or participate in any after-school activity, students must attend 50% of a school day (or a majority of class periods) and have no outstanding detentions to serve. School activities will not count as absences. Students who go home for illness during the school day may not participate in any activities the same day regardless of percent of attendance.

Transfer Eligibility A student, who transfers from one school to another without a change of address on the part of the parents or legal guardian, must file a waiver of ineligibility form with the Athletic Director. The North Coast Section of CIF must approve this waiver before the student athlete will be eligible for sports. Foreign exchange students may be eligible if the exchange program meets CIF guidelines. In the case of all transfers, the Athletic Director must be consulted regarding eligibility.

Competition on an Outside Team A student athlete on a high school team becomes ineligible for participation for the entire season if he/she competes in a contest on an outside team in the same sport during the student athlete’s high school season of sport. Exceptions include the following: • In soccer, it is permissible for a student athlete on a high school soccer team to compete in contests on an outside soccer team.

• Unattached competition is permissible for a student athlete during a season of sport provided the student enters in the individual sports of badminton (singles/doubles), cross country, golf, gymnastics, skiing, swimming (including attached entries in relays), wrestling, tennis (singles/doubles), and track (including unattached entry in relays).

52

PROCEDURES FOR COMMUNICATING CONCERNS Justin-Siena desires to encourage positive relationships between parents, coaches and student athletes through effective communication. Coaches make decisions based on what they believe to be best for the team and all students. It is the coach’s job to make team decisions concerning playing time, position on the team, team strategy, and play calling. Part of any player’s maturation process includes putting one’s personal desires aside for the betterment of the team.

Communications you should expect from your child’s coach: • Philosophy and expectations the coach has for individual participants • Location and times of all practices and games • Team requirements, i.e., practices, special equipment, out-of-season training information • Discipline that may result in the denial of your child’s participation Communications coaches expect from parents/guardians and athletes: • Any concerns regarding the athlete’s welfare • Notification of any illness or injuries or missed practices How to Communicate Your Concerns: If you have any concerns about your child’s coach or your child’s athletic participation on a team, we ask that you use this procedure and follow the listed steps (in order) until you feel the issue is resolved: 1. Have your child speak to the coach. Sometimes the coach is unaware of your child’s concern or feelings. Also, it is important that we teach our students how to communicate with adults in a mature manner.

2. Arrange an appointment to speak with your child’s coach. Our coaches will respond to you as quickly as possible.

3. If you followed the above steps and still feel the issue has not been adequately addressed or explained, arrange an appointment to meet with the Athletic Director.

4. If resolution is still not achieved, contact the Principal.

If you have a general concern or suggestion for the Athletic Department, please feel free to call the Athletic Director. We are always willing to listen to parents. The Justin-Siena Athletic Department thanks parents for their support in these very important areas of communication.

TRANSPORTATION POLICY • When the school provides bus transportation to and from a school-sponsored activity, students are required to travel to and from the activity on the school-provided bus unless otherwise stated.

• When bus transportation is not provided, the school will arrange transportation through the use of other school and/or private vehicles.

• Private vehicles will be driven by adult volunteers/employees of the school who have the following: • A valid California driver’s license.

• A $300,000 combined single limit automobile insurance coverage.

• A verification of coverage and insurance acknowledgement form on file with the school.

• Students may travel with their parents or by themselves to and from activities, under special circumstances, with written permission from their parents and approval of the Principal or Athletic Director (for athletic events). (Example: Softball game in Fairfield; if approved a player who lives in Fairfield may drive to game from Justin-Siena and then go home after the game without having to come back to Napa.) In such cases, siblings may ride with their brothers or sisters.

• Students may not travel to and from out-of-town activities with other student drivers.

• Under special circumstances, students may drive other students to and from activities that occur within an eight-mile radius of Justin-Siena. (Example: Work associated with Religious Studies Practicum, Campus 53

•

•

Ministry, yearbook, journalism, peer helping, student activities or games at Napa or Vintage High Schools.) Such drivers must have or meet the following: • A valid California Driver’s license.

• Meet all criteria required by the State of California to transport other minors • A $300,000 combined single limit automobile insurance coverage.

• A verification of coverage and insurance.

• Written permission on file from the parent of the driver and the passengers stating that they are aware that at times other students may be driving their child or that their child is driving other students and that they approve of this practice.

Under special circumstances, parent drivers, who meet the above qualifications for private vehicles may transport students who are not their children home from a school activity if the activity director or coach has written permission from the student’s parents and the school has on file the information verifying insurance coverage and driver’s license. (Example: Basketball games in San Rafael. Frosh/soph game concludes. A qualified parent driver could take a frosh/soph player home that does not wish to stay for the varsity game.)

The full Transportation Safety Plan may be found on the school website (under Student Life>Bus Schedule) at www.justin-siena.org.

54

Additional Student Services Information BRAVES STORE The Braves Store is available online: access through the school website at www.justin-siena.org. Please note that there is no longer a Braves Store on campus.

CHANGE Students desiring change (for vending machines, telephone, etc.) will find this service available at break or at lunchtime from the Dining Hall. No change will be given during class periods. When possible, change will be given from the Business Office as well. Students are discouraged from bringing large amounts of money to school.

LOST AND FOUND Students who find lost articles are asked to take them to the Brother Bede Center. Items not claimed after a twoweek period become the property of the school and will be donated to those in need. Students are encouraged to put identification on all their belongings.

WORK PERMITS • Work permits are issued at the discretion of the school and can be withdrawn at the school’s discretion.

• Employment may not be in conflict with the values of the school and may not interfere with a student’s high school experience, both academically and co-curricularly.

• Students aged 12 – 17 need a work permit for most employment with some exceptions (e.g., babysitting, newspaper delivery, etc.).

• Procedure to obtain a work permit: 1. The student obtains a promise of employment from an employer.

2. A request for work permit form is issued by the school to the student by contacting the receptionist in the Christian Brothers Center.

3. This form is completed by the student, the employer, and the parent, and is returned to the receptionist.

4. The receptionist will transfer the information to the work permit and obtain the signature of the Principal who has sole authority for it issuance.

5. Copies are kept on file at the school and at the NVUSD Superintendent’s Office.

GASSER CENTER The Peter and Vernice Gasser Center is an important part of the academic life of the school. The Center is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30am–6:00 pm; on Fridays until 4:00 pm.

Students are expected to follow the terms and conditions for acceptable use of the Internet (listed in the Computer Use Policy above) when using school computers. In addition, students are expected to handle Center materials, computers, and other equipment with care and not to damage or deface them in any way.

BUS TRANSPORTATION Justin-Siena provides daily bus service to various points in Sonoma, Solano, and Napa counties. Bus tickets and schedules are available in the Business Office and online at www.justin-siena.org. Bus fees are on a per ride (oneway) basis and must be paid in advance. Tickets are available in 10-, 15-, 20-, 30- and 40-ride increments, annually and by semester. Refunds or replacements for unused rides or destroyed passes will not be made unless the number of rides remaining is clearly evident on the pass. No refunds or replacements will be given for lost passes. Students are free to sell unused rides to another student. Students will not be allowed on the bus without a pass. Bus drivers will not take money. Contact the Business Office or the school’s transportation supervisor for more information.

It is an important privilege for Justin-Siena students to be able to be transported to and from school and school events. In order to maintain that privilege, students are to follow the school rules. The bus driver is empowered to 55

enforce the rules and to refer students to the Dean. In the event that a student cannot follow the bus rules, his/her riding privileges may be revoked. For the safety of the students, the following are rules specific to the bus: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Students shall remain seated while the bus is in motion.

Students are to keep their heads and arms inside the bus.

Students are to use the trashcans in the bus and not throw anything out of the windows.

Students should refrain from loud and boisterous activities that distract the driver.

Food, drinks, and gum are only allowed at the discretion of the driver (please ask permission).

Students are asked to cross the street in front of the bus.

Students are to treat the driver and the bus with respect Students are to report any damage they see to the bus and anyone damaging the bus

The full Transportation Safety Plan may be found on the school website (under Student Life>Bus Schedule) at www.justin-siena.org.

FOOD SERVICE Lunch and snack items are available for purchase in the Dining Hall before school, at breaks, and at lunch.

TELEPHONE Students may ask permission to use a telephone in the Brother Bede Center to call home when necessary. Students are not called to the telephone. Students may return phone calls during the break or at lunch time. Students are not to ask to use the telephone during class time.

SCHOOL WEB PAGE Justin-Siena’s web site at www.justin-siena.org includes updates on the school calendar, daily announcements, and a host of other valuable information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS The daily announcements publicize the events occurring at Justin-Siena. Announcements must be approved by the moderator of the event and turned in online 3:00pm on the day prior to its reading for final approval by the Director of Community. Announcements regarding an un-calendared meeting/event or the changing of a calendared date must meet with the approval of the Director of Community prior to being turned in.

Announcements are read over the public address system and posted on the website.

POSTING OF INFORMATION ON CAMPUS All flyers and other information to be posted on campus must be preapproved by the Director of Community or the Administration.

STUDENT INSURANCE Student accident insurance is provided to all students through the school. The School-Time Plan covers injuries caused by accidents occurring as follows: • • • •

At school during the school day and for up to one hour immediately before and after regularly scheduled classes while the student is continuously on school grounds (including academic summer sessions).

While the student is attending (spectator) or participating in school-sponsored and directly supervised activities, except overnight activities or ski trips.

While the student is participating in school-sponsored and supervised sports activities except high school interscholastic tackle football.

While the student is traveling: • Directly and without interruption between home and school to attend regularly scheduled classes and school activities immediately following classes, and, • In a school-provided vehicle to and from any school-sponsored activity.

56

Claim Procedure • Report school-related injuries immediately to the Brother Bede Center. • Obtain a claim form from the Business Office in the Christian Brothers Center. • Follow all claim form instructions, attach all itemized bills, and return form to the school Business Office in the Christian Brothers Center for processing.

57

2014-2015 Tuition Schedule and Fees Each Student………………………………………………………………………………………….……..$14,800 This tuition package is inclusive of most significant fees that Justin-Siena has typically charged families throughout the years. The following fees are not separately assessed: student life, athletics, theatre, retreats, yearbook, lock (one time allowance of two locks per student), parking permits, or graduation. We are pleased to offer this tuition structure that provides greater savings and allows for better family planning and cash flow management. Other fees for the 2014-2015 school year include the following: Registration Fee for New Students…………………………………………………………………………...…$450 Registration Fee for Returning Students (before April 1)……….…………………………………….………..$375 Books………………………………………………………………………………………………….…$400 - $800 Book costs vary by courses and availability of used books. Books may be turned in at the end of the year for credit against the following year’s cost, if the book is in the next year’s Course Catalog. Credit will vary according to the physical condition of the book.

Bus Pass Charges 2014-2015 Number of Rides 40 20 10 Annual 1st Semester 2nd Semester

Sonoma/Solano/Napa Valley $200 $110 $70 $1,550 $750 $850

TUITION PAYMENT PLAN The Selection of a tuition payment option is made at the time of registration. Tuition may be paid on a monthly, quarterly or semi-annual basis. Monthly payments are made over ten months, beginning in July. Justin-Siena uses the FACTS Tuition Collection Service for the processing of tuition payments. Payments may be made to FACTS through automatic checking or savings deduction. Justin-Siena does not accept credit cards for payment of tuition. Families have the option of paying the full year tuition in one payment (due July 1).

TUITION AND FEES COLLECTION POLICY All fee and tuition payments are due on the dates indicated by registration and/or tuition payment plans. Late payments are subject to a $25 late payment fee. All tuition and fee payments must be paid no later than April 20 and all accounts must be paid in full before returning students will be able to register for the fall term.

If tuition payments fall two months in arrears, a student is subject to suspension until the tuition account is brought current. Semester grades will be withheld from students whose tuition and/or fee accounts are not current.

Graduating seniors will not be able to participate in the Baccalaureate Mass or Graduation ceremony and will not receive a diploma until all financial obligations are met.

Students whose accounts are in arrears or whose registration fee for the next school year is not paid will not be allowed to schedule courses; Students whose accounts are in arrears may not be able to take final examinations.

58

If a family, due to unforeseen financial hardship, finds it impossible to comply with its tuition plan due dates, an appointment with the Director of Finance should be scheduled at the earliest possible time to discuss special arrangements.

WITHDRAWAL POLICY The parent or guardian initiates a voluntary withdrawal from Justin-Siena by written notification (print or electronic) submitted to the Director of Academic Services and the Director of Admissions; the effective date of withdrawal must be included. An exit interview with the Director of Admissions is required prior to any transcripts being released unless waived by the Director of Admissions. The family must be current on all financial obligations to the school, or if this is part of the reason for withdrawal, a conversation with the Director of Finance regarding a payment plan has taken place. See REFUND POLICY below regarding non-refundable tuition and fee obligations.

STUDENT WITHDRAWAL ON GROUNDS OF PARENTAL BEHAVIOR

Normally a child is not to be deprived of a Catholic education or otherwise penalized for actions of parents. However, parents may so significantly reduce the school’s ability to serve its students effectively that the parents may be requested to remove their student from the school for any of the following reasons (list is representative and not exhaustive): • Refusal to cooperate with school personnel • Refusal to adhere to school or local policies and regulations • Interference in matters of school administration or discipline • Engaging in disruptive behavior of any kind that threatens the harmony of school procedures or communication between parents and school personnel, or is detrimental to the school in any manner • Threatening, intimidating, or demeaning behavior or comments toward any employee of the school • Retaining a lawyer to contest school policy or enforcement of school policy or procedure • Continued lack of support for the policies and procedures of Justin-Siena REFUND POLICY Tuition obligations for students withdrawing after July 1 are listed below. Registration fees are not refundable.

• After July 1 but prior to the beginning of the second quarter, 40% of annual tuition is not refundable.

• After the beginning of the second quarter but prior to the start of the second semester, 60% of annual tuition is not refundable.

• After the start of the second semester but prior to the start of the fourth quarter, 80% of annual tuition is not refundable.

• After the start of the fourth quarter, 100% of annual tuition is not refundable.

59

60

Frequently Asked Questions 1. I have a problem with my iPad (not working, broken, lost, stolen)—what should I do?

Consult an adult in the Gasser Center.

2. What is the difference between an excused and an unexcused absence?

Please see page 22.

3. We are going on a family vacation during the school year; are these absences excused?

Please see pages 23-24; family vacations are not normally considered excused absences.

4. How do I know if an outfit or item meets dress code requirements?

Please see pages 45-49; When in doubt, bring the item to school first to get a judgment from the dean. It is always a good idea to have a back-up available.

5. Where do I drop off items for my student?

Please see page 33; most drop offs take place at the Christian Brothers Center (CBC) main desk.

6. How do I change my class schedule?

Please see pages 13.

7. What do I do if my child is absent or going to be absent?

Please see pages 23-26.

8. What do I do if I cannot make a tuition payment?

Please see pages 56-60; communication with the Director of Finance is essential.

9. How do I resolve an issue or conflict with a teacher?

Please see page 40.

10. How do I resolve an issue or conflict with a coach?

Please see page 40 and page 54.

11. May a student park his or her car off campus during school hours?

Please see page 35; cars must be parked in designated areas only.

12. How do I find the schedule for today?

Please select “Calendar” from the “Calendar” tab on the school website (www.justin-siena.org). The schedule for a given day is listed as an A1 or a B4, etc. These standard schedules are found on the Bell Schedule on page 5. If there is a special schedule listed on the calendar, double click on the schedule and a window will open with the schedule for the day. Standard special schedules are also found on page 6.

13. Where do I find current announcements?

Daily announcements and weekly phone announcements are listed on the school website (www.justinsiena.org) under the “Quicklinks” section Or in Schoology.

14. Where do I find important forms?

Downloadable school forms can be found on the school website (www.justin-siena.org) under the “Quicklinks” section; paper copies may be found in the BBC. 15. Can I leave campus during the day?

Please see page 27; Justin-Siena is a closed campus.

61

2014-2015 Student/Parent Handbook Agreement The contents of the 2014-2015 Student/Parent Handbook are to be accepted by the parents/guardians and students as essential parts of the contract between them and Justin-Siena. Violations of the spirit, intent, or letter of the philosophy and rules will be considered just cause for administrative action.

All students are expected to participate in the religious, social, and educational experiences of the school as directed by the Administration. Failure to participate in such activities or to conform to the directives of the school is a breach of the condition of membership in the school community. Students and their parents/guardians are required to respect the principles and values explicitly and implicitly conveyed by the Roman Catholic Church, legitimate civil authorities, and the duly appointed authorities of the school. Under no circumstances may a parent excuse a student from observance of the rules and policies of Justin-Siena if the parent expects the student to remain in good standing with the school.

By enrolling in Justin-Siena, all students and parents give implicit permission and authorization to Justin-Siena to use any still photograph or motion film of themselves that is taken or is authorized by a Justin-Siena staff member for instructional or promotional purposes. By granting permission, students release any and all claims for damages for libel, slander, or invasion of privacy for the duration of their time as a student at Justin-Siena.

School administration reserves the right to amend this handbook as needed; notification of such amendments will be made to parents and students in a timely manner.

When a family registers at Justin-Siena High School, it is understood by the parents/guardians and student(s) that they have read the current Student/Parent Handbook on file and agree to comply with all policies, regulations, and directives stated therein as well as any updates and revisions made to the handbook during their time of enrollment.

62

Justin-Siena Student Pledge for Acceptable iPad Use • I will use my iPad in ways that are appropriate, educational, and meet Justin-Siena expectations as outlined in the Student/Parent Handbook.

• I will use appropriate language when using emails, journals, wikis, blogs, or any other forms of communication.

I will not create, or encourage others to create, discourteous or abusive content. I will not use electronic communication to spread rumors, gossip, or engage in any other activity that is harmful to other persons.

• I understand that my iPad is subject to inspection at any time without notice and remains the property of the Justin-Siena.

• I will take proper care of my iPad. • I will never leave the iPad unattended, and I will know where it is at all times.

• I will protect my iPad by keeping it stored in the provided case at all times.

• I will never loan out my iPad or give my password to other individuals.

• I will not let anyone else use my iPad other than my parents or guardians.

• I will charge my iPad's battery daily and arrive at school with my device fully charged.

• I will keep food and beverages away from my iPad since these may cause damage to the device.

• I will clean the screen with a soft, antistatic cloth ONLY and will use no cleaners.

• I will not disassemble any part of my iPad or attempt any repairs.

• I will not place decorations (such as stickers, markers, etc.) on the iPad or iPad cover, or do anything to permanently alter the iPad in any way.

• I will not remove or deface the serial number or other identification on any iPad. • I will be responsible for all damage or loss caused by neglect or abuse.

• I agree to return the iPad, case, and power cords in good working condition.

Justin-Siena High School Parent/Guardian Agreement I hereby release Justin-Siena and its personnel from any and all claims and damages of any nature arising from my child’s use of, or inability to use the school technology, including but not limited to claims that may arise from the unauthorized use of the iPad to purchase products or services.

I understand that it is impossible for Justin-Siena to restrict access to all controversial materials, and I will not hold the school responsible for materials accessed on the network. I also agree to report any inappropriate iPad use to the school administration.

I accept full responsibility if and when my child’s use of technology is not in the school setting and understand that my child is subject to the same rules and agreements while not in school.

I have read and understand the information contained in the Student/Parent Handbook and agree to abide by the rules set forth therein.

When a family registers at Justin-Siena High School, it is understood by the parents/guardians and student(s) that they have read the current Student/Parent Handbook on file and agree to comply with all policies, regulations, and directives stated therein as well as any updates and revisions made to the handbook during their time of enrollment. The Handbook Agreement form appended to this handbook explains in more detail the nature of this agreement. This agreement also applies to the Justin-Siena Student Pledge for Acceptable iPad Use and to the Justin-Siena High School Parent/Guardian Agreement above.

63