Family Handbook 2025-2026

Fr. Neil Bakker, Pastor Mrs. Ann Dettmann, Principal

IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION

● To report an absence: 1-855-SJSSICK (1-855-757-7425)

● School Office: 952-492-2030

● Benjamin Bus: 952-492-2410

● Saint Squad After Hours: 612-269-6018

● Pastor, Fr. Neil: frneil@sjbjordan.org

● Principal, Ann Dettmann: ann@sjsjordan.org

● Administrative Assistant, Sara: office@sjsjordan.org

STAFF

Pastor Fr. Neil Bakker

Principal/Preschool Director Ann Dettmann

Parish Business Administrator Ryan Heim

School Administrative Assistant Sara Alovera

School Receptionist/PE Teacher Erin Spokas

Preschool Teacher Natalie Gilmore

Preschool Assistant Janice Teal

Kindergarten Readiness Teacher Stacy Kiihn

Kindergarten Readiness Assistant Jennifer Schmit

Kindergarten Teacher Amy Meger

1st Grade Teacher Sydney Hackett

2nd Grade Teacher Jennifer Klecker

3rd Grade Teacher Kelly Zschokke

4th Grade Teacher

Bethany Daniel

Middle School Teacher – ELA, Religion, Math 7 Lynn Girard

Middle School Teacher – Science, Math 8 Maddi Myers

Middle School Teacher – Social Studies, Religion Jonathan Schoettle

Reading Intervention and Middle School Math Teacher 5/6 Kristin Stocker

Art Teacher Maresa Murray

Music Teacher

Director of Sacred Music

Custodian Sam Heinkel

Maintenance Pete Welter

Middle School Spanish Catalina Velásquez

Saints Squad Staff

Lunchroom Coordinator Aria Jamison

PURPOSE OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOL EDUCATION

The purpose of education is to prepare children for their lives. An excellent education gives students everything they need to be all God created them to be. Families are tasked with ensuring their children receive an excellent education. Our school assists families in providing this education. To accomplish this, we have four areas we focus on.

1. Academic Achievement: We help students master math, reading, writing, social studies, and science, in addition to lessons on our faith. All subjects are grounded in faith and reason, seen through the lens of our faith. We strive to develop the intellectual gifts of our students, to ignite a love for learning, to develop curiosity and amazement at our world, and to prepare students for the life they are called to.

2. Virtue formation: Students at Saint John’s learn what the virtues are and how to live them in their life. They learn that living a virtuous life gives them strength to make choices and to be who God made them to be. They learn that this path leads to true happiness in this life and to heaven in the next.

3. Apostolic Discernment: Through lessons and discussions, students begin to explore how they will follow Christ in their lives. They learn how their lives as they grow up should help society and the Church, and should allow them to use their unique gifts.

4. Spiritual Life: Students at our school build the base that will become a mature spiritual life. They begin building a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who they know and love. They nurture this relationship by receiving the sacraments and by attending Mass. As their faith grows, they grow in a desire to show their love for God with their life, and they find in God their ultimate meaning, happiness, and purpose.

SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to create a place to encounter Jesus. Steeped in love and Catholic teachings, we provide strong academics to foster continual learning in mind and spirit.

PHILOSOPHY

We, the school of Saint John the Baptist, strive to:

● Recognize that each child is a unique and multi-talented individual made by God.

● Build our students’ strengths to help them grow spiritually, physically, intellectually, and socially.

● Empower our students to become contributing members of their families, church, community, and world who know and serve Jesus Christ.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

To aid the individual’s spiritual relationship with God through:

● Living a Sacramental life

● Enriching the prayer life

● Living the precepts of the Church

● Knowledge of God’s word and traditional Catholic beliefs

● Building a faith community

● Christian service to others

● Becoming stewards of God’s Creation

● Preparation in the Sacraments of Initiation

To aid the academic & physical excellence of each individual we strive to strengthen the following qualities:

● An inquiring mind developed through critical thinking, creative thinking, and discovery

● Flexibility to adapt, to change and grow

● Responsibility (freedom through learning how to act independently)

● Decisiveness to weigh alternatives, make decisions, and evaluate outcomes

● Personal satisfaction enjoyed through involvement in the learning process

● Aesthetic appreciation developed through awareness and appreciation of the arts

● Healthy lifestyles

To aid the individual in their growth as a community member, we strive to develop:

● Respect for the dignity of self and others

● The ability to value and accept individual differences

● Attitudes that lead to individual and shared happiness

● Pride in our school and community

● Commitment to serve others

ACCREDITATION

Our school is in the process of being accredited by Lumen, an accreditation group recognized by the State of Minnesota and by the Archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis as being an effective method for maintaining excellence.

SCHOOL PROCEDURES

ADMISSION POLICY

Registration will open no later than February 1st for Preschool through 8th grade. In the event that class sizes have reached capacity, a waiting pool will be established.

Registration fees will be established and published prior to registration for the upcoming year.

● Registration fees will be collected at time of registration

● All registration fees are non-refundable

● Preschool and/or Kindergarten Readiness will pay those fees separately from fees for children in K-8

Prior to registration, the student’s family must have met all prior lunch, tuition and fundraising obligations or have an established plan in place to meet these obligations. This requirement precedes all other priorities for enrollment in Saint John the Baptist School.

All current students in grades K through 8 will be automatically enrolled in TADS for the upcoming school year. Students who have remained in good standing with the school will be assured spots for the coming school year. Once open enrollment begins, all new students will be entered into a waiting pool. For waiting pool ranking criteria, contact administration in the school office.

Saint John the Baptist School does not discriminate in admissions on the basis of race, sex, color, national or ethnic origin, marital status or status with regard to public assistance.

ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL

PROCEDURES

1. Preschool and Kindergarten Readiness arrival: Families must walk these students to the rooms between 8:00 am and 8:15 am

2. K-8 Arrival times:

a. 7:30-7:45 Students may arrive to head to breakfast in our cafeteria

b. 7:45-8:00 Students may arrive to head to classrooms.

i. Note: Bused students may head to breakfast upon arrival, regardless of the time.

c. To build a sense of responsibility and independence in our students, we ask parents of students in Kindergarten through 8th grade to remain in their vehicle or to stay in the gathering space, allowing students to walk to class without their parent.

3. Students enter the building through Door 1 into the Gathering Space.

a. Buses will drop off students in front of those doors.

b. Cars must pull up to the curb and drop off students at the sidewalk and then they must walk into the Gathering Space entrance.

c. Families with preschoolers or KR students should park in a spot, preferably in the lower parking lot, and walk those students to class.

4. School Day Hours: 8:00 am to 2:45 pm

5. Dismissal Time is 2:45 pm, with preschool and Kindergarten Readiness students heading out while grades K through 8 pause for prayer.

a. Families may park (again, with a preference in the lower lot) and walk into school to pick up students in the gathering space.

b. Families may also wait in the line of cars. After both buses are loaded, cars pull up to the sidewalk near the school to wait while staff members get their children out to waiting cars.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) USAGE POLICY

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be Used for academic support.

○ Students may use AI tools to

■ research topics, providing citations as needed

■ generate ideas for assignments, and

■ refine drafts,

as long as the final work reflects their own understanding and effort, and as long as the teacher has not specifically stated that AI is not to be used for the assignment.

○ “Refine drafts” clarification:

■ Students may use AI on a piece they have drafted to improve the organization, clarity, and style of their written work, by suggesting alternative wording, identifying structural gaps, or recommending smoother transitions.

■ Students should remember that all changes must reflect the student's own thoughts and must maintain their unique voice.

■ The final version must still represent the student’s genuine understanding and the student’s ideas, and all work must reflect a high level of academic integrity.

■ To maintain the student’s voice and thoughts, students must read and edit the suggestions of AI.

○ Students must disclose when and how AI contributed to their work.

○ Students are responsible for verifying the accuracy of the information provided. AI is not always accurate and it remains on the user to fact check.

○ All AI usage should reflect the Catholic values of honesty and privacy.

○ Students remain accountable under privacy laws like FERPA and COPPA.

2. The following uses of AI are prohibited:

○ Plagiarism and Misrepresentation:

■ Students must not submit AI-generated text or work as their own without proper citation or approval.

○ Unauthorized Data Sharing:

■ Students may not share personal information (theirs or others’) with AI systems without explicit permission.

○ Inappropriate Content:

■ Any AI-generated material that is harmful, offensive, or misleading is strictly forbidden.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

- Will be used starting fall 2025-26 school year

Saint John the Baptist School believes that to be successful in school, children need to attend school on a regular basis. We ask for your cooperation in getting your child to school regularly and on time.

Students are expected to be in school every day when school is in session and when students are healthy.

● Each time a child is absent from school, the school office must receive a phone call or email stating that the child will be out of school that day. Saint John’s School will call families if they do not receive a phone call about your child’s absence. This concerns the safety of the children.

○ 1-855-SJSSICK (1-855-757-7425).

○ office@sjsjordan.org

● If a child is absent for more than three days for an illness, a doctor’s signed statement verifying the illness and letting us know when the student may return to school may be requested.

Excused and Unexcused Absences

● Absences are either excused or unexcused.

● Examples of excused absences include

○ illness (doctor verification may be required after three days)

○ medical appointments

○ dental/orthodontic appointments

○ funerals

○ family emergencies

○ pre-planned absences such as family vacations when the school is notified at least five school days before the absence

● Examples of unexcused absences include

○ vacations that the school did not know about at least 5 days in advance

○ oversleeping

○ missing the bus

○ being out of town (without a 5 day notice)

○ failing to notify the office of the reason for absence

○ absences resulting from accumulated unexcused tardies (3 unexcused tardies equal one unexcused absence).

● If a child’s attendance includes 3 to 5 unexcused absences, the school will reach out to the family to let them know about the unexcused absences and see if there is any help needed. The goal is to get the child to be in school when possible.

● During this collaboration, it may be revealed that there are special circumstances leading to the absences and/or tardies. The school reserves the right to allow more than the usual number of unexcused absences in special circumstances on a case by case basis.

● If a child’s attendance includes 7 or more days of unexcused absences, the county, according to law, will be notified of a case of educational neglect and they will proceed with support and plans to help the student attend school when possible. (See Minnesota State Statute 260A.02)

Partial Day Attendance and Tardiness

Students are due to arrive each day by 7:55am, with announcements at 8:00am. Those arriving between 8:01am and 8:20am will be marked as Tardy.

Those arriving at 8:20am or later will be marked as absent for a portion of the school day.

Examples of excused tardiness:

● illness

● serious illness in the student’s immediate family.

● a death or funeral in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative.

● medical, dental, orthodontic, or mental health treatment.

● court appearances occasioned by family or personal action.

● physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, etc.

Examples of unexcused tardiness

● overslept

● missed the bus

● looking for lost items (shoes, gloves, etc)

● lost track of the time

Three unexcused tardies equal one unexcused absence.

Excessive Absences

Students may have a maximum of twenty one absences in a year. The following absences will not count toward the maximum absence rule:

● A death or funeral in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative.

● Family vacations with prior approval from the building principal.

● Families will be notified when students reach the twelfth and fifteenth total absence. Students may be required to submit a doctor’s note in order for an absence due to illness to be excused.

Required Reporting of Truant Students

Every child between 7 and 17 years of age and every child under the age of 7 who is enrolled in kindergarten is subject to compulsory attendance provisions. (see statute 120A). Compulsory instruction requirements do not apply to preschool or Kindergarten Readiness.

Continuing Truant

● Minnesota Statutes state a student is considered a continuing truant who is between 7 and 17 years of age and has three or more unexcused absences from school.

● Reporting Responsibility

○ When a student is initially classified as a continuing truant, Minnesota Statute 260A.03 provides that the principal or principal’s designee shall notify the student’s parent or legal guardian, by first class mail or other reasonable means, the following information:

1. That the child is truant;

2. That the parent or guardian should notify the school if there is a valid excuse for the child’s absences;

3. That the parent or guardian is obligated to compel the attendance of the child at school pursuant to Minnesota Statute 120A.22 and parents or guardians who fail to meet this obligation may be subject to prosecution under Minnesota Statutes section 120A.34;

4. That this notification serves as the notification required by Minnesota Statute section 120A.34;

5. That the parent or guardian has the right to meet with appropriate school personnel to discuss solutions to the child’s truancy; and

6. That if the child continues to be truant, the parent/guardian and child may be subject to juvenile court proceedings under Minnesota Statute.

Habitually Truant/ Educational Neglect

● Minnesota Statutes state a student is considered habitually truant who is between age 13 and 17 and who has 7 or more unexcused absences. Educational neglect is when students who are ages 7 to 12 accumulate more than 7 unexcused absences during a school year.

● The principal or the principal’s designee shall notify Scott County of a student who is habitually truant or report educational neglect of the child’s parent or legal guardian, under Minnesota Statute chapter 260A. The information will assist Scott County in intervening to correct the problem.

CLASS SIZE POLICY

Saint John the Baptist School recognizes the benefits in maintaining small class sizes. This class size policy upholds a teacher-student ratio that meets Saint John’s standards and enhances the marketability of Saint John’s School.

● The desired Kindergarten class size is 18 – 22 students. When the class size exceeds 22 students, the Kindergarten teacher and administration will evaluate the possible need to hire a qualified teacher aide or part time teacher. Strong consideration will be given to splitting large classes as circumstances warrant and space permits.

● The desirable class size for grades 1 – 3 is 18 – 23 students. When the class size reaches 23 students, the teacher and administration will evaluate the possible need to hire a qualified teacher aide or part time teacher. Strong consideration will be given to splitting large classes as circumstances warrant and space permits.

● The desired class size for Grades 4 – 8 is 20 – 25 students. When the class size reaches 25 students, the teacher and administration will evaluate the possible need to hire a qualified teacher aide or part time teacher. Strong consideration will be given to splitting large classes as circumstances warrant and space permits.

● For any class with a student having significant special needs the teacher and administration will evaluate the possibility of hiring an aide.

● When the number of students in a class is under the smallest desired class size, discussions may be initiated with Saint John’s School stakeholders including but not limited to the School Advisory Council, Finance Council, Pastor and Principal to evaluate best practice for fiscal responsibility and a positive educational environment.

COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILIES

The school has established ways of communicating with the parents/guardians of its students in order to increase the understanding of the school’s mission, programs, and goals in general. The following means of communication are used to share information with parents/guardians concerning the functions of the school and progress of their child(ren).

Newsletter

Each Friday a newsletter is sent home electronically with current news and important information.

Student Folder/Backpack Insert

Students may take home paper communication in their folders or backpack from time to time. We have tried to move toward using more paperless forms of communication, but at times paper communication is still necessary. This may include things such as field trip forms, classroom newsletters, or registration forms for sports. Messages are disbursed directly to families via Email and/or text when necessary.

Non-Custodial Parent Communication

Saint John the Baptist School recognizes the importance of having all parents involved in a child’s learning environment. If your child does not reside with both parents, please inform the school office of your child’s custody arrangement. If requested, the office will provide the non-custodial parent the parent communication information.

Report Cards

Report Cards are issued at the end of each trimester. In addition, reports are sent at mid-trimester to parents/guardians whose child(ren) is/are performing on a less than satisfactory level. These reports must be signed by parents/guardians and returned to school.

Communication of Concerns

To help with the lines of communication between teachers and parents/guardians, the following actions should be taken.

● If the parent/guardian has a concern about what is happening in the classroom, the parent/guardian should make an appointment with the teacher to discuss.

● If parent/guardian met with the teacher and the issue is not resolved, the parent/guardian should make an appointment with the principal. The principal will meet with the parent/guardian and may include the teacher, at the principal’s discretion.

● If the issue is still not resolved, the parent/guardian should make an appointment with the canonical administrator or pastor.

● If the parent/guardian is still unsatisfied, an appeal may be filed per the Grievance Policy as outlined in this handbook.

Contacting Our School

The school’s office hours are 7:30am to 3:15pm. During these hours families may call the school at 952-492-2030.

Before and after these hours, families may call the number and leave a voicemail. They also may email the administrative assistant at office@sjsjordan.org

CONFERENCES

Conferences are held in some form twice a year. Families sign up online for a time on a scheduled conference day. Families are most welcome to schedule a meeting with teachers beyond these conference dates. However, please note that teachers cannot hold impromptu conferences during the school day as they need to focus on their students.

DRESS CODE

All Kindergarten through Eighth Grade students at Saint John the Baptist Catholic School are expected to wear the school uniform during the school day. The following rules are in place to ensure we show respect for the school, ourselves, and others through our appearance.

Elementary: (K - 4th Grade): white, navy, and tan

Uniform Shirt – white, navy or tan shirt, with or without SJB logo, with a collar.

In addition students may wear:

● Saint John’s sweatshirts – white, navy, or tan with our logo, purchased from our school store

○ Grey Saint John’s sweatshirts are only allowed through the 2025-26 school year as uniform and after that only as spirit wear, with our logo, purchased from our school store

● Sweaters or fleece jackets – white, navy, or tan, with or without SJB logo, with or without a zipper

● Other company logos on shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters, or fleece jackets, such as Nike logos, must be small

Pants, Skirts, Skorts, and Jumpers

● Plaid #27, navy or khaki colored dress pants , capris, walking shorts, skorts, and skirts. Joggers in uniform colors are allowed as long as they are made of stretch woven material similar to golf pants/travel pants, not cotton sweatpants

material. No cargo pants or corduroys. Plaid sold by Donald’s Uniform

**Girls must wear cartwheel shorts, or navy or white leggings under skirts and jumpers.

**Leggings & jeggings may not be worn without a skirt or jumper.

**Shorts, skirts, skorts, and jumpers must not come more than 2” above the knee. Families may find that skirts are longer than skorts.

Middle School: (5th - 8th Grade): white, navy, red, black, and gray

Uniform Shirt –white, navy, red, black or gray shirt, with or without SJB logo, with a collar

In addition students may wear:

● Saint John’s sweatshirts – white, navy, red, black, or gray, with our logo, purchased from our school store

● Sweaters or fleece jackets – white, navy, red, black, or gray, with or without SJB logo, with or without a zipper

● Other company logos on shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters, or fleece jackets, such as Nike logos, must be small

Pants, Skirts, Skorts, and Jumpers

● Plaid #27, Navy, khaki, gray, or black dress pants , capris, walking shorts, skorts, skirts and jumpers. Joggers in uniform colors are allowed as long as they are made of stretch woven material similar to golf pants/travel pants, not cotton sweatpants material.

● No cargo pants or corduroys. Plaid is sold by Donald’s Uniform

**Girls must wear cartwheel shorts, or black, navy or white leggings under skirts and jumpers.

**Leggings & jeggings may not be worn without a skirt.

**Shorts, skirts, skorts, and jumpers must not come more than 2” above the knee. Families may find that skirts are often longer than skorts.

All Students

Shoes and Socks

● Socks must be worn at all times.

● Dress shoes and tennis shoes are acceptable.

● All shoes must have backs or straps.

● Shoes must be clean, safe and in good condition.

● Tennis shoes with non-marking soles are required for physical education.

● Waterproof boots are expected in snowy or wet weather but are not to be worn in the classroom.

● No shoes with wheels are allowed.

Out of Uniform Days

There will be out-of-uniform days for special occasions and recognition. The following are prohibited: sleeveless shirts; low necklines; clothing with offensive words, phrases or pictures; exposed midriffs; shorts, skirts and dresses more than 2” above the knee; and flip flops. Please, no ripped jeans, or leggings & jeggings worn without a skirt. Out-of-uniform passes may not be used on Mass days.

Spirit Wear Days

This year spirit wear days will be every Monday. Students may wear shirts that have the school name on them with uniform bottoms. Spirit wear items can be purchased on our website.

Marathon Shirt Days

Students may wear this year’s Marathon t-shirt each Friday with uniform bottoms before our service marathon. IF the fundraising goal for Marathon is reached, students will be allowed to continue this for the remainder of the year!

Students Not In Uniform – Enforcement

Students that do not follow the dress code policy as outlined here will be reminded through the following means of enforcement

Enforcement K-4

● 1st offense: A note will be sent home.

● 2nd offense: A call will be made to the parents/guardians

● 3rd offense: Parents/guardians will be called to bring their child a proper uniform.

**Persistent violations will be addressed by the administration.

Enforcement 5-8

● Warning: Staff member will speak with student about uniform issue.

● 1st offense: A note will be sent home.

● 2nd offense: A call will be made to the parents/guardians

● 3rd offense: Parents/guardians will be called to bring their child a proper uniform.

**Persistent violations will be addressed by the administration.

Places to Purchase Uniforms

Check out our supply of gently used uniforms on display by back to school night. For new uniform items, may we suggest:

Donald's Uniforms - www.donaldsuniform.com

French Toast Uniforms - www.frenchtoast.com and www.amazon.com

● On their website you can see the length of each skirt, shorts, and skort, allowing you to ensure the length is within 2 inches of your child’s knee before purchasing clothing either on their website or on Amazon.

The Children’s Place - www.childrensplDonald's Uniformace.com/shop/us/home

Kohl’s - https://www.kohls.com/

Old Navy - https://oldnavy.gap.com/

The Gap - https://www.gap.com

EARLY CHILDHOOD SCREENING POLICY

According to Minnesota Law (MN Statute 202, Sections 121A.16-123D.19), all children are required to be screened before enrolling in a public school in either kindergarten or first grade. This screening should take place at age four or earlier. The law requires all children enrolling in a public school to submit a record indicating the month and year of early childhood screening.

The following requirements will satisfy the law:

1. Parental Consent to Screen Form which the parent signs,

2. Outreach request for physicians.

**The early childhood screening law states that the "school district must request from the health organization or individual provider, the results of any laboratory test, health history, or physical examination within the 12 months preceding a child's screening." The purpose of this requirement is to prevent duplication of health screening, to link providers with schools, and to direct families without health care to providers.

Screening involves:

1. Fine motor skills

2. Gross motor skills

3. General knowledge about common objects/simple number concepts

4. Speech and language - articulation/sounds

5. Social/emotional - discussion of family concerns which may affect a child's ability to learn and develop

6. Hearing/vision/immunization review/health history

The law exists to help ensure that every child who enters school is prepared for an effective and satisfying learning experience. Saint John the Baptist School strongly encourages all parents to take advantage of this program before their children enter kindergarten. This screening is usually conducted in late winter or early spring. There is no charge to the parents or child for participation in this program.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Protecting our students and staff is a high priority for Saint John’s. To that end, we have created an emergency plan, in cooperation with local law enforcement. The language used is identical from school to school, helping all know what the current state is if an emergency should arise.

The nature of emergencies means that all situations will not be neatly defined into a category for which hard and fast guidelines can be drawn. Individual judgment will be exercised in these situations, with the principal, in coordination with the pastor, leading staff and students prior to the emergency by providing procedures and practice, as well as during any emergency.

ENTRANCE TO KINDERGARTEN

Saint John’s School requires children who enter kindergarten to be five years old by September 1 of the year in which they will enroll. We do not offer an early entrance pathway.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are part of the educational program. These trips are designed to support the curriculum.

Parents/guardians will be notified of the scheduled field trips.

● Insurance regulations of the Archdiocese require the use of the parent/guardian authorization form each time the students participate in a field trip that requires transportation.

● Failure to return the form means that the student may not go on the field trip and must stay at school.

● Phone calls do not fulfill authorization requirements for students to participate.

Most field trips include bus transportation. Occasionally, it may be necessary to use transportation provided by families in private vehicles. If that is the case parent/guardian will be notified and use of seat belts will be assured. If a private passenger vehicle must be used, then the following information must be supplied, and the driver of the vehicle must certify this information.

● The driver must be 21 years of age or older.

● The driver must have a valid, non-probationary driver’s license and no physical disability that could in any way impair his/her ability to drive the vehicle safely.

● The driver must have a current registration and valid and current license plates.

● The driver must complete a Catholic Mutual online driver training course.

● The vehicle must be insured for the following minimum limits: $100,000 per person/$300,000 per occurrence.

A signed Driver Information Form provided by Catholic Mutual Insurance must be obtained on each vehicle used prior to the field trip or activity.

GRIEVANCE POLICY

If a grievance between parent/guardian or a student and a teacher or school administrator should arise the following grievance procedure shall apply:

1. The parent/guardian or student (grievant) will meet with the teacher or administrator (respondent) to discuss resolution of the grievance.

2. If the grievance is not resolved, the grievant will meet with the school administrator (if the grievance involves a teacher) or with a person designated by the pastor (if the grievance involves the school administrator).

3. If the grievance is still not resolved, a Grievance Committee will hear the grievance.

4. The Grievance Committee will be made up of three persons: one designated by the pastor, one designated by the respondent, and one designated by the grievant.

5. The committee will meet to receive evidence. It shall have the discretion to determine whether such evidence shall be written, oral, or both.

6. At the conclusion of the meeting, and upon due consideration, the committee will make its recommendation to the pastor. The committee shall not have the power to alter or amend school policies.

7. The pastor or his designate will then decide the grievance.

8. The grievance procedure should be completed within 30 days.

If the grievance determination is not resolved to the satisfaction of either party, a referral to Archdiocesan Due Process may be made. Nothing contained herein shall obligate either party to consent to conciliation or arbitration under the Archdiocesan Due Process procedures.

ILLNESS

If a student becomes ill or injured beyond a minor scrape, parents/guardians are notified.

In general, students are sent home for:

● injuries that may require being seen by a doctor

● illnesses with vomiting and/or diarrhea,

● fever of 100 or higher.

If families are unable to come for a student who has the above listed symptoms, parents/guardians must make arrangements for a relative or other authorized person to pick up the student in the school office.

As we get to know each student, there may be other times when office staff will contact the family to share how a child is feeling to see if the family wishes to take the child home.

Students should stay home if they have the following symptoms:

● A fever of 100 or higher, until they are fever free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication such as Tylenol

● Diarrhea and/or vomiting, until they have been free of both of these for 24 hours If your child receives antibiotics for an illness, the student must remain home until they have been on the antibiotic for 24 hours.

Please remember to contact the school each day your child is not in attendance.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost items will be kept in an appropriate place. Encourage students to check for lost items in Lost and Found when something is missing. Labeling uniforms, especially sweatshirts and sweaters, is important.

LUNCH

The Saint John’s School lunch program is provided by the Jordan School District in conjunction with the Federal reimbursement program. This year all hot lunches are free. Students can request extras for an additional charge. Bringing pop with cold lunch is not allowed.

With regard to behavior, good conduct is expected; table manners and lunchroom conduct are discussed as a regular part of respect for others and for property. Disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated and will result in consequences including the removal of lunchroom privileges.

Saint John the Baptist School tries to accommodate children with food allergies or special dietary needs during the school day. We require signed written instructions from a physician annually for special dietary needs and when changes arise. If requested by physician instructions, a lactose free milk product can be made available to students with their school lunch if they are lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies. If you would like to discuss your child’s special dietary needs, please contact the school.

SNACK CART

A snack cart will be offered to students in K-8 every morning around 9:00am. Items include fresh fruits and veggies, granola bars, cereal, pretzels, and more. All students are charged $100 per student per year for the Snack Cart. The fee will be charged to your TADS account. Exemptions from this charge are only allowed for children with dietary restrictions that make it difficult or impossible for the child to have snacks from the cart. A doctor’s note, verifying the dietary restriction, is required to be submitted to the school office.

TURNING IN MONEY

When money is sent to school, it should be placed in an envelope and labeled with the student’s name, grade, and purpose. If the student brings the envelope in his or her backpack, the homeroom teacher will send the money envelope to the office.

If you are concerned that your child may forget to take the envelope of money out of his/her backpack then please either drop the money off in the office yourself or send an email to the office or teacher indicating that the student has money to be submitted. The school is not responsible for money that is carried by individual students or kept in lockers.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

It is the policy of Saint John the Baptist School to comply with state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination, to the end that no person (s) shall be denied or excluded from enrollment or participation in any education program or activity operated by the school on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, age, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or disability. (MN State Statute #7520.0350).

PARENTAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Parents/guardians are informed of the programs, regulations, and policies of the school. (This document, the Family Handbook, includes this information.) In assisting your child, we require the following:

1. Familiarity with information contained in handbooks and other newsletters from the school.

2. Inform the school in writing of:

a. student illness or absence

b. parental status and custodial changes

c. change in transportation routine

d. change in address, phone, emergency contact, child care, etc.

e. situations that might affect communication with the school

3. Meet financial obligations of tuition, fees, lunch accounts, or other accounts that apply in a timely manner. Communicate with the Principal if you have financial difficulties that require a new payment schedule.

4. Meet admissions regulations that comply with:

a. policies and regulations

b. goals and objectives of our school as identified in this handbook

** No student may leave the premises at any time for any purpose without a written request from the custodial parent/guardian and approval of the Principal or Administrative Assistant.

PICTURES

Individual and classroom pictures are taken once each year. The school reserves the right to use student pictures in publications and on the school’s website. Any parent who does not wish his or her child’s picture used must notify the Principal in writing prior to the beginning of the school year.

PROMOTION/RETENTION

Promotion/retention will be based on academic achievement and physical, emotional, psychological and developmental maturity. In the case of retention, parents/guardians will be notified of their child’s situation as soon as possible. If a recommendation is made to retain a child and parents/guardians reject it, the parents/guardians sign a written acknowledgment of the school’s recommendation. That acknowledgment shall serve to release the school from any responsibility for failure to follow the school’s recommendation.

RECORDS

Parents/guardians may ask to review the contents of records or data on their child. “Records or data” is defined by any or all of the following:

● identifying data

● academic work completed

● level of achievement (grades, standardized achievement test scores)

● attendance data

● health data (separate records kept in health room)

● family background information

● verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns (kept in separate file)

● special education records including evaluations and IEPs (kept in separate file)

In accordance with state and federal laws, parents/guardians are entitled to see their child(ren)’s records. An appointment with the principal should be made in advance. The principal will respond to the request in a reasonable amount of time. To transfer records, parents/guardians must make a request in the school office. The official records will be sent directly to the new school.

RELEASE AND PICK-UP POLICY

No student may leave the premises at any time for any purpose without a written request from the custodial parent/guardian.

SAINTS’ SQUAD After School Care

We offer after school care from 2:45-5:30 pm on school days. The annual registration fee is $40.00 and the cost for before care is $5 and the cost of after school care is $12.00 per session. During Saints’ Squad, students will also travel to the playground and gym. You can obtain more information about the program in the school office.

SEXUALITY AND SEXUAL IDENTITY

Saint John’s Catholic school is committed to providing a safe environment that allows students to flourish academically, physically, and spiritually. We are obliged to provide an education and resources consistent with Catholic teaching. The starting point for Catholic education is a deeply held understanding that affirms the God-given irrevocable dignity of every human person.

Catholic teaching permeates and shapes the ethos of Catholic Parishes and religious education. Informed by Catholic teaching, these Guiding Principles shall inform the creation of policies, handbooks, statements, employee agreements, training for employees, and the approach to accompaniment in the Catholic Parishes of the Diocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, thus ensuring that the immeasurable dignity of every child is protected and respected, particularly as it relates to foundational beliefs of the Catholic Church:

● God created each person’s body and soul “in His own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Gen. 1:27). The dignity of each person and the source of his or her most important identity is found in this creation in the image and likeness of God (CCC §364).

● God uses the body to reveal to each person his or her sexual identity as male or female. A person’s embrace of his or her God-given sexual identity is an essential

part of living a fulfilled relationship with God, with oneself, and with each other (Laudato Si §155).

● The harmonious integration of a person’s sexual identity with his or her sex is an expression of the inner unity and reality of the human person made body and soul in the image and likeness of God (CCC §364-65).

● The physical, moral, and spiritual differences between men and women are equal and complementary. The flourishing of family life and society depends in part on how this complementarity and equality are lived out (CCC §2333-34).

● All students and families deserve interactions with Catholic school communities that are marked by respect, charity, and the truth about human dignity and God’s love (Deus Caritas Est §20).

Application of the Guiding Principals

The aforementioned Guiding Principles are practically applied in Catholic Parishes. Schools in the Diocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis will relate to each student in a way that is respectful of and consistent with each student’s God-given sexual identity and biological sex. To this end, below are some examples of how these Guiding Principles apply to Saint John’s Catholic School.

● A student's name and pronoun usage will correspond to his/her sex (see definitions).

● Student access to facilities and overnight accommodations will align with his/her sex.

● Eligibility for single-sex curricular and extracurricular activities will be based on the sex of the child.

● Expressions of a student’s sexual identity are prohibited when they cause disruption or confusion regarding the Church’s teaching on human sexuality.

● The consciences of students and employees will be respected with the assurance of their inviolable right to acknowledge that God has created each person as a unity of body and soul, as male or female, and that God-designed sexual expression and behavior must be exclusively oriented to love and life in marriage between one man and one woman.

● Our Parish will communicate with parents or guardians about their child’s behavior at Saint John’s School and inform them of any concerns relating to the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual health, safety, or welfare of their child, except when advised otherwise by law enforcement or a social service agency.

● Terms such as ‘transgender’, ‘non-binary’ and other like terms are not to be used. In their place Gender Dysphoria may be used.

● Terms such as ‘gay’, ‘lesbian,’ or ‘bi-sexual,’ and other like terms are not to be used to describe someone’s sexual orientation. In their place, one may say that the person is living with “same-sex attraction.”

Definitions

Sex: refers to a person’s biological identification as male or female based upon physical characteristics present at birth.

Sexual identity: refers to a person’s identity as male or female that is congruent with one’s sex.

Sexual binary: refers to the God-given gift of the human family created male or female in the image and likeness of God.

Gender Dysphoria: is the feeling of discomfort or distress that might occur in people whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth or sex-related physical characteristics.

SCHOOL CLOSING, LATE START, OR EARLY DISMISSAL

In case of weather causing the school to be closed, to have a late start, or to have an early dismissal, you will receive a text message and email from the school office. We use the list of phone numbers you supplied when you registered, so if you are not receiving these messages, please let our office know.

You may also call the Jordan School District 717 Weather line at 492-4200. No announcement means that school is in session.

If Jordan Public Schools are closed, Saint John’s is closed. Saint John’s School will close if the local public school district is closed because of transportation.

SCHOOL PROPERTY

All school property is loaned to a student for his/her use. Books should be carried home in a school bag to keep them dry and clean. Laptops and iPads should be handled with care. Fines for excessive damage or loss will be assessed on an individual basis. If library books are lost, there is a charge to the family to purchase a replacement book.

SUPPLIES

Parents/guardians will provide school supplies for their child(ren). A list of needed supplies will be provided each year.

TELEPHONE USAGE

All students needing to use the phone must come to the office and use the phone in the office. All cell phones and smart watches should remain in lockers during the school day and used only with teacher permission.

Messages may be left in the school office with the administrative assistant if it is necessary to contact either a student or teacher or you may leave a message on the phone in your child’s classroom. Teachers will check messages periodically throughout the day.

TRANSPORTATION

Within the Jordan school district, the local public school district handles bus arrangements. Families outside of the district may have the option to work with the school to secure a spot on the SJB bus.

Bus transportation is a privilege. The students must conduct themselves properly and respect the rights of others. The school bus driver is the authority on the bus and has been directed to maintain order to ensure the safety of passengers. Therefore, parents/guardians and students need to support the rules and guidelines regarding the safe transportation of students from the home to the school, etc. Parents/guardians whose children do not follow the bus rules will be notified as to the inappropriate behavior of the child and natural consequences including possible suspension from the bus.

Instruction and Training for Bus Safety

Instruction/review in bus and pedestrian safety is required each year. Teachers share instruction/review materials provided by the local public school district with students.

Restriction: Public School Bus Students Only

Only bus students who ride the Public School Bus may ride the bus. Students are to go home on their assigned bus and get off at their assigned stops. If a student is going to ride home with another student, that student must have written permission from a parent to go home with their friend.

Saint John’s Bus

Students who ride the Saint John’s provided bus, may not use personal cell phones without permission of the bus driver. If they are caught using their cell

phone by the driver, they will be required to put their phone in a basket at the front of the bus until they are dropped off. The Saint John’s bus has an active and working camera system to monitor activity. There is a sign posted on the bus, with a phone number that goes to voicemail, for students to leave a message if they feel they are being bullied or harassed.

VACATIONS

Extended vacations requiring students to miss numerous school days can pose challenges to learning with regard to classroom objectives. While the school administrator will not prevent such vacations, parents/guardians are advised to consult with the classroom teachers 10 school days in advance. Homework may be pre-arranged at the discretion of the teachers. Teachers may also elect to assign alternative work, possibly related to the nature of the vacation or trip, or they may decide it is best to have the student make up work after the trip. Please note the attendance policy for when the school needs to be notified to avoid unexcused absences.

VALUABLES

School insurance does not cover loss of personal possessions; therefore, students are to refrain from bringing valuables to school.

If such objects are brought to school and become distracting they will be confiscated and may be returned only to the parent/guardian. See also our policy on cell phones and smart watches.

VISITORS

All parents/guardians, visitors or volunteers must sign in at the office before going to a classroom or the lunchroom. Persons not reporting to the school office will be considered trespassers and may be reported to the local authorities.

YEARBOOKS

The school publishes a yearbook each school year. Individual or classroom pictures are featured in the yearbook as well as other photographs portraying the many activities and events that take place each year. Yearbook order forms will be available to families at the end of the school year.

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are the heart of Saint John’s School. Their presence and commitment exists as a wonderful role model for our children. Volunteer support is essential in living out

our mission statement. All parents, grandparents, and school friends are invited to become actively involved by sharing their time and talent through volunteering, as the health and safety guidelines allow.

Volunteer Requirements

Parents or legal guardians of each family registered at Saint John’s are typically required to participate in two of the school’s four main fundraisers (Scott County Fair, Marathon, Cadillac Dinner and Golf Tournament).

The Archdiocese requires the Essential 3 for volunteers: Background check, Code of Conduct and Safe Environment training. To be compliant with the background check regulation, all Saint John’s School volunteers are required to complete the required forms so that the background check may be accomplished. Volunteers will also be asked to sign an Archdiocesan Code of Conduct form every three years. The Safe Environment training and background check will need to be refreshed online every three years. You will receive specific information about this process when you need to renew these components. We really appreciate all of our volunteers. If you have any questions about this policy, please contact the principal.

ACADEMICS

ASSESSMENTS

Each fall, winter and spring Saint John the Baptist School will administer the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Assessment to 1st through 8th graders. This assessment helps the school staff to evaluate individual student achievement in reading and math, and it allows staff to plan appropriately. Student assessment scores will be shared with individual families.

In K through 3, teachers also give Aimsweb literacy assessments to measure each student’s progress in learning reading skills such as phonemic awareness and phonics.

CLUBS

Saint John’s has had after school clubs for students to engage in for many years. Families are encouraged to share their gifts and talents by starting their own clubs throughout the school year by contacting the principal’s office. As always, all volunteers must complete Virtus safe environment training.

CURRICULUM

Each curriculum area is evaluated on a seven-year cycle to ensure we have the best tools to help our students succeed academically. Teachers will share curriculum materials at the start of each school year at our open house. Our curriculum aligns with the Minnesota State Standards.

EXTRACURRICULARS

Saint John’s provides some extracurricular activities for our students at our school. We also partner with Jordan Public Schools and with Holy Family High School to offer a wide variety of areas for students to explore during their time at Saint Johns.

For example, we often have a volleyball team, a girl’s basketball team, and a boy’s basketball team. Our teams are called The Saints! We bus students to band lessons at Jordan Middle School, and students at SJB join baseball, softball, and wrestling at Jordan Middle School. Holy Family provides a music opportunity for the SJB students; they may be selected for a special choir that performs there! They also offer plays for students to audition for.

HOMEWORK

Teachers give students many assignments throughout their years at Saint John’s.Our youngest students have no assignments that are completed outside the classroom. As students go up in grades, there are increasing numbers of assignments that may require work outside of school hours.

Homework assignments also foster communication; they are a way for families to know what their child is learning at school. We appreciate any needed communication from families regarding homework as well. If something is unclear, please reach out to the teacher to clarify. We all need to work together to help homework be a successful learning time for the students.

Homework Responsibilities of Teachers:

● Communicate to students and families homework goals and expectations. For example, perhaps students are expected to read each evening, or they need to study for a test that will be next Wednesday.

● Set clear and concise expectations concerning returning, and evaluating homework. Due dates will be clear, and students will know how they will be graded on the homework.

● Assign appropriate homework according to students’ needs. This means that some students may receive assignments that differ because that student needs something different.

Homework Responsibilities of Students:

● Know the purpose of the homework assignment. What is the teacher trying to learn about you from this assignment? Maybe they need to know if you know your multiplication facts, or if you understand the difference between the cardiovascular system and the endocrine system.

● Be sure you have all you need to complete the assignment. You may need to record the assignment in your planner, ask questions about the directions, gather materials so you can do some work at home, or jot the due date down.

● Complete and return quality assignments on time. Be sure to turn things in, and be sure it is your best!

Homework Responsibilities of Parents/Guardians

:

● Be aware of the homework policy and individual teacher requirements, especially if your child is just starting to get homework assignments

● Help your child find a quiet work area relatively free of distractions, and plan a time daily when your child will check for and complete homework.

● If the child has trouble understanding directions, help her/him with explanations. If you both can’t understand, reach out to the teacher for clarification.

● As your child becomes more independent, occasionally check Sycamore to see if all assignments have been turned in

GRADING

Grading in Elementary Grades

Saint John the Baptist uses performance level indicators on our standards based report cards for Kindergarten through grade 4. These performance level indicators provide information on a student’s development and progress in relation to learning standards outlined in each subject. There are two major areas that are graded.

1. Learning Behaviors:

a. Teachers use C, F, S, and R to signify the observation of the behaviors.

b. C stands for consistently

c. F stands for frequently

d. S stands for sometimes, and

e. R stands for rarely.

2. Subject grades:

a. Teachers use 4, 3, 2, 1 to signify the level of accomplishment.

b. 4 is the highest grade, showing excellent achievement.

c. 1 is the lowest grade, showing minimal understanding.

d. A grade of “NA“ means the standard was not assessed at this time.

It is important to note that standards based grades generally increase across the year.

● Since our report cards are standards based, you should see a progression from the first trimester to the third.

● For example, your child may receive a 2 in the first trimester on a certain math standard, but this is not cause for alarm because our child is learning the standard and approaching grade level work.

● By the third trimester the subject grades should be between a 3 and 4 as the standard is mastered.

Although standards based reporting navigates away from a percentage based grade, we will use the following model in the hope that report cards are a clear communication of your child’s performance.

4.5 100% and up Exceeds grade level work, consistently applies and extends learned concepts and skills independently

4 90-99% Meets grade level work consistently, completes requirements for grade level work accurately and independently

3.5 85-89% Meets grade level work and demonstrates understanding on a consistent basis

3 80-84% Meets grade level work and expectations

2.5 75-79% Approaching grade level work, demonstrates partial understanding

2 70-74% Approaching grade level work, requires extra time, assistance, or practice

1.5 65-69% Seldom approaches grade level work, requires consistent assistance, demonstrates understanding below grade level standard

1 64% and below Demonstrates minimal understanding and requires consistent assistance and modifications, demonstrates understanding below grade level standard

Grading in the Middle School

AtSJB,reportcardsareissuedattheendofeachtrimester

● Trimester1endsinmidtolateNovember

● Trimester2endsinlateFebruarytoearlyMarch

● Trimester3endswiththeschoolyearinMayorJune

Reportcardsarecreatedtocommunicateyourchild’sachievementineachsubject. Theyalsoarethereto facilitatecommunicationandcollaborationbetweenfamiliesandteachers.

Gradesinmiddleschooltakeintoconsiderationhoweachstudentscoresontests,howwelltheydotheir homework,howmuchtheyparticipateinclass,andhowthoroughlytheycompleteanyassignmentsor projects.

Inmiddleschool,studentsreceivelettergrades Hereiswhateachlettergrademeans

Grade Percentages

Whatthisgrademeans

A+ 97-100% A+gradesareonlyawardedtostudentsenrolledinahighschool levelcoursewherethegradewilltransfertoahighschool transcript

A 93-100% Exceedsgradelevelwork,consistentlyappliesandextendslearned conceptsandskillsindependently

A- 90-92% Exceedsgradelevelwork,appliesandextendslearnedconceptsand skillsmostofthetime

B+ 87-89% Meetsgradelevelworkanddemonstratesunderstandingona consistentbasis;startingtoapplyconceptsmoreandmore independently

B 83-86% Meetsgradelevelworkanddemonstratesunderstandingona consistentbasis

B- 80-82% Meetsgradelevelworkanddemonstratesunderstandingmostofthe time

C+ 77-79% Meetsgradelevelworkandexpectations

C 73-76% Approachinggradelevelwork,demonstratespartialunderstanding

C- 70-72% Approachinggradelevelwork,requiresextratime,assistance,or practice

D 60-69% Seldomapproachesgradelevelwork;requiresconsistent assistance;demonstratesunderstandingbelowgradelevelstandards

U 0-59% Demonstratesminimalunderstanding;requiresconsistentassistance andmodifications;demonstratesunderstandingbelowgradelevel standards

KINDERGARTEN

Saint John’s kindergarten is a wonderful program. Our curriculum provides developmentally appropriate activities in a supportive, Christian atmosphere. We build on the learning that takes place in your home and we help your child to become an eager, independent, life-long learner. Families, friends, and relatives are invited to special events throughout the year.

MAKE-UP WORK

It is the student’s obligation to get and complete work missed during an absence. If a student is out, families may reach out to the teacher(s) and request homework assignments. Teachers may gather the assignments for pick up, or they may have reasons that the work will be completed when the student returns to school.

PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN READINESS PROGRAMS

Saint John’s is blessed to have both a Preschool and a Kindergarten Readiness program for our youngest learners.

● Preschool is for children 3 to 5 years old by September 1. All students must be potty trained.

● Both preschool and kindergarten readiness offer full and half day options.

○ The half day options are held from 8:00 am-11:30 am

○ The full day options are from 8:00 am-2:40 am

Both Preschool and Kindergarten Readiness are designed to help your child grow. Both programs nurture the whole child, and both include lots of time to play, inside and

outside. At our school, we strive to help each child grow in all areas—spiritually, emotionally, socially, physically, and intellectually—so they are prepared for the next step in their education. Our goals include:

● Spiritual Growth: Help each child know Jesus Christ and understand how deeply God loves them.

● Emotional Development: Support children in becoming confident and independent by helping them feel valued and loved. Teach them to recognize their feelings and express them in healthy, respectful ways.

● Creative Expression: Encourage imagination and creativity through hands-on play and open-ended activities.

● Social Skills: Provide opportunities to build friendships and learn how to work and play with others. Help children develop the skills to be kind, respectful classmates.

● Individual Gifts and Interests: Explore each child’s unique talents through age-appropriate books, music, language, and learning materials that match their stage of development.

● Physical Well-being: Offer space and equipment that help children grow strong and coordinated. Protect their health and safety while allowing time for both active play and quiet rest. We follow all health and safety guidelines set by the State of Minnesota.

● School Readiness: Provide engaging activities that reflect the Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress, supporting development in all key learning areas.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Study of Christianity and the Catholic religion, which includes Catholic values and tradition, are integral parts of our total education. It is Saint John’s School policy that all students, including non-Catholics, attend religious instruction and liturgies.

● Students have religion classes during their school day.

● Students in grades 1 – 8 attend Mass each Wednesday and Friday (Kindergarten begins attending weekly Mass in December). Parents/guardians are invited to attend school Mass whenever their schedules permit.

● On Holy Days of Obligation, the students will attend Mass in lieu of the weekly Wednesday Mass.

SERVICE

Our school considers service to others as very important; therefore, we look for many opportunities during the school year for service within and through our small and larger community. This enables students as part of the Christian community to make a difference in the world. Watch for information in our newsletter about service opportunities.

SPECIALS

Students at Saint John’s have time with someone outside their classroom, called “specials.” The Specials we offer at Saint John’s are:

● Art - Art class is weekly, with our art teacher

● Music - Students go to music two times a week with the music teacher. In class they learn various music skills. The teacher also prepares students for a Christmas Program as well as for a Spring concert. Check our calendar for these dates.

● Phy. Ed. - Each class has physical education twice per week with our Phy Ed instructor.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

The special needs of students are addressed as follows:

● Classroom teachers who have concerns about a student’s speech, emotional needs, academic work, or behaviors will share this concern with families. They then typically begin a process to explore the area of concern and complete some interventions to try to help.

○ If the interventions are not successful, the student may be referred for assessment by either the school or the parent/guardian.

○ Once the assessment is completed, a meeting will be held to share the assessment results and to determine if the child qualifies for special education services.

○ If the child qualifies for special education services, the special education staff at Jordan Public Schools will develop an Individual Service Plan (ISP) .

● The ISP will be written with goals to improve the areas of concern. The plan will also list how many minutes each day or week the child will receive special education services. Families and teachers at Saint John’s will be part of this process to create the best plan for this child.

○ The ISP is reviewed each year to update it and ensure it is meeting the needs of the child.

● The child then receives special education services at the local public school district school with transportation to and from SJB provided by the school district. Schedules will be created between the classroom teacher and special education teacher.

STUDENT CONDUCT

In order to maintain a Christian learning environment it is necessary to have a Code of Conduct which provides a safe and secure setting for students and staff. Students are given clear and specific expectations as they are led toward becoming self-disciplined individuals.

SCHOOL BUS AND BUS STOP RULES

Rules at the Bus

Stop:

1. Stay away from the street, road or highway when waiting for the bus. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before approaching the bus.

2. If you must cross the street, always cross in front of the bus, ten feet, where the driver can see you – never cross from behind the bus. Wait for the driver to signal to you before entering and crossing the street.

3. Never run up to the bus! Wait for on the curb at least 10 feet from the bus. When the driver signals to come in; enter one at a time.

4. After getting off the bus, move away from the bus.

5. Get to your bus stop 3 minutes before your scheduled pick up time. The school bus driver will not wait for late students.

Rules on the Bus:

1. Immediately follow the directions of the driver.

2. Sit in your seat facing forward. No part of your body should be in the center aisle. Treat everybody with respect.

3. Do not open or tamper with emergency exits.

4. Keep all parts of your body inside the bus.

5. Talk quietly and use appropriate language.

6. No switching of seats while the bus is moving.

7. No fighting, harassment, intimidation or horseplay. Keep your arms, legs and belongings to yourself.

8. Do not throw any objects in the bus or outside the window.

9. Do not damage the school bus.

Consequences for Breaking School Bus or Bus Stop Rules

Consequences for school bus/bus stop misconduct will apply to all regular bus routes that take students to and back home. Decisions regarding a student's ability to ride the bus in connection with events (for example, field trips or competitions) will be in the sole discretion of Saint John the Baptist. Parents or guardians will be notified of any suspension of bus privileges.

The elementary/middle school consequences will be as follows except as noted below:

● 1st offense: written or verbal school warning [to parent/guardian and student]

● 2nd offense: 1-3 school day suspension from riding the bus

● 3rd offense: 3-5 school day suspension from riding the bus

● 4th offense: 5-10 school day suspension from riding the bus & a meeting with parent/guardian.

Further offenses will be individually considered. Students may be suspended for longer periods of time, including the remainder of the school year.

NOTE: When a student goes 60 calendar days without a report after an offense, the student's consequences may start over at the first offense, at the sole discretion of Saint John the Baptist principal or principal designee.

BULLYING PREVENTION POLICY

Preamble: Created in the image and likeness of God, each child shares a fundamental human dignity. Saint John’s provides an environment dedicated to protecting and fostering the development of that dignity. The school helps children learn how to exercise their God-given freedom responsibly, with the goal that good choices become

good habits, that is, virtues. The highest virtue is charity, which God both requires and makes possible. “Here is my commandment,” says Jesus, “that you love one another as I have loved you.” As bearers of the divine image, members of the school community deserve care and respect from all. Bullying and retaliation are not tolerated.

Definitions

For purposes of this Policy, the following definitions shall apply:

● “Aggressor”: a student who engages in bullying or retaliation.

● “Bullying”: the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal, or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, that is objectively offensive, is directed at a “target,” and that:

● causes physical harm or emotional harm that results in clearly identifiable physical symptoms to the target or places the target in reasonable fear of such harm;

● causes damage to the target’s property;

● places the target in reasonable fear of harm to him/herself, or of damage to his/her property;

● creates a hostile environment at school for the target;

● infringes on the rights of the target at school, including defamation and invasion of privacy; or

● materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.

● “Cyber-Bullying”: Bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature, including a post on a social network, internet web site or forum, transmitted through a computer, cell phone, or other electronic device.

● “Hostile Environment”: a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to materially and substantially alter the conditions of the student's education.

● “Retaliation”: any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against any person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying.

● “School Grounds”: property on which a school building or facility is located or property that is owned, leased or used by a school for a school-sponsored activity, function, program, instruction or training.

● “Staff”: includes, but is not limited to, educators, faculty, administrators, counselors, school nurses, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, athletics coaches, advisors to extracurricular activities, support staff, and paraprofessionals.

● “Target”: a student against whom bullying or retaliation has been perpetrated.

For the purpose of this Policy, whenever the term "bullying" is used it is to denote either bullying or cyber-bullying.

Prohibition Against Bullying and Against Retailiation

The school expressly prohibits bullying in all forms, either by an individual or group of aggressors.

Bullying, including cyber-bullying is prohibited:

● On school grounds owned, leased or used by a school;

● At any school-sponsored or school-related activity, function or program whether on or off school grounds;

● At a school bus stop;

● On a school bus or any other vehicle owned, leased or used by the school; or,

● Through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by a school.

Bullying is also prohibited at a location, activity, function or program that is not school-related. Similarly, the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by a school to commit an act or acts of bullying that materially and substantially disrupt the education process or the orderly operation of a school is also prohibited.

Reporting

● Any staff or volunteer who has witnessed or become aware of any instance of bullying or retaliation must report that act to the principal or another school official designated by the principal.

● Any Saint John’s student or parent/guardian of a Saint John’s student is strongly encouraged to report all acts of bullying. Reports can be made to the student’s teacher (who must then report it to the principal), or directly to the principal.

● Anyone with general questions or concerns about bullying or the school’s policy should address those questions or concerns to the principal.

● Reports may be made confidentially when requested.

● Reports may be made anonymously. The anonymous nature of the report may make it difficult to investigate or corroborate the alleged bullying. No disciplinary action may be taken against a student solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

● False accusations of bullying are absolutely prohibited and may result in discipline in accordance with the school’s discipline policy.

Retalliation

Retaliation against a target, a witness of bullying, a person who makes a good faith report of bullying, or who provides information during an investigation of bullying, is prohibited.

Response and Investigation

Saint John’s Catholic School takes all reports of bullying very seriously. Upon receipt of a report of bullying the principal will conduct an investigation. When possible, the investigation will begin within three school days of the report of bullying. The school reserves the sole discretion to determine the scope and adequacy of the investigation. Anyone with questions about the investigation should direct those questions to the principal.

Violations

A student who violates this policy shall be subject to discipline in accordance with the school’s disciplinary policy.

Saint John’s retains the sole discretion to determine whether bullying has occurred and what the response should be.

Depending on the circumstances, the school’s response could include:

● taking appropriate disciplinary and remedial action;

● notifying the parents or guardians of the aggressor of the determination;

● contacting people about available community resources

Training

Training on this policy shall be provided for staff at least once every three years and, at the discretion of the principal, for volunteers who have significant contact with students.

Publication and Notice

The Principal or his or her designee shall provide written or electronic notice of this policy to the staff; currently this is included in the teacher handbook.

This policy is included in the family handbook for reference for parents/guardians and students.

CHEMICAL AND DRUG USE

Because Saint John’s Catholic School is concerned about the physical and mental health of all of its students, it has established the following chemical/drug abuse policy.

If any student attending Saint John’s School is found:

● buying, selling, or giving away mood altering chemicals,

● under the influence of mood altering chemicals, and/or

● in possession of mood altering chemicals while on Saint John’s School grounds, while riding a bus, or attending any school sponsored event, he/she will face immediate suspension by the principal for three days.

The Principal will:

● immediately notify the parents/guardians and the police,

● inform the student’s family of the three day suspension

● schedule a conference time with the parents/guardians and student to discuss the incident during the three day suspension, and

● refer the parents/guardians and student to an appropriate counseling agency for evaluation.

After consultation, one or all of these steps maybe taken:

● Student may be referred for counseling

● Student may be referred for chemical dependency

● The length of suspension may be expanded

● Student may be expelled

DISCIPLINE

Saint John the Baptist focuses on promoting positive, respectful, Christ-like behavior in a caring and safe environment.

We believe that effective discipline involves a few basic Christian rules. These include:

● Respect self, others and property

● Take ownership of learning

● Make safe and healthy choices

We believe and practice the Love and Logic philosophy. In this philosophy we expect students to take responsibility for their behaviors. When a student does not meet these expectations, staff will work with him or her to resolve the issue. In the Love and Logic philosophy, we discuss things with students, including:

● Why do you think this was a problem/isn’t allowed? What might happen?

● Who do you need to apologize to?

● What do you need to do next time?

If a student cannot or chooses not to solve a problem, or if they repeat the behavior after the discussion, appropriate and natural consequences will be imposed by a staff member. Some consequences may include things such as these examples:

● new placement within a classroom

● sending the student to another location to work for a time

● another discussion with the student

● having the student complete work or instruction missed during the disruption at another time, perhaps recess or other time.

● having the student contact his/her parent to share what happened

● having the student write an apology

Teachers or the principal may communicate about these events in an email or phone call home..

Repeated poor student choices will require more serious consequences which may involve giving back time owed to a teacher during recess, having the student clean an area in which they left a mess, or other consequences.

Participation in extracurricular activities can be restricted due to discipline issues.

In the case of the most serious behaviors such as fighting, vandalism or extreme disrespect, the principal will fully investigate and when necessary involve the pastor regarding consequences involving suspension or expulsion.

For offenses involving bullying, chemicals/drugs, or weapons, see those policies.

HARASSMENT POLICY

Saint John the Baptist School reserves the right to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from harassment.

Harassment is unwelcomed, unwanted behaviors which make a person feel threatened, uncomfortable, intimidated, degraded, or discriminated against or which create an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment for learning, working or playing.

One particular category of harassment is sexual harassment. Behaviors may include but are not limited to:

● Overly personal conversation

● Sexual name-calling

● Teasing or joking of a sexual nature

● Inappropriate touching

● Extreme aggressiveness

● Spreading sexual rumors

● Pressure for sexual activity

● Encouraging sexually inappropriate behavior in others

What to do if harassment is experienced or witnessed

● Any member of the Saint John’s School Community who experiences or witnesses harassment is encouraged to deal with the situation immediately by politely but firmly advising those involved that the behavior is inappropriate and should stop.

Any particularly serious offense will be immediately brought to the principal for action.

● Staff members will intervene if they are aware of any actions that appear to violate this policy. In addition, students and their parents are encouraged to report any concerns about harassment to our staff.

● Finally, there is a sign posted on the Saint John’s bus, with a phone number that goes to voicemail, for students to leave a message if they feel they are being bullied or harassed.

● The principal will assume responsibility for investigation of all complaints. Based on the investigation, appropriate action, including but not limited to conferences, counseling, disciplinary warnings, or other disciplinary actions, will be taken.

LOCKER INSPECTIONS

Students are assigned one or more lockers at the beginning of each school year. School lockers are school property. The school may inspect locker interiors at any time, for any reason, without notice and without student consent.

PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY

The school will provide any needed technology devices as part of the curriculum. Clocks on the walls display time, and phones are available if students need to contact their families. The school strongly discourages students from bringing any of their own personal devices to school. These devices can cause distraction, and the loss/damage of these expensive items is not covered by the school’s insurance.

● If a student brings a cell phone, it must be kept in the student’s backpack until the student leaves the building at dismissal time unless special arrangements are made with the teacher and principal.

○ A phone seen during school hours will be taken away by staff and kept in a safe place. The staff members will usually return the phone at the end of the day, but staff will keep the phone until the family can pick it up for those students who frequently break this rule.

● If the teacher and principal make special arrangements and allow a student to have a cell phone during the school day, there will be clear expectations for use, and the arrangement will end if the student does not comply with any rules set for this privilege.

○ Example: Student has a health diagnosis that requires monitoring with a cell phone or smartwatch. Principal and teacher agree to this use only.

● If a student wears a smart watch, the family should apply settings so it does not send or receive text messages, games, or other features that would disturb class during school hours. Such watches are permitted in this mode.

○ If a student’s smart watch is used for sending or receiving texts, playing games, or other prohibited features in class, the staff member will take it

away and keep it in a safe place. The staff member will usually return the smart watch at the end of the day, but staff members will keep the smart watch until the family can pick it up for those students who frequently break this rule.

● Any other personal devices should not be used in the school day unless special permission was given. If a student uses or displays any personal devices at school without a prior special arrangement, staff will take the item away and keep it in a safe place until the parent or guardian comes to pick it up.

SUSPENSION/EXPULSION

Suspension

In the event that a student’s behavior is consistently disruptive so that learning is greatly hindered, a student may be suspended by the principal.

In the event that a student’s behavior includes serious violations of school rules and policies or gross misconduct a student may be suspended by the principal.

Gross misconduct is defined to include, but is not limited to:

● conduct which creates a substantial and unjustifiable risk of harm to another person, or

● serious damage to the property of the school or another person, or

● violation of various school policies such as weapons policy

● conduct which substantially impairs the discipline and order of the school environment, or conduct that may potentially bring harm in any way to Saint John’s Catholic School.

The principal in such an instance will take the following actions:

1. Notify the student of the violation that will result in suspension through a verbal warning.

2. Notify the parents/guardians of the student of the violation that will result in suspension in writing.

3. Schedule a conference with the parents/guardians, student, principal and possibly the teacher or teachers, to discuss the incident and terms of re-admittance.

In the case of a student with a disability, the principal will notify the student’s individual education plan (ISP) manager from the Jordan School District not more than ten (10) days after the date on which the decision to remove the student from the student’s current education placement is made, and a meeting will be scheduled to see if the actions are related to the area of disability. The ISP team shall, at the meeting, conduct a review of the relationship between the child’s disability and the behavior subject to disciplinary action and determine the appropriateness of the child’s education plan.

Assigned suspension could be in school or out of school, at the sole discretion of the principal or his/her designee. In the event that a student is suspended out of school, his/her parents/guardians will be contacted to pick up their child.

In the event that further suspensions are necessary, the pastor will become involved. Upon reviewing the situation, the principal and pastor may recommend re-entry upon compliance with certain conditions (e. g. counseling) or move to expel the student.

Expulsion

Expulsion is very serious. Therefore, this action will be determined only by a committee consisting of the principal, pastor, and a third party (School Advisory Council member, Pastoral Council member, trustee or other).

WEAPONS POLICY - Updated March 2025

Saint John the Baptist Catholic School is committed to maintaining a positive, safe, and secure learning and working environment. To uphold this standard, weapons are strictly prohibited on school property, including in school, on school grounds, at school activities, at bus stops, on school buses or school vehicles, or entering upon or departing from school premises, property, or events, except for approved educational purposes authorized by the principal.

Definition: A weapon is any device or instrument capable of causing bodily harm or death, or that may be used to threaten such harm. This includes, but is not limited to:

● Firearms (loaded or unloaded)

● Other guns, including pellet, B-B, stun, look-alike, and non-functioning guns that could be perceived as threats

● Knives, including pocket knives, switchblades, daggers, swords, and razors

● Artificial knuckles or objects designed to be worn over the fist or knuckles

● Blunt force weapons, such as blackjacks, clubs, nunchucks, and throwing stars

● Explosives and incendiary devices

● Poisonous or hazardous chemicals

● Bows and arrows, slingshots

● Bombs or pyrotechnic devices

● Any other instrument used to intimidate, threaten, or cause harm

Prohibited Conduct

Students, staff, visitors, and all individuals are prohibited from possessing, storing, handling, transmitting, or using any weapon or look-alike weapon:

● On school grounds

● At school-sponsored activities

● At bus stops, on school buses, or school vehicles

● While entering or departing from school property or events

This prohibition extends to all school and church-owned buildings and grounds.

Weapons Violations by a Student

1. Any student found in possession of a weapon will have it immediately confiscated.

2. The student will be suspended from school immediately.

3. Parents or legal guardians will be required to attend a conference with the principal or designee.

4. Law enforcement may be contacted.

5. The principal will conduct an investigation and assign appropriate consequences, which may include:

○ Extended out-of-school suspension (up to 10 days)

○ In-school suspension

○ Expulsion

6. Before returning to school, the student will be placed on six months of probation. If a second violation occurs, the student will be expelled immediately.

7. The principal and/or pastor will determine the severity of consequences based on the threat level to individuals or the learning environment.

8. The principal retains discretion to impose lesser disciplinary actions when warranted. There could be a very rare occasion when a weapon is inadvertently brought onto school property or is in one's possession. If such an occasion is clearly the case, the principal, after a thorough investigation, may use discretion in determining the appropriateness of applying consequences.

Weapons Violations by non-student youths and Adults, Including Employees

● Immediate police involvement with a recommendation for criminal charges.

● Employees will be subject to investigation and disciplinary procedures.

Exceptions:

A student will not be considered in possession of a weapon if they:

● Find a weapon on school property and immediately turn in the weapon to the principal’s office, or to a teacher or coach.

● If unsafe to transport, immediately report the weapon's location to the principal, a teacher, or coach.

This policy does not apply to individuals in the following categories:

● Police officers in the line of duty

● Individuals legally permitted to carry firearms under Minnesota law

● Firearm storage in vehicles, in accordance with Minnesota Statutes

● Firearm safety or marksmanship courses conducted on school property

● Ceremonial color guards carrying replica or functioning firearms

● Individuals with written permission from the principal or designee

HEALTH/SAFETY

ALLERGY PREVENTION AND RESPONSE

The safety of our students is a top priority for Saint John the Baptist Catholic School. Allergies, including food allergies, can be life-threatening. We work with students,

parents/guardians, and the medical community to minimize risks and keep people informed of concerns to help safeguard our students.

Family’s Responsibility:

● Notify the school office of the child’s allergies.

● Work with the school to develop a plan that accommodates the child’s needs throughout the school including in the classroom, in the cafeteria, in after school programs, during school-sponsored activities, and on the school bus.

● Complete and submit an Anaphylaxis Action Plan (available in school office). Families may substitute a document provided by their health care provider if it includes all necessary information and is signed by the health care provider.

● Replace medications after use or upon expiration.

● Educate the child in the self-management of their allergy which may include:

Safe and unsafe foods or activities

Strategies for avoiding exposure to allergens

Symptoms of allergic reactions

How and when to tell an adult they may be having an allergy-related problem

How to read food labels, for food allergies

Self-administration of epinephrine per parent and student readiness

● Set up an appointment with the lunch coordinator for to review labels/menu, if needed.

● Provide a list of what the student may/may not eat to the school and to the lunch coordinator.

● Review upcoming projects, parties and field trips and communicate any concerns to the teacher.

● Consider accompanying their student on field trips

● Introduce themselves and their student to the bus driver and alert him/her to the student’s allergy.

Student’s Responsibilities:

● Must not trade food with others, especially if they have a food allergy.

● Must not eat anything with unknown ingredients or known allergens if they have food allergies.

● Must be proactive in the care and management of their food allergies and reactions appropriate to their developmental level. It is recommended that the student notify the kitchen staff as he/she comes through the line, that he/she has

food allergies, especially the first few weeks of each year. Older students who can advocate for him/herself may choose to be responsible to ask questions regarding the safety of the food rather than alerting staff every time they come through the serving lines.

● Must notify an adult immediately if they eat something they believe may contain the food to which they are allergic.

● Consider wearing a Medic-Alert bracelet, or similar item.

● Consider telling the classmates about the allergy.

● If needed, the student should sit at a table that has been designated as allergy aware for him/her.

Office Staff responsibilities:

● Read the health records submitted by families and physicians.

● Ensure any staff members that need this information are told; it is better that several people tell someone than if someone is not told.

● Follow federal/state/district laws and regulations regarding sharing medical information about the student.

● Ensure you have been trained on use of the Epi-Pen by a nurse from the public school.

● Assure that medications are appropriately stored and easily accessible in a secure location central to designated school personnel, and be sure you know where that is.

Teacher Responsibilities:

● Review classroom activities for potential exposure risks, consulting with the student’s family as needed.

● Let the families of the other students in the class know about any potentially life-threatening allergy with the goal of minimizing or eliminating allergen-containing foods being brought in for snacks, holiday parties, birthday treats.

● Send periodic reminders out about the allergies in your classroom in newsletters or other methods of communication with families

● Read the student’s allergy plan thoroughly.

● Assure that all staff who interact with the student on a regular basis understands food allergies, and any substitute teachers, can

○ recognize symptoms,

○ know what to do in an emergency, and

○ Understands ways to minimize allergens in the allergic student’s meals, educational tools, arts and crafts projects, or incentives.

● Include food-allergic students in school activities. Students should not be excluded from school activities solely based on their food allergy.

● Be trained in Epi-pen administration, setting this up with the administrative assistant in our school office.

● Leave complete instructions in the sub folder for substitute teachers including the names of students with allergies, what they are allergic to, and what to look for as a sign of an allergic reaction

● Collaborate with families to plan accommodations for meals/snacks on field trips, or if food is included in a party, a lesson, or other event.

Lunch Coordinator Responsibilities:

● Publish menus and ensure they are available to families for reference.

● Communicate with the family of students with allergies regarding food labels, ingredients, and changes/clarification of menus as necessary.

● Guide young and developmentally delayed students away from allergen containing foods, to the best of her ability, as they go through the serving line.

● Provide an alternative for hot lunch and/or dessert (when dessert is being served to others) as needed.

● Provide an allergy friendly place for students to eat in the lunchroom, if needed.

● An allergen free table may be set up if the allergy is life threatening.

● Complete training in preparation methods that minimize the possibility of cross contamination.

ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION

As a result of federal legislation (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act – AHERA), each primary and secondary school in the nation is required to complete a stringent inspection for asbestos and to develop a plan of management for all asbestos-containing building materials. Saint John the Baptist shall continue to maintain a safe and healthful environment for our community’s youth and employees.

In keeping with this legislation, all buildings owned or leased by Saint John the Baptist were inspected by an EPA accredited inspector and samples were analyzed by an independent laboratory. Based on the inspection, the school prepared and the state approved a comprehensive management plan for handling the asbestos located within its buildings safely and responsibly.

Furthermore, Saint John the Baptist, Jordan has completed the 3-Year Re-inspections required by AHERA.

Federal law requires a periodic walk-through (called “surveillance”) every six months of each area containing asbestos. Short-term workers (outside contractors – i.e., telephone repair workers, electricians and exterminators) will be provided information regarding the location of asbestos in which they may come into contact. All short-term workers shall contact the lead maintenance person before commencing work to be given this information.

Saint John the Baptist has a list of the location(s); type(s) of asbestos containing materials found in that school building and a description and timetable for their proper management. A copy of the Asbestos Management Plan is available for review in the school office. Copies are available at 25 cents per page.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

Each family must annually complete an emergency form online or in paper form. If changes occur during the year, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the school in writing or by phone.

HEALTH RECORDS

Health records are required for each student. It is recommended that the student have a physical before entering Kindergarten or first grade and again in fourth and seventh grades. The State of Minnesota requires immunizations to be up-to-date.

HEALTH SCREENINGS

Vision and hearing screenings are conducted every other year.

ILLNESS/INJURY DURING SCHOOL

If a student becomes ill or injured during the school day in a way that does not allow the student to complete the day, the parent/guardian will be contacted to pick up the child.

● No over-the-counter medication can be given to a student for any reason without a Permission to Dispense Form.

● If an injury occurs, first aid will be given by school personnel.

○ Any treatment beyond first aid is entirely the family’s responsibility.

○ If the family or an emergency contact person cannot be reached and a doctor’s attention is necessary, 911 may be called.

For all other health concerns refer to our usual policy as follows.

To protect themselves and classmates, children should be kept at home if they have any of the following symptoms:

● Nausea, vomiting

● Diarrhea

● A fever over 100

● Sores on the skin such as impetigo, scabies or ringworm

● Lice

If any of these occur, keep the child at home.

IMMUNIZATIONS

Saint John’s School follows the requirements of the Minnesota School Immunization Law, (Minnesota Statutes Section 121A.15)

All immunizations are to be submitted to the school prior to the fall start date of the school year. The parent/guardian is responsible for providing this information in writing to the school office as well as including additional immunizations each year as they are administered to the student. Students not having the appropriate immunization documentation will NOT be allowed to attend school.

MANDATED REPORTING

The staff members of Saint John the Baptist School are legally required to follow the requirements of Minnesota law pertaining to reporting child neglect and/or abuse which may be summarized as follows:

● Neglect: failure to provide food, clothing, shelter or medical care and prenatal exposure to controlled substances.

● Abuse: physical or sexual abuse, or emotional maltreatment.

Staff members are required to report a suspected case of child/abuse/neglect to the local law enforcement agency or social service agency. This must be done if they know of or have reason to believe there is abuse or neglect presently or has been within the past three years. A written report must be filed within 72 hours of the verbal report.

If one acts in good faith, he/she is immune from any civil or criminal liability that otherwise would result from their actions including, “Any public or private school, facility, or the employee thereof who permits access by a local welfare or law enforcement agency and assists in an investigation.” This statute does not provide immunity, however, “to any person for failure to make a required report or for committing neglect, physical abuse or sexual abuse of a child.”

MEDICATION Minnesota Statute 121A.22, 121A.221)

Before appropriate school personnel can administer medication to a student, the parent or guardian must provide the following:

1. Parents/guardians must complete the Permission to Dispense Medications form if they want the school to administer medication to their child during the school day. A new form must be completed at the beginning of each new school year and when a change in the prescription or requirements for administration occurs. See school office for form.

2. Over the counter medication (e.g. Tylenol) must come in the original labeled container, and it must be accompanied by a permission to dispense medications form. Without this, students will not be given medication.

3. Prescription medication must come to school in the original prescription container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy.

4. Medications, both prescriptions and over the counter medications, are not to be possessed by the student unless there is written agreement between the school, and the parent/guardian. This is generally limited to inhalers used for asthma.

PEST CONTROL MATERIALS

Pests can sting, bite, cause contamination, damage property, and spread disease; therefore, we must prevent and control them. Our school utilizes a licensed, professional pest control service firm for the prevention and control of rodents, insects, and other pests in and around the school and church. Their program consists of

1. inspection and monitoring to determine whether pests are present and whether any treatment is needed;

2. recommendations for maintenance and sanitation to help eliminate pests without the need for pest control materials;

3. utilization of non-chemical measures such as traps, caulking and screening;

4. application of EPA-registered pest control materials when needed.

The long-term health effects on children from the application of such pest control materials, or the class materials to which they belong, may not be fully understood. All

pest control materials are chosen and applied according to label directions per Federal law.

An estimated schedule of interior pest control inspections and possible treatments is available for review or copying in the school office. A similar estimated schedule is available for application of herbicides and other materials to school grounds. Parents/guardians of students may request to receive, prior notification of any application of pest control material, should such an application be deemed necessary on a day different from the days specified in the schedule.

WELLNESS POLICY

Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to assure a school environment that honors God and the gift of our bodies that He gave to us. We will do so through the promotion of students’ health, well being and ability to learn by encouraging and supporting healthy eating and physical activity.

General Statement of Policy:

● The Saint John’s School Advisory Council and Wellness Committee recognize that school nutrition education and physical education are essential components of the educational process and that good health fosters student attendance and education.

● The school environment should promote and protect students’ health, well being and ability to learn by encouraging the involvement of parents and employees in providing feedback about wellness policies.

● Children need access to healthy foods and opportunities to be physically active in order to grow, learn and thrive. All students in PK-8 will have opportunities, support and encouragement to be physically active on a regular basis.

● All students will have access to a variety of affordable, nutritious and appealing foods that meet the health and nutrition needs of students. Students will be provided a minimum of 20 minutes to eat in a clean, safe and pleasant setting.

Guidelines for Food and Beverages

● School meals will meet nutritional standards for USDA National School Lunch Programs. We encourage the use of nutrient dense foods and low fat cooking methods including the use of vegetable oil and olive oil when possible.

● Students will have recess time before or after lunch every day.

● Students will always wash hands before meals.

● The lunch program is directed by food personnel with appropriate certification. Ongoing training will be available to lunch staff.

● A lunchroom supervisor manages the lunch process each day ensuring that students eat in a safe and pleasing environment.

● Meal nutrition information will be provided to families upon request

● Our school does not have a vending machine, school store or ala carte choice available.

● We strongly discourage parents from packing candy or sugary treats in their children’s lunches.

● Birthday treats should be chosen, keeping in mind any allergies in that class

● We encourage people to bring in healthy foods for events that take place after school hours.

● Healthy foods will also be encouraged for concession sales (off site). Snack cart items will be low in sugar, fat, sodium and caffeine as well as a reasonable amount of calories per serving size for foods and beverages.

● We will make every effort to limit processed foods, artificial sweeteners and trans fats.

● Everyone has access to free water. Students and staff are encouraged to have water bottles every day.

Nutrition Education and Promotion

The primary goal of nutrition education is to positively influence students’ eating behaviors.

● Saint John’s provides nutrition education to promote wellness.

● Nutrition curriculum will be integrated into each grade level according to state health standards.

● We will also cooperate with other agencies and community groups such as Blue Cross to provide opportunities for more nutrition training for both families and staff.

Physical Activity

The primary goal for a school’s physical activity component is to provide opportunities for every student to develop knowledge and skills for specific physical activities, maintain physical fitness, regularly participate in physical activity, and understand the short and long term benefits of a physically active lifestyle.

● All students in K-8 have a physical education class of 30-45 minutes each two times per week.

● Our physical education program promotes lifelong physical activity.

● The physical education (PE) program meets the needs of all students. The average ratio of student to teacher is 20 students to one teacher.

● The physical education curriculum follows national standards. Students receive a grade in PE on their report cards.

● Students K-8 have one recess per day.

● More than 50% of the time in PE is devoted to moderate to vigorous physical activity.

● Saint John’s is committed to promoting physical activity including movement in the classroom at every grade level.

● Saint John’s also provides a physical education challenge, running challenge and traveling basketball program.

● Students have adequate space, playground equipment and an environment conducive to safe and fun recess time.

● Students have other opportunities for physical activity including walking field trips, and our school marathon (rake a thon).

● Students who walk have safe routes to and from school.

Communication with Parents/Guardians

It is important that students receive consistent messages throughout school, home, community and media regarding good nutrition and healthy lifestyles.

● Our school recognizes that parents and guardians have a primary and fundamental role in promoting and protecting their children’s health and well being. The school will support this role and provide educational materials that will assist families in making healthy choices related to nutrition and physical activity.

● Saint John’s will encourage parents to pack healthy lunches, snacks, treats and beverages. Parents will be provided with information that will offer suggestions for healthy snacks and lunches.

● Nutrition and wellness will be encouraged through the use of the newsletter and school website as well as individual teacher websites.

● Feedback will be collected during the annual school surveys.

● The wellness policy will be made available in the building and on the school website for families to review.

Implementation and Monitoring

● The Wellness Committee will implement and monitor the Wellness Policy.

● They will review the policy at least once a year and discuss any necessary changes.

FINANCE/FUNDRAISING

FUNDRAISING POLICY AND PROCEDURES

Fundraising is done to meet budgetary obligations as well as discretionary needs. All must be in compliance with the Mission and Philosophy of Saint John’s School and the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

No solicitations of funds by any group or individual representing Saint John’s School is allowed without prior approval of the Pastor and/or the Principal, and Finance Council as set forth in this policy.

The following procedures will be recognized with regard to submission of fundraising proposals:

1. Fundraising proposals should be submitted to the Fundraising Committee.

2. Once accepted by the Fundraising Committee, the written proposal will be presented to the School Advisory Council for discussion, with the principal deciding if the proposal is going forward to the Pastor and Finance Council.

3. The proposal must also be approved by the Parish Finance Council.

4. Any new fundraiser(s), when approved, would be on a trial basis and all Parish Fundraising Policies must be followed.

All Saint John’s families are expected to participate in the fundraising activities as outlined at the start of the school year.

PARISH INVESTMENT

Family contributions toward school operations (tuition, fees, fundraising) account for less than one half of the total educational cost of each student. The parish and its

members contribute the rest of the total educational cost for each student. Educational cost per student will be communicated at the start of each year. Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Saint John’s School so that we may keep our tuition affordable and provide assistance to families in need.

STATE AND FEDERAL PROGRAMS

There are several state and federal programs that non-public students may participate in on an equitable basis with public school children. These programs are administered through the local public school district. Saint John’s receives state and federal entitlements allocated on a per pupil basis.

State programs include:

● Education Aids for Non-public School Children – These dollars provide funding to purchase textbooks and related individualized instructional materials, and health services.

● Transportation – Minnesota public school districts must provide “equal transportation” within the district boundaries. The public school shall have sole discretion, control, and management of scheduling, routes, bus stop locations, and discipline.

● Shared Time Program – Non-public school students may be admitted by the school district to public school programs for part of the day. Examples included band and Special Education programming.

● School Lunch Program – State funds provide breakfast and lunch for students in Kindergarten through grade 8.

TUITION

Tuition for each child in grades Kindergarten through Eighth Grade for the 2025 - 2026 school year is as follows:

$5,989 First Child

$5,789 Second Child & Up

Students registering after February 14, 2025 must pay a $150.00 registration fee.

TUITION POLICY - Updated 2025

● The tuition agreement must be completed at the beginning of the school year. All tuition must be paid in full according to the payment plan selected by the family in their TADS Tuition Agreement.

● If the tuition agreement balance is not current, the following procedures will be implemented:

○ When an invoice due date exceeds 30 days, the School Administrative Assistant will reach out with a reminder that the invoice needs to be paid in full right away.

○ When an invoice due date exceeds 45 days, the Principal will reach out with a second notice that the invoice needs to be paid in full right away.

○ When the invoice due date exceeds 60 days, the Parish Business Administrator will reach out with a third notice that the invoice needs to be paid in full right away and will include the following:

○ Accounts that remain delinquent in excess of 4 months may result in cancellation of the tuition agreement and dismissal of the student.

○ When the invoice due date exceeds 120 days, the matter will be submitted to a collection agency for recovery of the outstanding balance.

○ Any continued outstanding bills not paid by June 30 of each year may result in a meeting with the Parish Business Administrator and/or Pastor to develop a payment plan. If no plan is reached, student registrations for the following year will be rescinded and the student(s) place(s) will not be held. A tuition collection agency may be contacted to collect the remaining tuition balance.

SCHOOL ORGANIZATIONS

SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL

The School Advisory Council (SAC) is composed of six to eight members. Meetings are held once a month. The School Advisory Council advises the pastor and principal in matters concerning the care and management of the school. Meetings are typically held the second Thursday of each month during the school year.

ENROLLMENT and SPIRIT COMMITTEE

This committee is made up of school families, alumni, and other stakeholders.

One purpose of this committee is to plan community outreach events to bring public awareness of Saint John the Baptist Catholic School and to attract new students, to build relationships to retain current families.

The second purpose of this committee is to cultivate Saint John’s school spirit. By working closely with the principal and other school volunteers, the committee creates unique opportunities for our school kids. This includes hosting small events and gatherings, helping with communication, and celebrating our current students.