2025-2026 Family Handbook

Family Handbook 2025-2026

ACADEMIC HONESTY

St. John’s students are expected to conduct themselves with honesty and integrity in their academic pursuits. Students are not to copy or share homework (unless instructed to do so as part of the assignment), give or receive answers, misrepresent another’s work as their own (plagiarism), or alter work without a teacher’s permission or direction. The consequences for a student found to have violated the School’s academic honesty policy are:

Lower Division

First Offense: A teacher-student conference is held, and parent(s)/guardian(s) are notified by the teacher

Second Offense: A parent(s)/guardian(s)-teacher-student conference is held; the student is required to redo the assignment

Third Offense: A parent(s)/guardian(s)-student meeting with the Division Director will be held to review the situation and to determine appropriate actions and consequences.

Middle Division

First Offense: The student will receive no credit for the assignment, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified, and a conference will be called with the teacher and the Division Director.

Second Offense: The student will receive no credit for the assignment, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified, the student may be suspended, and a conference will be called by the Head of School.

Third Offense: The student will most likely be immediately dismissed from St. John’s.

ACADEMIC PROGRAM AND POLICIES

The academic program at St. John’s offers a course of study that is intellectually challenging and strives to inspire a love of learning. The School seeks, develops, and refines a curriculum that is designed to promote the education of students who are knowledgeable, questioning, integrated, and reflective. The curriculum provides a variety of approaches to teaching and learning and is reviewed in light of ongoing educational research and evaluation.

Primary Division Educational Philosophy: The St. John’s Primary Division is comprised of a K(4) and K(5) child-centered, innovative educational experience for our Early Childhood students. The St. John’s program respects and honors the different developmental needs of each child.

Primary Division provides a balanced curriculum that includes both teacher-directed and student-initiated activities, as well as active experiences, and the understanding that learning occurs in both formal and informal settings. Learning takes place in a warm, nurturing environment designed to stimulate thinking, develop language, promote creative exploration, and problem-solving. The program encourages students to function independently and productively, foster satisfying relationships with peers and adults, develop a positive self-image, and exercise choices, which lead to discovery, experimentation, and self-expression. At its heart, the goal of the St. John’s early childhood experience is to prepare students to be confident lifelong learners.

Lower Division Educational Philosophy: The St. John’s Lower Division develops students through developmentally appropriate means. Ongoing collaboration takes place between administration, faculty, and staff to determine what we are doing well and what we can do better to challenge our students. Learning is active, engaging, and social. Students are engaged because they are part of constructing meaning. They are encouraged to meet challenges creatively, collaboratively, and apply critical thinking skills to real-world, unpredictable situations inside and outside of school, which will prepare them for future college, career, and citizenship success. The classroom instruction embraces both high standards and accountability for students’ learning through learning strategies that focus on service and the community, experiential and cooperative. These engaging learning strategies are grounded in instructional objectives, provide clear feedback, and enable students to thrive cognitively, socially, emotionally, and civilly.

Middle Division Educational Philosophy: The St. John’s Middle Division program provides a challenging above grade level academic program focused on developing a strong foundation, curiosity, critical thinking skills, and engaged learning. The learning community

provides a safe and nurturing environment to support the students through the transitional phase of the early adolescent years by providing strong role models who foster learning, organization, and responsibility.

Students’ burgeoning independence and need to express themselves are developed by honoring and respecting student voices and involving students in the decision-making process in the classroom and in student life. The goal is to motivate Middle Division students to express themselves, try new things, and get involved in the life of the School. The Middle Division provides a variety of extracurricular activities including athletics, service, and clubs to meet the social and emotional needs of the students.

The ultimate goal of the program is to produce intelligent, inquisitive, and motivated students who succeed in high school and grow into leaders of strong character.

ACCESS TO ST. JOHN’S CAMPUSES

The St. John’s campuses are private property, and no individual may be on the campuses or use campus facilities before, during, or after school hours without the express permission of the Head of School or his/her immediate delegates. Any individual who violates this policy will be considered as trespassing, and the school will respond appropriately. Furthermore, any individual entering a St. John’s campus without the express permission of the Head of School assumes all liability associated with his/her presence and releases St. John’s from any and all liability. This policy is in effect during the school year and whenever school is not in session.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION

Parent(s)/guardian(s) are encouraged to administer their child(ren)’s medications at times outside of school hours. If, however, there is an exceptional reason for administering medication at school, the school nurse will do so. If the school nurse is unable to be at the respective campus at the time medication is needed, the authorized office personnel will administer the medication. The medication must be sent to the Division office with the child’s name and dosage properly labeled and a completed Parental Authorization for the Administration of Medication form must be submitted in Magnus Health. All medication, including over-the-counter medications, should be taken to the respective Division office at the start of the school day and be in its original packaging.

ADMISSIONS

Applications are submitted online to the Director of Enrollment Management. The Admissions Office will schedule an assessment date and time for the child. Three priority wait pool categories include siblings of current students in good standing, children of active parishioners, and alumni legacies. The regular list includes all other applicants, therefore early application is encouraged. All applicants must meet admissions standards to be accepted.

Students applying for K(4)-Grade 8 must also supply school letters of recommendation and transcripts as applicable. Notification of acceptance will be sent with a corresponding contract. Students who perform well on their assessment and evaluation are placed in the wait pool if a grade is already full through grade 6. All students admitted to St. John’s are held to the same standards of achievement, and they must be self-supporting in all aspects of the curriculum and classroom activities.

Primary Division: Students entering K(4) must be four years old on or before September 1st of the year of entry, and students entering K(5) must be five years old on or before September 1st. All children must be toilet trained. Diapers, pull-ups, or the equivalent are not permitted. Students applying for K(4) and K(5) are given developmental readiness and group interaction assessments before admission. Admissions decisions are communicated to the parent(s)/guardian(s) at the end of the active admissions season.

Lower and Middle Divisions: Students applying for Grades 1-8 are assessed in reading comprehension, writing skills, and mathematics.

ADVANCEMENT

Philanthropy is at the heart of the independent school experience. The Office of Institutional Advancement leads our philanthropic efforts. St. John's is primarily a tuition-funded school, and our ability to provide a transformative education for our students depends primarily on tuition; however, the engagement and participation of our St. John's families and friends in philanthropic support for our

mission and work serves to elevate, enhance, and enrich the educational experience of every child. The Office of Institutional Advancement welcomes parental interest in our advancement work and invites all parent(s)/guardian(s) to participate and engage in our efforts.

Charitable donations to the School are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law and may include gifts of cash, stock, and in-kind gifts, among others. Donations provide the additional resources needed to make the best education possible for every student. Each donation is truly appreciated as it supports and advances the mission of St. John's.

Eagles Fund : The Eagles Fund, our school's annual giving program, is the most important philanthropic effort leading our work to meet the highest fundraising goals of our school year. Unrestricted giving to the Eagles Fund benefits every student and teacher across the school, and is used to enhance the classroom experience, enrich extra-curricular activities, the arts, athletics, empower professional development for faculty and staff, and provide tuition assistance for families with demonstrated financial need. As such, it is expected that every family contribute annually to the Eagles Fund to the very best of their ability. The Eagles Fund is a vital source of revenue for providing and enhancing each student's education.

Additional events throughout the school year may serve to support and enhance our annual giving goals and serve as additional avenues in which St. John's engages the school community in philanthropic support. Specific major gift and/or capital campaigns aligned within our school's strategic plan cultivate and build support for endowment, construction/renovation, and/or large project expenditures.

AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT ATTENDANCE

• If your child does not attend school the day of the after-school enrichment, your child may not come back to attend the enrichment after school.

• If your child is checked out from school in the afternoon and does not return to school during school hours, the child may not come back to attend the enrichment after school.

• If your child is checked out from school in the morning and returns after the appointment and is checked back into school in the morning, your child will be able to attend the enrichment after school.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM (ASP)

The After School Program provides safe, appropriate supervision, and care. The After School Program begins immediately after dismissal. The following policies and procedures apply to the After School Program:

• Cost: $25 registration fee per child and a $35 drop-in fee per child will be billed to parent(s)/guardian(s) (up to $350/month).

• A registration fee of $25 will also be charged on the first drop-in bill, if not paid previously.

• ASP ends promptly at 6:00 p.m. on all campuses.

• To pick up a child at ASP, please call 813.849.6200 (Primary Division), 813.766.6164 (Lower Division), or 813.507.9237 (Middle Division).

• Children who have not been picked up from school within the standard allowed pick-up time for their campus will be logged into ASP as “drop-ins,” and they will be charged the daily rate regardless of how long they stay.

• Parent(s)/guardian(s) picking up children late from ASP will be charged $1 per minute, per child, for each minute late.

• Habitual offenders may be dropped from the program.

• Payment of all fees to ASP is due the first of the month and is delinquent after the 15th. Delinquent accounts are charged a late fee of $25, and if payment is not received by the first of the following month ASP privileges will be revoked.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

The guiding principles behind our parking and car line policies are safety, efficiency, and respect. Accordingly, parent(s)/guardian(s) and other drivers are asked and expected to adhere to the established procedures.

Parent(s)/guardian(s) should be respectful of other drivers and surrounding streets and driveways. Parking in or otherwise blocking private driveways and public streets are inappropriate behaviors.

The School accepts NO liability for lost or stolen property or damage to any vehicle while it is parked on or near any of our campuses.

Primary Division: Drop-off and pick-up take place in the driveway directly in front of the Primary Division entrance.

● Please do not block the driveway at any time.

● Please do not stop or park in any red curb area or block any driveway while waiting in line.

● Drivers should approach the Primary Division driveway on Rome Avenue from the south (Bayshore Boulevard).

● U-turns in front of the Primary Division campus are not allowed.

● Please avoid turning left from the Primary Division driveway.

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) should wait their turn, one car at a time, directly in front of the Primary Division entrance.

● Arriving children should be ready to exit the vehicle immediately, from the passenger door only. Departing children should enter the car on the passenger side as well.

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) who are walking should approach the Primary Division only from the Watrous Avenue side and accompany walking children from home to the main entrance door.

Lower Division: All Lower Division drop-off and pick-up traffic should approach Orleans Avenue from Watrous Avenue.

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) driving to school on Bayshore Blvd. should turn onto Rome or Howard, and then approach the School via Watrous Avenue.

● If our parent(s)/guardian(s) are delinquent in this matter, the city will force the School to hire police officers and to absorb all associated expenses.

● Children should not be dropped off or picked up from cars in the middle or left lane.

● Please have children ready to exit/enter car immediately on the passenger side of the car.

● Please do not have book bags or other school items in the trunk.

● Please do not park or stand within 10 feet of a driveway.

● Please do not park in the School pick-up lane (yellow curb) during school days or in a designated 5-minute zone.

● If you need to walk into the School, please do not park along the School side of Orleans. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and children should use the crosswalk, and children should be physically escorted across the street by the parent(s)/guardian(s).

Middle Division: To enter the Middle Division car line, drive down Platt St. and turn left onto Parker Street (the street between Zudar’s and Publix), turn left onto the brick alley (behind Zudar’s) and follow the alley into the front parking lot.

● Please do not cut across the large parking lot to join the car line.

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) who prefer to walk up to pick up their child should turn left at the Plant-Platt intersection, and then immediately turn right onto Cardy Street to park in the parking lot behind the gym.

● Do not drive through the Publix parking lot.

ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

St. John’s believes that regular attendance is an integral part of a successful learning experience. With the exception of absence caused by illness or a circumstance approved by the School, students are required to be present and on time. Student absence deemed avoidable or unnecessary by St. John’s is disruptive to the learning environment and considered unexcused. Examples of unexcused absences are missing school for a family holiday, beginning school holidays late, or extending them. In such cases, teachers will not provide work for a student to complete during the absence, the ‘make-up’ of work missed will not be allowed, and the student will receive a zero on all work missed. A student who is absent for four consecutive days is required to provide the school with a note from his or her pediatrician. In all cases, the School retains the right to determine whether a student’s cumulative absence throughout the academic year is excessive. Possible consequences of excessive absences include the student being ineligible to matriculate to the next grade, and the most severe cases non-renewal of enrollment.

Absences: If a student is going to be absent for any reason, parent(s)/guardian(s) are asked and expected to call or email the respective Division office by 8:30 a.m. If a parent(s)/guardian(s) has not called in, office personnel will call home between 8:45 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. A student who is absent for four consecutive days is required to provide the school with a note from his or her pediatrician. If

student absences exceed more than six days in a semester, a meeting with the parent(s)/guardian(s) may be called to review the situation. If a student’s absences exceed 14 days in a school year, grade advancement and/or course credit may be in jeopardy.

The School realizes the difficulty faced in scheduling medical and other appointments for children. It is strongly urged, however, that all appointments, insofar as possible, be scheduled after school hours. If a student must visit a dentist, doctor, etc. during a school day, parent(s)/guardian(s) are requested to send a note to school prior to the appointment informing the teacher and the office of the student’s altered arrival or departure time. Before returning to class, a student must check-in at the respective Division office.

AWARDS

Students in Grades 1-8 who demonstrate exemplary citizenship throughout the year may be selected for the Soaring Eagle Award, to be announced at the year-end awards ceremony. Also at the year-end awards ceremony, the School makes an annual award in each section of Grades 1-8 to the student who, in the opinion of the faculty, has consistently demonstrated the greatest academic diligence throughout the school year. Diligence Awards continue to be the highest honor bestowed at St. John’s.

BIRTHDAYS AND PARTY INVITATIONS

We celebrate student birthdays at St. John’s! During Chapel, students, faculty, and staff are recognized on their birthday. Students with summer birthdays are celebrated at a special summer birthday Chapel on the last day of the school year.

Parent(s)/guardian(s) are welcome to send treats for children who are having a birthday. Birthday classroom celebrations should be simple and are to be discussed in advance with the student’s teacher. Please consult the teacher so he/she can suggest the best day and time for treats to be shared. All treats should be simple and identical.

Balloons, gift bags, soft drinks, and food containing nuts are not permitted. Treats must be store-bought. In Grades 1-8, the birthday child will share these treats with their homeroom at lunchtime. Pre-cut or individual treats may be delivered to the teacher for K(4) and K(5) and to the front office assistant for Grades 1-8. It is not permitted to distribute invitations, bring presents, or bring sleeping bags to school for after-school parties or functions. Exceptions may be made in distributing invitations at school with the foreknowledge and approval of the classroom teacher, and if the entire class is included.

CAMPUS SPECIFIC INFORMATION – PRIMARY DIVISION

Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Children may not be dropped off earlier than 7:30 a.m. Doors close, and school starts at 8:00 a.m. Primary Chapel begins at 8:05 a.m. daily. If your child is tardy, he/she must be signed into the school office. Your child will be escorted to class by the Division Administrative Assistant. Students cannot be dropped off to school after 11:00 a.m.

School ends at 2:50 p.m. Walk-up dismissal runs from 2:45 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. Any student not picked up by 3:10 p.m. will be signed into ASP and charged the drop-in rate. Students are not permitted to be dismissed early (before dismissal) on a regular basis for extracurricular activities (ex: dance, golf, etc.). Exceptions are possible only with the approval of the Division Director.

K(4) half-day students are to be picked up at 12:00 p.m. Students in both K(4) and K(5), who choose the Friday-only half-day option should be picked up at 12:00 p.m.

Please place the sign with your child’s last name on the dashboard of your vehicle (you will receive these signs at the start of school).

After School Enrichments: Enrichment classes are offered after school at each campus and vary in offering and cost. Classes are held in trimester format, and details will be communicated through Eagles Wings and via email.

Backpacks: Backpacks should be large enough to hold a large book and lunch box. Backpacks with wheels are not permitted.

Communication: Weekly class communication will inform parent(s)/guardian(s) of upcoming classroom activities and target their attention to important homework highlights and issues in the coming days.

Playground Safety: Playground rules are devised to ensure that students play safely and have a good time. St. John’s students are expected to respect and adhere to the playground rules. Swings are for swinging only, and students are expected to:

● Swing straight and face the playground.

● Have only one student on each swing.

● Stop the swing before getting off.

● When waiting for a swing, stand back from the student swinging and count to twenty.

Snacks: Parent(s)/guardian(s) should send a snack with their child every day. Snack baggies should be labeled. If parent(s)/guardian(s) wish to send in a special treat, which must be store-bought for all section members, please notify the teacher at least a day in advance. Parent(s)/guardian(s) of students must send a lunch or purchase a lunch through the provided vendor.

CAMPUS SPECIFIC INFORMATION – LOWER DIVISION

Doors open at 7:30 a.m., close at 7:55 a.m., and School begins at 7:55 a.m. Chapel begins at 8:00 a.m. and the church doors will be locked for safety. If a child arrives after Chapel begins, he/she must be signed in at the office and will be escorted to Chapel via the back hallways.

If your child is tardy, he/she must be signed into the Division office. Your child will be escorted to class by the Division Director or the Administrative Assistant.

Students should not be dropped off at the Lower Division after 12:30 p.m. during the school day. Although academic classes do occur in the afternoon, it is most important for students to be present for the majority of the school day and not simply for the last hour or two. The Division Director has sole discretion to make allowances for student arrival after 12:30 p.m. as necessitated by unavoidable situations. Please reach out to the Division Director should you need to discuss a later arrival on any given day.

Dismissal runs from 2:50 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. for drive-up and walk-up. Children not picked up by 3:15 p.m. will be checked into ASP and will be charged the drop-in rate. Students are not permitted to be dismissed early (before dismissal) on a regular basis for extracurricular activities (ex: dance, golf, etc.). Exceptions are possible only with the approval of the Division Director.

For afternoon dismissal, the Lower Division employs the use of PikMyKid. Please affix the PikMyKid sticker (dispersed to families at the start of school) on the right, lower portion of your windshield so that the faculty dispatcher can clearly see the appropriate information. Please also be sure to announce your child(ren) at the appropriate check point within the dismissal carline or walk-up line. If a dismissal change is to occur (i.e., carpooling or another person picking up a student) please add the appropriate delegate within the PikMyKid app. The Division Director can assist with any technical questions regarding the use of PikMyKid.

The School must also be notified of any dismissal change via phone call or email to the campus Administrative Assistant by 12:00 p.m. If a child has a medical appointment before dismissal or departs early for any reason, parent(s)/guardian(s) must sign their child(ren) out in the office.

Absences: If a student is going to be absent for any reason, parent(s)/guardian(s) are asked and expected to call or email the respective Division office by 8:30 a.m. If a parent/guardian has not called in, office personnel will call home between 8:45 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.

After School Enrichments: Enrichment classes are offered after school at each campus and vary in offering and cost. Classes are held in trimester format, and details will be communicated through Eagles Wings and via email.

Discipline Philosophy: The focus of the Lower Division discipline policy is to promote positive behavior choices by recognizing students who engage in consistent, positive behavior. However, mistakes are a natural part of growth. Teachers help students reflect on errors in judgment and behavior and support them in learning how to make better decisions. St. John’s teaches and models positive behavior, including listening, cooperation, and mutual respect; and encourages students to make independent decisions and act responsibly towards others and with school property.

While most students consistently follow these standards and behave safely and appropriately, there are times when misbehavior warrants intervention and consequences. Teachers and other staff use a variety of classroom and behavior management strategies to address such behavior. When these strategies are not successful in changing that behavior and/or serious incidents occur, it is necessary for additional action to be taken by the Division Director

Careful consideration is given to individual situations so that the School’s response to the student is appropriate. Consequences may be increased in cases of repeat offenses.

Examinations: Grade 4 will take examinations at the end of Quarter 2 in December and Quarter 4 in May. The examination grades will be communicated and posted on both respective quarter report cards. However, fourth grade examination scores are not incorporated into quarter grades. Examinations in the fourth grade are designed to further prepare students’ test taking skills for their move to the Middle Division without impact of incorporating examination results into final quarter grades.

Grading: All graded work, tests, and examinations will be evaluated with letter grades (A, B, C, D, and F). These grades are described in qualitative terms and provided with numerical range equivalents (on a 100% scale). Plus and minus signs will be used to indicate high and low ranges for each letter grade.

Grade 4 will take examinations at the end of Quarter 2 in December and Quarter 4 in May. The examination grades will be communicated and posted on both respective quarter report cards. However, fourth grade examination scores are not incorporated into quarter grades. Examinations in the fourth grade are designed to further prepare students’ test taking skills for their move to the Middle Division without impact of incorporating examination results into final quarter grades.

Art, Technology Innovation, Divinity, Music, Physical Education, SRA, Spanish, and Science (Grades 1-4) are graded E, S+, S, S-, and U.

Homework: Homework at Lower Division will be left on the benches by the front gate of the Lower Division office by 3:30 p.m. so that it may be picked up by parent(s)/guardian(s) after dismissal.

Lunch/Snack: Parent(s)/guardian(s) should send a snack with their child(ren) every day. Parent(s)/guardian(s) must also send a daily lunch with their child(ren) or purchase a lunch through the school’s provided vendor. If parent(s)/guardian(s) wish to send in a special treat, please notify the homeroom teacher at least a day in advance. Special treats that are sent in for a particular class (or in some cases an entire grade) must be store bought and not homemade.

Playground Safety: Playground rules are devised to ensure that students play safely and have a good time. St. John’s students are expected to respect and adhere to the following playground rules: ● Students will always use appropriate language and be considerate of others’ feelings. No mean or hurtful statements will be

allowed. All games will be open. Students will allow other students to join in games and always share equipment.

● No eating is allowed in designated play areas. After snack or lunch, all debris must be recycled/thrown away before going to a designated play area.

● Students are expected to stay within assigned playground boundaries. Bathrooms, classrooms, and hallways are not playing areas.

● Soccer balls, basketballs, foursquare balls, softballs, and volleyballs may not be thrown at students, adults, or buildings.

Structures: Student Rules

● No playing tag or running on the structures.

● No jumping off the structures.

CAMPUS SPECIFIC INFORMATION – MIDDLE DIVISION

Doors open at 7:30 a.m., homerooms open at 7:45 a.m., and School begins at 7:55 a.m. Please have children ready to exit/enter the car immediately on the passenger side of car. Please do not have book bags or other school items in the trunk. If a child arrives after 7:50 a.m., parent(s)/guardian(s) should walk the child to the office and sign them in.

Dismissal runs from 3:05 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. each afternoon for drive-up and walk-up. Children not picked up by 3:30 p.m. will be checked into ASP and will be charged the drop-in rate. Parent(s)/guardian(s) should use PikMyKid to announce arrival on campus for pick up. Parent(s)/guardian(s) using the carline should push “announce” on the app when you approach the announce sign located in the alley. Parent(s)/guardian(s) using walk-up should change the pick-up mode on the app to “walk-up” before 2:30 p.m. and push “announce” on the app after parking in the gym parking lot. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and those delegated to pick up should know the student’s PikMyKid number.

If a child has a medical appointment before dismissal, parent(s)/guardian(s) must sign the child out in the office. Students are not permitted to be dismissed early (before dismissal) on a regular basis for extracurricular activities (ex: golf, dance, etc.). Exceptions are possible only with the approval of the Division Director.

Parent(s)/guardian(s) bringing students late for school should park only in the visitor spaces in front of the School and walk their child into the School office. Parent(s)/guardian(s) coming to School for business or visits should park in the visitor spaces in front of the School

Absences: When a student is out due to illness or planned absence, he/she should observe the following policy:

• Students should rely on Veracross and upon return, students should follow-up with their teachers on what was missed.

• Work is not given in advance to Middle Division students, nor available for pick up in the front office. Assessments and in-class assignments missed during absences must be completed within the equal number of days a student was absent from School. In the event of multiple tests missed, administration will create a schedule and notify teachers and parent(s)/guardian(s) Assessment make-ups can occur during Choice Time and Testing Center.

Academic Probation and Retention: If a student receives two D grades, or one F grade or more at the end of any marking period, his/her long-term enrollment is in jeopardy.

If a Student Council member goes on Academic Probation, he/she will be placed on inactive status with Student Council. No student may be elected to the Student Council while on Academic Probation.

If a recommendation is made for a student to repeat a grade the following year, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be contacted and at least three conferences will be held. Criteria used in evaluating the need for retention include the following:

● The student is more than one level behind the expected St. John’s reading level for that grade.

● The student has a failing average in language arts or math.

● The student has not demonstrated mastery of skills for that grade after remediation.

● The student demonstrates a maturation and developmental rate slower than others at that grade level.

● It is felt that the student will benefit from the retention.

If there is a question as to whether a student will qualify to return to St. John’s for the following year, his/her enrollment contract deadline may be extended. If a Grade 8 student has a failing grade average in any graded course by the end of the school year, his/her transcript will state that the student did not complete the full academic requirements for graduation from St. John’s and must satisfactorily complete a remediation plan created by the School in order to receive a St. John’s diploma.

Athletics: The major reason for the St. John’s athletic program is to have fun and enjoy participating in an activity. St. John’s always strives to win, but that is not the main focus. The most important victory is building self-esteem and developing positive social skills. Officials and opponents are not enemies; they are always to be treated with the utmost respect. Arguing with or denigrating teammates is never tolerated. This spirit of respect, cooperation, and friendship applies as well to coaches, parent(s)/guardian(s), cheerleaders, and fans. It is St. John’s goal that participation in this league is a positive experience for all involved. For some students and parent(s)/guardian(s), this philosophy may not be consistent with theirs. The School respects this and suggests the students and parent(s)/guardian(s) find other programs compatible with their ideas.

Coaches will make all decisions based on what they feel is in the best interest of the team as a whole. Playing time, players’ positions, and strategy are determined solely at the discretion of the coach. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are not to confront a coach at a game or practice. If there is a concern to discuss, please contact the St. John’s Athletic Director.

Student-athletes are eligible to play on a St. John’s athletic team if they are in good academic and behavioral standing. If a studentathlete misses a class during the School day for any reason other than an unchangeable doctor’s appointment, he/she may not be eligible to compete in an interscholastic game/match on that day. An excused absence requires a formal, signed doctor’s note at the time the student-athlete signs into school late. Otherwise, all student-athletes must be at School by 8:15 a.m. in order to be eligible to play in a contest that day. The Head of School may determine that a student-athlete is ineligible because of academic or disciplinary reasons.

A student-athlete may participate in one sport per season. A student-athlete committed to a sport may not quit that sport during the season to begin practices for the next sport’s season. Student-athletes playing on a non-St. John’s team are expected to prioritize their School’s sport in the event of schedule conflicts.

It is our hope that everyone who wants to play can be placed on a team. Coaches try to avoid “cutting” from any sport. Exception: Tennis teams (boys and girls) are limited to 11 athletes per team. At the beginning of each season, try-outs will be held to determine team placement.

Grades 7 and 8 are eligible to play at the varsity level, although it is possible for exceptional Grade 6 student-athletes to participate at this level. Grade 6 student-athletes are eligible to participate at the junior varsity level unless there is only enough student-athletes for one team overall. *Grade 5 student-athletes may only participate in Cross Country and Track & Field in an "in-house" intramural’s capacity; they are not permitted to practice or play on any of the 6th-8th teams.

Teams are transported to away games and to off-campus practices by bus; however, it is a drop off only. Team members will need to be driven home by their parent(s)/guardian(s) Parent(s)/guardian(s) will be responsible for a timely pickup from all sporting events. Student-athletes must check out individually with the coach before leaving. Student-athletes represent St. John’s when they travel and must be on their best behavior. Seat belts are required to be always worn when available in the vehicle.

Athletic uniforms are loaned to student-athletes at the beginning of each season, and uniforms must be returned to the coach within two weeks of the end of each season. A replacement fee of $100 will be assessed to lost, non-returned, or damaged uniforms. Studentathletes will not be given a uniform for another sport until the prior season’s uniform has been returned or the $100 fee has been paid.

Athletic Teams by Season:

• Fall: Boys Soccer (Grades 6-8), Girls Volleyball (Grades 6-8), Cross Country (Grades *5-8)

• Winter: Boys and Girls Basketball (Grades 6-8), Girls Soccer (Grades 6-8), Track and Field (Grades *5-8)

• Spring: Boys Baseball (Grades 6-8), Girls Softball (Grades 6-8), Boys and Girls Tennis (Grades 6-8), Boys and Girls Flag Football (Grades 6-8)

Communications: Weekly Middle Division assignments are posted on Veracross by 5:00 p.m. every Sunday.

Discipline Policy: St. John’s strives to develop accountability, self-discipline, honesty, and respect for others; however, sometimes, mistakes are made. Mistakes help us learn, grow, and become more accountable and responsible. When a student fails to meet an expectation, he/she will receive an infraction. St. John’s views discipline as a learning experience and the disciplinary response will vary depending on the nature of the offense. Examples of disciplinary responses may include the student meeting with a teacher, the Assistant Director of Middle Division & Dean of Students for Boys, or a parent(s)/guardian(s) conference to make a plan to improve behavior. Depending on the violation, detention may be assigned. Detention is held during lunch or after school.

Examples of violations that may be considered as a serious disciplinary offense include but are not limited to the following:

● Accumulation of infractions

● Academic dishonesty

● Discriminatory behavior, action, speech, or remarks

● Identifiable bullying behavior

● Fighting

● Inappropriate or vulgar language

● Theft or vandalism

● Alcohol, tobacco, or drugs

● Harassment

In-school suspension means that the student will spend the day in isolation at school under the auspices of an adult. The student will work on class assignments, and teachers may visit the student to provide guidance for the work. The student will not be allowed to socialize with other students for the duration of the suspension. In addition, the student may not participate in any extra-curricular activities for the duration of the suspension, including the afternoon or evening of the day(s) of the suspension.

Out-of-school suspension is a possible consequence if a student commits a major infraction or exhibits a pattern of violating behavioral expectations. If a suspension has been assigned as part of the student’s disciplinary action, a meeting with the Assistant Director of Middle Division & Dean of Students for Boys, parent(s)/guardian(s), and the suspended student may be required before the student may return to classes. Academics may be affected since the student will be required to take any quizzes or tests missed immediately upon return to classes. These quizzes or tests will be made up between the hours of 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on consecutive days beginning with the student’s first day back. The student is also responsible for any quizzes or tests due to be taken on the day of return. The student is prohibited from attending school-related or sponsored activities while on suspension.

Disciplinary probation is a period of time during which the student is subject to expulsion should he/she break a major rule. In addition to other penalties, major violations may result in disciplinary probation for up to one year.

Probation prohibits a student from seeking an elected office and/or serving in such capacity and may also prohibit students from attending or participating in school functions including field trips. Probation may prohibit students from participating in any overnight

trips. Students who wish to attend school functions while on probation may do so only with the permission of the Assistant Director of Middle Division & Dean of Students for Boys. They must request this permission in writing.

Probationary status may be reviewed at the student’s request. The request should be in the form of a written letter stating what the student has learned from the entire experience and requesting removal from probation. The reasons for requesting this removal should be clearly stated. The student’s request is then presented to the Assistant Director of Middle Division & Dean of Students for Boys, who may gather input from the faculty, and then discuss reasons for or against the student’s removal from probation. The Assistant Director of Middle Division & Dean of Students for Boys, in consultation with the Director of Middle Division and the Head of School, makes the final decision. The decision will be made known to all involved.

The Assistant Director of Middle Division & Dean of Students for Boys & Dean of Students for Boys is responsible for notifying the parent(s)/guardian(s) and the faculty and for administering whatever punishment is indicated. It may be appropriate to recommend counseling. All records of disciplinary action are kept in the division office. Suspension and expulsion are part of a student’s permanent school record.

Being on time to class is a separate disciplinary issue. Each student is allowed five tardies to any class per quarter without consequence. Subsequent tardies will result in detention.

Grading and Examinations: Teachers grade all quizzes, tests, and compositions. Reports are conveyed electronically.

Grading Structure and System: All graded work, tests, and examinations will be evaluated with letter grades (A, B, C, D, and F). These grades are described in qualitative terms and provided with numerical range equivalents (on a 100% scale). Plus and minus signs will be used to indicate high and low ranges for each letter grade.

Semester grades will include the two-quarter grades and the examination grade, according to the following formulae: the two quarter grades (40% each), the semester examinations (20%). Final grades for Grades 5-8 are calculated 20-20-10-20-20-10.

Graduation Dress: Graduation dress and conduct need to match the special importance of this occasion. All male graduates must wear freshly pressed khaki pants, collared white dress shirts, a tie, navy sports coat or jacket, and dress shoes. All female graduates must wear a white dress that may not be floor length but must be at least finger-tip length, must have a back, may not have spaghetti straps, and may not be low-cut in the front. Shoes must be flat or low-heeled.

Head’s List and Honor Roll: To attain the Head’s List, Middle Division students in Grades 5-8 must have grades of A- or above in all of their letter-grade courses. In order to attain Honor Roll status, Middle Division students in Grades 5-8 must receive grades of Bor above. The Head’s List and Honor Roll will be determined at the end of each academic quarter, with appropriate recognition of the cited students.

High School Counseling: St. John's approaches the high school selection process with the mantra "High School is a match to be made and not a prize to be won." Identifying and selecting the optimal high school setting - public or non-public - is an extremely important decision. The School strives to provide as much information as possible in order to assist our families in this process, while making it clear that St. John's is not a "feeder school" for any area high school. Our allegiance is to our families alone. In the Middle Division,

where academic guidance is most important as the student plans for his/her future, the Director of Middle Division works with parent(s)/guardian(s) and students on high school selection and placement. The Director of Middle Division, in partnership with the faculty, completes high school registration documents and is in close contact with the Admissions Directors of Tampa area high schools. Local high schools are invited to present to Grade 8 students on our campus in the fall, and students are encouraged to shadow at their chosen school(s).

Honor Code: St. John’s is a Christian school that holds faculty, staff, and students to a higher standard of conduct to allow themselves and others to feel comfortable and to achieve high levels of learning. To accomplish this goal, each person must uphold and follow the honor code.

I will make a commitment to myself, my peers, and all the adults in the community to reflect a person of integrity, kindness, good character, respect, and responsibility. I will make a commitment to uphold and encourage the following:

● Academic Integrity

o I will follow academic instructions.

o I will only use permitted websites and technology.

o I will always do my own work and never copy someone else's work.

o I will put forth my best effort on all my assignments.

o I will avoid plagiarism by using proper citations.

● Good Character

o I will have integrity.

o I will have empathy.

o I will show kindness.

o I will be understanding.

o I will do the right thing, even if no one is watching.

● Respect

o I will be inclusive in the community.

o I will respect authority.

o I will respect myself and others.

o I will respect the property of others.

o I will respect our community.

o I will respect and uphold the classroom environment.

o I will respect and uphold the Christian core values of our school.

● Responsibility

o I will come to class prepared

o I will be mindful of school property.

o I will use and take care of my iPad and other technology responsibly.

o I will maintain the school’s dress code.

o I will take full responsibility for my actions.

o I accept the consequences for my actions.

o I will work towards self-improvement and learn from my mistakes.

o I will demonstrate a personal responsibility to do positive things with my God given abilities.

As a member of the St. John’s community, I hereby pledge to honor and uphold the true values that are expected of a student and member of our community.

Lockers: Middle Division lockers are the property of the School and should not be locked with a personal lock. Objects or substances which are not allowed on campus may not be stored in school lockers.

Technology/Graphing Calculator Policy: The School issues graphing calculators for students in Grades 7 & 8 who are enrolled in Algebra I and Geometry. If the calculator is lost or damaged during the school year, the student will be billed for a replacement. The calculators are property of the School and must be returned when a student graduates or leaves St. John’s, or they will be charged the full amount of the device.

CHAIN OF COMMAND

When School personnel need to communicate with parent(s)/guardian(s), they will email, call, or arrange a conference. When parent(s)/guardian(s) need to communicate with the school personnel, they should email the teacher and/or arrange for a conference through the appropriate Division office.

A parent(s)/guardian(s) first contact should always be with the child’s teacher. If, after communication with the teacher, further discussion is needed, the respective Division Director will be available. If questions remain, parent(s)/guardian(s) may then make an appointment to see the Head of School. School personnel will strive to reply to all parental communications within 24 hours unless a weekend or vacation intervenes.

St. John’s strives to ensure that families are always informed of all school activities in a timely fashion. This is done primarily through the School’s website, weekly Eagles Wings e-newsletter, and social media. The ultimate responsibility for being fully aware of all School activities lies with parent(s)/guardian(s)

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) are asked on a routine electronic cycle to update personal information, so the school database contains your most current information. This includes current home, business, and cellular phone numbers; email information; and emergency contact information should you be unavailable.

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive a weekly email newsletter, Eagles Wings, which contains important information/updates. Please take the time to review it, so you are apprised and prepared for scheduled school events.

● The School’s official website is www.stjohnseagles.org and it contains comprehensive information about the School.

● The School’s academic calendar is updated on MySJE annually in July, and throughout the year.

CHANGE OF MAILING ADDRESS, TELEPHONE, OR EMAIL ADDRESS

St. John’s families are requested to promptly update their profile in Veracross and Facts Management when there is a change in a mailing address, telephone number, or email address

Steps to update Veracross profile:

• Login to MySJE (https://portals.veracross.com/sje)

• Click the navy button on the right hand side titled "Update Family Profile"

• There are a multitude of options of changes can be made, click on the blue title of whichever item(s) you would like to update and click edit.

Steps to update FACTS Management profile:

• Log in to parent(s)/guardian(s) account

• Follow prompts to mailing address, telephone number, or email address change

CHAPEL

Chapel service joins the community in prayer, song, and sharing. Please see below for the Chapel schedules for Primary, Lower, and Middle Divisions.

There are no Chapel services on days when classes are not in session. Chapel is designed to:

● Give expression to and offer experiences of God’s loving care in our world and lives.

● Deepen the sense of our Episcopal worship tradition in a welcoming, inclusive manner.

● Build community spirit and common concern for one another as a school family.

● Help us to meet the challenges of daily life with a sense of joy, gratitude, and peace.

The School Chaplain and other faculty lead these services. Members of the administration, faculty, and staff, as well as students, play an essential role through their presence and participation in the Bible readings and prayers, and by serving as acolytes and sacristans. Students and faculty share in the responsibility of ensuring that Chapel is a meaningful period of worship and reflection for the whole School family. Accordingly, students are expected to enter and leave Chapel quietly and reverently, be in proper uniform, and participate and share in the community worship experience. Attendees at Chapel may not bring food or beverages, must turn off all electronic devices, and remove hats or caps. No flash photography is allowed in the Church or Chapel during services.

Chapel Schedule

Campus Day of Service

Primary Division

Lower Division

Middle Division

Time

M-F

M, T, Th W (HolyEucharist)

M, T, F Th (HolyEucharist)

Location

8:05 a.m. – 8:15 a.m. Breezeway

8:00 a.m. – 8:20 a.m. 8:00 am – 8:45 am

St. John’s Church

St. John’s Church

9:30 a.m. – 9:48 a.m. 10:12 am – 10:59 am Price Chapel Price Chapel

Primary and Lower Division parent(s)/guardian(s) are invited to attend Chapel with their child on scheduled days starting at the end of September. The respective Division Director will communicate the first September parent Chapel.

CHATGPT

In November of 2022, OpenAI released ChatGPT, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbox capable of creating humanlike responses which has captivated nearly all sectors including education. At this time, the Technology Department and Administrative Team at St. John’s is researching the most effective and appropriate ways to utilize this technology. In alignment with our commitments to academic excellence and integrity, we expect that all work that is submitted by students or completed by faculty and staff as part of their professional obligations is their original, authentic work and has not been generated by ChatGPT or any other AI tool.

COMMUNICATION BETWEEN HOME AND SCHOOL

St. John’s recognizes the value and importance of timely and respectful communication between home and school and strives to do so in good faith and the best interests of our students, families, and School. When students and families reciprocate in kind, ensuring that discussions in school and in the community are constructive with positive attributions, the potential for a successful working partnership is maximized as we strive for excellence in all endeavors.

St. John’s values constructive, respectful feedback from our constituents. Parent(s)/guardian(s) interested in discussing any aspect of their child’s experience at St. John’s are welcome to contact the respective Division Director so that concerns or issues can be identified and addressed in a timely and effective manner.

St. John’s will communicate with divorced parent(s)/guardian(s) of students according to any arrangement(s) specified in court documents provided to the School. In the absence of any specific legal directive to do otherwise, St. John’s will provide all parent(s)/guardian(s) of record with school information, including copies of student’s academic, attendance, and other records.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Coffees with the Head of School: Parent(s)/guardian(s) coffees following morning Chapel are hosted by the Head of School. Parent(s)/guardian(s) coffees provide an opportunity for parent(s)/guardian(s) to meet with the Head of School, as well as join with other parent(s)/guardian(s) in an informal setting to discuss educational and school community topics. Please consult the St. John’s calendar for scheduled dates and locations.

CONCUSSION POLICY AND RETURN TO ATHLETICS

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “A concussion is a type of brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Concussions can also occur from a fall or blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. Even what seems to be a mild bump to the head can be serious.” Using the Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, the School has established the following policies for head injuries in School:

● Any student suspected to have sustained a head injury no matter how minor will be sent to the respective Division office to be evaluated for signs and symptoms of a concussion.

● If signs and symptoms of a concussion are present, the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) will be contacted for immediate follow up with a physician, urgent care, or the Emergency Room.

● If signs and symptoms of concussion are NOT present, the student is okay to return to class. The respective Division office will contact by phone the parent(s)/guardian(s) advising of the head injury.

● If any of these signs or symptoms of a concussion develop, the family should follow up with a physician, urgent care, or Emergency Room immediately.

● In the case of a severe head injury, Emergency Services will be contacted. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will be contacted after 911 is activated.

A student athlete who has suffered a concussion will be allowed to return to athletic competition upon the provision of a note from the student athlete’s attending physician stating the student athlete is medically cleared to do so.

CORE VALUES

Academic Excellence: St. John’s proudly prioritizes academic excellence, an evolving concept in today’s dynamic world. Never static, the St. John’s curriculum not only prepares its students for future academic success but also builds a platform for students to explore confidently and creatively an ever-changing world of opportunities.

Citizenship: St. John’s is committed to our internal St. John’s family and our surrounding community. This commitment means we are servants to each other after the example of Christ, and we recognize that the blessings we enjoy provide us with the opportunity and obligation to give back.

Diligence: St. John’s fosters an environment in which the simple pursuit of our goals defines success. Initiative, effort, and personal responsibility, once instilled, help St. John’s students overcome any perceived obstacle, building resilience and empowering the individual to define their own growth.

Inclusiveness: Situated just outside of the heart of downtown Tampa, St. John’s strives to reflect our city’s diverse communities. As an Episcopal school, we seek to cultivate open hearts and open minds, and understand the power of cultural and spiritual inclusivity in our increasingly global environment.

Integrity: St. John’s honors the high ethical standards we set for ourselves and each other, and we lead by example in our lives both inside and outside St. John’s.

DISCIPLINARY PHILOSOPHY

Discipline is vital to the development of character and self-control. St. John’s discipline policies and procedures are established to protect the good of all and teach responsibility, accountability, and character building. School rules and regulations exist in order to create a respectful campus atmosphere in which students of differing interests and personalities come together in community to live out the Mission and Core Values of St. John’s. As parent(s)/guardian(s) are the primary educators of their children and responsible for their development and the discipline necessary to achieve self-directed, kind, and ethically sound behaviors, the School expects to partner with parent(s)/guardian(s) in this responsibility and to work cooperatively with them in mutual support for the benefit of the student.

Disciplinary procedures are developed in light of the educational Mission of the School and designed to reinforce self-discipline, the acceptance of personal responsibility, and respect for self and others. St. John’s recognizes that children are indeed ‘works in progress’ and provides a nurturing and supportive environment for their personal, social, and emotional growth and development. However, if the School concludes a student’s negative behavior is detrimental to the learning environment and/or opportunity for others to learn, he/she will most likely be permanently separated from the School.

Reporting of Discipline: As part of their process, many independent school admissions offices require the student and/or St. John’s to provide information about the student’s disciplinary history. If such a request is made to St. John’s, the School will respond honestly.

DISTANCE LEARNING (Available for Students of Grades 1-8)

St. John’s believes that when a student is not well enough to attend school, they are not well enough to participate in the learning process. At the same time, there may be circumstances surrounding anextendedabsence(greater than one day) that allow for a student to participate via distance learning. In such circumstances, the School strives to be fully supportive and accommodating of families, while also retaining the discretion to determine whether or not it can offer distance learning, and for how long. Timely communication by the family is key, and any family requesting this accommodation should contact the respective Division Director.

Distance Learning Policy – General: The following information sets out the expectations and details associated with Distance Learning:

● Students enrolled in distance learning will be held to the same academic standards as those on campus.

● Students are expected to follow along with the class and complete assignments during the class period as if they were in the class on campus.

● Students will complete all homework assignments and submit them electronically by the posted due dates.

● Students should use Google Classroom to communicate with teachers. It is the student’s responsibility to check for teacher communication notifications.

● Students are expected to exhibit the same courtesy, respect, digital citizenship, and academic integrity online as you would on campus.

● Students may be required to take tests on campus in an isolated setting after school.

Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Expectations

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) should check Veracross each Sunday after 5:00 p.m. for upcoming week’s homework and tests.

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) should monitor Veracross to check on student’s grades and progress.

● Parent(s)/guardian(s) should email the teacher with concerns. All emails are answered within 24 hours.

● It would be helpful for parent(s)/guardian(s) to have a printer available for student use.

● For students in younger grades (First and Second), it may be reasonable and necessary at times for a parent(s)/guardian(s) to assist and participate in their child(ren)’s distance learning school day.

What Distance Learning is Not

● Given the logistics involved with distance learning (the need for the student to collect learning materials and the teacher to prepare a hybrid classroom), distance learning is not intended for or available for an absence limited to one day.

● Distance Learning is not intended for or available for family convenience (running late, to accommodate trips or vacations when school is in session (please see the Attendance Policy for more details)

● Fine Arts and Physical Education will not be offered to students via distance learning. St. John’s encourages students to use the time in the schedule for Fine Arts and Physical Education to get rest or read.

Zoom Procedures and Policies

● All school supplies and books, including a St. John’s iPad, will be sent home as soon as possible before the absence begins. Further materials determined by curriculum and schedule may need to be picked up, if and as, the absence continues.

● Students and parent(s)/guardian(s) will be required to sign a Zoom policy.

● Students will follow the homeroom class schedule and will participate via Zoom.

● Students should sign on to Zoom on his/her school iPad during passing time before class starts so the teachers can accept the student to the Zoom before class begins.

● All non-lesson materials (toys, trinkets, etc.) should be kept off screen.

● Students should not play music during a lesson that would be distracting for him/her or others within the class.

● Students will use Google Classroom for information regarding announcements and assignments.

● The student profile picture should be the student’s first name only.

● Students should have on a uniform top (or spirit shirt on Friday) and be seated at a table or desk.

● The video must always be on. If a student would like to use a green screen to block the view of the room and interior of the house, he/she must choose one of the school-approved options.

● The audio should be on mute.

● Students should always be respectful of the proper use of Zoom functions (sharing their screens, annotating, chat features, etc.) and only use them when instructed by a teacher and never at other times.

● The student should use the “raise hand” option if he/she has a question. As feasible during a given lesson, and with respect in mind, a student may ask for help audibly if the teacher does not discern the “raise hand” function after a reasonable amount of time.

● Student cell phone use during class time is prohibited.

● There will be opportunities (arranged by the teacher(s) and parent(s)/guardian(s)) throughout the week for students to meet remotely with their teacher(s) to connect and communicate about the work and the curriculum.

● Attendance is expected every day, and students should attend the entire lesson and not leave after a portion of it.

● Meals and snacks should not be consumed while on Zoom during dedicated class time.

EARLY CHECKOUT

A student may leave early if signed out by his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) in person. Parent(s)/guardian(s) should come to the office to sign out the student. The administrative assistant will contact the child’s teacher, and the student will go or be brought to the office. When the student is returned to school, the parent(s)/guardian(s) must go to the office and sign the child back into school.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

The School has contingency plans for weather, accidents, medical emergencies, and crises. Fire extinguishers are located strategically throughout the buildings. Faculty and staff members have specific instructions to follow if a fire is suspected. Fire escape routes are posted in each classroom. Unscheduled fire drills are carried out regularly. Routine inspections are made by the Fire Marshal. There are security cameras on all three campuses. There are AEDs in all campus offices, the Lower Division Sports Deck, outside the Lower Division Church office, and the Middle Division gymnasium

Inclement Weather Closing: The decision to close St. John’s is made by the Head of School. The notice to close is usually 6:00 a.m. via email, on the School’s website, social media, and sent via text to members of the school community.

EPISCOPAL IDENTITY

St. John’s is an Episcopal Parish Day School and as such has a foundation in the Christian faith. We seek to integrate religious and spiritual formation into the overall curriculum and life of our school community in a way that celebrates the inclusiveness that is the Mission of Episcopal schools. We invite all who attend and work at St. John’s – Episcopalians and non-Episcopalians, Christians and non-Christians, and people of no faith tradition – both to seek clarity about their own beliefs and religions and to honor those traditions more fully and faithfully in their own lives. Above all, we exist not merely to educate, but to demonstrate and proclaim the unique worth and beauty of all human beings as creations of a loving, empowering God.

FIELD TRIPS

Participation in any School-sponsored field trip is a privilege. The parent(s)/guardian(s) understands and agrees, on behalf of his/her child or ward, to all of these terms, and further agrees to fully release and hold harmless St. John’s Inc. and St. John’s Parish Inc., and its employees, administrators, vestry members, Trustees, affiliates and insurers (the “released individuals”) from any and all injuries, damages, or losses of any kind to his/her child or ward, or to the property of the child or ward, arising out of or related to the use of

any electronic device on campus or during a school-sponsored trip. The parent(s)/guardian(s) fully understands and agrees that this agreement operates to waive all rights to pursue relief for injuries, damages or losses against the released individuals in any forum and under any theory, including theories of contract, invasion of privacy, property damage or tort, related to the use or exposure of his/her child or ward to electronic devices or to the use of electronic devices by other students on campus or during a school-sponsored trip. The School retains the sole discretion to send a student home from a school trip.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Legacy Growth Fee: A one-time, once per family Legacy Growth Fee of $750 per year for four years for a total of $3,000 will be assessed to all parent(s)/guardian(s) enrolling a first new child in the School in K(4)-Grade 4. A Legacy Growth Fee of $500 per year for each year a child is enrolled in the Middle Division will be assessed to all parent(s)/guardian(s) enrolling a first new child in the School in Grades 5-8.

Tuition Assistance Application Process

• Complete Application online by going to https://online.factsmgt.com/aid no later than January 22.

o Start your application within your FACTS account or, if a new SJE family, establish a new account with your email address and password.

o Complete your application for the next academic year. You can log out of FACTS at any time, then return later to complete it.

• During the application process you will be asked to upload your Income Tax Return for the previous tax year and W-2’s. These documents must be uploaded for your application to be considered.

Tuition Assistance Policy: In keeping with the school’s mission and educational philosophy, St. John’s strives to maintain a missionaligned student body that reflects a balance in social and economic backgrounds and cultural experiences. The school does not base its admissions acceptances on whether a family can pay full tuition, and tuition assistance can be available for qualifying families. St. John’s believes that the family has primary responsibility for financing their children’s education to the extent they can. However, a limited amount of financial assistance is available to help families who would otherwise find enrollment impossible.

• All applicants to St. John’s are accepted for admission on a need-blind basis.

• The school’s practice is to not make full awards covering all tuition.

• St. John’s does not provide tuition assistance to students in K4. Eligibility for tuition assistance begins in K5

• St. John’s is committed to a process that guarantees consistent and fair treatment of applicants and objectivity in application review. For this reason, the school uses the Grants Management portal through FACTS for the initial evaluation of applicants We recognize that this process is not a perfect indicator of a family’s capacity to pay tuition and is not a substitute for professional judgment that may be applied as the facts merit.

• Parents are expected to financially support the applicant to the extent they are able, as determined by the FACTS process and the SJE Tuition Assistance Committee. This committee is comprised of the Head of School, Chief Financial Officer, and the Director of Enrollment Management. Final authority on all tuition assistance lies with the Head of School, acting within the parameters set by the Board of Trustees.

• All applications for tuition assistance are held in the strictest confidence.

• The school looks at the total household income when evaluating potential need. In cases where one parent is not working and only one income is included on the application, the school will include in the income calculation for the other parent the amount equal to St. John’s annual tuition.

• St. John’s expects that families will portray their financial status accurately, honestly, and thoroughly in the application process. Failure to do so may disqualify the family from consideration for tuition assistance the current year and in the future. The process is set up to favor those who adhere to the application procedure and deadlines.

• In cases of divorce or separation, both parents are required to apply. Both parents complete separate financial statements with FACTS.

• It is common for family circumstances to change; as a result, the school requires reapplication for tuition assistance every year.

• Tuition assistance applies to tuition only. Additional costs such as meals, field trips, After School Program, and mandatory fees, etc. are the full responsibility of the parent/guardian. Per the signed enrollment agreement, families have an obligation to make regular monthly payments on any remaining tuition due after the assistance award, plus any additional charges incurred throughout each month. Failure to pay all school-related costs in a timely fashion may affect future aid awards and the reenrollment of the student.

• Tuition assistance can only be available to enrolled students. The school will withhold re-enrollment for students with past due balance.

• Those students receiving tuition assistance are held to the same standards of performance, both academic and behavioral, expected of all St. John’s students.

• All application forms and required tax forms must be submitted on time. Late or incomplete applications may not receive full consideration.

• For families who own their own businesses, all parents in this situation are required to furnish the school with a copy of their current business income tax return and related FACTS form. They may also be asked to furnish cash flow statements, balance sheets and other information relevant to the business.

• St. John’s currently does not accept funds from the Florida Department of Education or Federal Government.

• The school does not permit volunteer work by the parents at the school to be counted as consideration in lieu of tuition payment.

• Given the school’s desire to support as many families as possible, the school’s policy is to limit the number of students in the same family receiving tuition assistance to two. Exceptions to this are possible only with the approval of the Head of School.

• The school assesses the demonstrated need of the individual families in the context of available school resources. Applicants are notified on the Tuition Assistance Committee’s decision by email and letter. The Committee reserves the right to refuse awarding aid for any reason.

• Tuition assistance dollars are part of the school’s overall annual operating budget and are limited. Accordingly, to as much as possible meet demonstrated need, the amount of assistance any individual family receives may increase, decrease, or remain the same from the prior year.

Tuition and Fees: The Board of Trustees sets the comprehensive tuition. Tuition, fees, and payment schedules are issued in January or February. The following terms apply to payment of tuition and fees:

● Full payment on or before May 1st of the school year, or

● Semi-annual plan on July 20th and January 20th, or

● Ten monthly installments, July 5th or 20th–April 5th or 20th, paid through automatic withdrawal (ACH) or credit card.

● Payment received seven days after the monthly due date is delinquent and will incur a $25 late fee.

● If payment is not received by the 15th of the next month, an additional $25 late fee will be added.

● If payment is still not received by the third month, an additional $25 late fee will be incurred.

● Students whose accounts are not up to date by the Christmas holiday may not be permitted to return to School for the next semester.

● If the past due balance is not paid by May 31st, the student’s registration for the next school year may be canceled.

● A student will not be allowed to return for a new school year if there is a past due balance from the previous school year, unless special arrangements have been made with the Head of School. All past due balances must be paid by July 1st of the new school year. The School, at its sole discretion, may withhold academic records (including, but not limited to, report cards and transcripts) for any student whose account is not current. School records, transcripts, or online report cards sent to the parent(s)/guardian(s) or any outside agency for a student whose account is not current will include ‘Account Past Due’ on the document. The School will not provide teacher recommendations for a student applying for admission elsewhere whose account is not current.

● If repeated attempts to arrange payment fail, a collection agency and/or attorney may be engaged.

FLORIDA STATE CHILD AND ABUSE HOTLINE

Legislation requires any individual who suspects that a child has been abused by any person to report that to the Florida Abuse Hotline. Any allegations a child was abused or neglected by a caregiver will be investigated by the Department of Children and Families, while allegations of child abuse by someone other than a caregiver will be accepted at the Hotline and immediately electronically transferred

to the appropriate local law enforcement agency where the child lives. Suspecting a child is being abused but failing to report it is a felony. If you suspect or know of any child who is being harmed, call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873 (TDD 1-800453-5145). If you see a child in immediate danger, call 911.

FOOD ALLERGY POLICY

St. John’s does not declare itself a nut/peanut-free school. The School does make reasonable accommodations in an effort to keep all of our children safe. At the parent(s)/guardian(s) annual written request, accommodations can be offered. Please contact the respective Division Director to discuss these options.

GENERAL SCHOOL RULES

The following rules are designed to create, support, and maintain an enriched educational learning environment that encourages academic development, spiritual growth, personal maturity, appropriate behavior, and community awareness.

● Students may not participate in behaviors that endanger themselves or others.

● Physical violence, pushing, hitting, or fighting are prohibited.

● The use, possession, sale, or exchange of any drugs, alcohol, or tobacco is forbidden.

● Stealing, disrespect towards or destruction of property is not allowed.

● No bullying, mean, intimidating, or harassing behavior is permitted.

● Rude, hurtful, racist, sexist, discriminatory, foul language, or behavior is prohibited.

● Mean gossip, behavior, or language that intentionally excludes others is not allowed.

● The use or possession of any item that could reasonably be considered a weapon is prohibited.

● Students may not leave campus without checking out through the School office.

● No gum chewing is allowed on campus.

Classroom Expectations: To ensure that no disruption to the learning process occurs, the following classroom rules are standards for all grades and are expected to be followed and supported by all faculty, students, and parent(s)/guardian(s). St. John’s students are expected to:

● Be on time and prepared for all classes, activities, and events.

● Be attentive and focused in class and not distract others.

● Be courteous to teachers, staff, and fellow students.

● Complete all assigned work in a timely manner.

● Adhere to the School’s uniform and grooming requirements.

● Be honest in all academic work and with others.

● Be respectful of others’ property.

● Abide by the School’s Technology Acceptable Use Policy

● Respect all campus rules.

Harassment: St. John’s is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment free of harassment. Accordingly, the School prohibits such conduct by its students and employees on and off School premises and at School-sponsored activities, including transportation to and from such activities. Students and families are expected to uphold the School’s core values. St. John’s defines harassment as any and all behaviors that compromise the physical and/or emotional safety of any individual in our community, regardless of intent.

Emotional harassment is attacking the psyche and feelings of an individual in an attempt to undermine a person’s self-worth. Emotional harassment can take many forms (verbal, physical, written, etc.) and examples include, but are not limited to:

● Rejecting or excluding

● Terrorizing or isolating

● Criticizing

● Spreading mean, vicious, or untrue gossip

● Belittling, degrading, or mean teasing and sarcasm

● Hazing

● Posting any inappropriate, mean, vicious, or belittling comments on email or social media

Teasing and quarreling can happen between schoolmates, but students should immediately tell a member of the faculty or staff if they believe they have been emotionally harassed and/or bullied.

Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature that includes, but is not limited to, the following:

● Physical contact of a sexual nature including, but not limited to, touching, pinching, patting, grabbing, poking, or brushing up against another individual

● Sexually oriented gestures, noises, remarks, jokes, comments, or propositions

● Display of sexually oriented pictures, calendars, graffiti, objects, or publications

● Any other conduct that is inappropriate

Any student who believes that he/she has been the subject of sexual harassment should immediately report that incident to a member of the faculty or staff. Any individual receiving a complaint of sexual harassment must then promptly report such complaint to the Head of School. Complaints will be handled in a confidential manner, to the extent possible.

Individuals will be advised of this matter on a need-to-know basis. No individual will be subject to retaliation by the School for reporting a complaint of sexual harassment, for assisting in making a complaint of sexual harassment, or for cooperating in a sexual harassment investigation.

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

Pastoral Care: Pastoral care and emotional support for students (as well as for faculty, staff, and parent(s)/guardian(s)) is available via the School Chaplain. If you would like to talk to the School Chaplain, he can be reached by phone at 813.849.4200. The School Chaplain welcomes people of any, or no faith tradition.

Student Support Services: The School believes each child should benefit from the strongest support not just with their academic learning but, equally importantly, their physical, emotional, social, and mental well-being. The primary members of the Student Support Services Team are the Learning Specialists, the School Nurse, the Division Directors, Deans of Students, and, where appropriate, the School Chaplain. The involvement of the members of the team (and the possible addition of others) is determined by the circumstances of the particular situation and what best serves the student and family.

HEALTH POLICY

In the school environment where there are many children, illnesses can be easily transmitted from child to child.

While we want children to attend school as consistently as possible, it is extremely important to avoid exposing classmates and staff to infectious diseases. For any students and staff members with a chronic medical condition, a common illness can cause serious complications.

Teachers are required to report to the Division Director any child who arrives to school showing signs of illness or infection. The child will not be admitted for the day. Parent(s)/guardian(s) must come immediately or make arrangements for their child to be picked up if he/she becomes ill during the day. A telephone call is made by the School to the parent(s)/guardian(s) of a child who becomes ill during the school day. The child remains in the division office until a parent(s)/guardian(s) arrives. If the parent(s)/guardian(s) cannot be reached, the child remains at the division office until a designated person can be contacted.

Please keep your child home if he/she has any of these symptoms: ● Fever of 100.4 degrees or above (without the use of fever-reducing medication).

● Nasal discharge that is profuse.

● Pink eye (inflamed, red eyes, or any eye discharge).

● Any skin rash, unless diagnosed as non-infectious by a doctor.

● Sores of any kind unless they can be covered by a bandage.

● Diarrhea or vomiting within a 24-hour period regardless of cause/frequency.

● Head lice - the child may return after treatment, if completely free of lice and nits.

● The first 24 hours on an antibiotic for any reason

● Relentless coughing.

All children must be free of these symptoms for at least 24 hours before returning to school.

Exposure Notice: If a student is diagnosed with one of a number of contagious diseases, an ‘Exposure Notice’ will be sent via email to all school parent(s)/guardian(s), noting the condition and the grade in which it was found. The diseases include, but are not limited to:

Chicken Pox, Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, Impetigo, Head Lice, Ringworm, Scabies, Pink Eye, Scarlet Fever, Strep Throat, and COVID. Notice of other conditions may also be sent out if necessary.

Head Lice: If lice or nits are discovered on any student, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be contacted to pick up the child. The student should be treated before they return to school the next day. If the student is treated at home, he/she will be re-checked in the office before returning to class. If a professional treat them, students must bring in a certificate of treatment when they return to school.

HOMEWORK

Homework is the practice of a learned skill. Homework assignments are designed for the purpose of extending the learning of the school day, acquiring mastery through practice, and teaching students how to be independent learners. By the time a child is in Grade 1, homework is assigned on a regular basis. We strongly encourage parent(s)/guardian(s) to let children do their own work. When a student has no homework, the full study time should be used for review or reading. It is extremely important that parent(s)/guardian(s) be aware of their child’s time on task. In general, teachers strive to accomplish the following: no homework over long vacations, religious holidays, or homework over the weekends with the exception of reading and study review.

General Homework Time Guidelines

Grades 1-2

Grade 3

Grade 4

Grade 5

Grade 6

Grade 7

Grade 8 20 minutes 30 minutes 30-45 minutes 45 minutes – 1 hour 1 -1½ hours

1 ½ - 2 hours 2 hours

These times may vary depending on the individual student; and in light of differentiated instruction, the length and content of some homework assignments may need to be adjusted to meet individualized student needs. However, if your child has no homework or it is taking longer than the stated time, please contact your child’s teacher to assess the situation.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Parent(s)/guardian(s) are welcome to drop students off after doors open on the respective campus. School office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The After School Program (ASP) is available until 6:00 p.m.

Campus Doors Open Doors Close School Begins Pick-Up Begins Primary Division 7:30 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 2:45 p.m. 2:45 p.m. walk-up

LEGAL NOTIFICATIONS

Families are asked and expected to keep St. John’s informed of any court orders with respect to child custody, which could affect a student.

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

When students request letters of recommendation from the St. John’s faculty and/or administration, they are considered confidential and will be sent directly from the School to the organization requesting the recommendation.

Note: St. John’s will NOT provide letters of recommendation if the student account is delinquent at the time the request is received by the School.

LOST & FOUND

Students are expected to take responsibility for their belongings by checking the bins for lost or misplaced school uniforms, other clothing items, or lunch boxes. Items with names will be returned to the students. Items without names will be donated to the Used Uniform Store for resale.

LUNCH PROGRAM AND SNACKS

The lunch program offers several lunch choices every day, with a focus on providing quality food that our students will enjoy. Lunches must be pre-ordered from Tampa Lunch Company, an outside food service vendor. For ordering details, visit My SJE > Resources > Lunch. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are not permitted to bring soft drinks, coffee drinks, or fast food to students. Uber Eats and other food delivery services are not permitted on School property.

MEDIA CENTERS

The Lower Division and Middle Division students attend weekly classes in the Innovation/Media Center, where they are exposed to a variety of printed materials and are taught basic library skills. When a book is overdue, parent(s)/guardian(s) are notified. Replacement cost will be entered on the parent(s)/guardian(s) bill at the end of the semester. This includes damaged books. If you object to the presence of a particular book in the library, please complete a Request for Reconsideration of a Work.

MEDIA POLICY

All media must be directed to the office of the Director of Marketing and Communications. It is a breach of our Mission and Philosophy, as well as of the enrollment contract, to reach out proactively to the media unless coordinated through the Director of Marketing and Communications.

If a parent(s)/guardian(s) or staff member is contacted by a member of the media, who asks them for an interview, the parent(s)/guardian(s) or staff member should explain that all media requests are referred to the Director of Marketing and Communications so that the best person for the interview can be made available.

MEDICAL LEAVE

St. John’s strives to provide the fullest possible support to its students and families.

It is possible that a student might, occasionally, encounter a medical issue that is physical and/or emotional in nature that interferes with his/her ability to function in the school setting. When such a situation arises, the student’s family or the School administration

may initiate medical leave for the student. Given the unique nature of prolonged illness or injury, the School will discuss and coordinate the conditions of the leave with each family individually.

St. John’s reserves the right to determine the legitimacy of the issue after consultation with the health professionals involved and the appropriate school officials. The Head of School will approve both the student’s leave from and return to school. In all cases, the School reserves the right to determine whether a student can be supported in returning from medical leave. In addition, a note from a medical professional clearing the student to return to school activity may be required.

MISSION STATEMENT

St. John’s prepares each of its students for lifelong intellectual and spiritual growth by providing a superior educational experience within a nurturing Christian environment.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

St. John’s admits students of any race, religion, color, and national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. St. John’s does not discriminate based on gender, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of educational policies, admissions policies, or athletic and other school-administered programs.

OUTDOOR POLICY

Outdoor play is an essential part of our program, as weather permits. There are both shady and sunny areas on all campuses. Children are encouraged to hydrate to replenish body fluids. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are encouraged to apply sunscreen or sunblock with UVA and UVB protection to exposed skin before arrival at school.

PARENTS’ NIGHT

Parents’ Night is held early in the fall each year. The aim is to enable teachers to share with parent(s)/guardian(s) specific course content and class activities. We look forward to this opportunity to meet with all our parent(s)/guardian(s) and strongly encourage full attendance. This event is for parent(s)/guardian(s) only.

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCE DAYS

Parent-Teacher Conference Days are held in September. An email will be sent providing further information. Every attempt will be made to accommodate reasonable scheduling requests by parent(s)/guardian(s). Given logistics, it may not be possible to reschedule a group conference outside of the scheduled times.

Primary Division: Parent(s)/guardian(s) have the opportunity to conference with their child’s homeroom teacher in-person

Lower Division: Parent(s)/guardian(s) have the opportunity to conference with their child’s homeroom teacher in-person or via Zoom meetings.

Middle Division: Parent(s)/guardian(s) have the opportunity to conference with their child’s subject teachers in-person or via Zoom meetings.

PASTORAL CARE

Pastoral care and emotional support for students (as well as for faculty, staff, and parent(s)/guardian(s)) is available via the School Chaplain. If you would like to talk to the School Chaplain, he can be reached by phone at 813.849.4200. The School Chaplain welcomes people of any, or no faith tradition.

PEER CONFLICT AND BULLYING

While some expectations might not be stated, St. John’s takes for granted the honesty, integrity, and good judgment of our students and their parent(s)/guardian(s)

Teachers and school administrators appreciate and expect a cooperative partnership with parent(s)/guardian(s) to establish a safe, productive, and healthy learning environment on campus. In general, we are responsible for students’ behavior only when they are under our jurisdiction. However, we regard any conduct prejudicial to the best interests of the School, whether at school or elsewhere, as sufficient grounds for disciplinary action or dismissal. This is especially relevant with regard to the inappropriate and disrespectful use of technology, i.e., cyberbullying. Given the nature of technology, the School reserves the right to extend its jurisdiction beyond our campus and normal school hours when addressing cyberbullying.

At St. John’s, we define bullying as repetitive, intentional, hostile activity with the conscious purpose of harming and inducing fear through the threat of further aggression. The following features are most widely recognized as those of bullying, and any school investigation will seek to establish their presence:

● The behavior is unwanted and negative.

● It is deliberate and unprovoked.

● The targeted person is harmed by what is purposely being said or done.

● There is an imbalance of power (physical or social) or strength between the person doing the bullying and the target of the behavior.

● The person doing the bullying may be physically bigger or stronger or may be older or have greater social status or social power than the person being targeted.

● There is intent to harm; the person doing the bullying purposely says or does something to hurt the target of his/her behavior.

● The behavior worsens with repetition over time.

● The behavior causes clear distress to the child or teen being bullied, often including fear or terror; there is only one person feeling emotional upset the person who is the target of the bullying.

● The person who engages in bullying behavior derives some sense of satisfaction from his/her behavior and does not feel sorrow or regret about the harmful effects of his/her behavior.

● There is the threat – implicit or explicit – of further aggression.

Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying may occur through the use of technology or electronic devices such as cell phones, computers, fax machines, and the internet. It includes, but is not limited to, e-mail, instant messages, text messages, and internet postings, whether on a webpage, a blog, or otherwise.

Hostile Environment: A hostile environment is a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule, or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of a student’s education.

Retaliation: Retaliation is any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against a student who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, witnesses or has reliable information about bullying.

Conflict and relational aggression between children are a developmentally normal aspect of childhood, and our teachers regularly help children develop conflict resolution skills as part of the learning process at St. John’s.

Peer conflict (including mean behavior), disappointment, and relational aggression are common aspects of childhood that do not alone constitute bullying and which teachers and parent(s)/guardian(s) can help children manage.

We believe that immediately labeling children as “bullies” and “victims” is unhelpful in our efforts to resolve conflicts and teach social skills, and further, that these labels cast children in negative terms that do not align with our belief that children can acquire compassion and developing agency with adult guidance. Therefore, parent(s)/guardian(s) are asked to use the terms “bully” and “victim” judiciously at St. John’s. Despite its widespread mischaracterization today, bullying rarely describes what happens in the social world of children on our campus. We expect parent(s)/guardian(s) to partner with us in helping young people learn how to be skillful and resilient social agents, rather than assigning blame and labels.

Nonetheless, if you suspect that your child is subject to bullying behaviors, please alert his/her teacher immediately, and notify the appropriate school administrator as needed.

PERPETUAL ENROLLMENT

St. John’s admits students of any race, religion, and national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. St. John’s does not discriminate based on gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of educational policies, admissions policies, or athletic and other schooladministered programs.

Students are admitted on a continual basis for the duration of their educational experience culminating in Grade 8, and the School reserves the right of suspension or dismissal at any time during the school year while obligation of tuition may not be forgiven. The School believes a positive and constructive working relationship between the School and a student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) is essential to the accomplishment of the School’s educational mission.

The School accordingly reserves the right to terminate a student’s enrollment if the School reasonably concludes that the actions of a student or parent(s)/guardian(s) make such a positive and constructive relationship impossible or otherwise seriously interfere with the School’s accomplishment of its educational purpose. Continued enrollment also depends on the timely satisfaction of all financial responsibilities to the School throughout the year.

Perpetual Enrollment Agreement: Once signed by the Head of School and the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s), or other responsible party, the enrollment agreement is a legally binding contract with St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School, which makes the signature(s) jointly and fully responsible for the full year’s tuition, Legacy Fee, and all other expenses incurred by the student. Regardless of a student’s enrollment status at the School , St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School will enforce the financial terms set out in the enrollment agreement and reserves the right to use any and all appropriate measures to do so.

Families may withdraw from the Perpetual Enrollment Agreement and be released from financial obligation only when written notification of withdrawal is provided to the School no later than the communicated deadline. Families that withdraw after this deadline will be responsible for all tuition and fees under the Perpetual Enrollment Agreement. The only possible exception is a family that is involuntarily relocated (including U.S. Armed Forces postings) more than 50 miles from the school. Proof of such relocation must be provided for the exception to be considered.

PHILOSOPHY

St. John’s develops and nurtures an environment of trust, respect, and recognition of the personal dignity of each individual. A diverse community is valued, and differing experiences and perspectives are encouraged and respected. Any behavior that compromises these standards is unacceptable. Central to the St. John’s educational mission is the opportunity for students to develop their highest potential to learn. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or on the stage, St. John’s students are expected to maintain positive and respectful interactions with their teachers and peers, remain mindful of all School rules, and approach their work with an appropriate seriousness of purpose.

SCHOOL ORGANIZATIONS

Board of Trustees: The Board of Trustees oversees the governance and the financial stability of the School. The Board is not involved in the day-to-day operations of the School. The Head of School is the Board’s sole employee and is responsible to the Board for the educational and operational success of the School. Individual trustees act as ambassadors for the School in support of the administrative, community relations, and operational arenas of school life. The Board of Trustees plays a key role in the fundraising and strategic planning efforts for the School. The Board of Trustees meets monthly.

Dads’ Club: The Dads' Club is open to all fathers or guardians of current St. John's students who desire to support and enrich their child’s school service experience. The Dads' Club supports and volunteers for student service projects such as, the Thanksgiving food

drive, a Christmas toy drive, and additional meaningful ways to inspire and model service within our school community. For more information about the Dads' Club, please contact advancement@stjohnseagles.org.

Parents’ Association: All parent(s)/guardian(s) with children enrolled at the School are members of the Parents’ Association and are encouraged to participate. The purpose of the Parents’ Association is to enrich school programs, to foster a positive spirit, and to promote a strong sense of community among parent(s)/guardian(s) in partnership with the School. The Parents’ Association serves as welcome and wellness ambassadors to new and current parent(s)/guardian(s), cooperation, and parent(s)/guardian(s) involvement throughout the school community, engage parent(s)/guardian(s) in volunteer service, and support and enrich the St. John’s student and parent(s)/guardian(s) experience.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

In order to ensure the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, St. John’s has the authority to perform unannounced searches and to seize contraband or stolen items. The School also has the authority to perform searches of students to determine whether they pose a danger to others or themselves. Authorized school personnel may search a room, locker, clothing, and belongings (pockets, purse, backpack, gym bag, cell phone, or other property) when there is reason to believe that the student has violated the School’s rules.

No St. John’s student may possess any illegal substance, object, or contraband that constitutes a threat to the health, safety, or welfare of any person or persons. Contraband is all substances or materials prohibited by school policy or state or federal law, including, but not limited to, controlled substances, drugs, alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, guns and knives, other weapons, or incendiary devices. Items deemed to be illicit, illegal, and disruptive to the operations of the school may be seized by school personnel. The return, destruction, or storage of such items shall be at the discretion of the Head of School or the Head of School’s designated agent, subject to legal impoundment.

SERVICE ANIMALS

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”), St. John’s is committed to making reasonable modifications in its policies, practices, and procedures to permit the use of service animals by persons with disabilities.

Service animals include any dog that is trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. The task a dog has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability. A service animal is not a pet. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.

When it is not obvious whether an animal meets the definition of a service animal or what service an animal provides, only two questions are permitted: is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

An individual seeking to gain access to campus accompanied by a service animal may not be asked questions about his or her disability. In addition, such individuals will not be required to show a license, certification, or special ID card as proof of their animal’s training. Service animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the service animal’s work or the individual’s disability prevents using these devices.

The animal should always respond to voice or hand commands and be under the full control of the handler. The cost of care, arrangements, and the responsibility for the well-being of a service animal are always the sole responsibility of the individual with a disability. Cleaning up after the animal is the sole responsibility of the individual with a disability.

Faculty, staff, students, visitors, and members of the general public should avoid the following: petting a service animal, as it may distract them from the task at hand; feeding the service animal; deliberately startling a service animal; separating or attempting to separate a handler from his/her service animal.

Service animals may be excluded if the dog is out of control, and the handler does not take effective action to control it, or if the dog is not housebroken. If the individual’s use of the service animal poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others, the School may direct the individual with a disability to remove the service animal.

SOCIAL MEDIA

@EaglesSJE (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube)

At St. John’s, social networking/media is used to connect with our School community. St. John’s utilizes social media channels as a communication tool to share important School updates, educational resources and experiences, enhance the classroom and School experience, and network with the School community and beyond. We will use social media to:

• Share photos of school activities, trips or special events, and projects

• Share helpful child and family-related hints and tips

• Update parent(s)/guardian(s) on School happenings

• Deliver news

• Promote events

Only St. John’s Marketing and Communications staff are authorized to post on social media on behalf of the School. No other employee may use the St. John’s trademarked name or logo, photos of children at the School, or engage in any promotions or conversations representing the School or its families.

SMART WATCHES

Students may not wear Apple watches, smart watches, or any watch with cellular or WiFi capabilities or the ability to message or make a phone call. Such watches may be confiscated and will be sent home with the student.

STANDARDIZED TESTING

St. John’s students, beginning in Grade 3, take the ERB-CTP standardized achievement test in the spring. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive their children’s ERB test scores from the Educational Records Bureau.

STUDENT RECORDS

The scholastic record consists of the data maintained on an individual student that the School needs to assist the student in his/her educational planning and development. The official record includes the application, standardized test results, final grades, photocopies of pertinent correspondence, and other educational documents. If a parent(s)/guardian(s) is interested in reviewing the student’s records, please contact the respective Division Director to set up an appointment. All requests for the transfer of records must be made in writing by the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student to the respective Division Director. Unless a court order is on file with the School, copies of report cards and other pertinent information will be available to the non-custodial parent/guardian

STUDENT REPEATING A GRADE

Students are enrolled at St. John’s with the full expectation they will matriculate each year. If for any reason the student is unable to matriculate, ‘repeating’ the grade at St. John’s is a rare exception and possible only at the recommendation of the school and with the approval of the Head of School in consultation with the respective Division Director.

Parents may not request a ‘repeat’ year for their child. In the event the school determines there is reason to not matriculate a student, the appropriate division director will initiate a meeting with the parents to discuss the situation. In the unlikely event a repeat year is determined by the school to be in the child’s best interests, several factors are involved in the decision. These include but are not limited to family interest and support, medical complications, social development, indicators of an undiagnosed learning disability, etc.

Teachers are constantly monitoring individual student progress. Ideally, a student’s matriculation status at St. John’s for the next school year should be determined by the school and communicated to the parents no later than the end of December of the current school year. Exceptions to this are possible only with the approval of the Head of School.

STUDENT USE OF CELL PHONES

No student cell phones, or other electronic equipment are permitted to be used on the school grounds without faculty or staff permission. The School may view a violation of this policy as a disciplinary matter.

SUDDEN ILLNESS OR ACCIDENT

In cases of illness or accident requiring a doctor, the School will notify the parent(s)/guardian(s). If the parent(s)/guardian(s) or person designated to be called in an emergency cannot be reached, the student will be referred to the family doctor indicated in the child’s records. If the School is unable to contact that physician, the School will contact another physician at its discretion. If necessary, the child will be taken to a hospital emergency room, and the child will be accompanied by a school employee until a parent/guardian can arrive.

SUMMER READING

Students entering Grades 2-8 are required to read books from the summer reading list as they will be discussed or assessed at the start of school in the fall. Summer reading lists are provided at the end of the school year. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are encouraged to read aloud to children often and regularly.

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

As part of St. John’s commitment to educational excellence, St. John’s continually seeks new approaches and technologies to enhance the students’ learning experiences and improve operational efficiency. St. John’s utilizes educational technologies to help the students learn both inside and outside the classroom. St. John’s also takes advantage of the cost savings that are given to educational institutions for families to provide educational software at affordable pricing or even for free. Part of the software agreement requires St. John’s to own the technologies to take advantage of those savings. St. John’s also manages all devices on the school’s network. In addition, owning and managing the school’s devices helps to keep the school network and community safe. St. John’s fully expects that all members of the school community will use the computer/iPad systems in a responsible, appropriate, and legal manner during class time/non-class time, on and off campus.

St. John’s currently use a 1:1 iPad program at all divisions in which a student is assigned an iPad in support of the educational programs that are taking place in their classrooms. St. John’s also utilizes laptop computers for full-time faculty as well as having carts at the Lower and Middle Divisions.

The Technology Acceptable Use Policy always applies to St. John’s students, regardless of the students being on or off campus.

General Expectations & Care

• Students are responsible for the general care of their assigned device and accessories. Devices that are broken or fail to work properly must be reported to the technology department immediately.

o iPads are expected to be always in their protective cases If any part of the case is broken, it should be reported immediately to prevent any further damage.

• Students may not remove or circumvent the management system installed on each iPad. This includes removing any type of restrictions on the device. Doing so will result in loss of technology privileges and possible disciplinary action.

• Students may only connect to the Internet via the wireless network provided by the school while on campus.

• Middle Division students are permitted to take the iPad home. Students are expected to have their fully charged iPads for school.

• Sound must always be muted unless permission is obtained from the teacher for instructional purposes.

• Students may not remove/alter the “asset tag” on devices. Students may not alter any security features such as the “Find my iPad” function.

• iPads must always be carried with care when being transported around the classroom and between classrooms.

• iPads should always be within the protective cases and be carefully handled as they are transported.

Middle Division students have the privilege of taking home their iPads. The following outlines the expectations and policies regarding their use.

• Students will be issued an iPad, protective case, charging block, and a charging cable at the start of their time at St. John’s. Each iPad is assigned to an individual student. Only the individual student and parent(s)/guardian(s) are permitted to use the assigned iPad. Students must return the assigned iPad and accessories at the end of the school year or when they no longer are enrolled at St. John’s. Failure to return the assigned iPad and accessories will result in fees being charged to the family up to the full cost of the device and accessories.

• The school’s internet connection should be used for school-related tasks. This includes research or instruction related tasks related to academic assignments.

Prohibited Use

• Using the iPad for any action that violates existing school rules or public law.

• Taking photos, videos, or recordings of your teachers, peers, or classrooms without the explicit permission of the teacher or peers.

• Leaving the iPad unattended on the campus. iPads should always be securely stored in their bags or inside classrooms. iPads should not be left outside or on any benches, shelves, or in any other unprotected areas. Any damage or loss will be the responsibility of the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) regardless of who was responsible for the damage.

• Exchanging iPads with another student, sharing login information, or revealing other related personal information.

• Plagiarizing academic materials. It is the student’s responsibility to respect and adhere to all copyright, trademark, other intellectual rights, and trade secret laws.

• Utilizing software or visiting sites that contain student work such as essays, reports, and other forms of student work. This includes any form of activity that would be seen as claiming work that is not their own.

• Creating, accessing, or distributing offensive, profane, bullying/threatening, pornographic, obscene, rumors/gossip, sexually explicit, or other content not aligned with the school’s mission and philosophy.

• Spamming: sending mass or inappropriate emails.

• Use of the school’s internet/E-mail accounts for financial or commercial gain or for any illegal activity.

• Bypassing the school’s web filter or any other security measures meant to keep our community and students safe.

• Using any type of software that can be used to hack, circumvent security measures, or alter the software.

• This list is not exhaustive and other actions considered to go against our code of conduct, our school’s mission, or other questionable/harmful actions would also be considered prohibited.

Lost or Stolen School Device

• Any loss of device (fire, theft, misplaced, etc.) will require a police report and investigation. All reports and investigation results must be submitted to the school. Otherwise, fees for damage or loss are the responsibility of the student and parent(s)/guardian(s).

Damages

• Any damage to school devices or accessories caused by inappropriate use, careless actions, malice, assault, vandalism, or similar actions will result in a fee assessment, disciplinary action, and other possible actions.

• iPad and cases are to remain free of drawings, markings, scratches, or student-applied stickers. Any abuse, markings, stickers, or adhesive residue found on these items will result in fines being issued to cover repairs necessary to return these items to like-new condition.

• Fees for damage or loss are the responsibility of the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) even if caused by another person.

• Unpaid fees will be posted on the student’s transcript and are required to be paid in full prior to leaving the school. St. John’s reserves the right to send unpaid fees to a collection agency when fees are not paid in a timely manner.

iPad Fees: The following outlines the fees for iPad repair costs. All technology-related payments should be submitted to the school’s Finance Office. Depending on the nature of the incident and severity of the damage there may also be disciplinary consequences.

• First Breakage: Student pays a $50.00 fee before the iPad is returned to the student. A minor technology infraction will be reported and documented. The student, teacher, and/or technology member will meet to talk about the incident and about how to prevent future incidents.

• Second Breakage: Student pays a $50.00 fee before the iPad is returned to the student. The student, parent(s)/guardian(s), Dean of Students, and/or Director of Technology will meet to discuss the consequences of their second breakage. The student will receive a major technology disciplinary infraction and depending on the nature of the incident, other disciplinary action may be taken.

• Third Breakage: Student pays a $250.00 fee, and the student will not be permitted to take the iPad from school for the remainder of the school year. A written plan for future technology use will be developed. Consequences shall include, but are not necessarily limited to, suspension of technology/computer/iPad privileges and school disciplinary actions such as detention or suspension.

TOBACCO-FREE ENVIRONMENT

St. John’s is a tobacco-free environment. Chewing tobacco and smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes, are not permitted on any of our campuses or during any school-related or school-sponsored activity or event.

TUTORING POLICY

Teachers are expected to provide extra help to any student who requires additional learning support. When a teacher has provided additional support for a struggling student and believes further support in the form of a tutor may be helpful, he/she will notify the respective Division Director.

A conference with the child’s parent(s)/guardian(s) and the teacher(s) will be held, and educational testing by a professional may be recommended. The School, in consultation with the parent(s)/guardian(s), will determine which, if any, of the recommendations and strategies they are able to implement. Tutoring by a St. John’s teacher may be among the recommendations. If so, the Division Director will arrange tutoring with a suitable individual. School policy prohibits any St. John’s teacher from soliciting families offering tutoring, and teachers may NOT tutor a student they currently teach.

UNIFORM AND DRESS CODE

AllstudentrequireduniformsmustbepurchasedfromEducationalOutfitters,Lands’End,orSt.John’sUsedUniformStore.See UseofSt.John’sName,Mascot,orlogoforspiritwearinformation.

Educational Outfitters: St. John’s uniform source that offers in-store and online (tampa.educationaloutfitters.com) shopping. The Educational Outfitters store is located at 3904 West Hillsborough Avenue, Unit D, Tampa 33614. Educational Outfitters contact information is 813.350.0222.

Lands’ End: St. John’s uniform source that offers online shopping (landsend.com/school) Parent(s)/guardian(s) can create an account via My Account (the Preferred School Number for St. John’s is: 900025305). Lands’ End contact information is 800.469.2222.

St. John’s Used Uniform Store: Gently used uniforms are collected and available for sale at bargain prices throughout the year. Look for periodic updates about Used Uniform Store sales in the Eagles Wings newsletter or inquire with your division office. All proceeds support Parents’ Association operations.

Primary Division

Boys K(4) and K(5): Pull-on or belted navy shorts with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves) or pull-on or belted khaki shorts with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves). In cold weather, navy St. John’s cardigans, sweatshirts, or fleece jackets are permitted; pull-on or belted navy pants with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves) or pull-on or belted khaki pants with white or navy polo shirts

(short or long sleeves) are permitted.

Girls K(4) and K(5): Plaid, drop-waist jumpers with white blouses. In cold weather, navy St. John’s cardigans, sweatshirts, or fleece jackets are permitted; white, black, or navy-blue tights or leggings under the uniform are permitted.

All students in K(4) and K(5) will wear their school uniform and athletic shoes for Physical Education. Socks of any color and acceptable pattern may be worn.

Lower Division

Boys (Grades 1-4): Navy shorts, brown belt (or St. John’s pattern belt), with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves) or khaki shorts, brown belt (or St. John’s pattern belt), with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves). In cold weather, navy St. John’s fleece jackets or sweatshirts are permitted; navy pants, brown belt, with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves) or khaki pants, brown belt, with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves) are permitted.

Girls (Grades 1-4): Plaid ‘skorts’ with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves), navy shorts with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves), or khaki shorts with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves). In cold weather, navy St. John’s fleece jackets or sweatshirts are permitted; navy pants with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves), khaki pants with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves), or white, black, or navy-blue tights or leggings under the uniform are permitted.

All students in Grades 1-4 will wear their school uniform and athletic shoes for Physical Education. Socks of any color and acceptable pattern may be worn.

Middle Division

Boys (Grades 5-8): Navy shorts, brown belt, with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves) or khaki shorts, brown belt, with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves). In cold weather, navy St. John’s fleece jackets or sweatshirts are permitted; navy pleated pants, brown, with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves) or khaki pants, brown belt, with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves) are permitted.

Girls (Grades 5-8): Plaid kilt-style skirts with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves), navy shorts with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves), or khaki shorts with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves). In cold weather, navy St. John’s fleece jackets or sweatshirts are permitted; navy pants with white polo shirts (short or long sleeves) or khaki pants with white or navy polo shirts (short or long sleeves), or white, black, or navy-blue tights or leggings under the uniform are permitted Skirts and shorts must reach at least three inches above the top of the kneecap and must be worn on the waist, not the hips.

For Physical Education class, students in Grades 5-8 must change into St. John’s Physical Education shirts, shorts, and athletic shoes.

Other Dress Information (Primary, Lower, and Middle Divisions)

● Non-St. John’s outerwear (sweatshirts, jackets, pants, etc.) is not permitted.

● Every Friday, all students may wear approved St. John’s t-shirt with their uniform bottoms. Primary Division girls may wear navy, khaki, or black solid bottoms or St. John’s spirit dresses. Please, no Field Day shirts.

● Students may wear any socks that are school-appropriate as defined by the Division Director.

● T-shirts worn under the uniform polo must be white, black, red, or navy blue.

● Shoes must be closed-toed and closed-heeled, even on School sanctioned dress-down days.

● Shoes must be rubber-soled; no boots are permitted.

● Scout uniforms may be worn on days students are engaged in Scout activities after school.

Personal Appearance Information (Primary, Lower, and Middle Divisions)

A student's appearance - personal and in terms of the school's dress code - is important in the context of maintaining a safe and

positive teaching and learning environment. Therefore, the Division Director retains the sole discretion and final authority to determine if and when any part of a student's appearance represents a disruption to the learning environment. The student is expected to immediately address any issue or concern raised by the Division Director

● Primary Division

o Cosmetic makeup and nail polish are not allowed.

o Girls may wear stud earrings only.

● Lower Division

o Cosmetic makeup is not allowed.

o Girls may wear stud earrings only.

● Middle Division

o Minimal cosmetic makeup is allowed, and nail polish/gel nail polish is allowed. Acrylic nails are not allowed.

o Girls may wear stud or small hoop earrings.

o Boys and girls may wear one small necklace.

o Bracelets and extra hair ties on the wrist are not allowed.

● Primary, Lower, and Middle Divisions

o Boys and girls may wear watches (smartwatches are not permitted and will be confiscated).

o Boys’ hair must be above the shirt collar.

USE OF ILLEGAL AND HARMFUL SUBSTANCES

The well-being and safety of our students is our top priority. Any student who:

● Possesses, uses, sells, solicits, or distributes tobacco, illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, electronic cigarettes, personal vaporizers, electronic nicotine delivery systems, or alcohol on the St. John’s campus; and/or

● Abuses, sells, solicits, or distributes prescription or non-prescription medications on campus or during any school-sponsored function; and/or

● Arrives on the St. John’s campus after having abused prescription or non-prescription medication, used illegal drugs or alcohol, or possesses, uses, sells, solicits or distributes prescription or non-prescription medication, illegal drugs or alcohol at a St. John’ssponsored function or affiliated event, regardless of the location, and including those that occur when school is not in session (including, without limitation, winter break, spring break, or over the summer); will be considered to have violated School policy. St. John’s will respond to a violation with disciplinary action (including being subject to immediate expulsion), mandatory counseling, chemical dependency assessment, or any combination of the three as the School, in its sole discretion, determines what is appropriate under the circumstances.

USE OF ST. JOHN’S DIRECTORY AND EMAIL

The St. John’s Directory is intended for private use by parent(s)/guardian(s), students, faculty, and alumni and is not permitted for private or commercial distribution purposes of any kind. Using this directory or school email to generate any mailing or distribution list without the consent of St. John’s is strictly prohibited. Doing so is in direct violation of the intended use of the directory. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are encouraged to contact the Director of Marketing and Communications for assistance. Parent(s)/guardian(s) should not use the St. John’s email list for the solicitation of any business outside what relates to the matters and priorities of the School community.

USE OF ST. JOHN’S FACILITIES

Oftentimes there will be a request for a school group or volunteer organization to use the School facility for a particular activity. The specific facility in question must be requested by email. Email requests should be sent to Cindy Fenlon (cfenlon@stjohnseagles.org). Requests must be made a minimum of two weeks in advance. No reservation will be accepted unless accompanied by a specific description of the set-up, custodial, and A/V needs, as detailed on the Event Request Form. Event Request Forms are located at each Division office.

USE OF ST. JOHN’S NAME, MASCOT, OR LOGO

The School name, mascot, and logo remain the sole property of St. John's Episcopal Parish Day School. Use of any of the above on clothing or any other materials or goods is strictly prohibited without prior written approval of the Head of School. All items of clothing (spirit wear, school uniform) that include the School name, mascot, or logo must be approved by St. John's and must be produced exclusively by a vendor approved by St. John's.

Only clothing with official school name, mascot, or logo and manufactured by school-approved vendors should be worn to school. Approved vendors are Lands’ End and Educational Outfitters (uniforms), Team Works and Speedline (athletic wear), and Encore Brandz (spirit wear) Please contact your child's Division Director with questions.

VISITORS

All parent(s)/guardian(s) and visitors should report directly to the School office upon arrival on campus Parent(s)/guardian(s) and visitors must present a valid driver’s license to receive a visitor badge, which they should always wear while on campus. At no time should parent(s)/guardian(s) or visitors go directly to classrooms, offices, the deck, or other student areas. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and visitors should return to the School office to sign out and return their visitor badge.

VOLUNTEER NON-SOLICITATION POLICY

All information shared by the school with parent(s)/guardian(s) volunteers for the purpose of institutional advancement is proprietary to St. John's Episcopal School and strictly confidential. It is not appropriate for a parent(s)/guardian(s) volunteer to use said information to assist or otherwise help facilitate, directly or indirectly, the fundraising efforts of any other organization. Furthermore, St. John’s non-solicitation policy does not allow for the solicitation of members of the school community by parent(s)/guardian(s) volunteers for non-St. John’s purposes without the prior knowledge and approval of the Head of School.

WEBSITE

www.stjohnseagles.org

● St. John’s maintains a website for the purpose of providing information about the School to constituents as well as the general public. The website is designed to provide an overview of St. John’s to interested parties.

● The site contains images of the St. John’s community engaged in routine activities and describes programming, offerings, and information of general interest.

● Permission to use the images of St. John’s students on the site is provided to the School by parent(s)/guardian(s) of St. John’s students.

● The site contains a public access area and an area restricted for St. John’s parent(s)/guardian(s) access (MySJE) This area is password protected and parent(s)/guardian(s) are advised not to share their password.

● Images of students on the site contain no identifying personal or directory information.

GLOSSARY OF ST. JOHN’S TERMINOLOGY

Acolytes: Acolytes have special roles supporting our common liturgies, especially our celebrations of the Holy Eucharist (Holy Communion/“Mass”). St. John’s invites students to serve in these capacities.

After School Enrichments: Enrichment classes are offered after school at each campus and vary in offering and cost. Classes are held in trimester format, and details will be communicated through Eagles Wings and via email.

Battle of the Books: Each year students in Grades 3-8 read books on the Sunshine State Young Reader Award Books list. They take tests to qualify to be on teams which represent our school at the Bay Area Independent Schools Competition.

Birthday Book: K(4) and K(5) students donate a book to the school at a parent chapel on a prearranged Friday for their birthday

Biz Town: Grade 5 students first take part in a series of classroom lessons where they learn about working in and being consumers in today’s world. They work together to create business plans, calculate operating costs, design a marketing campaign, apply for jobs, vote for city officials, and explore careers.

Celebratio: This event is a celebratory fundraiser. It offers many ways for parent(s)/guardian(s) to be involved and support the school, such as donating a Live or Silent Auction item, being on the Celebratio committee, as well as gathering with your friends, attending the event, and bidding on your favorite items. Celebratio is a much anticipated, popular, and festive event that greatly benefits our school.

Celebration of Thanks Performance: K(5) students Celebration of Thanks performance in the Lower Division Church, the Friday before the Thanksgiving break.

Choice Time: Middle Division students have Choice Time on Mondays and Fridays during Physical Education. Students may make up a test, visit a teacher for extra help, or stay in the gym and choose an activity.

Circus Day: A Circus themed party on the last day of school at the Primary Division.

Class Photo: A picture taken of each class that is sold through our photography company and is in the St. John’s yearbook.

Dances: Students in Grades 7 and 8 have four dances per year: Halloween, Christmas, February, and Graduation.

Deck: The deck is an outdoor rooftop play area used by the Lower Division for recess and physical education classes.

Diligence Award: The Diligence Award is annual award in each section of Grades 1-8 to the student who, in the opinion of the faculty, has consistently demonstrated the greatest academic diligence throughout the school year. Diligence Awards continue to be the highest honor bestowed at St. John’s.

Directory: A listing of St. John’s families, faculty, and staff is available via the parent(s)/guardian(s) portal on the school website.

Dress Down Days (also known as Spirit Days): Every Friday, all students may wear approved St. John’s spirit wear attire with their uniform bottoms. Primary Division girls may wear navy, khaki, or black solid bottoms or St. John’s spirit dresses. Please, no Field Day shirts.

Eagle Cup: The Eagle Cup is a team-based competition that is held three times per year at the Lower Division. Students are put into teams consisting of mixed students from Grades 1, 2, 3, and 4. The students win points through competition puzzles, higher order thinking activities, as well as teamwork.

Eagles Camp: SJE offers a summer camp for all rising Grade 1-8 St. John’s students as well as to students in the local community. Eagles Camp is located at Lower and Middle Divisions for 6 weeks through June and July (except for the week of July 4th). Half day options are 8:00am-11:00am or 12:00pm-3:00pm. Full day is from 8:00am-3:00pm. After care program is available until 6:00 pm, at an additional cost.

Eagles Wings Newsletter: Every Thursday, the Eagles Wings newsletter is sent home via email. It is a must read and will keep you up to date on upcoming school events and necessary information.

Eaglet Camp: Eaglet Summer Camp is open to incoming K(4), K(5), and Grade 1 students. Eaglet Summer Camp is located at the Primary Division and is open June and July (except the week of July 4th). The half-day options are from 8:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and the full-day option is from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. After Care program is available until 6:00 p.m., at an additional cost.

Educational Records Bureau (ERB): St. John’s students, beginning in Grade 3, take the ERB-CTP standardized achievement test in the spring. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive their children’s ERB test scores from the Educational Records Bureau.

Field Day: The Friday before Spring Break, students in Grades 1-8 gather to compete in various events. The homeroom from each grade that earns the most points receives a trophy.

Field Trips: Varied throughout the school year, K(4) and K(5) students take two local field trips per year. Grades 1-4 take at least one local field trip per year. Grades 5-8 take class trips throughout the year.

Final Exams: Students in Grades 4-8 take examinations at the end of each year. Students in Grade 4 take four exams: Math, Reading, Vocabulary and Writing. Students in Grades 5-8 take an exam for the following subjects: English, Latin, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish.

First Day of School: Primary Division students are escorted into their classrooms by their teachers and teacher assistants. Lower Division students arrive at school on the first day following normal morning arrival procedures and routine whether it be via car line drop off or morning walk up. After being welcomed, students will be guided to their respective homeroom classrooms to begin the first day of school with their homeroom teachers. Middle Division students attend the Opening Ceremony in the Louis Marx, Jr. Gymnasium. After class lists are called, students head to class and begin the first day of school.

Florida Keys Field Trip: Grade 7 students experience a five-day trip to the Florida Keys each spring. Students hike the Everglades, snorkel among vibrant tropical fish, and visit the world’s only state-certified sea turtle veterinary hospital. This trip introduces concepts of environmental science, marine biology, and life science in a fun and interactive way.

Florida Springs Field Trip: Each December, Grade 5 students spend two days exploring Florida Springs by visiting Fort DeSoto Park and the Crystal River area. Students swim with the manatees and visit the Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park. In addition, students experience collecting invertebrates and dissecting squid at the Tampa Bay Watch.

Florida West Coast Athletic League (FWCL): St. John’s Middle Division Athletic Program participates in sports competitions sanctioned by the FWCL.

Gasparilla Children’s Parade: Grade 8 students attend the parade on a float and are chaperoned by Middle Division teachers and parents.

Gasparilla Pirate Invasion: St. John’s pirate parents and grandparents “invade” each Division on the same morning, hand out beads, and visit with children in their classrooms.

Geography Fair: Grade 6 students research and prepare group presentations and food based on a country. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and Middle Division students attend the Geography Fair.

Grade Books: Parents’ Association arranges for parent(s)/guardian(s) to take pictures throughout the school year, and then put the book together for each student to receive.

Graduation: Grade 8 students are celebrated each May with a special Eucharist service in the Church. They receive diplomas and awards during the service.

Grandparents’ Day: St. John’s welcomes all Grandparents and special friends to all Divisions once a year Activities and times vary.

High School Graduates Alumni Event: Each spring, an event honoring high school graduates who graduated from St. John’s is held to celebrate heading off to college.

High School Information Meeting: Each September, parent(s)/guardian(s) of Grade 8 students gather for a meeting which overviews the admissions process and deadlines for high school applications.

Homeroom Parent: Each class designates one or two parent/guardian volunteers, who serve as liaisons between Parents’ Association and class families for a variety of special activities, including class parties and other volunteer opportunities. If you have questions about classroom activities or school events, your Homeroom Parent will have the answers or will direct you to someone who does. Parent(s)/guardian(s) can sign up to be a Homeroom Parent in April for duties the following school year.

Impact Report: A comprehensive report on the School’s activities throughout the preceding year, intended to provide stakeholders information about St. John’s activities and financial performance.

Innovation & Media: The Lower and Middle Divisions are equipped with an Innovation Center, which also has innovative spaces for students to foster a mindset of critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration while learning the fundamental concepts of technology operations.

Combined Eucharist: Middle Division students travel to Lower Division to celebrate Holy Eucharist together in our beautiful St. John’s Church. These Joint services are held in November near Thanksgiving and on Maundy (Holy) Thursday.

Latin Forum: Students in Grades 6-8 register to compete in the Regional Latin Forum. They create projects, take tests, and compete in other events for both individual and school awards. Students who achieve awards in the Regional Forum are invited to the State Latin Forum.

Lock-In: Grade 8 students attend an evening of activities, including dinner and yearbook signing.

Long Chapel Service: Once a week, Lower and Middle Divisions participate in the Holy Eucharist (Holy Communion/“Mass”), which lasts longer than our morning prayer liturgies. The School Chaplain celebrates these Eucharistic services. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and families are invited to attend as scheduled.

Lunch Program: The lunch program offers several lunch choices every day, with a focus on providing quality food that our students will enjoy. Lunches must be pre-ordered from Tampa Lunch Company, an outside food service vendor. For ordering details, visit MySJE > Resources > Lunch. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are not permitted to bring soft drinks, coffee drinks, or fast food to students. Uber Eats and other food delivery services are not permitted on School property.

Magnus Health: An online software solution used by St. John’s for collecting, managing, and securely storing student health information. Parent(s)/guardian(s) upload their child’s health records to the Magnus Health site. To access the site, parent(s)/guardian(s) log into MySJE parent(s)/guardian(s) portal.

Maundy Thursday: Also called Holy Thursday, Maundy Thursday is the Christian feast that marks Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples before his arrest and death. It is celebrated the Thursday before Easter Sunday, typically during the evening. “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum (command), referring to Jesus’ command to “love one another as I have loved you.”

Morning Greeters: The Primary Division enlists the help of parent(s)/guardian(s) to open car doors in the morning at arrival. The Lower Division Grade 4 students volunteer to open car doors at arrival.

Movie Night: Student Council sponsors Movie Night(s) in Louis Marx, Jr. Gymnasium for Middle Division students.

Moving Up Day: In the Spring, students in K(5) are dropped at the Lower Division for Chapel, a tour, and a teacher meet-and-greet with Grade 1. Students in Grade 4 bus to the Middle Division for a tour and orientation of the Middle Division.

National Junior Classical League (NJCL): The National Junior Classical League is an organization for Middle Division students in classical courses. Students in Grades 7 and 8 who meet academic criteria, and who also attend Latin Forum are invited to be inducted each spring.

National Junior Honor Society (NJHS): The National Junior Honor Society is the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding middle level students. More than just an honor roll, NJHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. Students in Grades 7 and 8 who meet academic criteria and complete 20 service hours may apply.

Nativity Play: Grade 4 students put on a Nativity play before Christmas, led by the Teacher of Divinity and the Teacher of Music.

Night of the Arts: Each spring student art is displayed in Louis Marx, Jr. Gymnasium and musical numbers are performed by students.

Opening Ceremony: Middle Division students begin the school year with an Opening Ceremony. Students attend the Opening Ceremony in the Louis Marx, Jr. Gymnasium. After class lists are called, students head to class and begin the first day of school.

Open House: An Open House will be held at the Primary Division in the fall. Private tours for Primary, Lower, and Middle Divisions may be scheduled with the office of Enrollment Management.

Parent Chapel: Primary and Lower Division parent(s)/guardian(s) are invited to attend Chapel with their child on scheduled days starting at the end of September. The respective Division Director will communicate the first September parent Chapel.

Picture Days: Individual photos are taken the late August and early September. Grade 8 students are permitted to wear dress down attire for their individual photo. Retakes and class photos are taken in October.

Primary Division ‘Meet-the-Teacher’: Parent(s)/guardian(s) and students are invited to visit their child’s classroom and meet their teachers.

Reading Partners: Grades 1 and 4 meet once a week to read books with each other.

Santa Run: ‘Tis the season to tie your shoelaces and be jolly for a reason! St. John’s members past, present and future come together to celebrate the community with this event. Typically held in early December at Gadsden Park, there is a family fun run, games, obstacle courses, and more. The event is free and open to all St. John’s community members.

Semester Exams: Students in Grade 4 take Project Based Assessments at the end of each semester. The Project Based Assessments are in: Math, Reading, Vocabulary, and Writing. Students in Grades 5-8 take examinations at the end of each semester. The exams are in the following subjects: English, Latin, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish.

Senators: Grade 4 students, who are voted to be a leader and help with sponsoring a community project throughout the school year.

Science Fair: Grade 5 students apply the scientific method to conduct independent research. Students present research to parent(s)/guardian(s) and fellow students at the Science Fair.

Sneak Peek: Each January, students in K(5) and Grade 4 have the opportunity to visit the Lower or Middle campus with their parents to see the campus they will attend the next school year and meet the teachers.

Soaring Eagle Award: Students in Grades 1-8 who demonstrate exemplary citizenship throughout the year may be selected for the Soaring Eagle Award, to be announced at the year-end awards ceremony.

Socials: Students in Grades 5-6 enjoy three or four socials each school year. Socials are held after school and snacks are provided.

Spanish Honor Society: An organization for Middle Division students enrolled in Spanish. Students in Grades 7 & 8, who meet the academic criteria, are invited to be inducted in the spring.

Spirit Day (also known as Dress Down Day): Every Friday, all students may wear approved St. John’s spirit wear attire with their uniform bottoms. Primary Division girls may wear navy, khaki, or black solid bottoms or St. John’s spirit dresses. Please, no Field Day shirts.

Spirit Week: An all-school event organized by Student Council, and held the week prior to Spring Break, where the students typically dress up in themed attire.

Sports Banquet: Each spring a banquet is held to recognize Middle Division student-athletes.

Sports Program: The St. John’s athletic program’s primary goals are to have fun, enjoy participating in an activity, build selfconfidence, and develop positive social skills.

Spring Fling: K(5) student musical performance led by the Teacher of Music in early May.

Spring Musical: A performing arts opportunity for students in Grades 5-8 to participate in a musical production. An afternoon performance for Middle Division students and two evening performances are scheduled over a two-day period.

St. Augustine Field Trip: Each fall, Grade 6 students spend two days in St. Augustine. The trip brings students into contact with some of the most important and exciting historical sites and museums in St. Augustine, designed to link classroom lessons with living history experiences.

St. Francis Day, Blessing of the Animals: This is a fun-filled celebration and blessing of our community’s animals. Parent(s)/guardian(s) may bring pets to the Lower Division. If students cannot bring their pets, they are encouraged to bring a leash, a collar, and a photo or another item to be blessed.

St. John’s Open: An annual golf tournament event for St. John’s community members.

Student Council: A small group of Middle Division students, who are elected by the student body, which act as the student government/leaders for the School.

Used Uniform Store: Gently used uniforms are collected and available for sale at bargain prices throughout the year. Look for periodic updates about Used Uniform Store sales in the Eagles Wings newsletter or inquire with your division office. All proceeds support Parents’ Association operations.

Versacross: Veracross is the student information system used by St. John’s. Veracross provides services such as keeping parent(s)/guardian(s) up to date on their student’s progress to an online gradebook for faculty, online applications and enrollment contracts, searchable directories, and more.

Yosemite National Park, CA Field Trip: Each October, Grade 8 students enjoy a five-day trip exploring the majestic sites of Yosemite National Park in California, walking through the famed giant redwood trees in the Muir Woods, and taking a bus tour of several popular San Francisco sites.

2025-2026 GLOSSARY

OF ST. JOHN’S TERMINOLOGY

Acolytes: Acolytes have special roles supporting our common liturgies, especially our celebrations of the Holy Eucharist (Holy Communion/“Mass”). St. John’s invites students to serve in these capacities.

After School Enrichments: Enrichment classes are offered after school at each campus and vary in offering and cost. Classes are held in trimester format, and details will be communicated through Eagles Wings and via email.

Battle of the Books: Each year students in Grades 3-8 read books on the Sunshine State Young Reader Award Books list. They take tests to qualify to be on teams which represent our school at the Bay Area Independent Schools Competition.

Birthday Book: K(4) and K(5) students donate a book to the school at a parent chapel on a prearranged Friday for their birthday

Biz Town: Grade 5 students first take part in a series of classroom lessons where they learn about working in and being consumers in today’s world. They work together to create business plans, calculate operating costs, design a marketing campaign, apply for jobs, vote for city officials, and explore careers.

Celebratio: This event is a celebratory fundraiser. It offers many ways for parent(s)/guardian(s) to be involved and support the school, such as donating a Live or Silent Auction item, being on the Celebratio committee, as well as gathering with your friends, attending the event, and bidding on your favorite items. Celebratio is a much anticipated, popular, and festive event that greatly benefits our school.

Celebration of Thanks Performance: K(5) students Celebration of Thanks performance in the Lower Division Church, the Friday before the Thanksgiving break.

Choice Time: Middle Division students have Choice Time on Mondays and Fridays during Physical Education. Students may make up a test, visit a teacher for extra help, or stay in the gym and choose an activity.

Circus Day: A Circus themed party on the last day of school at the Primary Division.

Class Photo: A picture taken of each class that is sold through our photography company and is in the St. John’s yearbook.

Dances: Students in Grades 7 and 8 have four dances per year: Halloween, Christmas, February, and Graduation.

Deck: The deck is an outdoor rooftop play area used by the Lower Division for recess and physical education classes.

Diligence Award: The Diligence Award is annual award in each section of Grades 1-8 to the student who, in the opinion of the faculty, has consistently demonstrated the greatest academic diligence throughout the school year. Diligence Awards continue to be the highest honor bestowed at St. John’s.

Directory: A listing of St. John’s families, faculty, and staff is available via the parent(s)/guardian(s) portal on the school website.

Dress Down Days (also known as Spirit Days): Every Friday, all students may wear approved St. John’s spirit wear attire with their uniform bottoms. Primary Division girls may wear navy, khaki, or black solid bottoms or St. John’s spirit dresses. Please, no Field Day shirts.

Eagle Cup: The Eagle Cup is a team-based competition that is held three times per year at the Lower Division. Students are put into teams consisting of mixed students from Grades 1, 2, 3, and 4. The students win points through competition puzzles, higher order thinking activities, as well as teamwork.

Eagles Camp: SJE offers a summer camp for all rising Grade 1-8 St. John’s students as well as to students in the local community. Eagles Camp is located at Lower and Middle Divisions for 6 weeks through June and July (except for the week of July 4th). Half day options are 8:00am-11:00am or 12:00pm-3:00pm. Full day is from 8:00am-3:00pm. After care program is available until 6:00 pm, at an additional cost.

Eagles Wings Newsletter: Every Thursday, the Eagles Wings newsletter is sent home via email. It is a must read and will keep you up to date on upcoming school events and necessary information.

Eaglet Camp: Eaglet Summer Camp is open to incoming K(4), K(5), and Grade 1 students. Eaglet Summer Camp is located at the Primary Division and is open June and July (except the week of July 4th). The half-day options are from 8:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and the full-day option is from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. After Care program is available until 6:00 p.m., at an additional cost.

Educational Records Bureau (ERB): St. John’s students, beginning in Grade 3, take the ERB-CTP standardized achievement test in the spring. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive their children’s ERB test scores from the Educational Records Bureau.

Field Day: The Friday before Spring Break, students in Grades 1-8 gather to compete in various events. The homeroom from each grade that earns the most points receives a trophy.

Field Trips: Varied throughout the school year, K(4) and K(5) students take two local field trips per year. Grades 1-4 take at least one local field trip per year. Grades 5-8 take class trips throughout the year.

Final Exams: Students in Grades 4-8 take examinations at the end of each year. Students in Grade 4 take four exams: Math, Reading, Vocabulary and Writing. Students in Grades 5-8 take an exam for the following subjects: English, Latin, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish.

First Day of School: Primary Division students are escorted into their classrooms by their teachers and teacher assistants. Lower Division students arrive at school on the first day following normal morning arrival procedures and routine whether it be via car line drop off or morning walk up. After being welcomed, students will be guided to their respective homeroom classrooms to begin the first day of school with their homeroom teachers. Middle Division students attend the Opening Ceremony in the Louis Marx, Jr. Gymnasium. After class lists are called, students head to class and begin the first day of school.

Florida Keys Field Trip: Grade 7 students experience a five-day trip to the Florida Keys each spring. Students hike the Everglades, snorkel among vibrant tropical fish, and visit the world’s only state-certified sea turtle veterinary hospital. This trip introduces concepts of environmental science, marine biology, and life science in a fun and interactive way.

Florida Springs Field Trip: Each December, Grade 5 students spend two days exploring Florida Springs by visiting Fort DeSoto Park and the Crystal River area. Students swim with the manatees and visit the Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park. In addition, students experience collecting invertebrates and dissecting squid at the Tampa Bay Watch.

Florida West Coast Athletic League (FWCL): St. John’s Middle Division Athletic Program participates in sports competitions sanctioned by the FWCL.

Gasparilla Children’s Parade: Grade 8 students attend the parade on a float and are chaperoned by Middle Division teachers and parents.

Gasparilla Pirate Invasion: St. John’s pirate parents and grandparents “invade” each Division on the same morning, hand out beads, and visit with children in their classrooms.

Geography Fair: Grade 6 students research and prepare group presentations and food based on a country. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and Middle Division students attend the Geography Fair.

Grade Books: Parents’ Association arranges for parent(s)/guardian(s) to take pictures throughout the school year, and then put the book together for each student to receive.

Graduation: Grade 8 students are celebrated each May with a special Eucharist service in the Church. They receive diplomas and awards during the service.

Grandparents’ Day: St. John’s welcomes all Grandparents and special friends to all Divisions once a year Activities and times vary.

High School Graduates Alumni Event: Each spring, an event honoring high school graduates who graduated from St. John’s is held to celebrate heading off to college.

High School Information Meeting: Each September, parent(s)/guardian(s) of Grade 8 students gather for a meeting which overviews the admissions process and deadlines for high school applications.

Homeroom Parent: Each class designates one or two parent/guardian volunteers, who serve as liaisons between Parents’ Association and class families for a variety of special activities, including class parties and other volunteer opportunities. If you have questions about classroom activities or school events, your Homeroom Parent will have the answers or will direct you to someone who does. Parent(s)/guardian(s) can sign up to be a Homeroom Parent in April for duties the following school year.

Impact Report: A comprehensive report on the School’s activities throughout the preceding year, intended to provide stakeholders information about St. John’s activities and financial performance.

Innovation & Media: The Lower and Middle Divisions are equipped with an Innovation Center, which also has innovative spaces for students to foster a mindset of critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration while learning the fundamental concepts of technology operations.

Combined Eucharist: Middle Division students travel to Lower Division to celebrate Holy Eucharist together in our beautiful St. John’s Church. These Joint services are held in November near Thanksgiving and on Maundy (Holy) Thursday.

Latin Forum: Students in Grades 6-8 register to compete in the Regional Latin Forum. They create projects, take tests, and compete in other events for both individual and school awards. Students who achieve awards in the Regional Forum are invited to the State Latin Forum.

Lock-In: Grade 8 students attend an evening of activities, including dinner and yearbook signing.

Long Chapel Service: Once a week, Lower and Middle Divisions participate in the Holy Eucharist (Holy Communion/“Mass”), which lasts longer than our morning prayer liturgies. The School Chaplain celebrates these Eucharistic services. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and families are invited to attend as scheduled.

Lunch Program: The lunch program offers several lunch choices every day, with a focus on providing quality food that our students will enjoy. Lunches must be pre-ordered from Tampa Lunch Company, an outside food service vendor. For ordering details, visit MySJE > Resources > Lunch. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are not permitted to bring soft drinks, coffee drinks, or fast food to students. Uber Eats and other food delivery services are not permitted on School property.

Magnus Health: An online software solution used by St. John’s for collecting, managing, and securely storing student health information. Parent(s)/guardian(s) upload their child’s health records to the Magnus Health site. To access the site, parent(s)/guardian(s) log into MySJE parent(s)/guardian(s) portal.

Maundy Thursday: Also called Holy Thursday, Maundy Thursday is the Christian feast that marks Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples before his arrest and death. It is celebrated the Thursday before Easter Sunday, typically during the evening. “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum (command), referring to Jesus’ command to “love one another as I have loved you.”

Morning Greeters: The Primary Division enlists the help of parent(s)/guardian(s) to open car doors in the morning at arrival. The Lower Division Grade 4 students volunteer to open car doors at arrival.

Movie Night: Student Council sponsors Movie Night(s) in Louis Marx, Jr. Gymnasium for Middle Division students.

Moving Up Day: In the Spring, students in K(5) are dropped at the Lower Division for Chapel, a tour, and a teacher meet-and-greet with Grade 1. Students in Grade 4 bus to the Middle Division for a tour and orientation of the Middle Division.

National Junior Classical League (NJCL): The National Junior Classical League is an organization for Middle Division students in classical courses. Students in Grades 7 and 8 who meet academic criteria, and who also attend Latin Forum are invited to be inducted each spring.

National Junior Honor Society (NJHS): The National Junior Honor Society is the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding middle level students. More than just an honor roll, NJHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. Students in Grades 7 and 8 who meet academic criteria and complete 20 service hours may apply.

Nativity Play: Grade 4 students put on a Nativity play before Christmas, led by the Teacher of Divinity and the Teacher of Music.

Night of the Arts: Each spring student art is displayed in Louis Marx, Jr. Gymnasium and musical numbers are performed by students.

Opening Ceremony: Middle Division students begin the school year with an Opening Ceremony. Students attend the Opening Ceremony in the Louis Marx, Jr. Gymnasium. After class lists are called, students head to class and begin the first day of school.

Open House: An Open House will be held at the Primary Division in the fall. Private tours for Primary, Lower, and Middle Divisions may be scheduled with the office of Enrollment Management.

Parent Chapel: Primary and Lower Division parent(s)/guardian(s) are invited to attend Chapel with their child on scheduled days starting at the end of September. The respective Division Director will communicate the first September parent Chapel.

Picture Days: Individual photos are taken the late August and early September. Grade 8 students are permitted to wear dress down attire for their individual photo. Retakes and class photos are taken in October.

Primary Division ‘Meet-the-Teacher’: Parent(s)/guardian(s) and students are invited to visit their child’s classroom and meet their teachers.

Reading Partners: Grades 1 and 4 meet once a week to read books with each other.

Santa Run: ‘Tis the season to tie your shoelaces and be jolly for a reason! St. John’s members past, present and future come together to celebrate the community with this event. Typically held in early December at Gadsden Park, there is a family fun run, games, obstacle courses, and more. The event is free and open to all St. John’s community members.

Semester Exams: Students in Grade 4 take Project Based Assessments at the end of each semester. The Project Based Assessments are in: Math, Reading, Vocabulary, and Writing. Students in Grades 5-8 take examinations at the end of each semester. The exams are in the following subjects: English, Latin, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish.

Senators: Grade 4 students, who are voted to be a leader and help with sponsoring a community project throughout the school year.

Science Fair: Grade 5 students apply the scientific method to conduct independent research. Students present research to parent(s)/guardian(s) and fellow students at the Science Fair.

Sneak Peek: Each January, students in K(5) and Grade 4 have the opportunity to visit the Lower or Middle campus with their parents to see the campus they will attend the next school year and meet the teachers.

Soaring Eagle Award: Students in Grades 1-8 who demonstrate exemplary citizenship throughout the year may be selected for the Soaring Eagle Award, to be announced at the year-end awards ceremony.

Socials: Students in Grades 5-6 enjoy three or four socials each school year. Socials are held after school and snacks are provided.

Spanish Honor Society: An organization for Middle Division students enrolled in Spanish. Students in Grades 7 & 8, who meet the academic criteria, are invited to be inducted in the spring.

Spirit Day (also known as Dress Down Day): Every Friday, all students may wear approved St. John’s spirit wear attire with their uniform bottoms. Primary Division girls may wear navy, khaki, or black solid bottoms or St. John’s spirit dresses. Please, no Field Day shirts.

Spirit Week: An all-school event organized by Student Council, and held the week prior to Spring Break, where the students typically dress up in themed attire.

Sports Banquet: Each spring a banquet is held to recognize Middle Division student-athletes.

Sports Program: The St. John’s athletic program’s primary goals are to have fun, enjoy participating in an activity, build selfconfidence, and develop positive social skills.

Spring Fling: K(5) student musical performance led by the Teacher of Music in early May.

Spring Musical: A performing arts opportunity for students in Grades 5-8 to participate in a musical production. An afternoon performance for Middle Division students and two evening performances are scheduled over a two-day period.

St. Augustine Field Trip: Each fall, Grade 6 students spend two days in St. Augustine. The trip brings students into contact with some of the most important and exciting historical sites and museums in St. Augustine, designed to link classroom lessons with living history experiences.

St. Francis Day, Blessing of the Animals: This is a fun-filled celebration and blessing of our community’s animals. Parent(s)/guardian(s) may bring pets to the Lower Division. If students cannot bring their pets, they are encouraged to bring a leash, a collar, and a photo or another item to be blessed.

St. John’s Open: An annual golf tournament event for St. John’s community members.

Student Council: A small group of Middle Division students, who are elected by the student body, which act as the student government/leaders for the School.

Used Uniform Store: Gently used uniforms are collected and available for sale at bargain prices throughout the year. Look for periodic updates about Used Uniform Store sales in the Eagles Wings newsletter or inquire with your division office. All proceeds support Parents’ Association operations.

Versacross: Veracross is the student information system used by St. John’s. Veracross provides services such as keeping parent(s)/guardian(s) up to date on their student’s progress to an online gradebook for faculty, online applications and enrollment contracts, searchable directories, and more.

Yosemite National Park, CA Field Trip: Each October, Grade 8 students enjoy a five-day trip exploring the majestic sites of Yosemite National Park in California, walking through the famed giant redwood trees in the Muir Woods, and taking a bus tour of several popular San Francisco sites.