St. Peter's School 2014 2015 Family Handbook

St. Peter’s School Family Handbook 2014 - 2015

Academic Leaders Headmaster

Shawn Kelly skelly@st-peters-school.org 215-297-3095

Academic Dean/Upper School Director Matthew Evans mevans@st-peters-school.org 215-297-3096

Lower School Directors

Matthew Evans & Kate Seltzer

Early Childhood Division Director Kate Seltzer kseltzer@st-peters-school.org 215-297-3106

319 Lombard Street Philadelphia, PA 19147 (215) 925-3963 www.st-peters-school.org info@st-peters-school.org

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August 2014 Dear Families: Welcome to the 180th year of St. Peter’s School. Throughout its history, St. Peter’s School has established traditions of civility and academic excellence for which it is well known. Today, the School reaffirms its commitment to these values by providing an outstanding education to the diverse group of students that it serves. Because of small class sizes and an outstanding faculty, more than half of whom hold master’s degrees, the School is able to provide an educational environment that strives to develop each student into a well-rounded adult.

We publish this handbook annually. It outlines the mission, philosophy, objectives, and goals of the School. It also provides a wealth of useful information concerning day-to-day procedures. A oncethrough reading should help to prepare you for the school year; after that, The Handbook becomes a useful reference.

On the following page, please find a listing of important dates for this upcoming school year. Included with this mailing is a September calendar with the dates of the events for the beginning of the year: Parents' Association Cocktail Party, Curriculum Nights, and the Seventh and Eighth Grade Leadership Trip.

Please call the School with any questions that you have. As always, your questions help us to know what to clarify in The Handbook for next year. I look forward to a happy and productive year for your children and St. Peter’s School.

Sincerely,

Shawn Kelly Headmaster

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Important Dates 2014 - 2015 Academic Year September 5

First Day of School for Preschool – Eighth Grade

September 25

School Closed for Rosh Hashanah

October 13

School Closed for Columbus Day

October 17*

Color Day & Harvest Festival

October 31

School Closed for Parent/Teacher Conferences

November 25

Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day – Noon Dismissal

November 26 - 28

School Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday

December 1

School Closed for Professional Development Day

December 17

8:45 a.m., ECD Holiday Celebration

December 18

Noon Dismissal for Grades Preschool – Seventh Grade 6:00 p.m., Celebration of Light

December 19

School Closed for Holiday Break - School Reopens on January 5

January 19

School in session for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of service

February 9 – 16

School Closed for Winter Break – School Reopens on February 17

March 12 &13*

School Closed for Parent/Teacher Conferences and Professional Development Day

April 3 – 10

School Closed for Spring Break - School Reopens on April 13

May 1

3:00 p.m., May Day – Raindate May 4

May 22

9:30 a.m., Field Day – Noon Dismissal – Raindate May 26 (no noon dismissal)

May 25

School Closed for Memorial Day

June 12*

Last Day of School for all – noon dismissal for all 6:00 p.m., Graduation for Grades 1 – 8 in St. Peter’s Church

* Change from previous calendars

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Table of Contents St. Peter’s School Mission Statement ...................................................................... 6 St. Peter’s School Creed ........................................................................................... 6 St. Peter’s School Diversity Mission Statement ...................................................... 6 Student Health and Safety ....................................................................................... 6 Academic Life .......................................................................................................... 8 Communication ......................................................................................................10 Behavioral Expectations ......................................................................................... 11 School Admission Procedures/Schedule ...............................................................14 Daily Schedule ........................................................................................................16 Weather Related Closing Information ...................................................................18 Delayed Opening ....................................................................................................19 Extended Day Programs ........................................................................................19 School Uniforms .....................................................................................................19 Food/Snacks .......................................................................................................... 22 School Events ......................................................................................................... 23 School Organization .............................................................................................. 24 Faculty/Administration/Housekeeping............................................................... 24

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St. Peter’s School Mission Statement St. Peter’s School is dedicated to the nourishment of mind, body, and spirit. Mastery of academic principles, appreciation of the arts, knowledge of self, service to others, and strength of character mark a St. Peter’s student; a warm, familial, and respectful environment that honors the richness of childhood defines the School. At St. Peter’s, students establish the foundation for a fruitful, principled life.

St. Peter’s School Creed The School Creed was created by faculty and staff, and presented to the Board of Trustees. It represents the principles which govern all of our actions.

Be respectful

Be responsible

Be honest

Be cooperative

Be kind

St. Peter’s School Motto Get Wisdom, Get Understanding. Proverbs 4:1- 7

St. Peter’s School Diversity Mission Statement St. Peter's School is committed to preparing students for thoughtful participation in a larger, diverse society. We believe in the values of equity, fairness, tolerance, understanding, social awareness, and responsibility for others, with respect to race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, physical and mental abilities, gender, and sexual orientation. We commit ourselves to the active pursuit of recognizing and honoring each person's voice and to creating a school environment that embodies these values.

Student Health and Safety All St. Peter’s School families are issued a fob key for access into the school. The fobs are active each day that school is in session from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. The fobs are deactivated on days off and during breaks. At the end of the school year the fobs are deactivated. Families retain the fob for use when school resumes in the fall. If your last child has graduated, or if you are leaving the school for any other reason, please return the fob to the school so it can be reused. If you would like an additional fob for your family or caregiver, they are available for a fee.

IMPORTANT SECURITY INFORMATION: 1) If your fob is lost or stolen, contact the school immediately so that the missing fob can be deactivated and a new fob can be issued to your family for a fee.

2) Do not write anything, especially the name, address or any other information identifying St. Peter's School, or your own name on the fob. This is very important because if the fob goes missing an unauthorized individual could potentially gain access to the building before you realize it is gone and the school can deactivate the fob.

Sign-In Policy School doors are locked at all times. Between 8:00 a.m. and 8:20 a.m., the Morning Greeter greets students at the Lombard Street door. After 8:20 a.m., all visitors go directly to the Administrative Assistant in the reception area to sign in and receive a visitor’s badge to wear while on school premises.

Threats or Acts of Violence Threats or acts of violence against oneself, members of our school community, its property, or people or property outside of the School will not be tolerated. When such threats or acts come to the School's attention, the appropriate Division Director will be notified. The person making the threat will be 6

interviewed and his/her parents will be called. Each case will be dealt with individually; however, responses could include suspension, expulsion, or psychiatric assessment.

Weapons Brought to School In compliance with State Law, the School must notify the police if a weapon is brought to school.

Students who bring weapons or what appear to be a weapon to school are subject to immediate suspension or dismissal.

Medical Policies and Procedures The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania requires a physician's examination form and proof of dental care in each child's file upon entering St. Peter's School. Physician's Examination Forms must be updated upon entering Kindergarten, First Grade, and Sixth Grade. Proof of dental care must be updated upon entering Third Grade and Seventh Grade. The School requires an updated Family Information Sheet, a Permission to Care Form, a Physician Examination, Immunization and Dental Form in every student's file each year to give us the most current emergency and medical information on your child. All forms are distributed electronically and are available online and must be returned prior to the start of school.

Children missing the necessary forms will be prohibited from participating in sports, field trips, and active recess until the Administrative Assistant receives all information.

Illness Sick children should not be sent to school. A child who has been ill must be fever-free for 24 hours (without medication) before he/she may attend school. If your child has vomited during the night, do not send him/her to school the next morning. When a child returns after illness, he/she must be able to fully participate in the program. If your child is not able to participate in daily activities, you will be called to pick up your child. If your child contracts a contagious disease, please notify the School immediately. The School will notify other parents of any exposure to a contagious disease in their child’s class.

Lice Head lice can be a common problem and a child who is found to have head lice will be sent home for treatment immediately. Once the child has been treated, he/she can return to school. It is then recommended that the student's hair be combed nightly for 7-10 days to remove any nits (eggs).

Students who appear to be inadequately treated will be sent home from school.

The purpose of this policy is to prevent the spread of head lice. Even one live louse can transmit head lice from one child to another. Therefore, it is extremely important that parents are vigilant in treating their children's head lice, removing the eggs (nits) and treating the household environment. Parents are required to notify the School of any cases of head lice.

The following Internet resources provide detailed information not only on the application of their products, but also provide educational information for parents and students.

The National Pediculosis Association www.nixlice.com www.ridlice.com As a precaution, it is recommended that girls wear their hair pulled up in a bun or ponytail.

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Life-Threatening Allergies Before the start of school, parents of children with life-threatening allergies must meet with their child’s Division Director to determine how the allergen will be handled in school.

Medication Whenever possible, medication should be taken at home. If medication must be taken during school hours, the medication must be sent in the original container or prescription bottle labeled with your child’s name, the doctor’s name, and a completed Medication Dispensing Form that contains the proper information for dispensing the medication. The parent must also include a written note requesting the dispensing of the medication at school. If the medication is not in the original container or is not accompanied by a parent note, the medication will not be given. If the treatment is ongoing, only one note per school year is required. Any change in the dosage or medication must be accompanied by a physician’s note.

Students are never permitted to carry medication with them during the school day. Exceptions to the above protocol are asthma inhalers and epipens. A student may carry an asthma inhaler or epipen during the school day if deemed necessary by the child’s parent or doctor. The Division Director must validate a written note from the parent or doctor giving permission for this. The written note must include verification of the student’s knowledge and competency to self-medicate and a statement relieving the School and its employees of any responsibility for the benefits or consequences of the medication or for ensuring that the medicine is taken. It must also be noted that the inhaler or epipen is for the intended individual only and may not be shared with others; violation of this policy will result in immediate suspension of the student’s privilege to self-medicate. St. Peter’s School, in consultation with the student’s parents and physician, will determine whether or not the student’s privilege to selfmedicate will be reinstated, revoked, or otherwise limited.

If a student is on a field trip, they must follow the same procedures for medication as stated above. If it is an overnight field trip, the chaperone will hold the medication for the student.

Academic Life Early Childhood Division Preschool Prekindergarten Kindergarten

Lower School First through Fourth Grades

Upper School Fifth through Eighth Grades

Homework Homework should be looked upon as an integral part of your child's education. Teachers in First through Eighth Grade assign homework on a regular basis as an extension of the daily work at school. The amount of time required for study at home is an individual matter. Thus, the times stated below are only approximate: First Grade Second Grade Third Grade Fourth Grade Fifth Grade Sixth Grade

10 to 15 minutes 10 to 20 minutes 30 minutes 45 minutes 1 - 2 hours 1 - 2 hours 8

Seventh Grade Eighth Grade

1 - 2 hours 2 hours

Families' Role in Homework One goal of homework is to foster independence in your child. He/she and the School rely fundamentally on your good judgment in allowing this educational progress to occur.

• Avoid over-involvement with your child's homework. Do not do the child's work or correct mistakes. Homework mistakes provide valuable information, which enables the teacher to identify problems and teach to your child's needs.

• If in your judgment your child has not made sufficient effort, you should feel free to require your child to redo the assignment, do not demand perfection. Be positive and supportive in general, and try to focus on what the child has done correctly and well. Let teachers be the ones to raise the alarm about not meeting appropriate standards (see Assignment Notices).

• When your child asks for help, try to enable him or her to reach an answer independently by asking further questions or by suggesting a different strategy. It is very useful in learning to have your child explain to you his or her understanding of a concept learned that day. If you think the child has a misunderstanding, communicate that with the teacher through a note, phone call, or email. Your child is encouraged to consult with his/her teacher when he/she seems confused by an assignment or seems to be spending too much (or too little) time on homework. Because homework is an extension of the day's work, it generally involves concepts that should be understood. If a child cannot do the assignment, it is appropriate for the teacher to deal with this difficulty. Please communicate with the teacher through a note, an email, or a phone call.

• Families can be very helpful in memorization tasks, such as Declamation, by listening and responding positively to a child's efforts. It is appropriate to help your child better understand the work he/she has chosen or to suggest an emphasis on particular words or ways of declaiming. It is also helpful to take part in other memorization tasks having to do with spelling, vocabulary, and mastery of number facts.

• Reading aloud to children every day, either from school material or other literature, is a significant way of aiding a child's education. As children get older, this activity can be shared with them but should not be discontinued.

• Send a note or email directly to your child's teacher if your child is unable to complete an assignment due to medical reasons or home emergency. Homework is taken seriously, and your child may lose credit or important skill reinforcement because of undone assignments. Children will always be held responsible for homework assignments, but extenuating or health circumstances may necessitate an extension.

• Avoid teaching reading or math skills at home. This is best carried out by the classroom teacher or tutor if deemed necessary by the school.

Assignment Notices Beginning in Third Grade, if an assignment is late or unsatisfactory, the teacher sends a formal notice home for the family to see, sign, and return the following day. These notices let the families know immediately if a child is not meeting school obligations.

A teacher may require an Upper School student to stay after school if work is incomplete or unsatisfactory. The family will be notified if the student needs to stay.

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Communication Make appointments for conferences rather than communicate important information during morning arrival time, recess, or dismissal time when teachers are focused on welcoming children in the morning and ensuring their safety at recess and dismissal. Frequent and open communication between families and the School is the key to the healthy academic and social well-being of your child. Let your child’s teachers know of any changes in your home life that may affect his/her school life: a new baby, separation or divorce, promotion, new marriage, serious illness, or a death in the family. Also, the School must know immediately of any changes (mailing and email addresses, phone numbers, dismissal plans, emergency contacts) in the information supplied by you on the Information Sheet.

Classroom teachers will let families know their preferred means of communication and how best to contact them. Voicemail boxes are listed on pages 28 - 31. Teachers generally check their voice mail once or twice a day. If you need to convey information that must reach your child’s teacher before dismissal, please call the Executive Administrative Assistant at 215-925-3963. All faculty and staff have email addresses with the format firstinitiallastname@st-peters-school.org for example dscirrotto@st-peters-school.org. Email communications must be limited to informational purposes; to discuss serious issues relating to your child or curriculum, please call your child’s teacher.

Conferences and Reporting Written reports are mailed home three times per year at the end of the Academic Terms. Conferences are scheduled on October 31, 2014 and March 12 & 13, 2015 for Preschool through Eighth Grade.

Sign ups are done electronically. There will be a notification in the weekly newsletter approximately two weeks in advance regarding conference scheduling. The School cannot guarantee that conferences missed because of family vacation will be made up.

Reports will only be mailed if a family has fulfilled financial obligations with the school.

Notices from the School Most written communication will be conducted via email and the School’s website www.st-peters-school.org. The weekly newsletter will be posted to the website and sent via email on Thursday afternoon. The weekly newsletter includes information about school-wide news and events.

The School also has an online calendar, which is updated weekly, and includes listings of events throughout the year.

Please make it a practice to check for emails from the School and to visit the School’s website on a regular basis. If your family does not have Internet access, contact the Administrative Assistant.

If you have not yet provided an email address to the School or if your email changes during the year, please notify the Division Director and the Administrative Assistant who will update our email list.

Please make sure that you can accept email from announcements@st-peters-school.org, and that your email program will not mark as “spam” email from any address ending in "@st-peters-school.org".

Please note that the School cannot promote out-of-school events or performances in the weekly newsletter unless they directly involve our students or relate to our educational program.

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Behavioral Expectations Student and School Community Behavior None of us can abdicate our responsibilities to ourselves, our families, our community, and our School by virtue of geography. The students are accountable for their actions no matter where they are.

Expectations St. Peter's School expects students to: • live by the School’s rules, regulations, and policies.

• conduct themselves with respect, dignity, and civility at all times especially when and while representing the School.

• show courtesy toward adults, students, and school guests while at the School or on school-related field trips or sporting events.

• respect the rights and property of others.

• respect the School’s property.

• be punctual.

• accept responsibility for their actions.

• abide by the School’s Technology Guideline and Acceptable Use Policy on page 13.

• live by the School’s Creed by being respectful, responsible, honest, cooperative, and kind.

To ensure that we create a school environment that is safe for learners to explore new ideas, discover new understanding, and master new skills, all members of our school community are expected to demonstrate respect for themselves, respect for others, and respect for our environment.

There are certain behaviors that will not be tolerated within our community: • verbal or physical conduct hurtful to others • conduct which is harassing, intimidating, menacing, or bullying • conduct which is violent or threatens violence • destruction or vandalism of property • lying, stealing, or cheating • misuse of technology • disruptive or disrespectful behavior When the School’s expectations concerning a student’s behavior are not met, teachers, staff and/or administrators will intervene and communicate with the families as necessary.

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Depending upon the nature and extent of the behavior, the teacher, the Division Director, or the Headmaster will contact the family to discuss ways to address the behavior and help the student meet the School’s expectations. Strategies may include: • a meeting with the family and teachers • sending the student home for the remainder of the day • community service • in-school and/or at home suspension • loss of certain privileges, such as recess, after school activities, or field trips Repeated occurrences of inappropriate behavior are of concern because they are detrimental to the School environment and negatively impact the School community. When a student demonstrates repeated inappropriate behavior, the student may be placed on probation while the administration considers whether continued enrollment at St. Peter’s School is appropriate. In situations of extremely inappropriate, persistent, or disruptive behavior, the School may take more severe action including suspension or expulsion.

Harassment Definition: Harassment (either harris-meant or huh-rass-meant) n. the act of systematic and/or continued unwanted and annoying actions of one party or a group, including threats and demands. The purposes may vary, including racial prejudice, personal malice, an attempt to force someone to quit a job or grant sexual favors, apply illegal pressure to collect a bill, or merely gain sadistic pleasure from making someone fearful or anxious. A systematic pattern of harassment by an employee against another worker may subject the employer to a lawsuit for failure to protect the worker.

St. Peter's School's commitment to diversity requires students, school employees, volunteers, parents, and trustees to examine our attitudes and beliefs about differences and suspending those that are inappropriate.

St. Peter’s School has unreserved respect for individual differences and recognizes that the School is enriched by its diversity. Students have a right to learn in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, intimidation, bullying, or menacing. If a student feels as though he/she is a victim of any of these things, he/she should talk immediately to a teacher, the Division Director, the Headmaster, or to any of the administrative staff. The student should speak with the person he/she feels most comfortable. If the student does not feel comfortable talking alone with any of the above persons, he/she should bring a friend or write a note. The School encourages the student to talk with a parent or other adult whom he/she trusts so that the parent or other adult can also provide assistance.

Upon receipt of such complaint, the Headmaster and/or Division Director will investigate the complaint completely and, when appropriate, will take action based on the circumstances. Action may include education, counseling, suspension, or expulsion. To the extent possible and allowed by law, the School will maintain confidentiality within the confines of the investigation or the alleged prohibited behavior. All parties will be treated with dignity, and the School will not retaliate against anyone making a report or serving as a witness.

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Bullying Bullying has two key components: repeated harmful acts and an imbalance of power. It involves repeated physical, verbal, or psychological attacks or intimidation directed against a victim who cannot properly defend himself or herself because of size or strength, or because the victim is outnumbered or less psychologically resilient. Bullying includes assault, tripping, intimidation, rumor spreading and isolation, demands for money, destruction of property, or theft of valued possessions.

Not all taunting, teasing, and fighting among schoolchildren constitutes bullying. “Two persons of approximately the same strength (physical or psychological)…fighting or quarreling” is not bullying.

Rather, bullying entails repeated acts by someone perceived as physically or psychologically more powerful.

We know that children and adults have conflicts and that not all of them fall into the category of bullying. At St. Peter’s School we take bullying seriously and are committed to reducing its incidence. Our goal is to teach students, families, faculty, and staff to identify bullying, to communicate the skills necessary to reduce its incidence, and to demonstrate ways to resolve conflicts that are effective and respectful for all. Effective implementation requires a partnership between school and home.

Technology Guidelines and Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) 

Technology at St. Peter’s School supports and enhances the work of faculty, students, and staff in furthering the mission of the School. Every student, faculty, and staff member will have full access to the technology essential to fulfilling assignments and job responsibilities.

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Access to technology at St. Peter’s School is a privilege, not a right, and is governed by this Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). Any violation of the School's AUP will result in disciplinary action, and may include the cancellation of technology use privileges.

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Technology users at St. Peter’s are responsible for handling and operating all computer equipment gently and with care.

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From time to time, the School may issue laptop computers to students or staff. Unless otherwise specified in writing, these laptops remain the property of the School, and may be reclaimed at any time. Users of laptops accept complete financial responsibility for theft of the units, or for any physical damage to them while in their care.

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With the exception of laptops, computer equipment and network cabling may not be moved or altered without the assistance from a teacher.

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Software may not be installed on any computer without the assistance of the ITS.

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Technologies at St. Peter's School are intended to be used for teaching and learning, and for running the day-to-day operations of the School. Students are not allowed to use the School's technologies for anything that is not school related. Prohibited uses include things like: playing computer games, using instant messaging, file sharing or email services that are not hosted by the School, or visiting websites with content that does not relate to schoolwork or research.

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Teachers and administrators are likewise encouraged to refrain from using computer and network resources for personal use. While such use is not prohibited, it is important to recognize that the School's resources are not unlimited, and that its network capacity is relatively small. Excessive web-browsing, especially that which involves viewing of streaming video or listening to streaming audio, can interfere with the use of the network for school related work.

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St. Peter’s School technologies must not be used for illegal or immoral activity. Creating, downloading or uploading offensive materials (hate mail, material promoting violence or discrimination, or anything obscene or pornographic) is prohibited. Unauthorized downloading, copying, or distributing of copyrighted software, movies or music is illegal. If you’re not sure whether or not something is allowed, ask the teacher.

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Even when not on School grounds, families must not use technology to compromise the privacy or safety of anyone in the St. Peter's School community. You must not use the School name, logo or shield without permission, impersonate another member of the School community, or abuse the reputation of the School. Doing any of these things will result in disciplinary action within the School and, when necessary, in the involvement of the police.

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Accessing another user's account without permission is not allowed. Reading, copying or changing another person's files, data, or passwords without his/her permission is not allowed.

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Electronic communication is inherently insecure. This means that things like email messages, files stored on a computer, and web browsing histories cannot be guaranteed to be private.

Even if you are using a password to protect your work, it may still be possible for someone else to see it. Additionally, the School reserves the right to monitor, check, or filter anything stored on its computers or passing through its network.

School Enrollment Procedures Re-enrollment, Grade Level Reclassification, and Graduation Re-enrollment Re-enrollment occurs for the next academic year in January for current families. In making offers of re-enrollment, the School considers the following: • The School is reasonably able to accommodate the student’s needs.

• The student is making satisfactory academic progress.

• The student is meeting or working toward the School's behavioral expectations.

• All financial obligations for the student are met.

The School believes that a positive and constructive working relationship between the School and the student's family is essential to the fulfillment of the School's mission. Thus, the School reserves the right not to continue enrollment or not to re-enroll the student if the School reasonably concludes that the actions of the families make such a positive and constructive relationship impossible, or seriously interfere with the School's accomplishment of its educational purposes. The decision of the School in this regard is final.

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If you have any questions about re-enrollment please contact the Admissions Director prior to the deadline stated in your contract.

Financial Aid Program A St. Peter’s School education represents a significant financial investment in your child’s future. Our financial aid budget may help bridge the gap between what families can afford and the cost of attending St. Peter’s School.

St. Peter’s School determines a family’s need for financial aid based on the School and Student Services (SSS) computation, applicable tax returns, and the Financial Aid Committee’s guidelines. However, due to limited funds, financial aid is not guaranteed to all qualified applicants. For more information on financial aid and payment plans, please visit “Affording the St. Peter’s School Experience” on our website.

All financial aid files and information are kept strictly confidential and St. Peter’s School trusts the families receiving aid will do the same with their award.

Release of Records Requests for Transcript Releases and Teacher Recommendations should be discussed with the Admissions Director and Division Director. A meeting will be scheduled with the family and Admissions Director to discuss a family’s request. Following this meeting and submission of a transcript release form, transcripts and necessary Teacher Recommendations will be completed and mailed depending upon when they are requested.

Transcripts and Teacher Recommendations will only be released if a family has fulfilled financial obligations with the School.

Grade Level Reclassification Sometimes the School may feel it is in the best interests of a child to spend another year in the same grade. We look carefully at many factors and use our best judgment to determine in which grade we feel a child will be most successful. Families may choose not to follow the School's recommendation for retention the first year it is made, and the School will respect this decision. However, if retention is recommended in subsequent years, the family must agree in order to re-enroll the child.

Graduation In order to graduate from St. Peter's School, an Eighth Grade student must be in good behavioral standing and have completed English, math, history, and science courses with a grade of C minus or better. Students failing to meet this academic standard, assuming all other obligations are met, will receive a Certificate of Attendance. A student will not receive a diploma or a Certificate of Attendance if his/her family has not met their financial obligations.

Schedule Attendance Students are to be in school except for illness or emergency, and families should not request exception to this rule. Frequent or sustained absences or tardiness seriously hampers academic progress. A student’s family must be diligent about school attendance. Medical appointments for students must be scheduled during vacation or after school hours. Upper School sports teams count on all team members for practice and for interscholastic games. Families are reminded that absences and late 15

arrivals are recorded on your child’s transcript and can influence secondary school admissions.

Excessive absences or tardiness may result in non-renewal of contracts or failure to be promoted.

The Division Director will notify a student’s family if the student’s absences or tardiness are excessive.

Absences Families must call or email the School by 8:20 a.m. if a child will be absent. In the event of illness, please contact your child’s teacher for homework to be sent home with another student or picked up at the end of the school day.

When children leave early or return late from vacations, they miss essential instruction. These are absences. Families must accept responsibility for missed academic work and the possible consequences to the student (i.e tutoring, non-promotion, non-renewal of contract). Please do not expect teachers to prepare extra work when an absence is not related to sickness, trauma, or crisis.

All absences will be counted in year-end attendance.

Lateness Children arriving after 8:20 a.m. are considered tardy. Attendance is taken at the arriving signal announced each day at 8:20 a.m. If a child arrives after 8:20 a.m., for any reason, including doctor/dentist appointments, he/she is marked tardy. Families will be notified in the event of excessive tardiness.

Daily Schedule Preschool and Prekindergarten Monday through Friday 8:20 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

First – Eighth Grade Monday through Friday

Optional Preschool & Prekindergarten Lunch Bunch Program 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Seventh – Eighth Grade Boys on Mondays & Thursdays 8:20 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Kindergarten Monday through Friday

Seventh – Eighth Grade Girls on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 8:20 am – 4:00 p.m.

8:20 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

8:20 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

After late sports dismissal at 4:00 p.m., students must sign into the After School Care Program, or go home. The After School Care Program ends at 6:00 p.m. A fee is assessed for the After School Care Program.

Early Arrival Supervision for all students is provided beginning at 7:30 a.m. in the designated first floor classroom.

Children enter the building through the schoolyard entrance and go directly to the designated classroom. They will remain in the classroom until they are dismissed to their homerooms by the supervising teacher at 8:00 a.m. Children are not permitted to eat during this time.

Morning Arrival System/Parking Guidelines 

Never park or drop off in the Parking Lot.

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Use the right curbside from the main gate to the fire hydrant as a moving line (between 8:00 a.m. and 8:20 a.m.) to stop briefly and let your child out at the front door. Please keep the line moving by driving around the block, or finding a parking place if one parent escorts a young child into the School and the other remains in the car, or there is no room in the line.

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Always put flashing lights on if you "park" momentarily at the right curbside between the fire hydrant and 4th Street to take your child into school.

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Never park between 3rd Street and the main gate, and never block the schoolyard driveway to let children out of the car or to pick them up.

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Be courteous to our neighbors and do not block their driveways.

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The Parking Authority and Police do issue parking tickets. These tickets are your responsibility.

Dismissal Procedures Early Childhood Division Dismissal Procedures Children in Preschool and Prekindergarten are dismissed from the turf field playground door at 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Parents, guardians, or caregivers should wait outside the playground door until the Division Director or a teacher dismisses their child to them. Kindergarten students are dismissed from the schoolyard at 3:00 p.m. If you are running late and will pick your child up later than the regular noon or 3:00 p.m. dismissal times, you must call the Administrative Assistant or email the Division Director. Teachers must have written notification from parents of any dismissal changes (play dates, early pick-ups, etc.) Please do not go into the classrooms at any time to pick up your child.

A teacher will take any child in Preschool or Prekindergarten, who leaves at noon and has not been picked up by 12:10 p.m., to have recess with those children who are staying for Lunch Bunch. A teacher will take children in Kindergarten and Lunch Bunch who have not been picked up by 3:10 p.m. to the After School Care Program where they will be supervised until a parent, guardian, or caregiver arrives. A fee is charged. Parents must complete and sign a Dismissal Information sheet on the first day of school. A child will only be dismissed to those individuals who parents have listed on this sheet.

Lower and Upper School Dismissal Procedures Teachers dismiss children in First Grade through Eighth Grade from the schoolyard at 3:15 p.m.

(Exception: children in Seventh and Eighth Grade who have late sports until 4:00 p.m. will be brought back to school and dismissed. Students must leave the School or go into the After School Care Program at that time.)

Teachers sign out students to parents, caregivers, and to individuals approved in writing by the parents only. Teachers supervise dismissal until 3:30 p.m., when all children remaining at school unaccompanied by parents or caregivers will be assigned to the After School Program unless they are involved in a school program, i.e. ASEP, Detention, or organized sports activities. There is a fee for the After School Care Program. Teachers must have written notification from parents of any dismissal changes (play dates, early pick-ups, etc.)

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Parents who choose to remain in the schoolyard with their children after dismissal must remember that the After School Care Program has priority use of the schoolyard until 6:00 p.m. Playing must be supervised by the parent/guardian after dismissal.

Rainy Days On rainy days, children in First through Fourth Grade will remain in their classrooms with their teachers until parents or caregivers come to the classroom and sign them out. Upper School students will be brought downstairs to the parlor and dismissed. The Early Childhood Division dismissal procedures remain the same.

Changes in Dismissal Arrangements When possible, children should know plans for dismissal when they leave home in the morning.

Requests for messages to be delivered to children should be made only in emergency situations. Notify the School if someone other than you or those listed on the Family Information Sheet will be picking up your child. If there is someone with whom your child should not go home, provide the School with the proper documentation. Children will not be released to unauthorized individuals. In addition, families of children who take the school bus must notify the School well in advance of dismissal time if the child is not taking the bus home. In this way, teachers on duty will know exactly who is going home by school bus for the day.

If you are picking up your child early for any reason, please go to the reception area and the Administrative Assistant will contact the teacher to send your child to the parlor. Please do not go to the classrooms.

Public School Bus Children who take the Philadelphia School District bus home will line up at the Lombard Street door to be dismissed directly onto the school bus by the teacher on duty. Upper School students who take the bus must make other arrangements for transportation on extended sports days. All students traveling on the bus must remember that they are representing St. Peter’s School and must act appropriately.

Inclement Weather Weather Related Closing Information St. Peter’s School does not follow public and parochial school decisions. If there is a question whether St. Peter’s School will be closed because of weather or other events, please do the following:     

Log onto: www.st-peters-school.org for information.

Listen to KYW – 1060 AM for St. Peter’s School Closing #187.

Log onto: www.kyw1060.com and check our school closing number.

Watch your local news programs.

Call St. Peter’s @ 215-925-3963 beginning at 6:00 a.m. and listen to the recorded message which can be heard when pressing option #7. Do not call the School staff at home.

Inclement weather conditions which develop during the school day may require an early dismissal.

The Headmaster will make the decision and an email and text will be sent to the school community.

As a general policy, if we open, we stay open; sometimes children who take public school buses will have to leave early if public schools close early.

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Delayed Opening Occasionally, the weather may not warrant closing school but does warrant extra time for all to arrive safely. Follow the same procedures above to find out if school has a delayed opening. On days that there is a delayed opening, students should report to school between 10:00 a.m. and 10:20 a.m. Classes will begin at 10:20 a.m.

Extended Day Programs After School Care Program (ASCP) Children from Preschool through Eighth Grade enjoy a safe and fun learning and play environment for the after school hours. Healthy snacks, indoor activities, outdoor play, and homework are part of the afternoon. The program is administered and staffed by St. Peter's School and involves a combination of active and quiet activities with time to socialize, have healthy snacks, and learn/play with friends. The After School Care Program begins on the first day of school and operates on most school days, including most early dismissal and conference days, until 6:00 p.m. A daily rate applies and families are billed every two months. Children are dismissed by their teacher and then report for ASCP at the end of the school day. All children must be picked up by 6:00 p.m.

TALL Program The Teaching and Leadership League is a corps of 6th-8th grade Upper School students who serve as academic mentors. TALL members must maintain an A/B average in all subjects, demonstrate solid conduct on and off campus and earn the continued recommendations of their teachers throughout the school year. The TALL Program is available Monday – Thursday from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in a designated classroom. Teachers supervise the program. Students in Grades 1-8 staying for the After School Care Program may go to TALL for homework help and tutoring.

After School Enrichment Program (ASEP) The After School Enrichment Program (ASEP) offers a variety of courses that provide fun options for all children. The ASEP is designed to teach children new skills or improve old ones while at the same time allowing them to experience good fellowship and fun. The ASEP is divided into individual terms that run consecutively from October to June. The course offerings vary by term/year and each term is registered for separately. Many of the courses are taught by St. Peter's faculty but others are organized and taught by outside organizations. Examples of past classes include Irish dancing, knitting, indoor soccer, indoor hockey, lacrosse, culinary arts, a variety of art classes, Lego club, and a book club.

Classes are between one to two-hours long, depending on the course and cost varies per class.

Children attending ASEP classes are part of the After School Program and have a snack before joining their ASEP class and return to ASCP following the class.

School Uniforms St. Peter’s School understands the importance of creating a productive learning environment for our students. We believe that wearing uniforms reduces non-academic distractions in the classrooms as well as promoting a sense of community with the students. Our uniforms have been selected for simplicity 19

of dress and for economy without eliminating quality. Uniforms may be purchased from Land’s End and Flynn & O’Hara. Gently used uniforms may be brought into school for the uniform swap in the fall and spring.

Girls in Kindergarten – Eighth Fall & Spring (Start of school to October 31 & April 1 to last day of school)  Blue, yellow, or pink cord jumper no more than 2” above the knee for girls in Grades K – 4  Blue, yellow, or pink kilts no more than 2” above knee for girls in Grades 5 - 8  Tan, navy or gray trousers worn with a black or brown belt – Hip-huggers, flares, tight fitting, denim, cargo and painter pants are not acceptable.  Khaki shorts no more than 2” above the knee may be worn by girls in Grades K - 4  Peter Pan white blouse, white or yellow oxford, or white polo shirt with optional school logo  White or navy knee socks, anklets (socks must cover ankles) or tights Optional  Navy, yellow, or red cardigan sweaters Please note: Girls in Grades 5 – 8 also wear a single-breasted, lined navy blazer with school patch Winter Uniform (November 1 to March 31)  Uniform remains the same with the exception of the light pastel colors being replaced with the plaid kilts and jumpers.  Girls may also wear navy, yellow, or red cardigan sweaters.  Shorts may not be worn from November 1 – March 31.

Boys in Kindergarten – Eighth Grade  Grey or khaki twill or corduroy, tailored trousers with black or brown belt  Boys in Grades K – 8 may wear khaki or grey shorts (only in fall and spring)  Boys in Grades K – 4 wear navy or white polo shirt with optional school logo  Boys in Grades 5 – 8 wear white or light blue oxford shirt and school tie and single-breasted navy lined blazer with school patch  Dark socks  *White cotton trousers (not jeans) for Morris and Sword dancing. Obtain these by midSeptember for October performance. They are not in stores after the end of summer.

Optional  Red or navy V-neck or crewneck sweater Sports Uniform Kindergarten & First Grade Kindergarten and First Grade students do not change into sports clothes for gym. They only change into sneakers. Students in these two grades must bring to school a pair of sneakers (Velcro if a child can not tie laces) that will remain in their cubbies.

Second - Eighth Grade  Navy shorts with school logo, purchased through sports teacher  Sweatpants optional 20

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White polo shirt, gray / garnet tee shirt (issued to new students on Color Day) purchased through sports teacher White socks Sneakers

Earrings If a girl’s ears are pierced, it is important that she wear studs, not hoop or drop earrings, to school.

Only girls in the Eighth Grade are permitted to wear hoop or drop earrings no more than ¾” in length.

Hair Styles and Color Hair must be neat and clean. Radical hairstyles and colors are not permitted. Boys’ hair may not be longer than collar length. For both boys and girls, hair should not be distracting and may not fall into their eyes.

School Shoes School shoes must be solid colored navy, black, or brown, fit properly and have flat, non-slip soles.

Sperry types are acceptable.

The following are not permitted: • sandals • athletic shoes/sneakers • slip on shoes including Toms • high heels and /or elevated soles • All types of boots If a child does wear inappropriate shoes to school, the child will not be permitted to participate in active play at recess times. Children who are not able to tie their shoes should not wear shoes with laces. It is also important for children to have appropriate footwear on wet or snowy days so they can play outside. On days that children wear boots to school, parents must also send a pair of shoes for wearing inside during the day. If you have any questions regarding your child’s shoes, please ask your child’s teacher or Division Director.

Nail Polish Students are not permitted to wear dark or bright colored nail polish in school. Neutral and light pastel shades are permitted. Students wearing dark or bright shades of nail polish will be sent to the Division Director to have it removed.

Dress Code Violations Students out of uniform, which includes shoes, will receive a verbal warning for the first offense. The second offense will result in a written warning being sent home, signed by the parent/guardian, and returned to school. Continued offenses will require the Division Director to call home and have the appropriate uniform dropped off at school or for the student to be picked up and taken home.

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Early Childhood Division Preschool/Prekindergarten Children in Preschool and Prekindergarten are not permitted to wear diapers or Pull-ups to school or at Lunch Bunch rest time.

Every child in the Early Childhood Division is required to bring two pairs of underwear, two pairs of socks, and a change of clothes in a “zip-lock” bag on the first day of school. Because this bag will remain at school, parents will need to replace the clothing as the seasons change and the children grow.

The extra clothing bag and outer garments must be clearly labeled with the child’s name.

Children in the Early Childhood Division are not permitted to bring toys from home to school. If they do, the teacher will ask the parent or caregiver to take the toys with them when they leave by 8:20 a.m.

Children in Preschool and Prekindergarten do not wear uniforms. They must wear practical, washable clothing that they can get dirty. Since they are encouraged to take care of their bathroom needs, it is important that they wear clothing that they can manage when they go to the bathroom by themselves.

Wearing jeans and pants with belts prevents them from doing so.

Hair must be neat and clean. Boys' hair must be kept out of the eyes and cannot extend below the collar of a shirt.

If a child in the Early Childhood Division wears inappropriate shoes, the child will not be permitted to play at outdoor recess times. It is also important that children have appropriate footwear for wet or snowy days so they can play outside. On days that children wear boots to school, parents must also send a pair shoes for wearing inside during the day.

Lost and Found Mark all of your child's clothing and possessions with his/ her name so that items may be returned easily when found. Unmarked items will be placed in the Lost and Found at the bottom of the new basement stairs.

At the end of each month, all unclaimed articles go to the used uniform sale or to the needy.

Cellular Phones and Electronic Devices Students are permitted to have cell phones in school but all phones must be off from the time students enter the building until dismissal. Students who need to place a call must have a teacher's permission. If you need to contact your child during the school day, please call the School. Similarly, students must not use any electronic entertainment device while under school care.

Food/Snacks Snacks All students must bring a healthy snack to school each day. Milk is provided. Check with your child's teacher if you want to provide a special snack for your child's class.

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Lunch Children should bring a nutritious lunch and beverage to school. Please do not send soda or other carbonated drinks, candy, or too much dessert. Milk is available for lunch.

Please help your children pack what you know they will eat rather than what you think they will eat.

We encourage “trashless lunches” with reusable containers and utensils. Microwaves are not for student use and at no time may a teacher or staff member heat up food for the children. We do not have facilities to refrigerate lunches. Parents may NOT deliver lunch to your child’s classroom at anytime during the school day. If you need to drop off your child’s lunch, it must be left with the Administrative Assistant at the front desk.

Smart Lunch is offered to students and all ordering and payment is done electronically. You will receive detailed information regarding this program in September.

Birthdays Children enjoy celebrating birthdays at school with a special snack for their classmates. Parents must check with their child’s homeroom teacher before bringing a treat to school. The School does not permit birthday party invitations and/or presents to be distributed at School.

Birthday Books A unique and thoughtful gift to give to a St. Peter’s School student is a book donation to the library in his/her honor. If you have any questions or are interested in donating a book, please see the librarian for details.

School Events School Service School Service is held every other Wednesday for students in First Grade through Eighth Grade and faculty. Our Eighth Grade and Headmaster usually lead the service. Visiting clergy of different faiths and community leaders participate. Each leader brings a distinct, positive moral message to the children. Parents are always welcome at School Service.

Declamation Beginning in First Grade, each child at St. Peter's is expected to choose, memorize, and recite poetry on a regular basis. This highly cherished tradition at St. Peter's School has three major goals: • Cultivate a genuine love and understanding of poetry.

• Train the minds of children in the skill of memorization.

• Develop the ability to speak effectively in front of an audience with poise and confidence.

Parents are encouraged to support their children through the selection, preparation, and presentation of the poems at Declamation. All students will participate and declaim at an assembly during the year.

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School Organization Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees is the governing body of St. Peter's School. It is comprised of current parents, former parents, alumni, and members of the community. The Board is entrusted with ensuring that the mission of the School is being carried out.. The Board delegates to the Headmaster responsibility for implementing the policies of the School as well as for the daily operation of the School. The Board of Trustees is self-perpetuating, and the Committee on Trustees welcomes suggestions for new members.

The Headmaster is the only person employed by the Board of Trustees; all others are employed by the Headmaster.

Board of Trustees Executive Officers Chair, Dr. Carmen Guerra Co Vice-chair, David Blum Co Vice-chair, Mary Sales

Treasurer, Sean Cusack Secretary, Scott Towers

Administration The Headmaster is responsible for the overall program. The day-to-day operation of the School is conducted by the School's Administrative Team, which consists of the Headmaster, Academic Dean, Division Directors, Admissions Director, Development Director, Executive Administrative Assistant, and Business Manager. The Headmaster is the chief academic and administrative officer and reports to the Board of Trustees. The Administrative Team meets weekly to discuss issues of institutional concern and to coordinate school-wide activities.

Academically, the School is organized into three divisions: Early Childhood Division, Lower School, and Upper School. Each grade has a director who with the faculty decides program and pedagogy. The academic programs and extra-curricular activities for each division are designed to be age appropriate, creative, intellectually stimulating, and challenging.

Administration Headmaster Shawn Kelly 215-297-3095

Admissions Director Rafhia Foster 215-297-3102

Academic Dean and Director of Third – Eighth Grade Matthew Evans 215-297-3096

Business Director Deborah Fluehr 215-297-3103

Executive Administrative Assistant Diane Scirrotto 215-297-3097 Preschool – Second Grade Director Kate Seltzer 215-297-3106 Administrative Assistant Kelly Lehman x 402

Development Director Karin Morse 215-297-3099 Admissions & Development Associate Meghan Thorell 215-297-3098 Extended Day Programs Director Lava Ham x 430 24

Faculty and Staff Shawn Kelly, 2012 Headmaster ext. 404 Ed.M Harvard University B.A. University of Rhode Island Kathy Andrews, 2014 First Grade ext. 434 M.S. Neumann College MSHR Villanova University B.S. Villanova University Ernest Barbiero, 1987 Physical Education: First - Eighth Grade US Boys Coach: Soccer, Basketball, & Baseball B.A. University of Richmond Karen Baumann, 2009 First Grade ext. 437 M.S. Southern Connecticut State College B.A. Duke University Julie Brady, 2010 Kindergarten ext. 445 B.A. Rutgers University Doonie Brewer, 2014 English, Fifth – Eighth ext. 424 M.A., Trinity College B.A. University Park Huan Bui, 2006 Custodian Monique Coval, 2011 French ext. 451 Second, Third & Fifth Grade B.A. Immaculata University Jessica Cronin Connolly, 2011 Kindergarten ext. 449 B.A. Temple University Teaching Certification, Drexel University 25

Karen Edelstein, 2013 Visiting School Psychologist Psy.D. Widener University M.A. Villanova University B.A. Barnard College Matthew Evans, 2013 Academic Dean/Upper School Director ext. 455 B.A. Trinity College Deborah Fluehr, 2001 Business Manager ext. 417 B.A. LaSalle College Rafhia Foster, 2013 Admissions Director ext. 407 B.S. Wesleyan University Marian Gibfried, 2012 History: Fifth – Eighth Grade, ext. 423 M.A. Drexel University B.A. Cabrini College Kathleen Hadden, 2009 Math: Fifth – Eighth, ext. 452 B.A., St. Joseph’s University Lavondra Ham Extended Day Program Director, ext. 430 B.A. Coker College David Hoffman, 2014 Fourth Grade Teacher, ext. 428 B.S. Denison University Nicole Kouch, 2010 Prekindergarten B.A., University of Pennsylvania Jessica Kulick, 2005 Second Grade ext. 441 M.Ed. Arcadia University B.S. Pennsylvania State University

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Catherine Lake, 2011 Fourth Grade ext. 439 M.A. Ed. Cabrini College B.A. Loyola College Kerri Master, 2009 Prekindergarten B.S. Temple University A.A. Community College of Philadelphia Elena Matero, 2007 Prekindergarten – Second Grade Art ext. 422 M.A.T. The University of the Arts M.S. Pratt Institute B.F.A. Pratt Institute Steve Maxwell, 2010 Second Grade ext. 440 M.S. Neumann College B.S. Wingate University Cathy Mazza, 2002 Music: Second - Eighth Grade ext. 429 B.A. Music West Chester University Liz McCune, 2006 Librarian: Preschool – Eighth Grade ext. 420 B.F.A. Moore College of Art Lydie Miller, 2012 Third Grade ext. 426 Director of Afterschool Enrichment Programs ext. 430 B.S. Temple University Susan Moore, 1995 Prekindergarten, ext. 448 Kindergarten Reading Readiness B.A. Dickinson College Karin Morse, 2010 Development Director, ext. 405 M.A. University of Georgia B.A. Lehigh University 27

Hung Nguyen, 1998 Custodian Karen O'Brien, 2002 Learning Services Coordinator M.S. St. Joseph's University B.A. Immaculata College Dirk Parker Upper School Science/Director of Innovation M.Ed Beaver College B.A. Beaver College B.A. Cheyney University Bhumi Patel, 2008 Fifth Grade ext. 427 Primary Post Graduate Certificate in Education, Urban Learning Foundation, London BSc. Cardiff University, London Leah Petetti, 2013 Preschool B.S. Drexel University Jennifer Reistle, 1995 French: Fourth – Eighth Grade ext. 451 B.A. Bucknell University Sandra Rekstad, 2011 Science & Math: Fifth Grade ext. 453 M.S. Marymount University B.S. The Pennsylvania State University Barbara Rentschler, 1991 Third Grade ext. 435 M.S. Youngstown State University B.S. Bowling Green State University Diane Scirrotto, 1996 Executive Administrative Assistant ext. 403 Kate Seltzer, 2001 Early Childhood Division Director & Co Lower School Director ext. 408 M.B.A. College of Insurance (St. John’s University) B.A. Cedar Crest College 28

Meaghan Serbin Kindergarten, ext. 431 M.Ed, Widener University B.A., Widener University Marc Silver, 2000 Music: Preschool – First Grade Fifth Grade Percussion Ensemble B.P.A. University of the Arts Philadelphia Dorothy Stewart, 2005 Preschool B.A. Cheney University Khalid Stewart, 1999 Art: Third – Eighth Grade & Kindergarten Sports ext. 454 B.F.A. University of the Arts Meghan Thorell, 2008 Development & Admissions Associate ext. 418 M.S. Elementary Education, Chestnut Hill College B.S. Temple University

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