Senior Spring Semester
SPRING SEMESTER EXAM EXEMPTION
Senior Spring Exam Exemption is a way for the school to recognize and encourage academic achievement as seniors come to the end of their time in upper school. Exam Exemption is a privilege that is earned by meeting obligations and working hard. The exemption applies only to course exams; it does not pertain to final projects, papers, Advanced Placement Exams, or other assessments. Exemption is determined on a course by course basis.
For the Class of 2025, seniors must end the spring semester with an 87% (B+) or higher. For the Class of 2026 and all following classes, seniors must finish the spring semester with a 90% (A-) average
SENIORS’ LAST DAY OF CLASSES
The seniors’ last full day of classes will typically be the Friday directly prior to the week the first Advanced Placement Exam administered on the ESA campus. A senior enrolled in Advanced Placement classes must be aware that teachers of those courses may request seniors to attend additional classes and/or review sessions up to the date of that class’s Advanced Placement exam. Seniors who have not earned exemption from a course’s spring semester exam will be expected to attend that class until the course’s spring exam is administered.
Progress Towards Diploma
Episcopal School of Acadiana expects each of its students to make positive academic progress towards meeting diploma requirements each marking period. At the conclusion of each semester, each student’s grades and comments will be reviewed by the Academic Dean to assess overall progress. Should a student not be making positive progress, the following procedures have been established to help the family and the school evaluate if ESA is the most appropriate academic placement for the student.
ACADEMIC PROBATION
A student will be placed on Academic Probation if he or she receives the following or any combination of the following:
1. three semester grades of C- or below in any courses
2. two semester grades of D+, D, or D- or below in any course
3. a semester grade of F in any course
Academic Probation is a signal to the student and the family that the student must focus on his or her academic preparation and commitment. A student placed on Academic Probation will have a meeting with the Academic Dean and/or Upper School Counselor to discuss the academic deficiencies and recommendations necessary to improve academic performance for the coming semester. A follow up meeting with the student’s parent(s), member(s) of the Upper School administration, the student’s advisor, and necessary teachers may be scheduled. At the conclusion of the next semester, the student’s grades and comments will be reviewed by the Upper School administration to determine if improvement has been made.
If the student has not improved sufficiently, the student may be asked to withdraw from ESA at that time.
Failing a course for the year in the Upper School will result in the student having to remediate the credit as directed by the teacher, department chair, and/or Head of Upper School. Any course taken at another academic institution must be pre-approved by the Head of Upper School if ESA credit is desired. Should a student fail a course mandated by the state of Louisiana as a TOPS University Diploma requirement, the student must remediate the course credit before the student will be permitted to progress to the next grade level at ESA.
Athletic Eligibility
LHSAA rules require the following for academic eligibility:
● Fall semester - Pass 6 units the previous academic year with a C average
● Spring semester - Pass 6 subjects in the fall semester (no grade stipulation); a senior who has accumulated 20 or more units may take five subjects/units for the fall semester and must pass all five.
Questions regarding specific eligibility requirements should be addressed to the Athletic Director.
Academic Support Program
The Academic Support program is a contracted service designed to meet the individual learning needs of students. Students schedule Academic Support as one of their courses within the ESA academic schedule and typically meet in same-grade pairs. Supporting the belief that students learn in different ways, the Academic Support staff work with students, teachers, parents, and administrators to devise an approach to learning tailored to each student. Based on diagnostic test results and/or consultation with parents and teachers, Academic Support provides students with strategies to enhance learning through skill development with topics including but not limited to: generalized study strategies, organization, planning, and test preparation. Special assistance is provided for students with learning differences.
General Academic Information
TRIPS
Students traveling on school trips continue to be under the jurisdiction of ESA. All school rules remain in effect, and students are directly accountable to the school representative/teacher who is responsible for them and ultimately to the Dean of Students. All students making trips with their peers on a bus will be expected to return with the group on the bus. If a student's parents would like their child to return home with them, they must speak directly to the school to request permission.
Students with excessive tardies or absences and/or a D or an F in any class may not be allowed to leave school early or travel with their team upon discretion of the Athletic Director and Dean of Students.
SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES
Advanced Placement courses are college-level courses purposefully designed to culminate with a standardized exam. A student’s performance on this exam may enable the student to earn college credit and as well as advanced standing. Students should expect a college-level workload in an AP course as well as an increased number of writing assignments—both timed and out of class. Teachers of Advanced Placement classes may require additional summer reading to prepare for the course, assignments over scheduled school vacations, and hold additional review sessions outside of scheduled class. Students choosing to enroll in an Advanced Placement course are expected to meet these obligations. Seniors should be aware that their obligation to an Advanced Placement course will extend beyond their last day of classes.
● It is the expectation of ESA that a student enrolled in an Advanced Placement course will take the AP exam in May. Should a student not take the exam, the AP designation will be removed from the course and replaced with an Honors designation, the final grade weighted accordingly in the GPA, and colleges notified of the change in course of study as required.
● To schedule an AP course, a student must receive approval from the appropriate faculty member indicating that a conversation regarding the academic rigors and student commitment to the course has occurred.
● Present cost of each AP test taken is $95 and will be billed through the ESA monthly billing system when AP exams are ordered. Should an exam be ordered and not administered to a student, the student’s book bill will be credited $55.
UNENCUMBERED PERIODS
ESA believes that it is important for students to learn how to effectively manage and use periods of time that are not formally scheduled. It is not uncommon for upper school students to have one unscheduled period per day. It is the student’s responsibility to make good use of this time. Seeing teachers for extra help outside of class, revising a paper, beginning the night’s homework, reviewing notes, having a study session with other students are just some ways students may choose to productively use this time.
COURSE CHANGES
All changes to a student’s course schedule must be approved by the Upper School Academic Dean and a parent. The student should obtain a Change of Schedule form from the Academic Dean only after fully discussing the proposed change with his or her teacher and parents. No schedule changes will take effect until the form has been returned to the Academic Dean and approved.
The Drop period concludes five days after first quarter interims are issued for full-year courses and five days after the third quarter interims are issued for courses that begin in the spring semester.
A student may drop an Advanced Placement course and change to the equivalent regular course up until five days after the conclusion of the first quarter if space is available in the regular course, upon approval from the Academic Dean and upper school head.
Dropping or withdrawing from a course for any reason after this period will result in the course being listed on the student’s transcript with a grade notation of WP (withdraw passing) or WF (withdraw failing) as determined by the student’s cumulative achievement in the course as of the date of withdrawal.
HOMEWORK
The purpose of homework is to provide reinforcement, enrichment, and development of classroom concepts. Whether the homework assignment is designed as practice for the day’s lesson or to prepare a student for tomorrow’s lesson, homework is an essential part of the total instructional program at ESA. Teachers take their responsibility to assign meaningful homework seriously and expect students to prepare assignments carefully on a daily basis.
LATE ASSIGNMENTS
Students are expected to complete and submit all assignments on time. Typically, an assignment will be counted late if it is not ready to submit at the beginning of the period on the due date assigned by the teacher. Any student submitting an assignment late without prior arrangement with the teacher is subject to a grade penalty up to receiving a 0 on the assignment.
INCOMPLETES
The Head of Upper School must approve any incomplete grades given at the conclusion of the quarter or semester marking period. Should a student receive an incomplete grade, the Academic Dean, teacher, and Head of Upper School will approve the timeline in which the work must be completed.
SEMESTER EXAMS
The school will attempt to minimize extracurricular activities the week before exams. The two days preceding exams are “dead days”, and teachers will not assign major projects, major papers, or major tests these days. Exams are scheduled at the Cade campus by subject for grades 6-12 and require extensive planning. Students are expected to take their exams at the scheduled time and may not reschedule their exam times for matters of convenience. Illness or emergency are acceptable reasons to reschedule, and a make-up exam period is provided for these exceptions
Awarding of Diploma
To receive an Episcopal School of Acadiana diploma, a student must complete the prescribed course of study and be in good standing.
ATHLETICS
The complete Athletic Handbook can be found on the ESAcadiana.com website.
Athletics Philosophy
The Episcopal School of Acadiana believes in participatory athletics. In the Upper School participatory athletics means that any student may be a member of any varsity athletic team. Being part of a team, however, does not guarantee playing time during varsity games. Playing time in varsity athletics is at the discretion of the coach. The ESA athletic program provides the opportunity for every student to participate in safe and healthy athletic experiences with an emphasis on discipline, teamwork, and commitment. Through the active experience of individual and team competition, our students will come to an even greater understanding not only of the value of seeking excellence in themselves, but also in the value of that pursuit to the benefit of the team.
Coaching Staff
Coaches at ESA are employees of the school and are usually either Middle or Upper School teachers. In their role as coaches, they come under the direction of the Athletic Director, the Division Head, and the Headmaster. Questions regarding sports may be directed to the Athletic Director. The Athletic Director is an advocate for both the coaches and student athletes. The Athletic Director’s job is to oversee all athletic budgets and issues related to athletics at ESA.
Varsity Athletic Eligibility
All athletes are subject to the eligibility rules of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association. In addition, any athlete who receives a failing grade or an ESA GPA of 1.67 or lower shall have his or her eligibility reviewed by a committee consisting of the Division Head, Athletic Director, the player's coach, Academic Dean, and the player's advisor.
LHSAA rules require the following for academic eligibility:
● Fall semester - Pass 6 units the previous academic year with a C average
● Spring semester - Pass 6 subjects in the fall semester (no grade stipulation); a senior who has accumulated 20 or more units may take five subjects/units for the fall semester and must pass all five.
Questions regarding specific eligibility requirements should be addressed to the Athletic Director.
Physician’s Statement
All students who participate in any sport at ESA must be examined by a physician each year, and a Medical Form, a signed parent's consent form, a certified birth certificate, and proof of health insurance must be presented to the school.
Team Trips
Athletes traveling on team trips continue to be under the jurisdiction of ESA. All school rules remain in effect, and athletes are directly accountable to the school coach who is responsible for them and ultimately to the Dean of Students. All athletes making trips with their team on a bus will be expected to return with the team on the bus. If a student's parents would like their child to return home with them, they must speak directly to the school to request permission.
Students with excessive tardies or absences and/or a D or an F in any class may not be allowed to leave school early or travel with their team upon discretion of the Athletic Director and Dean of Students.
Sportsmanship
Athletes will conduct themselves appropriately and assume a leadership role in exemplifying good sportsmanship. Unsportsmanlike conduct will result in disciplinary action being taken by a player's coach and/or the Dean of Students. Penalties may range from benching to expulsion from school.
Parents are also expected to exemplify good sportsmanship.
LHSAA’S Regulations for Athletes
To be eligible to participate in any LHSAA sanctioned athletic program, student athletes and their parent/guardian must sign the LHSAA Substance Abuse/Misuse Contract, participation form, Consent form and the ESA Drug policy for students. This form must be signed by the student athlete and his/her parent/guardian before the student athlete will be considered eligible to participate in any LHSAA sanctioned event and at any level of play (varsity, junior varsity, sophomore or freshman).
The purpose of signing the Contract and Consent Form is to secure the student-athlete's agreement and understanding that he/she will not engage in the unauthorized use/abuse of drugs, alcohol or other illegal or unauthorized, dangerous or controlled substances while a participant in any LHSAA athletic program. Furthermore, the student and his/her parent/guardian give permission and consent in advance for the student-athlete to be tested in accordance with Episcopal School of Acadiana's Drug Testing Procedures for StudentAthletes below.
In those circumstances where ESA requires a student be tested, the following procedures will be employed:
● The parent/guardian of the student will be notified of the school's decision to require the parent/guardian to test the student.
● The parent/guardian (or other responsible adult) will be responsible for transporting the student to a certified testing agency or collection site designated by the school.
● The testing agency will collect appropriate specimens for testing, including but not limited to hair and/or urine.
● The testing agency will report the test results to the school.
● If the test results are positive for alcohol, illegal drugs, or other illegal or unauthorized dangerous or controlled substances, the student will be subject to disciplinary action as outlined in this handbook.
Policies for the Jenny Ware Jones Gymnasium & Middle School Gymnasium
No one is allowed in either ESA gymnasium or the weight room at any time without a faculty member supervising play or practice. Inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.
No one is allowed in the canteen at any time without a faculty member supervising.
STUDENT LIFE
The development of personal integrity and excellence of character are primary goals of the Episcopal School of Acadiana and have resulted in the creation of the ESA Honor System.
The Honor System
ESA HONOR CODE
"As a member of Episcopal School of Acadiana, I pledge that I will not lie, cheat, steal, or withhold information concerning those who do."
Article I. Honor offenses are lying, cheating, and stealing. They are formally defined as follows:
Section 1. LYING is defined as presenting a false impression or giving false information to another person.
Section 2. STEALING is defined as the taking of another person's property without right or acknowledgement.
Section 3. CHEATING is defined as giving or receiving any unauthorized information on any quiz, test, examination, or other written work. Plagiarism is a form of cheating. Plagiarism is defined as the representation of work (words, phrases, graphics, ideas, or images) of another's not commonly known as one's own, that is, without quotation marks, footnotes, or some form of citation. AI technology can only be used for school assignments when approved or assigned by the classroom teacher. Unauthorized use of AI, without teacher approval or in opposition to a class syllabus, will be considered cheating and will be handled as such.
Section 4. WITHHOLDING INFORMATION is defined as refraining from providing important information regarding a violation of the honor code.
Article II. If a student believes another is lying, cheating or stealing, he or she should tell the student of this suspicion and ask whether this belief has a basis. If this belief is verified, the student should be told to report himself or herself to the teacher or Honor Council. If he or she does not, the accuser should do so.
Article III. The Honor Code applies to both Upper and Middle School. The Upper School Honor Council has two purposes:
Section 1. Judicial - The Council will review and judge any case that comes before it concerning violations of the Honor Code. Recommendations will be made to the Division Head. Final appeal rests with the Headmaster. Appeals must be made in writing to the Headmaster within two weeks of the date of the decision.
Section 2. Educational - the Honor Council will discuss the Honor System at the beginning of the year at a student assembly and at any other appropriate time. The Council will inform and teach those that come before it how to uphold his or her honor.
Article IV. The Honor Code is in effect for all school activities. Students should write and sign the following statement on all academic work:
"I pledge that I have neither given nor received unauthorized assistance on this assignment.”
HONOR COUNCIL
The Honor Council hears infractions of the Honor Code by members of the Upper School. The Council is student-led and overseen by the Dean of Students and faculty advisors. The Honor Council is composed of:
a. an elected student representative from each Upper School class
b. a student representative appointed by the faculty from each Upper School class
c. three faculty representatives appointed by the Division Head ( at least 2 of the 3 representatives will be present for all hearings)
d. the Upper School Dean of Students who serves as the Chairman
Consequences for Honor Violations:
If the Honor Council determines that the student has committed an honor offense, consequences may range from a simple warning to separation from school.
The Honor Council strives to keep Honor Council meetings private from public knowledge in order to protect all involved, including both the student accused and the council itself.
School Discipline
Civility is the sum of the many sacrifices we are called to make for the sake of living together. We should make sacrifices for others not simply because doing so makes social life easier (although it does) but as a signal of respect for our fellow citizens, making them full equals, before both the law and before God. Rules of civility are thus also rules of morality: it is morally proper to treat our fellow citizens with respect and morally improper not to do so.
Stephen L. Carter, Civility, p. 11
The ESA discipline system is built on respect, responsibility, and safety. It incorporates an interventionist approach to address violations and help students modify inappropriate behavior. Our goal is for students to become proactive managers of their personal conduct and for them to demonstrate the virtue of being their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.
CODE OF CONDUCT
By enrolling at ESA, each student agrees to abide by the school’s expectations and the spirit of those expectations, and parents agree to support the school’s policies.
ESA is a school community based on strong belief in mutual trust and self-responsibility. Students enjoy privileges and freedoms in day-to-day activities that are based on each student assuming responsibility for his or her actions.
It is important for students and parents to know the expectations for conduct set forth by the ESA community. These expectations grow out of genuine concern for each student’s growth and development as a happy and healthy individual guided by strong moral and ethical values.
School Expectations
The Episcopal School of Acadiana expects that every student will:
A. Be honest in all matters. Lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and deceit are violations of the ESA Honor Code.
B. Respect teachers and fellow students. Fighting with, intimidating, threatening or verbally abusing other members of the community will not be tolerated. There is to be no rude or disrespectful behavior, inappropriate language or hazing, either physical or emotional. Any form of harassment (verbal, sexual, physical, racial, religious, ethnic, homophobic, emotional, or cyber-bullying), coercion or abuse is detrimental to the school community and educational environment and will not be tolerated. This includes inappropriate use of technology at the expense of ESA or any member of the ESA Community. [See Technology]
C. Behave appropriately. Students must respect the expectations of each teacher and of the school. Disruptive and disrespectful behavior is not acceptable.
D. Take pride in keeping the ESA campus a clean and beautiful place. Students should dispose of all trash in appropriate receptacles as well as keep their lockers neat and clean. No food or drink (bottled water is the exception) is allowed in classrooms, chapel, library, or inside the gym except during advisory period and under supervision of a faculty member.
E. Meet all commitments and obligations. All students are expected to be prompt in their attendance at all scheduled classes and activities.
F. Not use tobacco, e-cigarettes, vapes, alcohol, drugs, or abuse prescription medication or any other substance. Please see the Drug and Alcohol Policy below.
G. Behave in a way that reflects favorably upon ESA on and off campus, at all times.
H. Respect and care for school property and the property of others. Acts of vandalism, graffiti, property damage, malicious mischief and unauthorized or inappropriate computer use or use of data on a computer is unacceptable.
I. Use common sense in their actions and consider their individual safety and the safety of others. Weapons, fireworks or explosives of any kind are not permitted on ESA property or at ESA events.
Off Limits
Mr. Hebert's pond is strictly off limits. Camelot and all wooded areas or fields are also offlimits unless accompanied by a faculty member. Students are not permitted in the parking lot without faculty permission; seniors are not permitted to loiter in the parking lot. During break and lunch periods or other free time, students are allowed in the commons area, on the front playing fields or in any of the school quadrangles.
Disciplinary Responses
Teachers generally handle minor infractions in the classroom, on campus, or at ESA activities. The Dean of Students and the Division Head coordinate Upper School discipline.
Serious infractions of the Code of Conduct or repeated offenses of any kind may be referred to the Discipline Council. The Discipline Council, after a thorough examination of the infraction, makes a recommendation for disciplinary action to the Division Head who may accept, amend or override the Council’s recommendation. The Headmaster serves as the final appeal for disciplinary action. Appeals must be made in writing to the Headmaster within two weeks of the date of the decision.
Students and families should be aware that any disciplinary action may be disclosed to third parties.
Discipline Council meetings are reserved for a pattern of minor codes of conduct violations, as well as major disciplinary infractions. Some examples of major disciplinary infractions that may result in a Discipline Council meeting are:
● Misuse of technology
● Skipping Class
● Disrespectful Behavior
● Bullying
● Fighting
DISCIPLINE COUNCIL
The Discipline Council reviews cases that involve serious infractions of the Code of Conduct or repeated offenses. The Dean of Students refers cases to the Discipline Council. The Discipline Council is student-led and overseen by the Dean of Students and faculty advisors. The Discipline Council is composed of:
a. an elected student representative from each Upper School class
b. a student representative appointed by the faculty from each Upper School class
c. three faculty representatives appointed by the Division Head (at least 2 of the 3 representatives will be present for all hearings)
d. the Upper School Dean of Students who serves as the Chairman
Disciplinary responses include but are not limited to:
● Verbal Warning and/or Instructive Activity
● Loss of Privilege – This may occur if a student demonstrates an inability to handle the associated responsibility that accompanies a specific privilege.
● Work Detail – This may be assigned for missed obligations or any other behavior that requires a disciplinary response. It is a period when students will work toward the improvement of the school. Work detail will be held after school, during a free period, or at the discretion of the Dean of Students. Parents are responsible for transportation to and from ESA should their student receive a work detail.
● Saturday Work Detail – This may be assigned for an accumulation of work details, tardy offenses, or at the discretion of the Dean of Students. Saturday work details will occur on designated Saturdays from 8:00 am – 11:00 am.
● Suspension – A student may be suspended for a violation of the Code of Conduct, repeated violations, or continued unsatisfactory behavior. A student receiving a suspension may not participate in any athletic or extra-curricular activities for the duration of the suspension.
o In-School – The student will report to the Dean of Students upon arrival on campus. The student will spend the day in the office of the Dean of Students and will be assigned tasks as determined appropriate by the Dean. The student will be allowed to receive class assignments.
o Out-of-School – This suspension occurs only for serious offenses or an accumulation of offenses because ESA does not desire for students to miss academic class time. One reason for the suspension is to give the student some time at home to discuss with parents the commitment involved in living within the school’s community and the obligation of meeting its expectations. Also, upon the student’s return, he or she will submit a written essay to the Division Head containing the student’s reflections on the incident that caused the suspension. The essay should also include thoughts on commitment to ESA and the student’s plan for contributing in a positive way to the ESA community.
● Disciplinary Probation – This is a period of trial during which the student is expected to demonstrate, through cooperative behavior and a positive attitude, that he or she truly wishes to remain a contributing part of the ESA community and is capable of self-responsibility. Any additional major offense or accumulation of minor offenses could result in separation from the school.
● Dismissal – A student may be dismissed from the school for a violation of a school expectation, an accumulation of violations, or recurring unacceptable behavior. This is a removal from the school. The student may apply for readmission after a specified length of time.
● Expulsion – A student may be expelled from the school for a violation of a school expectation, an accumulation of violations, or recurring unacceptable behavior. The student will not be considered for readmission.
The Discipline Council strives to keep Discipline Council meetings private from public knowledge in order to protect all involved, including both the student accused and the council itself.
SEPARATION FROM ESA
Any student who withdraws from ESA pending any disciplinary or honor action or is dismissed or expelled will not be permitted on the ESA campus nor permitted to attend any ESA-sponsored function without the permission of the Headmaster or his/her designee.
Bullying/Harassment
Bullying/harassment is characterized as aggressive behavior that usually involves an imbalance in power. Bullying/harassment can exist in many forms, some of those can be: hitting, intimidating through gestures, social exclusion, teasing, or using technology to send insulting, harmful, or sexually explicit material. Any form of harassment (verbal, sexual, physical, racial, religious, ethnic, homophobic, emotional, or cyber-bullying), coercion or abuse is detrimental to the school community and educational environment and will not be tolerated.
Bullying/harassment is seen as a serious offense at ESA, and it differs in nature from more common interactions between students. Students will, at times, engage in name-calling, horseplay, or other activities that can be perceived as rough or even disrespectful. However, it is the nature of the relationship between the students, and the intent of the actions that determine whether bullying is occurring. Generally, the students involved in bullying/harassment are not friends. There is a power difference between the bully and victim. This difference can be seen in various forms including: difference in size, physical strength, or social groups.
ESA recognizes that bullying/harassment is a serious issue, and it needs to be addressed immediately and decisively. The school will become involved in cases which occur at school or at a school event, or which substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the school and/or the learning environment for any individual regardless of where they occur. The school will work diligently to monitor students’ behaviors on campus to ensure that bullying/harassment is not occurring
There is no one response to bullying, harassment, or intimidation. Generally, if an ESA student is found to be bullying or harassing another student, or group of students, he/she will meet with the Dean of Students. That student will begin the disciplinary process and should expect consequences up to dismissal from school. ESA views bullying/harassment as a major offense, and it is not tolerated in the community. While conduct that rises to the level of bullying, harassment, or intimidation generally warrants disciplinary action against the perpetrator, whether and to what extent to impose disciplinary action is a matter for the professional discretion of the administration.
When incidents of bullying or harassment occur away from school, including online/through social media, and school-sponsored events, ESA encourages families to communicate and to resolve issues as much as possible.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexual harassment is deemed as any behavior of a sexual nature which is offensive, including: undesired physical contact, coerced sexual relations, physical assault, including rape, personal comments or questions about sexual activity that make another person feel uncomfortable, and verbal abuse or suggestive remarks, jokes, or gestures.
Unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, written, or electronic conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:
1. The conduct affects a student’s emotional wellbeing or interferes with academic performance or participation in co-curricular or extracurricular activities.
2. The conduct has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment.
Anyone accused of sexual misconduct will be notified within a reasonable amount of time that a complaint has been filed. The following will be a general process from the school in regards sexual harassment being reported:
1. The school is a mandatory reporter and will contact the proper authorities which can include CPS, police, or sheriff.
2. All parties will discuss the situation with a member of the upper school administrative team.
3. Until the situation is resolved, a plan will be put in place to minimize contact between all parties involved, including the possibility of class changes, non-contact agreement, required leave from one or all parties, or dismissal from school.
4. The school will maintain confidentiality regarding the incident to the extent possible and expects each of the involved parties to do likewise. Additionally, the school will not tolerate any actions from either party that are construed as retaliation against the accused or the accuser. Retaliation by either party or others of the community will not be tolerated and will be grounds for disciplinary action up to dismissal from school.
Some cases, according to the severity of the situation, may be able to be resolved collaboratively with the students, families, administration, and counselor. If a situation is sufficiently resolved within these means, with no other outside investigation taking place, then the situation, from a school standpoint, will be considered resolved. However, the school reserves the right to conduct and complete a formal investigation regardless of the participation of the reporting or responding parties. If a student were to withdraw from school during an investigation, the investigation will still continue, and upon completion, all decisions will be recorded in the student’s official file.
The school will recognize and comply with requests by all law enforcement agencies for information and cooperation. Such requests may require the school to suspend its investigation temporarily while the law enforcement agency gathers information.
Students can receive counseling support by visiting a counselor on campus for recommendations to outside counselors in the area. When an investigation is taking place, the involved parties are expected to speak directly with members of the administrative team, counselors, and/or police department. The school also reserves the right to appoint an outside qualified investigator to conduct the investigation.
DISCLOSURE OF DISCIPLINARY RECORD
Episcopal School of Acadiana is an institutional member of the National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC) and supports the membership policies and ethical principles included in their Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admissions. ESA’s disclosure policy was formed using NACAC’s best practices guidelines.
Students are expected to disclose all pertinent information on their college applications. If a college application asks specific questions about discipline, it is the student’s responsibility to respond honestly and fully, reporting any infraction that resulted in an out-of-school suspension or dismissal from ESA. Episcopal School of Acadiana's policy regarding
disclosure of disciplinary records is that we will truthfully answer questions posed by an admission office should we be contacted directly and asked about a discipline event. We do not report disciplinary actions that occurred at another school attended, nor do we report academic probation to colleges, because the student's academic performance is reflected on the student's transcript.
When an application asks for information pertaining to a student's disciplinary record, the student should work closely with the College Counselor to ensure that both are responding in a consistent and thoughtful manner.
SENIOR STUDENT’S CHANGE IN STATUS
If a senior student's enrollment status or disciplinary status changes after the filing of college applications, the student has the opportunity and obligation to inform all schools to which an application has been previously submitted or the school at which the student has submitted an enrollment deposit. The student should notify them within two weeks from the date of the change of status. Two weeks after the change in status, it is the College Counselor’s professional obligation to notify the colleges in writing that the student's status has changed.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY
ESA is committed to a drug and alcohol-free environment for students at ESA, to providing appropriate drug and alcohol education for our students, and to treating involvement with drugs and alcohol as a health issue as well as a disciplinary issue. Alcohol and drug involvement are violations of the laws of the State of Louisiana and incompatible with the school's mission and its daily operation.
PROHIBITION FROM CAMPUS AND SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTS
ESA is committed to being an alcohol, tobacco, and drug-free campus for anyone on school grounds. Therefore, there are no designated smoking areas on campus. ESA expects that every student, faculty, and visitor will not use alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, vapes, drugs, or abuse prescription medication or any other substance on campus or where ESA is either a participant or a sponsor. Use of any of these items and/or being under their influence on the ESA campus (including the parking lot and athletic fields), at any activity where ESA is either a participant or sponsor, or on school buses or vehicles on school grounds is prohibited. Tobacco is defined as all types of smoking and smokeless tobacco products. Tobacco use includes smoking, chewing, dipping, or any other use of tobacco products. Smoking tobacco is strictly prohibited and this includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigs, vape pens, or any other device used to inhale tobacco products. In addition, the act of or the attempt to purchase, procure, possess, distribute, sell or share alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs and controlled substances or their paraphernalia, including e-cigarettes or vapes, is prohibited. Any violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including separation from the school. The proper authorities may also be contacted for policies not followed by guests on campus.
COMMUNICATION TO FAMILIES REGARDING PERSONAL OR HEALTH CONCERNS
If faculty, coaches, advisors, and/or administrators, in their daily contact with a student, become suspicious regarding a student's possible use of alcohol or drugs, parents can expect
to be contacted by the school to schedule a conference to develop a plan of action to address the school's concerns. If a student is unable to function during the school day for any reason, the student’s parents will be contacted to pick the student up from school immediately. The parent, student, and Dean of Students will meet the following morning to discuss the issue.
Recommendations may include:
● Referral to a family physician for a physical examination
● Referral to a professional for individual and/or family counseling
● Referral for a school approved chemical dependency assessment unit, which may include drug screening and/or psychological counseling
SCHOOL COUNSELING AND ASSISTANCE
Students who come forward voluntarily to a teacher, coach, faculty advisor, guidance counselor, chaplain, or administrator to seek help for a chemical dependency will be assisted through the school Guidance Counselor. Please refer to the Handbook Section on Guidance Counseling. A student who voluntarily requests assistance will not be subject to any disciplinary action for that request.
When students are working in a recovery program, the faculty and administration will provide reasonable support for the student's academic efforts. The student's family will give authorization to the counselor to communicate with the school regarding diagnosis, recommended plan for school study during rehabilitation, and regular progress reports including any drug testing. Should a student request assistance and then not actively and willingly participate in the accepted plan of action, ESA reserves the right to revoke the student’s contract.
VIOLATIONS OF THE DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY
Any student in possession of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, vapes, or any other moodaltering substances, or any student under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any other moodaltering substances at any time on the school campus, while attending a school-sponsored activity or while on school transportation is in violation of the Drug and Alcohol Policy and subject to disciplinary action. The school will contact the parents of the students immediately regarding drug and/or alcohol violations.
If a student is suspected of being under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any other moodaltering substances during the school day, parents will be called to pick the student up from school. The student will be required to go directly to a school-approved drug-testing agency to take a drug-screening test. The school will be given the results of the drug test. If the test results are positive for any drugs and/or alcohol, or if the student refuses to take the required drug-screening test, the student may be separated from school. ESA reserves the right to require a drug test for any student at any time.
PRESCRIBED AND OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATION
Health Forms
The State of Louisiana requires that student health forms completed and signed, immunization records, and a certified copy of the student’s birth certificate must be on file at ESA. Students are expected to remain up-to-date with immunizations, as required, over the course of the year. Health updates are required for all students and a physician’s report (physical) is required annually on all students. These are to be returned prior to the beginning of school every year for all students. Students with incomplete health records may be denied the opportunity to attend class. All medical excuses for student absences, as well as all statements from doctors about restrictions on activities or diets, must be referred to the Division Office. A return-to-school permit is required after illnesses caused by a communicable disease or lasting five (5) consecutive sick days. A written doctor’s release is required before an athlete may resume play after having been treated by a physician. Our medical form is now on MyESA. It is required that parents update their children’s health information annually and as changes occur. Accurate, up-to-date health information and guardians’ and emergency contact information enables the nurse to accurately assess and treat your child while at school and communicate with you promptly.
Health and Wellness Office
ESA’s Health and Wellness Office operates from 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. regularly. A full-time nurse is on campus to address the immediate health and wellness needs of students and staff. During the school day, the nurse is available for medication dispensing, treating minor injuries, and administering general first aid. It is our school policy to contact parents in the event the student needs to be checked out of school for the remainder of the day. Should your child have special health needs, please contact the school nurse before the start of the school year.
Prescription and Over the Counter Medications on Campus
ESA’s Health and Wellness Office stocks OTC medications and general first aid supplies. In order for the nurse to administer these OTC medications and certain prescription medications, sufficient medical information must be provided via myESA, and must include the student’s physician’s signature. Parents must include any medications their child may take in myESA. *Even if prescription medications will not be administered while on campus, it is important to list what medications your child takes, as it could alter the treatment given while at school.
Students ARE NOT ALLOWED to bring ANY medications to school on their person, including any OTC medications. This is a very important safety precaution as our campus includes students from 6th through 12th grades. Parents whose children will need medication administered during school hours must have an adult deliver the medication to the health office during regular hours.
There are two forms for you to complete, the form on m yESA allows you to enter their prescription medication and the OTC medication form is to be filled out and turned in to the health office. It is a Louisiana State Law that any medications given to students while
on campus require a physician signature. Parents who do not wish for the school nurse to administer any medications can select “not applicable;” the nurse will contact parents in the event your child needs or requests medication. Parents whose children will need an OTC medication that the health office does not stock can add that medication to the bottom of the OTC medication form and bring the medication to the health office, where it will be labeled with the student’s name.
Common Infirmary Illnesses
The following conditions are commonly managed in our health and wellness office, and we have provided ESA’s policy for those. While a comprehensive list of illnesses is not provided, ESA requests the partnership of our parents and guardians in doing their part to keep our community free of contagious illness by recognizing when their child is ill and keeping the student away from campus to receive sound medical treatment and to fully recover before returning.
-Headaches without other symptoms such as fever and cold, will be treated with OTC medication pre-authorized by parent/guardian.
-Students diagnosed with migraines and who have prescription medication at school, will be treated according to their prewritten physician’s instructions.
-If a student vomits on campus, they will be sent to the infirmary to be assessed by the nurse. In most cases, parents will be contacted by the school nurse to check the student out of school for the remainder of the day.
- If a student vomits on campus and also has an elevated temperature, it is mandatory that the student check out for the day. In this case the student should not come back to school until he/she is fever-free and has not vomited for 24 hours.
- If a student records an elevated temperature, the school nurse will assess the student and consult with his/her parent or guardian. The student may be asked to check out for the remainder of the school day.
- A student who is diagnosed with a contagious illness or condition must be cleared by an official doctor’s note to return to school.
- If a student is suspected to have lice, he/she will be checked thoroughly by the nurse. If lice are confirmed, it is MANDATORY that the student be checked out from school to be treated. *Upon a positive confirmation, siblings attending ESA will also be checked. At her discretion, the nurse may check other students in the classroom as well. It is mandatory that the nurse examine the student with a parent present before returning to class. An informative letter will be sent out by the class dean to all parents in that specific grade informing them of a case of lice.
PANDEMICS
In the case of a pandemic such as the current COVID-19, the Health Office will be directed by the headmaster and any committee that he has appointed for guidance. Information will be frequently updated on myESA.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE POLICY
To maintain order and discipline on school property and at school-related events and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, the Episcopal School of Acadiana has the right to perform unannounced inspections and searches and to seize contraband, and has the right to perform physical searches of students to determine whether they pose a threat to themselves or others. The Headmaster and authorized staff members may search a student’s pockets, purse, backpack, book bag, gym bag, student vehicle, cell phones, laptops, tablets, or other personal property, as well as student lockers, desks, or other school property.
No student may possess an illegal substance, object, or contraband that constitutes a threat to the health, safety, and welfare of any person or persons on school property. Contraband is all substances or materials prohibited by school policy, state or federal law including but not limited to controlled substances, drugs, alcohol, tobacco products, e-cigarettes, vapes, guns, knives, multi-purpose tools such as the Leatherman, weapons or incendiary devices. All items deemed to be illegal, illicit, and disruptive or a general nuisance to the mission of ESA will be seized. Storage, return or destruction of such items shall be at the discretion of the Headmaster or the Headmaster’s designate, subject to legal impoundment.
To maintain overall school safety and security, the Episcopal School of Acadiana has the right to perform random and blanket searches of lockers, desks and other school property to review student possessions for health, safety and compliance with the school’s Code of Conduct and Honor Code.
Students are at all times responsible for the contents of their locker(s), desk, vehicle, pockets, purse, backpack, book bag and gym bag, cell phone, laptop, tablet, and any and all electronic devices. Any contraband seized will be used as evidence in any disciplinary or legal proceedings.
LUNCH AND BREAK
Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly manner during lunch and break and to dispose of trash properly. Food and drink must be consumed in the designated lunch areas. Students should report to their designated area at the beginning of the period. No outside food delivery service except Lunchbox Live are available to students. There is to be no food or drink in classrooms, chapel, library, or inside the gym. Bottled water is the exception.
ATTENDANCE
ESA has clear expectations for student attendance. Students should arrive at school on time every school day, and they should be present and on time at each scheduled class or school obligation. Not only is regular attendance important academically for the individual student, but the individual’s participation is also important for the group as a whole.
It is our belief that the ESA calendar provides ample time off for our students at strategic points of the academic year. We sincerely hope that parents will support our calendar by not removing their child from classes on days immediately preceding or following a holiday.
The Dean of Students will designate any student absence as “excused” or “unexcused.”
ABSENCES FROM SCHOOL
1. All absences must be reported by phone by a parent to the receptionist before 8:30 a.m. If an absence is not reported by 8:30 a.m., parents should expect a phone call from the school either at home or at work.
2. All absences will be considered unexcused until a phone call or a note from a parent is received explaining the nature of the absence so that the Dean of Students can make an “excused” or “unexcused” determination.
3. When a student accumulates 10 or more absences in any class, either excused or unexcused, there will be a review by the Dean of Students and Division Head. Parents should expect an email notifying them of the status of the student’s attendance record.
EXCUSED ABSENCES
Examples of absences that may be considered excused are:
● Illness reported by a parent
● Medical or dental treatment
● NOTE: Every effort should be made to schedule routine appointments (i.e. medical, dental, orthodontic) and the like during vacations and non-school hours.
● School sponsored academic, athletic, or extracurricular events
● College visits
● Attending a college representative’s meeting on campus with teacher’s prior permission
● Family emergencies
EXCUSED ABSENCE MAKE-UP WORK
Students should always strive to turn in work missed or assignments due during an excused absence before they are absent (i.e. athletic trips, etc.). Generally, the student may expect to submit all work missed within the same number of days he or she was absent. Students are responsible for scheduling an appointment with their teachers to confirm assignments or to request extra help. Teachers will make every effort to schedule a help session if needed.
Absences during exams can create serious academic problems. Any student who for any reason will not be present for a scheduled exam should contact the Upper School Office prior to the exam.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
Examples of absences that may be considered unexcused are:
● Family trips or vacations
● Participation in non-ESA competitions (club volleyball, soccer, etc.)
● Attending an entertainment event or social function
The student is responsible for submitting all work missed during an unexcused absence on the day of return. Failure to submit work owed may result in the student receiving zeros on any or all incomplete assignments. Students are expected to be prepared for all academic work that takes place the day of their return. This includes tests, quizzes, papers, and any homework assignments. Tests that were missed must be completed by the date designated by the teacher if the teacher allows a student to make up work.
CONSEQUENCES FOR UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
1. A student who receives an unexcused absence may or may not be permitted to make up the work missed in class. The teacher may choose to assign an appropriate grade penalty for all missed work.
2. A student who receives an unexcused absence may be placed in the disciplinary process.
3. A student who receives an unexcused absence may not participate in any athletic or extracurricular activities that afternoon or evening.
ANTICIPATED ABSENCES
The ESA school calendar provides ample time for holidays and family vacations at strategic times during the academic year. The school strongly discourages parents from removing students from classes on the days before and after a holiday.
An anticipated absence occurs when a student will be absent for one or more days of classes for a planned non-school event. These may include, but are not limited to, such things as college visits, participation in a non-school athletic event, or special educational/leadership seminars. These absences need to be evaluated by the school well in advance of the intended date(s) of absence. The evaluation rests with the Dean of Students. Anticipated absences may be determined to be excused or unexcused.
PROCEDURE:
1. A parent must call or send a note to the Dean of Students or Head of Upper School prior to the absence stating the reason for the absence.
2. The student must pick up an Anticipated Absence Form signed by the Dean or the Head of Upper School stating whether the absence is excused or unexcused. Forms will not be issued without notification from a parent.
3. The student must have all teachers fill in assignments on the form for the days the student will be absent. The student should attempt to turn in all assignments before departure unless the teacher directs otherwise.
4. The student should return the original form to the receptionist before departure.
5. A copy of the completed form will be made for the student's use.
6. Failure to follow the above guidelines may result in disciplinary action.
UNEXCUSED ANTICIPATED ABSENCES
If the student and family decide to take an unexcused anticipated absence, the school will not require teachers to:
● prepare assignments for the time missed
● provide extra help to enable the student to catch up on work missed
● provide class notes or other assistance to the student
The student is responsible for submitting all work missed during an unexcused anticipated absence on the day of return. Failure to submit work owed may result in the student receiving zeros on any or all incomplete assignments. Students are expected to be prepared for all academic work that takes place the day of their return. This includes tests, quizzes, papers, and any homework assignments. Tests that were missed must be completed by the date designated by the teacher.
CONSEQUENCES FOR UNEXCUSED ANTICIPATED ABSENCES
1. A student who receives an unexcused absence may or may not be permitted to make up the work missed in class. The teacher may choose to assign an appropriate grade penalty for all missed work.
2. A student who receives an unexcused absence may be placed in the disciplinary process.
3. A student who receives an unexcused absence may not participate in any athletic or extracurricular activities that afternoon or evening.
ABSENCES DUE TO COLLEGE VISITS
The Dean of Students may excuse an Upper School student from classes for college appointments at the request of the College Counselor. Merely visiting a campus may not excuse a student from class commitments as these trips may be made on weekends and during scheduled holidays. Students will be excused from classes only for the time required for the actual appointment and necessary travel time.
When a college representative visits the ESA campus, all Upper School students are welcome to attend. Should the representative be on campus when a student has class, it is the student’s responsibility to receive permission from the classroom teacher to miss class time to speak
with the representative. Freshmen and sophomores are welcome to attend any college representative meeting only if they have a free period.
TARDIES
All students are expected to arrive at school on time every day and arrive at all classes and obligations on time every day. While being tardy is unavoidable at times, the ultimate decision as to whether a tardy is considered excused or unexcused rests with the Dean of Students. A student who is habitually tardy to class during the school day will be referred to the Dean of Students and may be placed in the disciplinary process.
LATE TO SCHOOL
Any student reporting late to school must sign in at the receptionist’s office and will automatically be given an unexcused admit slip unless a note from a parent or doctor clearly states that the tardy was unavoidable. Please be aware that arriving after the conclusion of a class will result in the student being marked as absent from that class and tardy for the class presently in progress.
Unacceptable reasons for morning tardies include:
● Oversleeping for any reason other than documented illness
● Fatigue
● Unsubstantiated traffic or car problems
● Unspecified illness or general malaise
● Generic notes asking that a student be excused but giving no reason why
A student who is habitually tardy to class during the school day will be referred to the Dean of Students and may be placed in the disciplinary process.
CONSEQUENCES FOR TARDIES
1. A student who accumulates four tardies in a quarter (tardy to school or tardy to class during the school day) will serve a work detail at the earliest convenience of the work detail supervisor.
2. An extended record of tardies may result in more serious disciplinary action.
SIGN-IN/SIGN-OUT
Arrival at School – Students who do not use ESA transportation are expected to be at school by 7:50 a.m. Students who arrive late to school must sign in with the receptionist and receive an admit slip for class. Students with a first period free must sign in at the receptionist’s desk upon arrival on campus.
Early Departure from School – Students who must leave school for any reason other than school-sponsored events must sign out with the receptionist and present a note from a parent. Otherwise the Receptionist must speak with a parent before allowing the student to leave school before the end of the school day.
NOTE: Unless the reason for checking out complies with the definition of “excused absence,” a student’s absence from any class due to an early departure from school shall be considered unexcused. The student may or may not be permitted to make up work and/or may suffer a grade penalty as a result of non-participation.
SENIOR PRIVILEGE
In order for a senior to have senior privilege a signed permission form must be on file. This privilege includes:
a. Permission to leave campus during unencumbered time during the school day. In this case, a senior must sign in and/or out in the college counselor’s office.
b. Seniors are allowed to leave for the day after they have completed their school obligations. Chapel, advisory, and special events are school obligations, and seniors must attend. If leaving for the day, students must sign out with the receptionist.
c. Seniors whose first class is after the first period must sign in with the receptionist before the start of his/her first class.
d. If a senior is signing out sick, ESA will call the parent.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
Special circumstances may arise during the course of the year that require a student to miss an extended period of school or schedule a recurring medical appointment during the academic day. ESA will make every effort to work with students and families to ensure the student does not suffer academically should this occur. To help us prepare a plan of action for the student, parents should meet with the Head of Upper School before any class time is missed.
DRESS CODE
Students are always expected to dress in good taste and in compliance not only with the written code, but also with the spirit of the code. Extremes in attire and grooming are not allowed. Students must not view the flexibility of the Dress Code as a means to separate themselves from the community. ESA wants to celebrate individuality while teaching students about standards for appropriate dress and the importance of personal appearance. Students should take pride in their appearance and dress neatly and appropriately every day. All students must be in dress code for the entire school day, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
The Dress Code is managed at the discretion of the Dean of Students or the Division Head.
Modern fashion for students does not always have a place at school. Students should never wear short skirts, short shorts, or tight clothing, and they should never have any exposed waistline or midriff.
Shirts: White, gray, or blue shirt with same color collar; collar must be visible with any outerwear; any t-shirt or other shirt worn under a uniform shirt must be solid white, gray or navy. Shirts must be long enough to stay tucked and cannot be sheer. Midriffs should not be exposed.
Slacks: Khaki, navy, or gray. Elasticized bottoms are not allowed.
Shorts: School plaid, khaki, navy, or gray; your fingertips should reach the bottom of your hem.
Skirts: School plaid, solid navy, solid khaki, or solid gray; your fingertips should reach the bottom of your hem.
Tights or leggings: Navy, gray, or white permitted under skirts.
Shoes: Must have closed heel and toe.
● No elasticized bottoms or warm-up type pants
● No “green” khaki. No navy or gray that appears to be black
● No blue jeans
● No turquoise or aqua shirts
● Uniform shirt/collar must show with any sweater
● Shirts must be tucked in
● No short (waist length) shirts (i.e. any shirt that will not stay tucked)
● No logos, except our school, any college, or manufacturer’s logo, on any clothing item
● No tight fitting shorts or slacks
● No excessively baggy, wide-legged or long pants
● No cut off shorts
● No rips or holes in pants
● All khaki, navy, or gray bottoms must be solid colored, without patterns or designs.
ESA Formal Dress Uniform
● Pleated or plain front khaki or navy pants (Dress style only.)
● Pleated or A-line ESA plaid skirt is acceptable
● White pinpoint or white oxford dress shirt (ESA logo or plain only.)
● ESA School Tie (boys required; girls optional)
Free Dress
● Generally held the last Friday of classes in each month
● Clothing should be in good taste.
● Pajama pants are not allowed
● Shorts with slogans and/or writing on the back are not permitted.
● Halter tops or tops with spaghetti straps are not allowed.
● Sleeveless tops or tank tops must provide enough material on the shoulder to consistently cover all undergarments.
● T-shirts with inappropriate slogans or pictures are not acceptable.
● Sheer shirts are not allowed.
● Midriffs should not be exposed.
● All free dress apparel must comply with the spirit of the dress code.
Spirit Dress
Spirit Dress was adopted to celebrate the life and culture of ESA. Students and faculty are expected to wear clothing that clearly displays our school name, logo, or seal. If a student chooses to not wear Spirit Dress, standard Dress Code applies.
● Generally held on Fridays not designated Free Dress
● ESA shirts must clearly display our school name, logo, or seal
● Uniform bottoms or jeans (no jean shorts)
Physical Education Uniforms
Students are required to wear PE uniforms during their PE class. Students are expected to abide by the following guidelines:
Shorts: Athletic shorts that must have at least a 4 inch inseam. No white shorts are allowed.
Shirts: Students have three choices:
1. Any ESA t-shirt may be worn. (e.g. ESA volleyball camp t-shirt, ESA homecoming t-shirt, etc. ESA gear is available through m yESA in the Sideline Store.)
2. Plain school color t-shirts are acceptable.
TRANSPORTATION
Automobiles on Campus
Driving and parking on campus are privileges, not rights. Students and parents of drivers should be aware that:
1. All vehicles parked at school must be registered with the Upper School Office. Every student driver must complete a Permission Form and Vehicle Registration.
2. The speed limit on all campus roads is 20 MPH.
3. Students may park only in the student parking area. Only seniors may park in the senior parking area.
4. Cars should be locked when parked on campus.
5. Cars on campus are subject to ESA’s Search and Seizure Policy.
6. Other than at times of arrival or departure, students are not permitted in the parking lot for any reason unless they have the permission of the Dean of Students or a faculty member.
7. Seniors have privileges to go to local food establishments with a signed Parent Permission Form on file.
8. Students may not use their cars during the school day unless they have an authorized excuse from home.
Ride-Sharing
For the safety and security of our students, taxi/limo/rideshare is not an approved method of transportation for students. These types of services will not be allowed on our campus for students unless a parent has notified school personnel for a specific instance.
Bus Regulations
The safety of students using ESA transportation is very important. Therefore, students are required to follow the following regulations concerning bus transportation:
1. Students should arrive at the designated bus stop 5 minutes prior to departure. The bus will not wait.
2. Parents should arrive at the designated bus stop 5 minutes prior to arrival. The bus will not wait.
3. While waiting for the bus, students must conduct themselves in an orderly manner.
4. Students may not get out of their seats, throw objects out of the window, harass other students or the driver, or generally behave in a loud or disorderly manner while riding the bus.
5. The bus driver will report any inappropriate behavior to the Dean of Students. Unacceptable behavior on the bus may result in disciplinary action including but not limited to suspension or expulsion from bus service, after-school or Saturday work detail, suspension, dismissal, or expulsion from school.
THE LATE BUS
1. Students are expected to notify their parents if they ride the late bus.
2. After-school supervision is provided only for school-sponsored activities. ESA does NOT provide supervision for students remaining on campus after school.
3. Students not participating in a school-sponsored activity may not stay for the late bus without permission of the appropriate division’s Dean of Students.
Student Drop-off/Parent Parking
Parents should drop off all students in the circle on the Middle School side of campus. Dropping off at any other point creates a dangerous situation and impedes traffic flow.
GUESTS AND VISITORS OF STUDENTS ON CAMPUS
Guests/visitors of students on campus must be approved by the Dean of Students prior to their arrival on campus. Upon arrival guests/visitors must check in with the Receptionist. Students are responsible for their guest’s/visitor’s behavior at all times. ESA discourages visitors during class time. Visitors may not attend classes with the ESA student they are visiting.
DANCE REGULATIONS
1. Dances are school-sponsored events. All school rules apply to dances.
2. Any student in possession of or under the influence of alcohol or any illegal drug upon arriving or during the dance will be detained and the parents will be called. Appropriate disciplinary action will then be taken against the student.
3. Students must arrive within thirty minutes of the beginning time. Any student arriving thirty or more minutes late will not be allowed to attend the dance and the parents will be notified.
4. Students must remain at the dance until thirty minutes before the scheduled end of the dance. No student may leave the dance prior to this time.
LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER USAGE
The Reverend R.R. Diggs Library/ESA Media Center is open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and welcomes all students who come in for the purpose of study, research and pleasure reading.
CIRCULATION POLICIES
Library books generally circulate for three weeks; however, a longer checkout period can be arranged for books used for research. Occasionally, library items are reserved for use in the library so that others working on similar assignments may share the books.
Returning materials on time ensures that the books and information will be available to others. Prompt return of library materials is expected. If a book is overdue by 30 days or more, the student will not be allowed to check out any more books until that book is returned or until the replacement cost of the book is paid.
UL Lafayette Library Checkout: In order to maintain a good working relationship with UL Lafayette, all books must be returned to the ESA library by May 1st. Students will be required to pay for any lost books.
Online Renewal and Tracking: Students may view their personal library accounts online at any time through Destiny. Books (not overdue) may be renewed or reserved online in Destiny.
Overdue Fines: The library does not charge fines at this time for overdue materials. First, second, and a final overdue notice will be sent weekly via ESA student email accounts. When all overdue notices have been sent and the item is still not returned, parents will be billed for the replacement cost of lost or damaged items. Seniors are expected to pay all library bills for lost books by the last school day for seniors.
ELECTRONICS
The use of electronic devices for gaming purposes is not permitted during the academic day.
ESA recognizes the usefulness and convenience of cellular phones to help families keep in touch. Accordingly, ESA does permit students the possession of cell phones. This is a significant privilege that students must respect. Should this privilege not be respected and the following guidelines not followed, the student would lose the privilege of having a cell phone on campus.
TECHNOLOGY
ESA seeks to foster the pursuit of academic and personal excellence in each child. ESA is committed to preparing its students for working, living and learning as students and leaders in their chosen careers. We seek to create an environment where students, faculty, and staff, effectively and responsibly, utilize innovative technology. Technology enhances the way we teach, learn, and communicate with one another at ESA and the world.
Excellence in technology education promotes higher-order thinking skills, problem-solving skills, motivates students, and provides another tool to facilitate student learning. Faculty members benefit from the exchange of new methodologies, resources, and ideas to implement the curriculum.
Acceptable Use Policy
ESA is a community of students, teachers, and staff committed to the school’s core values of scholarship and honor. It is out of honorable respect for these values that we share the privileges and responsibilities of becoming and being literate computer users within the school environment and at home. The following statement is an articulation of our responsibility as individuals and as a community to be honorable and ethical users of technology:
The use of the ESA network and equipment is a privilege – not a right.
Computers and Internet access are available to students and faculty through the school network as an educational tool to support the curriculum. It is expected that student and faculty use of computers and the Internet will be consistent with the goals, objectives and rules of conduct of ESA as described in the Student Handbook and Codes of Conduct.
Individual users of the computer network are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. It is presumed that users will comply with ESA’s established standards. These rules also apply to personal laptop computers/tablets using ESA’s wireless network.
Because the ESA computer network has limits, students must understand that the campus computer network should be used for academic or school-related purposes only. With this in mind, students and faculty are expected to abide by the following responsibilities and rules:
1. Take care of the computers and the network
a. Do not intentionally harm them in any way.
b. Do not use the network in such a way that would disrupt the use of the network by other users.
c. Do not knowingly or negligently transmit computer viruses.
d. Do not “hack,” download “hacking” programs from the Internet, or try to run “hacking” software programs in either individual computers or the network.
e. Do not download any programs or files that may change the ESA network or which violate copyright laws.
f. Do not attempt to subvert or avoid any access control software or firewalls that may be operating or installed at a future date including downloading any proxies. Assisting others in violating these rules by sharing information or access is also considered unacceptable.
2. Be polite
a. Proper behavior on the computers and the Internet should be used at all times. Normal school behavior policies apply equally to the use of the Internet. As email is a form of speech, it is your responsibility to ensure that your language is truthful, appropriate, and respectful.
b. Email is not always a secure, private form of communication. After you have sent an email, you have no control over what the recipient(s) may do with it. If you would be upset to have your parents hear or read about it or have it read out loud in the chapel, you should not send it.
c. All online communications with the intent to harass or demean anyone or anything is prohibited at ESA.
3. Use appropriate language
a. Do not swear, use vulgarities, or any other inappropriate language.
b. Do not write or send abusive or obscene messages (anything that may be offensive to the recipient).
4. Follow the law
a. Unless specifically permitted by the publisher, the sharing or copying of software is illegal.
b. Do not download software from any of the school’s computers.
c. Do not install software programs onto either individual computers or the network.
5. Be honest and respect the intellectual property of others
a. Do not use or modify other people’s documents.
6. Use the computers and Internet only for educational purposes
a. Do not transmit objectionable material (graphics, sound or text files which are pornographic, obscene, or offensive to another user).
b. Do not download, store or print files or messages that are objectionable (such as ones that are pornographic or obscene or that use language, sounds or imagery that offends or tends to degrade others). [The administration invokes its discretionary rights to determine suitability in particular circumstances.]
c. Do not use the Internet for any commercial or for-profit activities
d. Illegal activities are strictly forbidden. This includes threats, harassment, stalking, and fraud.
7. Respect privacy at all times
a. Do not violate the rights to privacy of any other ESA member.
b. Do not use the Internet under an assumed or anonymous identity; all use must be under one’s own account.
c. You are responsible for the use and access of your own account.
Laptop/Tablet Usage
Students are expected to have their own laptop/tablet from home. However, there are a few basic rules necessary for their use at ESA:
1. All personal laptop/tablet usage falls under the Acceptable Use Policy designated for all users while on school property.
2. There is and will be no school liability for damage to the laptop/tablet while being used at school.
3. Students are responsible for the safety and tracking of the laptop/tablet and all possessions necessary for the running of the device. The school assumes no responsibility for loss or theft of any personal units.
4. Students are responsible for all usage issues, and computer literacy, related to the laptop/tablet.
Violations may result in the loss of access to technologies on the ESA campus as well as other disciplinary action or legal action. Off campus online activity that violates the acceptable use policy and has an impact on student learning at ESA may also be subject to disciplinary action.
Files and other communications, both active and stored on local or network hard drives, may be reviewed by the Network Administrator to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly.
Finally, the network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access is a privilege – not a right. Access entails responsibility.
INTERNET ACTIVITIES
For the protection of our students, teachers, and officials and for reasons related to school safety and school reputation, we expect our students to demonstrate responsible social
behavior and to conduct themselves as good citizens when using the Internet whether on or off campus. As a result, if we become aware that an ESA student has posted or displayed information on the Internet or any social networking site or other websites (such as Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) that involves inappropriate behavior including, but not limited to the use, possession, or distribution of drugs, alcohol, sexual activity behavior, harassment, hazing, teasing, bullying, racism, illegal activities, or promoting violence, we may investigate the activity and that student may be subject to appropriate school disciplinary procedures, up to and including dismissal.
Students also may be prohibited from posting any materials on the Internet, or any social networking site, or any other website, and may be prohibited from sending information via electronic transmission that is associated or linked to ESA, its students, faculty, or staff without the consent from school administration. This includes but is not limited to pictures and videos of ESA students, teachers, or officials that are taken on campus or schoolsponsored events. Any violation of this policy may be subject to appropriate school disciplinary procedures, up to and including dismissal.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES POLICY
1. Cell phones may not be used during any free time. This time includes
• Passing time between classes
• Free periods
• Lunch (after the quick check in the first five minutes)
• Advisory
• Tutorial
2. Cell phones may not be used in the chapel, gym, or library except as outlined in #3.
3. Cell phones may be used when appropriate. This time includes
• When a teacher gives explicit permission for an assignment in class, including athletic rehabilitation
• When a teacher gives explicit permission for a student to use the phone for personal reasons
• When a senior leaves campus for senior privilege (the cell phone should not be visible while walking to sign out)
4. Phones should be in a backpack (or in another space in class designated by your teacher) either turned off or on “Do Not Disturb.”
5. Smartwatches should be on “Do Not Disturb” all day.
6. Laptops are permitted at any free time; email may be used to communicate home.
7. Students will be able to check their phones before school, for the first 5 minutes of lunch, and after school.
Consequences will follow our regular protocol for disciplinary issues of this nature:
1. First violation: The phone will be confiscated for the day and the student will receive a warning.
2. Second violation: The phone will be confiscated for the day and the student will receive a work detail.
3. Third violation and beyond: Further disciplinary action, including an appearance before the Discipline Council
SOCIAL MEDIA
Students should not be posting on any form of social media during the school hours of 8:00am-3:25pm. No pictures or videos (whether posted during the school day or outside of school) may be posted with intention to harm or show ESA or others in a bad light. Pictures of faculty or classroom activities are not allowed without the express permission of the faculty member. Students also may be prohibited from posting any materials on the Internet, or any social networking site, or any other website, and may be prohibited from sending information via electronic transmission that is associated or linked to ESA, its students, faculty, or staff without the consent from school administration. This includes but is not limited to pictures and videos of ESA students, teachers, or officials that are taken on campus or at school-sponsored events. Any violation of this policy may be subject to appropriate school disciplinary procedures, up to and including dismissal. We are not checking students’ social media accounts unless an issue is brought to our attention. At this point, if they are putting the school in a bad light, whether directly or indirectly, there could be disciplinary responses. We urge students to clean up their social media accounts as we strive to put forth the best image of ourselves and our school.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
The use of AI technology to digitally alter photographs or videos of any member of the ESA community, regardless of intention, will be considered a disciplinary issue and will be addressed as such.
