VWA Student/Parent Handbook 2024-2025

MISSION STATEMENT

A college preparatory Catholic school, Villa Walsh Academy proudly inspires our young women to expand their intellectual breadth and depth and to enhance their sense of local and global concern, empowering them to influence their world in a Christian manner.

INTRODUCTION

Conducted by the Religious Teachers Filippini, Villa Walsh Academy is a college preparatory Catholic school for young women from grades seven through twelve who desire an exceptional academic background for higher studies The Academy offers diversified programs with participation in student-oriented activities wherein each student may acquire a rich cultural background in the liberal arts.

The administration and faculty comprise a highly qualified staff of religious and lay teachers. Every student is offered a well-balanced program of academic, cultural, social, physical, and Christian moral training which will enable her to achieve her fullest potential.

Fully equipped science laboratories, computerized classrooms, and resource media centers are connected via a state-of-the-art local area network which contributes to Villa Walsh Academy's technological advances.

Through religion courses and liturgical worship, students acquire the knowledge and insights necessary to give witness to their Catholic faith Within Catholic theology courses, students of other faiths develop wholesome moral values in keeping with their own religious beliefs

The Academy offers a quality education that prepares citizens who create a better community for the good of society.

PHILOSOPHY

VillaWalshAcademyiscommittedtothebeliefthatallpersons,beingrichly endowedbyGodwithgiftsofintellectandspirit,haveanuniqueopportunityand obligationtodevelopthesequalitiestothefullestinaccordancewithHisplanof creation.TheAcademyisfurthercommittedtothephilosophyandpracticeofthe threefoldpurposeofCatholiceducation,namely,toteachtheGoodNewsofJesus Christ,tobuildChristiancommunity,andtoservetheneedsofothers.VillaWalsh Academyiscommittedtoactualizingthisvisionby:

PreparingitsyoungwomentoproclaimtheGoodNewsandtotranslatethis proclamationintoaction

Inspiringfaithwhichwillenliventheknowledgestudentsgainoftheworld,of life,andofhumankind

Providinglearningexperiencesthatnurtureself-esteemandencourageselfdiscipline.

Communicatingideasandvaluesinamannerthatencouragescreativity, reflection,andintellectualcuriosity.

Providingprogramsofstudywhichhelpformyoungwomencommittedto Christianprinciplesandvalues.

ProvidingprogramsofstudywhichdevelopknowledgeofAmerican democracyandpromotethosecivicvirtuesnecessarytoitspreservation.

SPIRITUALENRICHMENT

Everyeffortismadetoprovidestudentswithfaithexperiencesdirectedtowarda realizationofChristianityasawayoflifethatwillenhancetheirvalues,judgments, decisions,andactions.ThestudentsareencouragedtoactualizetheirChristian beliefandspiritualitythroughclassroominteractions,school-relatedactivities,and volunteerservicePrayersaresaidatthebeginningofeachclass

St LucyChapelisavailabletothestudentsduringtheschoolday Eucharistic liturgiesarecelebratedfortheschoolcommunityapproximatelyonceamonth. Parentsandfriendsarealwayswelcometoattend Thestudentshelpplanthese liturgieswiththeguidanceoftheirtheologyteacherinorderthattheymaylearn theelementsofappropriateLiturgicalworship.ThesacramentofReconciliationis offeredtostudents

Classretreatsarescheduledannuallysothateachgradelevelhastheopportunityto spendthedaytogetherinprayerandreflection.

A Villa Walsh Academy graduate demonstrates a moral foundation based on Christian values that enables her to be a responsible member of society. Having completed our rigorous academic program, the Villa Walsh Academy graduate appliesherspiritualandintellectualqualitiesbydemonstratingthefollowing:

Integrity

Passionforlife-longlearning

Strongworkethic

Theabilitytothinkcritically

Confidenceinheropinionsandideas

Empathytowardothers

Serviceinsupportofherlocalandglobalcommunity

AVillaWalshAcademygraduaterecognizesthatsheisawomanwithuniqueGodgiven gifts With a sense of pride in herself and her accomplishments, she is preparedtoinfluenceherworldinthespiritofSt.LucyFilippini.

ADMISSIONS

Villa Walsh Academy is for the motivated college-bound student who shows proficiencyinbasicacademicsubjects

Applicants:

1. TaketheAcademyentranceexamination.

2.ForwardpreviousscholasticandstandardizedtestscorestothePrincipal’s office.

3 Submitaletterofrecommendationfromateacherand/orPrincipal

4 Submitanadditionalletterofrecommendation(eg,musicteacher, athleticcoach,co-curricular/extra-curricularadvisor,scoutleader,etc)

Atthediscretionoftheschooladministration,aninterviewofthecandidatewillbe arranged, following the successful completion of admission procedures. NonCatholicsseekingadmissionmustbewillingtoacceptandabidebythephilosophy andcurriculumrequirementsofVillaWalshAcademy

AftertheinterviewtheapplicantmayrequesttospendadayattheAcademyand attendclasses.

CURRICULUM

The curriculum is designed to provide a variety of courses with emphasis on theology, the fine arts, languages, sciences, mathematics, technology and humanities. Small classes provide the framework for serious study and individualizedlearning.Throughlargegroupassembly,smallgroupdiscussion,and independentstudy,thestudentisencouragedtoassumeagreaterresponsibility forherownlearning

Tofacilitatestudents'needs,majorcoursesareofferedonthreelevels:college prep,honors,andadvancedplacement Gradesareweightedaccordingly Student performance,teacherrecommendations,andstandardizedtestscoresdetermine thecourselevelofferedtoeachstudent.

Administration and faculty assume the responsibility to continuously assess, evaluate,anddevelopthecurriculum.Thefacultycollaborateonadepartmental andinterdepartmentallevel VillaWalshAcademyboastsa6:1student-teacher ratio All courses adhere to the standards established by the New Jersey State DepartmentofEducationandthePatersonDiocese

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

A graduate from Villa Walsh Academy must successfully accumulate a minimum of 140 credits, which include the basic college entrance requirements:

Additional electives may be selected from the following areas: Mathematics, World Language, History, Science, Computer Science, Arts and Humanities.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM SEQUENCE

GRADE7

Religion

English

Latin

Life Science

Pre-Algebra

Social Studies

Computer I: Microsoft Word and Excel

Chorus

Art Education

Health Education

Physical Education

GRADE8

Religion

English

Latin

Physical Science

Algebra I

Social Studies

Computer II: Microsoft Powerpoint and Publisher, Adobe InDesign

Chorus

Art Education

Health Education

Physical Education

HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM SEQUENCE

FRESHMAN COURSES

TheologyI

EnglishI/H

Biology

AlgebraI

AlgebraII/H

Geometry/H

WorldHistory

HealthEducation

PhysicalEducation

ELECTIVES

FrenchI/II

ItalianI/II

SpanishI/II

Chorus

Art

Freshmen must choose one language and one fine art course from the above list.

SOPHOMORE COURSES

TheologyII

BritishLiterature/H

English10:APSeminar

Chemistry/H

AlgebraII/H

Geometry/H

Pre-Calculus/H

UnitedStatesHistoryI/H

WorldHistoryAP

FrenchII/IIIH

ItalianII/IIIH

SpanishII/IIIH

PhysicalEducation

DriverEducation

ELECTIVES

WebDesignwithHTMLProgramming

ComputerScienceDiscoveries

APComputerSciencePrinciples

DemocracyandGovernment

Chorus

AdvancedArt

Art&Design

Dance

Sophomores must choose at least two electives from the above list.

JUNIORCOURSES

Theology III

American Literature H

AP English Language & Composition

Algebra II / H

Precalculus/H

AP Calculus AB

Calculus H

Physics I/ H/AP

United States History II H/ II AP

Physical Education

Health Education

ELECTIVES

AP Chemistry

AP Biology

French III H/ IV H

Italian III H/ IV H

Spanish III H/ IV H

AP Research

Computer Science Discoveries

AP Computer Science Principles

AP Computer Science A

Web Design with HTML

Democracy and Government

Advanced Art

Art & Design

2D Art & Design H

Art History / AP

Chorus

Dance

Juniors must choose at least three electives from the above list.

SENIOR COURSES

Theology IV

World Literature H

AP English Literature & Composition

Senior College Guidance & Financial Literacy

Precalculus / H

Calculus H

AP Calculus AB, BC

Statistics H/AP

Physics II/ H/AP

Physical Education

Health Education

ELECTIVES

Anatomy & Physiology

AP Biology

AP Chemistry

Females in Fairy Tales & Film

Introduction to Psychology

AP Psychology

French IV H/ V H/AP

Spanish IV H/ V H/AP

Italian IV H/ AP

Modern European History/ AP

Democracy and Government

Economics H

Web Design HTML

Computer Science Discoveries

AP Computer Science Principles

AP Computer Science A

Advanced Art

Art & Design

2D Art & Design AP

Art History/AP

Chorus

Dance

Seniors must choose at least four electives from the above list ADVANCED

PLACEMENT COURSES

The following AP courses are offered:

2D Art & Design

Art History

Biology

Calculus AB

Calculus BC

Chemistry

Computer Science A

Computer Science Principles

English 10: AP Seminar

English Language and Composition

English Literature and Composition

AP Research

French Language and Culture

Italian Language and Culture

Modern European History

Physics I

Physics II

Psychology

English 10: AP Seminar

Spanish Language and Culture

Spanish Literature & Culture

Statistics

United States History II

World History

Students may elect to study independently for an AP Exam, but will not receive course credit. The resulting score from the AP exam can be forwarded to colleges by the student. The number of AP and Honors courses a student takes each year may vary due to scheduling conflicts

The requirements for the AP courses are listed in the Program of Studies and vary from subject to subject However, admission is based on a combination of PSAT scores, diagnostic test scores, ability in subject area as evidenced in grades received the previous academic year, and teacher recommendations Students enrolled in AP courses are required to take the AP exam in that subject.

COURSE SELECTIONS

Course selection forms are distributed to all freshmen, sophomores, and juniors in early spring. Students, with the assistance of the Guidance Counselor, subject area teachers, and Director of Curriculum, will choose courses for the next scholastic year using the course requirements listed in the Program of Studies. Once the course selection form has been completed by the student, it must be signed by a parent or guardian

COURSE CHANGES

If a student decides to make a change in her courses once the school year has started, the request must be approved by the Guidance Counselor and teacher All changes must be made by the end of the Add/Drop period.

EVALUATION OF ACADEMIC PROGRESS

The school year is divided into two semesters Reports of student progress are issued mid-semester; grade reports are issued at the end of each semester. All studentsarerequiredtotakefinalexaminationsineachacademicareaofstudy

Theschoolconsidersthisexperiencevitalpreparationforcollege.Thefinalexam grade will be calculated as 1/7 of the final average. Each semester grade will be calculatedas3/7ofthefinalgradeaverage

STUDENT EVALUATION

Report cards are emailed to the parents at the end of each semester

LETTER MARK NUMERICAL EQUIVALENT

A+

- 100 A

- 96 A-

- 92 B+

- 89 B

- 86 B-

- 82 C+

- 79 C

- 72

- 76 C-

D 65 - 69

F 64 and below

FAILURE

If a student receives a "D" as a final grade in a major subject, she will be required to attend summer school to improve in that subject area. Any student failing a major subject or receiving two “D"s as a final grade will be in jeopardy of not returning to the Academy.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE

Grade point averages, based on all subjects, are cumulative from freshman year through senior year. The system used is as follows:

CLASS RANK

Villa Walsh Academy does not rank its students since the concept of rank does not accurately reflect the selective nature of our student body, our rigorous college preparatory curriculum, and individual achievements Rank may be a misleading indication of a student's true academic quality and ability to perform successfully in college

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parents are encouraged to visit the school, and/or meet with the teachers, the Guidance Counselor, and the Principal They are requested to call the school to arrange for an appointment convenient to all parties. An opportunity to meet with the faculty is scheduled in the fall of each academic year

GUIDANCE

Guidance services are available for every student in the school. These services include assistance with educational and college planning, interpretation of test scores, occupational information, career information, study aid A Student Assistant Counselor is also available to meet with all students for personal counseling Students and parents are encouraged to check the Guidance Department website for current information.

The guidance program includes personal interviews with the Director of Guidance and Academic Service and parent-teacher-student conferences. In junior and senior years, greater emphasis is placed on college and career planning

Standardized testing is an important part of the guidance program, and such tests are administered at each level

If a student wishes to see the Director of Guidance and Academic Service or Student Assistant Counselor, she should go to the respective Counselor and make an appointment.

The guidance personnel will issue a copy of the student’s transcript at the request of the student The law requires that an official transcript may only be sent directly to the institution of learning and not be handed to the student or her parents

Three approved college visits are also excused for seniors If an additional college visit is required, the reason must be presented and approved by the Guidance Department. Juniors are permitted two college visits. All students are required to bring a note indicating they were attending a college visit from the admissions office upon their return.

GUIDANCE (cont.)

Each year college representatives visit Villa Walsh Academy Seniors are required to notify their teacher prior to the visit and sign up in the Guidance Office. Juniors who wish to attend need to either have a study hall or lunch If it is during a class, they must notify the teacher. They are limited to three (3) visits that require missing a class.

POLICY ON ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

At the beginning of each scholastic year, students and their parents are required to sign an Honor Code Contract attesting to their knowledge of the rules governing plagiarism and cheating, as well as the consequences. The contract is located on our Magnus portal.

Cheating during any testing situation and plagiarizing any class assignment are considered serious offenses A student found cheating in any manner (either giving or receiving information) automatically receives a failing grade and will not be permitted to finish a test or quiz

Plagiarism is defined as copying the language or thought of another and passing it off as one ’ s own. If a student copies the language or thoughts of someone else, she must credit the language and ideas, in either the body of the paper or in a footnote, and place quotation marks around verbatim language. Any student found guilty of plagiarizing any assignment will receive a grade of zero for the assignment.

If any student is found guilty of cheating or plagiarizing, the teacher will notify the principal and the parents. The student's status at the Academy will be in jeopardy.

INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

Villa Walsh Academy makes a system of personal computers, laptops, and internet access (the "System") available. It is imperative to understand that the use of technology is restricted to academic purposes.

Villa Walsh Academy has the right to regulate the materials that students access or post while on school grounds, to ensure that all use of the System is in accordance with the Catholic philosophy of the school, and to enforce all rules set forth in the school’s disciplinary code and the laws of the United States and the State of New Jersey Further, students may not use this System for commercial purposes to offer, provide, or purchase products or services through the System Access to the Internet is available through this school only with permission of the Principal or her designee and parents as indicated by the signing of an Internet Use Agreement

INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY (cont.)

The use of the System is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use may result in cancellation of those privileges. Each user who is provided access to the System will participate in a discussion with assigned staff person(s) concerning its proper use. The faculty, staff, or parent/guardian may request the administrator or designee to deny, revoke, or suspend a specific user ' s access to the System due to unacceptable use Villa Walsh Academy also reserves the right to log System use and to monitor the use of file server space utilization.

Generative AI (GenAI) is a powerful technological advancement with incredible potential to enrich teaching and learning. However, it should not be a substitute for independent thinking In all instances, GenAI should be used as a tool to enhance, not replace, student work. For example, if a student wishes to use GenAI for preliminary research for a project, she should check with her teacher to see if it is permitted. If she is permitted, she should use it in a way that helps her to take ownership of her learning and final output. Then, she should cite the website or app she used as she would another source that significantly contributed to her final work.

Villa Walsh Academy is committed to upholding the highest standards of academic integrity. This includes, but is not limited to, taking steps to prevent and address academic dishonesty and recognizing and mitigating potential biases and shortcomings in AI tools. For example, teachers may require students to handwrite essay drafts or submit a document with tracked changes to oversee their students’ writing process.

Students are ultimately responsible for the authenticity and integrity of their work, including any work produced with the aid of GenAI. If a student is found guilty of cheating or plagiarizing, the teacher will notify the Principal and the parents The student’s status at Villa Walsh will be in jeopardy

Villa Walsh Academy recognizes that technology is changing rapidly and will periodically review and amend this policy. If students have any concerns about if and how they may use GenAI or other computational tools for their studies and assignments, they should speak with their teachers for further directions

PersonalComputersandAllOtherDevices

Theuseofcellphones,smartdevices,smartwatchesandthelikearenotcrucialto theeducationalenvironmentandare,therefore,prohibitedduringtheschoolday. Thesedevicesmustbeturnedoffandsecuredinthestudent'slocker Studentsare reminded that any wireless connection through alternative carriers is prohibited while on school grounds. Students are permitted to use approved electronic devicesatthediscretionofteachersand/oradministration

The Internet is considered a limited forum similar to the school newspaper; therefore, the school can restrict students' rights of free speech. Any exercise of freespeechusingtheschool'scomputersmustbeinkeepingwithCatholicvalues asexpressedintheschool'sphilosophyandmissionstatement.

Student Responsibilities: Personal Safety

Studentswillnotpostcontactinformation(e.g.,address,phonenumber)about themselvesoranyotherpersononanyinternet-basedresource

Studentswillnotagreetomeetwithsomeonetheyhavemetonline.Anycontact of this nature or the receipt of any message should be reported to school authoritiesimmediately

IllegalActivities

Studentswillnotattempttogainunauthorizedaccesstothesystemoranyother computersystemorgobeyondauthorizedaccessbyenteringanotherperson's passwordoraccountnumberorbyaccessinganotherperson'sfiles.

Students will not attempt to disrupt the computer system or destroy data by spreadingcomputervirusesorbyanyothermeans.

Studentswillnotattempttomodifyanyoftheschool’scomputersorcomputer systemsbychangingsystem,hardware,orsoftwareconfigurations.

Studentswillnotusethesystemtoengageinanyotherillegalact

SystemSecurity

Villa Walsh Academy Internet access is protected by a firewall Bypassing this firewallisprohibited

Students are responsible for their individual email account and should take all reasonableprecautionstopreventothersfromusingtheiraccount

Undernocircumstanceswillstudentsgivetheirpasswordtoanotherperson

Students will immediately notify the principal, faculty, or the technology administratorofanysystemproblems.

StudentsareprohibitedfromusingtheSystemtodownloadmaterialofanykind withouttheexpresspermissionoftheirteacherorthetechnologyadministrator.

Studentsareprohibitedfromloadingorinstallinganyprogramfilesorsoftware ontotheschool’sworkstationsorsystem.

InappropriateLanguage

OnallusesoftheInternet,whetherinapplicationtopublicorprivatemessagesor material posted on the Web pages, students will use appropriate language consistent with our Catholic philosophy and values Students must not use obscene,profane,lewd,vulgar,rude,inflammatory,threatening,ordisrespectful language

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullyingincludes,butisnotlimitedto,thefollowingmisusesoftechnology: bullying, discriminatory remarks, hate mail, harassment, intimidation, teasing, threatening, or terrorizing another student or staff member by way of any technological device or tool, such as sending or posting inappropriate or derogatoryemailmessages,instantmessages,textmessages,digitalpicturesor images, videos, film or website postings Students participating in any form of cyberbullyingwillbesubjecttodisciplinaryand/orlegalconsequences

Cyberbullyingthattakesplaceonorimmediatelyadjacenttoschoolgrounds,at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided transportation, or at any officialschoolbusstopisprohibited

Anyoff-campusactsthatsubstantiallycausedisruptiontotheschoolorstudentor interfereswiththerightsofstudentstobesecurewillbesubjecttodisciplinary and/orlegalconsequences.

Students are prohibited from posting information that may cause danger or disruption.Studentsmustnotengageinpersonalattacks,includingprejudicialor discriminatoryattacks.

Students or parents witnessing or being subjected to cyber bullying should immediately follow reporting procedures outlined in the Harassment, Intimidation,orBullying(H.I.B.)policy.

Ifastudentorfacultymemberisavictimoforawitnesstocyberbullying,heor she should collect evidence including copies of emails, text messages, or other related media and/or record evidence by taking screen shots of media to documenttheincident.

RespectforPrivacy

Studentsmustrespecttheprivacyofothersbynotrepostinganymessage withoutpermission.

Studentsmustnotpostprivateinformationorimagesofthemselvesoranother person.

RespectingResourceLimits

Studentsmustusethesystemonlyforacademicpurposes

Studentsmustrespecttherightsofallbyusingthesysteminatimelymanner

Student use for product advertisement, political lobbying, game playing, “spamming,” unauthorized "chat," or chain letter communication and subscriptionstoliststhathavenotbeenapprovedbytheadministrationisalso prohibited.

Students may access internet newsgroups, discussion groups, and bulletin boards for academic purposes only with the express permission of their teacherorthetechnologyadministrator.

PlagiarismandCopyrightInfringement

Material obtained through research on the Internet, and then used in research papersforanyclassesatVillaWalshAcademy,mustbeproperlydocumented

StudentsmustnotplagiarizewordsorideasthattheyfindontheInternet.

Students must respect the rights of copyright owners and direct any questions regardingcopyrightlawtoateacher

InappropriateAccesstoMaterial

Studentsmustnotusetheschool’scomputerstoaccessmaterialthatisprofaneor obscene or that advocates illegal acts of violence or discrimination toward other people(“hateliterature”).

Parents should instruct their daughters if there is additional material that they thinkisinappropriateforaccess Studentsareexpectedtoadheretotheirparents' instructioninthismatter.

Privacy

Students should expect no privacy or permanency of the contents of personal files on the school’s computer system. Routine maintenance and monitoring of the system will occurs and may result in the viewing and/or removal of student files An individual search will be conducted if there is reasonable suspicion that studentshaveviolatedanyofthetermsofthispolicy,theschooldisciplinarycode, or the law Villa Walsh will cooperate fully with local, state, or federal officials in any investigation related to illegal activities conducted through the school’s computer system. Any violation of the terms of this policy will be subject to disciplinary actions Villa Walsh Academy may, at any time, place restrictions on a student’s use of the school’s computer system. Villa Walsh Academy makes no guarantee that the functions or the services provided by or through the school’s system will be error-free or without defect. Villa Walsh Academy will not be responsible for any damage students may suffer including, but not limited to, loss of data or interruptions of service. Villa Walsh Academy is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of the information attained through or stored on the system. VillaWalshAcademywillnotberesponsibleforfinancialobligationsstudentsmay incur while using the system. Villa Walsh a fully expects that students follow the directions of their teachers and other school authorities in all matters regarding access to information using the school’s computer system. All uses of the system mustshowarespectfortherightsofothersandthedignityofthehumanperson

Privacy of the School Community

The Internet is a public forum with unrestricted access For this reason, Villa Walsh Academy restricts permission for the posting of information related to the school, our staff, and our students on the Internet No person is permitted to use images of the school, the school logo or seal, school staff, or students in any form on the Internet or in any form of electronic communication without permission from the administration The posting of any such information on any website, bulletin board, chatroom, email, or other messaging system without permission, or the posting or transmission of images or information in any format related to the school, staff, or students that are defamatory, scurrilous, or which could be construed as threatening or impugning the character of another person is prohibited.

Computers and other electronic devices may not be used to make sound recordings of individual(s) without the consent of all involved. Any person involved in the posting or transmission of such material is subject to disciplinary action deemed appropriate by the administration at the school.

HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, OR BULLYING (H.I.B.)

POLICY

Every member of the Villa Walsh Academy community, including faculty, administration, staff, students, and volunteers, has the responsibility to reflect the school’s philosophy of teaching Christianity as a way of life permeating values, judgments, and actions This includes maintaining acceptable standards of personal behavior to ensure that all school members can experience an atmospherewhichpromotesrespectandisfreeofharassment

As per the New Jersey statute: "Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication, including videoing another student, whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents, that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender,sexualorientation,genderidentityandexpression,oramental,physicalor sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus, or off school grounds as provided for in section 16 of PL 2010, c122 (C18A:37-153), that substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rightsofotherstudentsandthat:

a. areasonablepersonshouldknowunderthecircumstances,willhavethe effectofphysicallyoremotionallyharmingastudentordamagingthe student’sproperty,orplacingastudentinreasonablefearofphysicalor emotionalharmtohispersonordamagetohisproperty

b hastheeffectofinsultingordemeaninganystudentorgroupof students;or

c createsahostileeducationalenvironmentforthestudentbyinterfering withastudent’seducationorbyseverelyorpervasivelycausingphysical oremotionalharmtothestudent.

Reporting of HIB incidents should be done in the following manner:

a anymemberoftheVillaWalshcommunitymayreportanyincidentof HIBtoanyfacultymemberormemberoftheadministration.

b thatfacultymembershouldforwardthisinformationtotheprincipal

c. thePrincipalwillthenfollowtheTimelineforInvestigationofReportsof HIB

TIMELINE POLICY FOR INVESTIGATION OF REPORTS OF HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND BULLYING*

BYSCHOOLDAY1:HIBoccursand/oremployeelearnsofHIBVerbalreportmust bemadetoprincipal.Theprincipalmustinformparents/guardians“ofallstudents involved”

BYSCHOOLDAY2:TheprincipalmustinitiateinvestigationbyAnti-Bullying Specialistwithinoneschooldayofreport

BYSCHOOLDAY3:Harassment,Intimidation,andBullyReportmustbefilledout anyfacultymemberandgiventotheprincipal.Awrittenreporttotheprincipal mustbemadewithin2daysofemployeewitnessingorreceivingreliable informationthatastudenthasexperiencedHIB.

BYSCHOOLDAY11:Theinvestigationmustbecompleteby10withinschooldays fromwrittenreport.

BYSCHOOLDAY13:TheresultsoftheinvestigationmustbegiventothePrincipal within2schooldaysofcompletinginvestigation.Theprincipalwillact (interventionservices,discipline,counseling,etc)appropriatetothesituation

ReporttoParent/Guardian

Schoolmustprovide“informationabouttheinvestigation”toparents/guardiansof “studentswhoarepartiestotheinvestigation”andfindingswithin5schooldays afterinvestigationiscompleteInformationwillincludenatureofinvestigation, whetherevidenceofHIBwasfound,whetherdisciplinewasimposed,orwhether serviceswereprovidedtoaddresstheHIB

*Thistimelineisbasedonthe2011Anti-BullyingBillofRightsAct

DisciplinaryRecommendations

Disciplinary actions for a harassment, intimidation, or bullying offense could include mandatory counseling, detention, suspension from school, suspension fromschoolactivities,expulsion,orsomecombinationthereof.

ADMINISTRATIVEPOLICYFORMAJOROFFENSES

Teachers,staff,andstudentsareneverpermittedtoengageinconduct,whether inside or outside school, that is detrimental to the reputation of Villa Walsh AcademyortheReligiousTeachersFilippini,regardlessofwhetherthatconductis included in this or any other handbook. The Administration of Villa Walsh Academyreservestherighttowaiveand/ordeviatefromanyandalldisciplinary regulationsforjustcauseattheirdiscretion

POLICY ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Studentsareneverpermittedtopossessortousedrugs/alcoholicbeverageson schoolpremises,oratanyschool-sponsoredactivities.Studentsarenotpermitted to attend any school-sponsored event, either on or off campus, under the influenceofdrugs/alcohol.

Anyviolationconcerningpossessionofanillegalsubstanceisamajorinfractionof schoolpolicy.Ifastudentisfoundundertheinfluenceofdrugsand/oralcohol,the parents/guardianswillbenotifiedanddirectedtoobtaindrug/alcoholscreening and testing immediately Results in the form of a written report from an appropriately certified or licensed professional or agency must be sent to the Principal.Thestatusofthestudentwillbedetermineduponreceiptofsaidwritten report.Anystudentfoundinpossessionofdrugs/alcoholwillbedismissedfrom theAcademy.

AsofSeptember2019,theStateofNewJerseyhasmandatedthatallschools, whether public or nonpublic, serving Grades 9 through 12, adopt policies and procedurestomaintainandadministeranopioidantidotetoanystudent,school personnel,orotherpersonbelievedtobeexperiencinganopioidoverdoseduring schoolhoursorduringon-siteschoolsponsoredactivities (PL2018,c106) This guidancewaspreparedbytheNewJerseyDepartmentofEducation(NJDOE)in consultationwiththeDepartmentofHumanServices.

An “opioid overdose” means an acute condition including, but not limited to, extremephysicalillness,decreasedlevelofconsciousness,respiratorydepression, comaordeathresultingfromtheconsumptionoruseofanopioiddrugorother substancewithwhichanopioiddrugwascombined,andthatalaypersonwould reasonablybelievetorequiremedicalassistance

An“opioidantidote”meansanydrug,regardlessofdosageamountormethodof administration, which has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration(FDA)forthetreatmentofanopioidoverdose Thedrugofchoice foreffectivetreatmentisNaloxone(Narcan)andisadministeredbynasalspray

PursuanttoNJSA18A:40-1224(c)(1),theSchoolNurseshallhavetheprimary responsibilityfortheemergencyadministrationofanopioidantidote Additionally, schools must designate additional employees who volunteer to administer an opioidantidoteintheeventthatapersonexperiencesanopioidoverdosewhen theSchoolNurseisnotphysicallypresentatthescene.

POLICY ON SMOKING

Smoking and/or vaping are not permitted in school buildings, on school grounds, on school buses, or at any school-sponsored activity A student violating the nonsmoking policy will receive a one day in-school suspension for the first offense. Parents will be notified Further offenses will result in dismissal from the Academy

DISCIPLINE POLICY

Classroom teachers determine discipline procedures for their own classes For problems of a serious nature, they may call upon the Administration for assistance and guidance The Administration of Villa Walsh Academy reserves the right to waive and/or deviate from all disciplinary regulations for just cause at their discretion.

Demerits

Thefollowingwarrantatleastonedemeritissuedbytheteacheror administrator:

1. Classroomtardiness,unlessareasonableexcuseisprovided,warrants onedemeritissuedbytheteacher("reasonable"issubjectto teacher'sdiscretion)

2. Tardinesstoschool

3 Chewinggum

4. Usingtheelevatorswithoutpermission

5 Failuretowearpasscard

6. Non-compliancewithphysicaleducationuniformrequirement

7 Infractionofthedresscode

Detention

Thefollowingwarrantatleastaone-hourafterschooldetentionsupervisedbya memberofthefaculty:

1 Cuttingascheduledclass

2. Violationofcellulartelephoneandelectronicpolicy

3 Accumulationofthreedemerits

4. Unreturnedathleticequipment

Anystudentusinginappropriatelanguageordisplayingdisruptive,rowdyor unreasonablebehaviorwillbeimmediatelyreferredtotheprincipal.The Principalwillspeaktothestudentandnotifytheparents Ifthebehavior continues,thestudentwillbedismissedfromtheAcademy.

Detention Procedure

StudentswillbeinformedbythePrincipalatleastonedaypriortotheirdetention.

Detentionwillbeheldafterschoolforonehour,from2:40PM-3:40PM Detentionsessionswillbesupervisedbyamemberofthefaculty. Transportationafteradetentionperiodistheresponsibilityofthestudent Fourdetentionswillwarrantin-schoolsuspension(studentdoesnot attendclassesbutremainsinadesignatedareatoaccomplishthe schoolworkfortheday) Parentswillbenotified Ifastudentreceivesexcessivedetentionsduringonescholasticyear,she willnotbeabletoparticipateinextracurricularactivitiesuntilsheisingood standing.

DRESSCODE

The primary purpose of Villa Walsh Academy's dress code is to eliminate daily preoccupation with fashion. Students are expected to adhere to this dress code whilekeepinginmindthattheuniformistobewornappropriatelyandneatly.

Skirt: Plaidschoolskirt.Noshorterthanoneinchfromtopofknees. Skirtsmustnotberolledatwaist

Shirt:Whiteshortorlongsleevebandedbottomshirtwithlogo.

Sweater:WhiteChapelsweater|Darkgreenornavy-bluepulloverworn overtheuniformshirt,butnotalone.Thesesweatersmaybepurchased onlyfromtheuniformcompany.

Sweatshirts:Darkgreen,white,and navy-bluepulloverwornoverthe uniformshirt,butnotalone.Thesesweatshirtsmaybepurchasedfrom theVWABoutique

Socks/Tights:Navybluekneesocksornavy-bluetights.

Shoes:Simplestyleandconservativecolor(nofurlinedortiesneakers).

Sneakers:ForPEclassesonlyorwithapassfromtheschoolnurse

Lanyardwithsecuritypasscard(seeinformationunderSecurity)shouldbeworn visiblyaroundneck.

UniformApprovedAttire:Onregularschooldays,VillaWalshAcademy sweatshirts,purchasedfromtheschoolboutique,maybewornovertheuniform shirt.Theseincludesweatshirts,vests,andfleecepulloversorjackets.Seewebsite foracompletelistofitemswhichareapprovedtobewornwiththeuniform

InfractionstotheDressCodewillresultinanautomaticdemerit Thefollowingare considered unacceptable: items such as hats, scarves, crew socks, and inappropriate footwear including boots, platforms, heels, sandals, clogs, moccasins,furlinedslippers,flip-flops,slipper-styleorbacklessshoes.

Anyinfractionofthedresscodewillresultinanautomaticdemerit

Spiritwear: On designated tag/spirit days, other items purchased from the boutique may be worn These include spirit rugby shirts and non-uniform polos, among others. See website for a list of these items. In addition, on tag/spirit days, clubshirtsand/orVWAathleticshirtsarepermissible

Teamwear: Onawaygamedaysortournamentdays,sportsteammembersmay wearsportsuniformsasdesignatedbyathleticstaff.

TAG DAYS

Tag days (i.e. days when students do not have to wear the designated uniforms) are permitted on certain occasions during the school year Students are expected to adhere to a neat, appropriate, and modest style of dress. The following are unacceptable: torn jeans, pajama pants, short-shorts, sleeveless tops, and attire thatistightand/orrevealing.

DRESS UP DAYS

On certain day students are asked to dress up. This includes dresses, skirts at appropriate lengths, shirts with sleeves, nice dress pants. No jeans, leggings or sneakersaretobewornonthesedays

PERSONAL GROOMING

It is expected that hair styles be simple and neat Radical hair styles, haircuts, or colors are unacceptable. Accessories such as head gear, facial or other body piercings, and multiple earrings are unacceptable, as are tattoos The Administration reserves the right to define what is considered appropriate attire andpersonalgrooming.

CONCERT ATTIRE

Each student in Grades 9-12 enrolled in Chorus is responsible for purchasing her ownperformancegown Arrangementsforpurchasingthedressfornewmembers in the choral program will be facilitated by the school. In addition, students will needtowearhosieryandsimpleblackflatsforallperformances

Students in Grades 7 and 8 Chorus are provided with a long black skirt and a concert sash. Each student is responsible for purchasing a long-sleeved white concert blouse In addition, students will need black opaque stockings and simple blackflatsforallperformances.

STUDY HALLS

Students assigned to a study hall must arrive on time with sufficient work to do within the class period The atmosphere in a study hall is one of quiet, affording all students the opportunity to focus on school related work. Attendance will be taken by the study hall teacher Any student requesting to leave a study hall must obtain a pass from either the study hall or subject teacher. Students must report to the study hall first before leaving for other areas. Students are allowed to take the study outside in the garden area if the weather is conducive Juniors may use the gazebo area.

FIRST PERIOD

First period begins at 7:45 AM. First periods are organized so that school business may be conducted, attendance taken, and morning exercises held Morning exercises consist of an opening prayer and a salute the flag. During first period, announcements are made over the public address system concerning the immediate and/or upcoming events that affect each student. Teachers and students are to be attentive during announcements. The first period teacher must take attendance daily It is crucial that the attendance be accurate in order to avoid calling parents when, in fact, the student is in school. The attendance is to be submitted electronically by 7:55 AM A complete list of absentees and tardies will be posted on the shared spreadsheet At the beginning of every period, each teacher checks the class list against the absentee list and reports any missing or unaccounted for student to the principal’s office

ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY FOR ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE

Whenastudentisgoingtobeabsentortardy,herparentorguardianmustphone the Business Office at (973)538-3680 ext. 170, or send email to attendance@villawalshorg,before7:45AM Iftheparentorguardianisleavingor sending amessage,thefollowinginformationmustbeincluded:student’sname, grade,andreasonforherabsence/latearrival

Awrittennote,signedbyaparentorguardianstatingthereasonforandthedate ofabsenceistobepresentedtotheBusinessOfficeuponthestudent’sreturn A note must accompany a student who misses class or is absent for any doctor appointment Following an absence of more than three (3) days due to illness, a doctor’snoteisrequired,andthestudentmustreporttotheschoolnursepriorto firstperiod

Regular attendance and class participation are crucial for achievement in high school In addition, college admissions offices and future employers use attendance records as a means of determining an applicant’s dependability and goodcitizenship

Excessiveabsencehindersthelearningprocess Therefore,studentsareexpected to be present daily for all classes. This includes all special assemblies, religious services,retreats,andothereventssodesigned.

Parents are required to notify the school of their daughter's anticipated absence for medical leave, family travel, etc This information should be sent to the Business Office in writing at least one week in advance of the absence. Additionally,studentsshouldprovideeachoftheirsubjectteachers,inwriting,the datesoftheirabsence.

Theonlyexcusedabsencesfromclassattendanceareasfollows:

Personalillness

Familyemergency/bereavement

Religiousholidays

School-authorizedactivities

Statedriver’stest

Three approved college visits are also excused visits for seniors If an additional college visit is required, the reason must be presented and approved by the GuidanceDepartment

CONSEQUENCES OF EXCESSIVE ABSENCES

If a student is absent she must make up the work missed. The student is responsibleforspeakingwiththesubjectteacher(s)onthedayofherreturn Work needstobecompletedinatimelymanner.

Ifastudentisabsentforareasonthatisunexcused,shemustmake-upthe workmissedeitherduringastudyhallorafterschoolonthedayshereturns. Thestudentisresponsibleforspeakingwiththesubjectteacher(s)ontheday ofherreturn. 1

2.

Parentswillbenotifiedifstudentsshowapatternofabsenteeismonthedays oftests/quizzes

3.

Ifexcessiveabsencesarenoted,ameetingwillberequiredbetween Administration,parent(s),andthestudenttodetermineanappropriatecourse ofaction.

TARDINESS

Thereisaseriousobligationtoarriveatschoolandtoclassontime.Firstperiod beginsat7:45AM Ifastudentarrivesafter7:45AM,sheislateandmustobtaina late pass from the Business Office before reporting to her assigned class If a studentreportstoclassafter7:45AManddoesnothavealatepassfromthe BusinessOffice,shewillreceiveonedemeritfromtheteacherandwillbemarked late.Studentswhoarelatetoanyclasswillreceiveademeritfromthatsubject teacher.

Studentswhoarriveafter10:15AMorleavebeforenoonwillnotbeallowedto participate in any after school activity that day, i.e., club activities, musical rehearsal,athleticevents,school-sponsoredsocialevents,etc

Ifastudentiscominginlateorleavingearlyforadoctor’sappointment,adoctor’s noteisrequiredbythestudentupontheirreturntoschool

Excessive tardiness jeopardizes a student’s academic standing and/or course credit.Parentswillbenotified.

EARLY DISMISSAL

Studentsshouldmakeappointmentsoutsideofschoolhours.However,ifaschool hourappointmentisunavoidable,aletter,signedbyaparent/guardianmustbe submitted to the Business Office, or a parent/ guardian may call the Business Officeinadvance Thestudentwillbedismissedfromtheschoolofficeonlytoa parent/guardianoranindividualidentifiedbytheparent/guardianasassumingthis responsibility.

EARLY DISMISSAL (cont.)

If a student needs to be dismissed early, she must present her teacher with an Early Dismissal Pass before she is allowed to leave class. The pass should be obtained from the Business Office prior to dismissal. Any student who has a last period Study Hall on a Friday is permitted to leave school at that time As with any other early dismissal, the student must present a note in advance to the Business Office so that an Early Dismissal Pass can be issued

Seniors have the privilege of leaving school I period if they have a study unless they need to stay for sports or an after-school activity However, before leaving the campus, they are to sign out in the Business Office. This privilege does not apply when there is a scheduled school activity (e g , liturgy, assembly, or special programs which involve the entire school community). Students who leave campus without signing out will be in jeopardy of losing this privilege.

MAKE-UP WORK

Students who are absent for any reason are required to make up work missed in each class. It is the student's responsibility to obtain all make-up work. Make-up work should be submitted within a time period commensurate with the length of absence (1 day for each day absent). Only in extreme cases of prolonged absence will exceptions be made These students should be given every consideration to betutoredortomakeupworkmissed.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS

If school is cancelled or dismissed early, teachers and students will be notified through the School Messenger system Information will also be posted on the schoolwebsite,www.villawalsh.org,andontheschoolansweringmachine.

TESTING

Faculty members are required to list all major assessments and quizzes on the online calendar dedicated to this purpose. No more than two major tests may be giveninaday.Unannouncedshortquizzesbasedonpreviousnight'sassignments donothavetoberecordedonthecalendar

Teachers should not schedule a major test or long-term project before or after a significant school activity, i.e. tournament games, concerts, musical production or vacations

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES

In compliance with New Jersey State laws, all students must present proof of immunization and a current physical to the Health Office prior to the opening of school.

The nurse is available throughout the school day and must be notified if a student becomes ill or injured and cannot attend class. If the nurse deems it necessary for the student to be sent home, she will telephone a parent and make arrangements. The BusinessOfficewillnotifyteachersifastudenthasbeensenthomeduetoillness

Studentsthemselvesarenottocall,emailormessage aparentrequestingpermission toleaveschoolortobepickedup.Doingsowillresultinadetention.

If a student is ill, she should not come to school. Parents should monitor their daughter'ssymptomsandfollowourhealthpolicyguidelines

The nurse is the only authorized person to distribute any type of medication to students. In some cases, an elevator pass and/or excuse from physical education or sportswillbegranted

SneakerpassescanbeissuedthroughtheNurse’sOfficeonlywithadoctor’snote Studentsreturningtoschoolafterrecoveringfromacommunicablediseasemusthave a written note from their physician in order to be readmitted. Communicable diseases includemononucleosis,chickenpox,strepthroat,conjunctivitis,andCOVID

Villa Walsh Academy requires a yearly physical examination by the family physician The official VWA Annual Physical form is available on our website, www.villawalsh.org. AllcompletedformsmustbeuploadedtotheMagnusportal

Villa Walsh Academy is a nut-free school No items should be brought to school that containoraremadefromtreenutsorpeanuts.

STUDENT DRIVING AND PARKING

Driving to school is a privilege All student drivers are to obtain a vehicle registration form from our website Drivers entering senior year must complete a vehicle registration form by the first day of school, or when they begin to drive to school and willthenbeissuedanumberedparkingspace.

Anystudentdriverwhoislatethreetimespermid-termwillhaveherdrivingprivileges suspended If the student driver is repeatedly tardy her driving privileges will be revoked. Those who ride as passengers may not use the tardiness of the driver as an excuse

A letter of permission is required from parents of student drivers allowing them to transport other students to and from school. In addition, a letter of permission is needed from parents of students being driven to and from school by the student driver Theselettersofauthorizationmustbesubmittedtotheschooloffice

It is expected that all students comply with driving regulations according to the StateofNewJersey AccordingtoNewJerseylawregardingschoolsecurity,aspart ofbillA3348,itisMANDATORYthatallstudentdriversandfacultymustmaintain a parking decal or tag if they plan to park on campus. Upon completion of a vehicleregistrationform,studentswillreceiveaVillaWalshAcademydecalfrom theBusinessOffice.

Studentsmaynotreturntotheircarsduringtheschooldayorleavetheproperty without the explicit permission of the principal. For safety and liability reasons studentsarenotpermittedtoleavetheschoolpropertyattheendoftheschool day if they plan to return to the school for extra-curricular activities This also appliestoschooldayswithanacceleratedschedule.

AlldriversmustadheretothespeedlimitonVillaWalshAcademyproperty(which at no time exceeds 10 miles per hour) and to standard rules of proper use of an automobile.

MEDIA SERVICES/LIBRARY

The VWA Library/Media Arts serves as a multi-media center for reading and research and provides a quiet place to study in a welcoming, supportive atmosphere Fully equipped with networked computers, printers, and an automated catalog, the library provides access to the Internet for academic research. Students must adhere to the Internet and Technology policy stated in the handbook Students can log into the following specialized online databases and eBooks from any computer on the school’s wireless network:

Encyclopedia Britannica - Academic Edition Online Facts On File:

American History, Ancient Medieval History, Modern World History, Bloom’s Literature Science Online

Gale Cengage:

Artemis Literary Sources, Contemporary Authors Literature

Criticism Online Gale Research in Context

Gale Virtual Reference Library - Opposing Viewpoints in Context

EBSCO Host

Jersey Clicks - New Jersey State Library

Students and faculty may also access these electronic databases and ebooks from home using a special password, which will be provided by the librarian upon request. No passwords are required for in-school use.

Thelibraryisopenonallschooldaysfrom7:45AMto3:00PM.Booksmaybe checkedoutforthreeweeksandreneweduponstudentrequest Periodicalsmay becheckedoutforthreedaysandreneweduponrequest Fineswillbechargedfor materialsthatarenotreturnedontime Theoverduefineis$15perdayandwill doubleto$.30perbookperdayifabookisfifteenschooldaysoverdue.Only school days are considered in calculating fines. Students are responsible for returninglibrarymaterialsbytheirduedatesandwillnotbeallowedtosignout additional materials until all items are returned and fines are paid. Any lost or damagedmaterialswillbereplacedattheexpenseoftheborrower

Studentsareencouragedtospeaksoftlyatalltimesandtobeawareofothers who may be studying, reading, or taking a test Food and beverages are not allowedinthelibrary

ADDITIONALINSURANCEPROTECTION

Villa Walsh Academy has purchased insurance for the 2024 - 2025 school year that protects a child while participating in school sponsored and supervised activities,includinginterscholasticsports.Thepolicyiswrittenonanexcessbasis, which means that claims are first submitted to any other valid and collectible insurancethatparentsmayhavethroughworkorthatwaspurchaseddirectly.Any remaining balances, copayments, deductibles, etc may be submitted to our carrier,BollingerSpecialtyGroup,forreviewandprocessing.

If a child suffers an accidental injury while not at school, i.e. at home, on the weekend or on vacation, parents may find themselves faced with significant medicalexpenses.Asanaddedbenefittotheschool'spolicy,parentsmayelectto purchase coverage that affords protection to their child 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,iftheysufferinjuriesthatarenotcoveredbytheschool'spolicy.

A complete description of this coverage can be found on their website wwwBollingerSchoolscom Click on the "Parents" tab, enter the requested informationand view/printacompletedescriptionofthecoverage.Parentsmay purchase the coverage conveniently online or may download the application, completeit,andmailitinwiththeirpayment.

Ifyouhavequestionsaboutthiscoverage,donotcontacttheschool.CallBollinger Specialty Group directly at (800)-526-1379 and ask to be connected to the SchoolDepartment.

PROPERTYINSURANCE

Theschooldoesnotassumeresponsibilityforlossofstudents’personalproperty, nordoesitcarryfireortheftinsuranceonstudents’property.Parentswhowishto carrythistypeofinsuranceshouldconsulttheirownpersonalinsuranceagency.

SECURITY

Studentsareissuedalanyardwithasecuritypasscardthatallowsthemtoaccess theschoolbuildings.Thepasscardmustbewornatalltimeswhileoncampus, except on the athletic fields during games or gym classes. A student with a misplaced or forgotten pass card must be issued a demerit. Students may not decorateoradornthelanyardsorthecards,andtheschool’snameisnottobe displayedonthem

Ifastudentmisplaces,loses,orforgetsherpasscard,shemustimmediatelyreport ittotheprincipal'sofficesothatthecardcanbetemporarilydeactivated Ifthe cardisfoundwithin24hours,itwillbereactivated Ifthecardislost,itwillbe deletedfromthesystemandanewcardwillbeissuedtothestudent.Thereisa $20chargeforeachadditionalcardthatisissued.

Thepasscardsareprogrammedtoallowaccesstotheschoolfrom6:45AMto 7:00PMweekdays.Ifitisnecessaryforastudenttoreturntoschoolatanyother time,shemustmakearrangementstoenterthebuilding.

Studentsmaynotopendoorstoallowvisitorsintothebuilding.Allvisitorsmust beadmittedthroughtheBusinessOffice.

For student safety purposes, students are not permitted to order food from deliveryservicesduringtheschoolday.

FIRE AND SAFETY DRILLS

Firedrillsarenecessarytopreparestudentstomeetanyemergencywhichmight requirearapidmassexit.Everyoneshouldknowthespecificposteddirectionsfor reachingapointofsafetyfromthoseareasofthebuildinginwhichheorsheis located.

Therearecertaingeneralprincipleswhichmustbeobserved: Walkrapidly. Proceedquietly

Usenearestexitandproceedinsinglefilewhenleavingagivenroom. However,iftwoclassesmeet,thenstudentsmustexitside-by-side,thus formingdoublelinesthroughthecorridorandstairways. Movetoareasonablysafedistanceawayfromtheschool. Astudentnotwithherclassatthesoundofthealarmshouldleavethe buildingatthenearestexit.

Inadditiontothestate-mandatedmonthlyfiredrills,lockdowns,evacuation, and/orshelter-in-placedrillswillbeheldmonthlythroughouttheschoolyear

LOCKERS

Eachstudentisassignedalockerforthestorageofbooksandequipment Itisthe student’s responsibility to see that her locker is always kept in order. School combinationlocksareissuedandonlytheycanbeusedifthestudentchooses to lockherlocker.Sincelockersareapermanentpartofthebuilding,studentsare expected to keep them in good condition. The school does not accept responsibility for any personal property, including books, which are left in an unlockedlocker

GRACEANNCAFÉ

Students may bring their own lunch, purchase a hot lunch through the food service, or purchase food or beverages from the vending machines. Microwave ovensarealsoavailableforstudentuse.IntheCafé,eachstudentisexpectedto practicethegeneralrulesofgoodmanners.Leavingthetablesandsurrounding areascleanistheresponsibilityofeachstudent.

TRANSPORTATION

ShuttlebusesleaveVillaWalshatapproximately3:45PMeachdayandtransport studentstoDelbartonSchoolwheretheymeettheirrespectivebuses.Thebuses depart from Delbarton at 4:00 PM Students are to conduct themselves in a properandrespectfulmannerwhileridingthebusestoandfromschoolandwhile at Delbarton Any problem involving transportation should be reported immediatelytotheprincipal.

TRANSPORTATIONSAFETYCONCERNS

VillaWalshAcademydoesnotendorseanycarservices, whetherbysmartphone apporotherwise, totransportyourdaughter Theschoolwillnotberesponsible foranythingwhichmayoccurwhileyourdaughterisusingsuchservices.However, if parents choose to use a car service, they are encouraged to take every precautiontoseethatthedriver'sidentificationisverified.

PHOTO IDENTIFICATION CARDS

PhotoID'sareissuedatthebeginningofeachschoolyeartonewstudentsandare validuntiltheygraduate.PhotoIDsareneededforthefollowing:

Buspass

Testing,e.g.,SATs

Accesstolibrarymaterials

Admissiontodancesatotherschools

ELEVATORS

Elevators are not to be used by students unless there is a serious medical reason. An elevator pass must be obtained from the school nurse and carried by the student at all times. A doctor's note must be submitted to the nurse if the pass is neededforanextendedperiodoftime

STUDENT COUNCIL

The Student Council of Villa Walsh Academy was initiated to maintain an open working relationship among the administration, faculty, and student body, and to enrichstudentlifeattheAcademy.

The Student Council functions as the voice of the student body It is modeled on the commission form of government, composed of President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Commissioners, and Representatives; a member of the faculty serves as moderator. Council meetings are held regularly, and Student Council activities are scheduled at least four times a year The activities and projects undertaken by the Student Council focus on school and community concerns.

The Student Council maintains membership in the New Jersey and the National AssociationofStudentCouncils.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Students are encouraged to become involved in club and service-related activities, such as:

FIRST Robotics

Forensics

History Club

Life Witness Team

Horizons Yearbook

Innervisions Literary Magazine

Math League

Mock Trial

Modern Language Clubs

Operation Smile

P.O.P. (Protect Our Planet)

Performing Arts Club

St Lucy's Angels

Student Ambassadors

Towerette (School Newspaper)

Villa Serves

Vocal Ensemble: Cantiamo

A complete list may be found in the "Ministries and Clubs" brochure. Students may initiate a club of their choosing provided they have a faculty advisor, sufficient membership, and the approval of the principal.

Many other activities are sponsored by the school which promote student involvement in social and cultural activities throughout the school year. See back of book under Villa Walsh Academy Community and Traditions

ASSEMBLIES

Assemblies are held several times a year The purpose of these gatherings is to enrichtheeducational,cultural,andsocialexperiencesofthestudents.

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Frequently students remain after school for sports, club meetings, music rehearsals,andextraacademichelp

The Academy welcomes students after school and expects that they be with the teacher who is supervising the activity. Since there are no activity buses, students mustprovidetheirowntransportation

StudentsaretowaitfortheirparentsintheGraceAnnCafé.

VOLUNTEER WORK

To instill a sense of community purpose and service to society, the students are encouragedtoparticipateinserviceprojectsonanindividualbasisandingroups A record of individual service and time spent in that service will be kept by the moderatorofaschool-sponsoredproject

PUBLICATIONS

All interested students are invited to become staff members of the school publicationswhereliterary,graphic,andartistictalentsfindexpression.

The TOWERETTE is the official school newspaper and is published at least four times a year. A faculty member advises the student editorial staff which takes complete responsibility for the composition, layout, editing, and proofreading of thepaper

HORIZONS is the yearbook which is published annually by the senior class and its advisors

INNERVISIONSistheliterarymagazineoftheschool.Itconsistsofstudentpoems, essays, short stories, and artwork The staff and Faculty Moderator of INNERVISIONS selects the material and is responsible for its layout. All students areencouragedtosubmittheirworkforpublication.

VISITORS

Beforetouringtheschoolorattendingclasses,allvisitorsmusthavepriorapproval fromtheprincipalordirectorandreporttotheBusinessOfficetoobtainanID badge

WORKING PAPERS

WorkingpaperscanbefoundontheNewJerseyDepartmentofLaborand Workforcewebsite:www.nj.gov/labor.

CAR INSURANCE FORMS

'Goodstudent'carinsuranceformsaresignedbytheprincipal.

SCHOOL RING

TheofficialschoolringofVillaWalshAcademyisasignetringengravedwiththe Coat-of-ArmsofthePontificalInstituteoftheReligiousTeachersFilippini Studentscanchooseothersymbolstoengraveonthering.Juniorsreceivetheir ringsduringaspecialEucharisticcelebrationinthefall Onlyofficialschoolrings arepartoftheceremony,yetalljuniorstakepartinthecelebration.

SCHOOL COLORS

VillaWalshAcademyschoolcolorsaregreenandwhite.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Allstudentsmusttakephysicaleducationunlessmedicallyexcused.Any prolongedabsencemustbecertifiedbyaphysician.Studentsmustcome preparedtoeachgymclasswithappropriateattireasdesignatedbythephysical educationinstructors.

STUDENT-ATHLETEANDPARENTATHLETIC HANDBOOK2024-2025

OverviewofVillaWalshAcademyAthletics

VillaWalshAcademyisamemberoftheNewJerseyStateInterscholasticAthletic Association(NJSIAA)andcompetesinNon-PublicNorthGroupB.VillaWalshisa member of the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC), New Jersey InterscholasticGirls'LacrosseLeague(NJIGLL),andparticipatesinMorrisCounty SecondarySchoolsAthleticDirectors'Association(MCSSADA)tournamentsand various New Jersey Independent Schools Athletic Association (NJISAA) Prep tournaments.

FALLSPORTSOFFERINGS:

Varsity,JV,andMiddleSchoolCrossCountry

VarsityandJVSoccer

VarsityandJVTennis

Varsity,JV,andFreshmanVolleyball

WINTERSPORTSOFFERINGS:

Varsity,JV,Freshman,andMiddleSchoolBasketball

VarsityandJVWinterTrack

VarsityandJVSwimming

SPRINGSPORTSOFFERINGS:

VarsityandJVGolf

VarsityandJVLacrosse

JVSoftball

VarsityandJVTrackandField

MiddleSchoolSpringClinics&FunFridays

ExpectationsofStudent-AthletesandFans

Participationintheathleticprogramisaprivilege AthletesrepresentVillaWalsh Academyeachtimetheyenterafield,track,court,orpoolandthereforeare expectedtoconductthemselvesrespectfully,consistentwiththemoralvalues modeledatVillaWalshAcademy.Inaddition,aVillaWalshathleteisaskedto alwaysputforthherbesteffort.

Fansareexpectedtousegoodsportsmanshipwheneverattendinganathletic eventinsupportofVillaWalshteamsandasrepresentativesofVillaWalsh Academy.Afandemonstratingunsportsmanlikebehaviorwillbeaskedtoleave theeventandmayberequiredtoparticipateinasportsmanshipcoursebefore returningtomaintainasportsmanlikeatmosphere

TheNJSIAAsetsguidelinesandpoliciesforschools,coaches,athletes,parents,and spectators VWA staff, athletes, and families are expected to abide by these The regulations and policies are on the NJSIAA website. https://www.njsiaa.org/insidenjsiaa/njsiaa-handbook

Recruiting is a violation of the NJSIAA Direct recruiting contact or communication with a 9-12 grade student-athlete or their family from another high school by a district-approved person, including, but not limited to, paid coaches, volunteer coaches, students at the behest of their coach, or any district employee, is a violationoftheNJSIAAregulations.

MedicalPoliciesandForms

All forms and additional information are available on the school website, wwwvillawalshorg, or through Magnus For fall sports, the forms must be completed and uploaded to Magnus by July 12, October 1 for winter sports, and February1forspringsports.Onceallformsaresubmittedandapprovedbythe schoolnurseandschoolphysician,athleteswillbeallowedtoparticipateinasport

As per NJSIAA regulations, before any student-athlete is allowed to practice, she must have a physical completed by a family physician or the school’s physician “within 365 days prior to the first practice session.” In addition, “each student, whose medical examination was completed more than 90 daysnprior to the first practice session, shall provide a health history update of medical problems experienced since the last medical examination. The health history form shall be completedandsignedbytheparent”

After the forms have been completed, uploaded to Magnus, and approved by the schoolnurse,theschool’sphysicianmustcertifythepaperworktocompletetheNJ DepartmentofEducationandNJSIAArequirements Beforethestartofeachschool year, athletic forms must be completed in addition to the school entrance health formsandsubmittedviaMagnus Theseannualformsincludethefollowing:

Sports Emergency Information & Consent, Release Form for Sports & SportsRelated Eye Injuries: An Educational Fact Sheet for Parents, and Student-Athlete Handbook Acknowledgment, form.

NJ DOE Annual Physical Exam (4 Parts) and the Medical Eligibility Form

Concussion and Head Injury Fact Sheet and Parent/Guardian

Acknowledgement Form

NJSIAA Steroid Testing Policy & Consent Form

Sudden Cardiac Death Form

ImPact Testing Consent Form

Health History Update Questionnaire Form*no earlier than 90 days before the start of each season

Opioid Use and Misuse Sign-Off Form

Opioid Educational NJ Cares Video Acknowledgement Form

PracticesandGames

Everyathletemusthaveparticipatedinaminimumofsixpracticedays(not sessions)beforethefirstscrimmageorgameunlessshehasparticipatedinastate championshipcontestintheprecedingseason,orwithin3daysoftheprevious season,aspertheNJSIAA.

Thelengthandtimeofpracticemayvaryfromsporttosport.Duetothehigh demandforindoorgymnasiumtime,practicingatanoffsitelocationorduringthe earlymorning,lateevening,orSundaymaybenecessary.

All scrimmages, games, and officials are scheduled through the Athletic DepartmentperregulationssetbytheNJSIAA,theNJAC,theNJIGLL,andthe MCSSADA

TheVWAathleticstaffteachessportsconceptsandthephysicalaspectsofsports fordevelopmentandsafety.Therefore,attendanceisrequiredatpracticesand competitions.Inanemergency,anabsencemustbecommunicatedfirstwiththe coachand,ifnecessary,totheathleticdirector

AthletesareremindedthattheyhavechosentobemembersofaVWAathletic teamandtoprioritizethatteamoverotheroutsideclubteamsoractivitiesduring theseason AnyabsencesfromVWAteamsforoutsideteamsareconsidered unexcused.

Anathletemustbeinschoolby10:15AMtoparticipateinapracticeorcontest thatafternoon,exceptforextenuatingcircumstances,whichtheathleticdirector mustapprove.

Athleteswholeaveschoolduringthedayforanexcusedreasonandreturnwithin 3hoursarepermittedtoparticipatethatday.Athleteswhomissthreeormore school hours cannot participate in sports that day except for extenuating circumstancesTheymusthaveapprovalfromtheathleticdirectortoparticipate

IfanathletecannotparticipateinPhysicalEducationclassduetoaninjury,illness, ornurse 'sofficevisit,shewillnotbepermittedtoparticipateinorattendapractice orcontestthatday

Athletes are reminded to prioritize academics and maintain their academic responsibilitieswhileparticipatinginathleticsStudent-athleteswhoneglecttheir academicresponsibilitiesmaybesubjecttoaleaveofabsencefromateam. Duringthistime,theathleteisnottoattendanyathleticeventsbutisencouraged tofocusonimprovingheracademics.

No-ContactPeriod

There is a no-contact period for athletes, two weeks immediately before the official start of the fall preseason. The dates are announced annually by the Athletic Department and are posted on the athletic schedule on the school website.Nopractices,conditioningsessions,orteamrunswillbeheldduringthis time,mandatoryorotherwise.Wesuggestusingthistimefortrips,suchasvisiting colleges, family vacations, etc We appreciate it when families schedule trips outsideastudent-athlete'sparticipationseason

SchedulesandDirections

Schedules and directions are available through the school website at wwwvillawalshorg or directly on wwwnwjerseyaccom by clicking Villa Walsh Academy Parents,athletes,andfansareencouragedtosignupfornotifications via the notify me option for schedules and changes via email and text The schedulesanddirectionsareupdatedoften.

Transportation

VWA provides transportation to all athletic contests or offsite practices except morning swim practices Athletes are prohibited from driving to offsite events exceptforearlymorningswimpractices.Athletescanleaveanawayeventwitha parentaftertheparentsignsheroutwiththecoach.Anotesignedbytheparentis requiredifanathletewillbeleavingwithanadultotherthanaparentaheadof timeandgiventothecoach.

Participation

The number of team members in a sport is limited to individual sport specifications Therefore, it may be necessary to cut players from a team The coachingstaffandtheAthleticDirectorwilldecideonthefinalnumberofplayers This number may vary from year to year. The coach will set expectations and criteria for team members at the preseason sign-up meeting. Athletes are encouraged to speak directly with a coach about conflicts, strengths, and weaknesses. A meeting with the athlete, coach, and Athletic Director may be scheduledifanathletewantstodiscusstheissuefurther

EquipmentandUniforms

Equipment,uniforms,andwarm-upsaresport-specificandareissuedtotheVWA athlete,whoisresponsibleforcaringforallitemsduringtheseasonTheathleteis responsible for returning all issued equipment and uniforms in acceptable conditionbythelastmeetingoftheseason.Thestudent-athletewillbecharged forreplacinganyequipmentnotreturnedwithinoneweekoftheendofthe season.Shewillservedetentionifauniformreplacementhasnotbeenreceived. Anathletewillnotreceivegradesorbepermittedtostartthenextsportsseason untilallissueditemshavebeenreturned.

Becausesomeequipmentisindividualized,suchasaswimsuitortennisracket,the athleticdepartmentdoesnotsupplythem.Student-athleteswillordertheVilla WalshAthleticsweatshirtandsweatpantsthroughtheonlinestoreeachseason. This sweat outfit is the only acceptable sports outfit to wear to school on competitiondays.Ademeritwillbegivenifastudent-athleteisoutofuniform.If additionalteammembersrefusetofollowthispolicy,theprivilegemaybetaken awayfromtheentireteam.

TeamOrders

TheAthleticDirectormustpreapproveallclothingwiththeVillaWalshlogoor namebeforeitisordered.Allclothingmustbeinschoolcolors forestgreenand whiteorlightgrayIfahighlightcoloristobeused,athleticgoldwillbeusedBlack isnotacolorusedforitemsatVWA.

AllordersusingtheVWlogoorschoolname,includingparentdonationsand SeniorDaygifts,mustbepre-approvedbytheAthleticDirector.

GameDayDresstoSchool

Athletes are permitted to wear their Villa Walsh Athletics sweat outfits on competitiondaysonly.Teamweariswornonlyontagdaysandisnottobeworn asapartoftheschooluniformoroncompetitiondays Jackets,includingVWA Varsityjackets,arenotpermittedtobewornintheclassroomandarenotpartof theschoolorathleticuniform Student-athleteswearingjacketsofanykind, includingvarsityjackets,intheclassroomwillbegivenademerit.Athletesor teamsnotadheringtothispolicymaylosethisprivilege.

PersonalBelongings

ThecorridoroutsidethePEOfficeandtheSDLACfoyermustbeclearofpersonal items,astheyareasafetyhazardtothevisitorsandresidentsofVillaWalsh Duringpracticesandphysicaleducationclasses,backpacks,sportsbags,andother personalbelongingswillbeplacedinthePElockerroom,SDLACStudyRoom, second-floorYogaRoom,orteamlockerrooms

GuidelinesforNCAASigningDays2024-2025

Tocelebrateourstudent-athleteswhowillbecontinuingtheiracademiccareersin college, VWA has established guidelines for signing days. We will align our dates withtheofficialNCAAsigningperiodsandcoordinatewiththeNationalLetterof Intent (NLI) program. The NLI is a binding agreement between the studentathlete and a Division I or Division II academic institution offering the studentathlete financial aid VWA will celebrate with Division III athletes planning on continuing their careers in college with a celebratory signing day. VWA will celebrate with student-athletes who choose to participate in a sport offered at VWAorwiththosestudentswhoparticipateinasportVWAdoesnotoffer,such asequestrian

The athletic director will share photographs of the signing day and information withlocalmediaandschoolsocialmedia.Student-athletesplanningtocontinue theirathleticcareersincollegeshouldlettheathleticdirectorknowassoonasthe NLIhasbeenmadeavailableorthestudenthasbeenadmittedtotheinstitution.

TeamCelebrationsandAwardsCeremonies

Sportsteamswillbehonoredwithacelebrationaftertheirseasonsareover The celebration may be held on or off-campus and will be approved by the Athletic Director before plans are announced. Individual and team awards will be announced at the celebration Booster Team Parents may be asked to help organize donations and plans for the celebration. Senior and major athletic awardswillbepresentedattheannualSeniorAwardsCeremonyheldonthefirst FridayofJune.

Awardsmayinclude:

Individualteam/sports-specificawards

Varsity team members are eligible to receive a varsity letter if the athlete participates in a minimum of fifty percent of contests or at the coaching staff’sdiscretion.Abarpinwillbegivenforthesecond,third,andfourthyears ofvarsityplay

Junior Varsity team members will receive a JV certificate for the second and third years of JV play. JV team members not fulfilling all requirements will receiveacertificateofgeneralparticipation

Freshmen and Middle School team members will receive a certificate of participation

AthleticAwardswillbepresentedattheannualSeniorAwardsCeremony.Those awards include the MCSSADA Scholar-Athlete, NJSIAA Scholar-Athlete, Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Scholar- Athlete, Villa Walsh ScholarAthlete,andVWAspecialawards.

Captains

Student-athleteschosenasteamcaptainswillrecognizethetitleasanhonorand aresponsibilityCaptainsmaybeelectedbyteammatesorselectedbycoaches Teamsmaychoosecaptainsattheendofaseasonorthestartofthenextseason.

Captainswillassumeresponsibilitiesincluding,butnotlimitedto:

BeingamemberoftheAthleticLeadershipCouncilandattendingmeetings, serviceevents,andworkshops

Followsportspoliciesandcaptaincontracts

Clearcommunication

Leadershiponandoffthefield

OrganizingteamordersforsportswearalongwiththecoachandtheAthletic Director

Serviceasagroup

AthleticBoosterClub

AllVillaWalshAcademyparentsbelongtotheAthleticBoosterClubTheClub meetsmonthlyintheSDLACStudyRoomat7:00PMor8:00AM.Datesare postedontheVWAwebsiteAllparentsarewelcometoattendTheClubsupports theathleticdepartmentthroughactivitiessuchasSeptemberfest,Aprilfest,and theannualDinnerandGolfFundraiserandencouragesandwelcomesparent participationonanylevel.

AthleticDepartmentCommunicationPolicy

Toensureeffectivecommunicationregardingathletics,refertothefollowing guidelines:

1.CommunicationResponsibilitiesoftheCoach

Philosophy

Expectationsandgoals

Locationandtimesofallpracticesandcontestsviatheschoolschedulingsite Provideasafeenvironmentfortrainingandcompetition.

Teamrequirements

Procedurestobefollowedincaseofinjury

Teamrules,guidelines,andconsequencesforinfractions

Awardcriteria

Athletebehavior

2CommunicationResponsibilitiesoftheAthletes/Parents

Advancenoticeofscheduleconflicts

Noticeofillness/injuryandareturntoplaynotefromphysicianifonehas beenseen

Concerns

a.AppropriateConcerns

-Treatmentofathletes

-Athletebehavior

-Suggestionsforathleticimprovement

bInappropriateConcerns

-Playingtime

-Teamstrategy

-Playcalling

-Otherstudent-athletes

3 Protocol to Address Concerns

Contact the coach via VWA email to arrange an appointment. If the coach cannot be reached, contact the Athletic Director, and a meeting will be arranged for you.

Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach. Meetings of this nature usually do not promote favorable resolutions. Please wait 24 hours and then reassess the situation; if concerns remain, please contact the coach to discuss.

If a satisfactory resolution is not reached, make an appointment with the Athletic Director to discuss the situation.

ParentCodeofConduct

SportsmanshipisaparamountatVillaWalshAcademyandisexpectedbyall coaches,athletes,parents,andspectatorsathomeandawaycompetitions

Berealisticaboutphysicalandathleticability.Helpathletessetrealisticgoals. Emphasizeperformanceandeffort,notwinning Controlemotionsatgamesandevents

Positivelycheerfortheteam

Respectallcoaches. Beapositiverolemodel.

STAFF:

Athletic Director:

Mrs. Jennifer Fleury

fleuryj@villawalsh org or school x145

Assistant to Athletics:

Mrs. Carol Barnhart

barnhartc@villawalsh.org or school x273

Athletic Trainer

Ms Tess Edwards

edwardst@villawalsh org

COACHES:

Contact information is listed under the Athletics tab of the VWA website Email is preferred for a parent to contact a coach. All coach contact information is listed on the Athletics tab of our web page under Coaches & Staff.

Please contact the Athletic Director with any questions or concerns.

VILLA WALSH ACADEMY

COMMUNITY AND TRADITIONS

Welcome to Villa Walsh Academy!

I am thrilled to welcome you to the upcoming school year. I am especially excited to reconnect with the returning members of our community and to meet the new students and their parents After a long period of adjustment due to the pandemic, it is truly wonderful to get “back to normal” and enjoy the rich traditions and events that make Villa Walsh Academy truly special, as each event is designed to support our daughters and build a strong community

This year, my focus is to build our Villa Walsh Academy Parent Community As Volunteer Coordinator, I wish to build a strong, supportive, vibrant, faith-filled community of volunteers to spearhead the wonderful events and activities that Villa Walsh Academy offers our daughters

With this in mind, this portion of the handbook details the yearly VWA traditions and events, complete with dates and volunteer requests. Please keep this booklet handy throughout the year, as it will become a trusty guide to which you will refer often

Community building occurs when we, as parents, volunteer to help out at the various activities offered throughout the school year. Many events are run by the HSA, with some organized by a particular grade. All events need a number of volunteers School wide events bring together parents of all grades, while the events organized by a particular grade allow parental friendships to form within a particular class Either way, we create memories when we work together for a common goal - our daughters!

As the saying goes, “Many hands make light work!” After you read through the offerings of the coming year, please let me know where your gifts and talents may be best utilized by placing a check beside the events on the Volunteer Form you receive Return the form to the office in an envelope marked “Attention Colleen Coffey, HSA Volunteer Coordinator.”

See you soon!

Colleen Coffey

HSA Volunteer Coordinator

mcdc1988bc@gmail com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Calendar of School Liturgies

Class Coffees

Booster Club

Home School Association

Villa Boutique

Septemberfest

Back-to-School Night / Home School Parent Meeting

VWA Prospective Student Open Houses

Big Sister/Little Sister

Parent-Teacher Conferences (Meet & Greet)

Class Luncheons

Mother Daughter

Junior Ring

Prospective Student Testing

HSA Fall Festival & Student Fashion Show

Christmas Concert

Christmas Assembly Semi

Father Daughter Dance

Teacher Appreciation Week

Spring Musical

Spirit Week

Aprilfest

Spring Collage Concert

Spring Golf Outing

HSA Family Liturgy Brunch & Student Art Exhibit

Welcome Incoming Students

Prom

8th Grade Graduation Luncheon

Senior Awards & Luncheon

Graduation

EVENT: CALENDAR OF SCHOOL LITURGIES

Date: See Description

Leads: Villa Walsh Academy

Location: St Lucy’s Chapel on campus

Description:

Schoolliturgiesarewonderfulopportunitiestogrowwithinourfaithcommunity. AsonebodyinChrist,webecomeonecommunityatVillaWalshAcademy throughourparticipationintheliturgiesAllareinvited Ledbyaparticularclass,ourdaughtersactivelyparticipateintheMassasreaders ormembersofthechorus.

TheliturgiesareheldinSt.Lucy’sChapeloncampus.Itisrecommendedthatyou arrivefifteenminutespriortothestartoftheliturgy

Theliturgycalendarisasfollows:

September20,2024: Bishop’sMass-9:30AM

November1,2024: AllSaintsDayLiturgy

November26,2024: ThanksgivingLiturgy-1:45PM

December9,2024: ImmaculateConceptionLiturgy

December19,2024: AdventLiturgy

March5,2025: AshWednesdayLiturgy

April16,2025: LentenPrayerService

May4,2025: HSAFamilyLiturgyandBrunch-9:15AM

May 2025: MayCrowningLiturgy

EVENT: CLASS COFFEES | GRADES 7-12

Date: TBD (during the first weeks of the school year)

Leads: Class Parents | HSA Class Parent Coordinator

HSA Volunteer Coordinator | Booster President

Fall Fashion Show Chairs

Location: Determined by Class Parents

Description:

Organizedbyclassparents,the30-60minuteClassCoffeeisheldatalocation oncampusdeterminedbytheclassparents.

Hosted during the first weeks of the school year, the coffees provide another opportunitytomeetalloftheparentsinyourdaughter’sgrade. Youcanexchange cellnumbers,signuptohelpwithclassevents,volunteertohelpwiththeVilla Boutique,andreceiveimportantBoosterClubinformation.

Attheevent,classparentstypicallycollectamodestmonetarydonation fromall parentstocovertheclassexpensesfortheyear. Theseincludeteachergifts,class giftsgivenattheFallFashionShow,aswellasothersmallexpenditures.

Cash,checksorVenmoareallaccepted

EVENT: BOOSTER CLUB

Date: Calendar of Events (See Description)

Leads: Booster Club

Location: Determined by Class Parents

Description:

The Booster Club supports the Villa Walsh Academy athletic community and meetsoncea monththroughouttheschoolyear

Whether your daughter participates in one or three sports per year, your involvementintheBoosterClubcontributestoteambuildingandsuccessforVilla WalshAcademyAthletes

Teamparents,selectedbycoachestoassistwithemailsandactivitiestheteam enjoysthroughouttheseason,providethecommunication,andsupportnecessary forourstudent/athletes

AllareinvitedtobecomeactivemembersoftheBoosterClub! Theworkwedo, from team building activities to fundraising for specific equipment, helps Villa WalshAcademy’sathleticprogramthrive!

BoosterClubeventsfortheupcomingyear:

Septemberfest-September21,2024|DinnerandGolfFundraiser-May1,2025 Aprilfest-April12,2025

EVENT: HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION (HSA)

Leads: HSA President | Vice-President | Executive Board

Members-at-Large | Class Parent Coordinator | Volunteer Coordinator

Description:

All incoming families receive the contact information for the members of the HomeSchoolAssociationBoard(HSA)duringNewParentOrientation.

AstheCatholicschoolequivalenttoaPTA,theHSAservestosupporttheVilla Walsh Academy students, faculty and staff through community building and fundraising. Every board member serves alongside all parents to build the communitywecalltheVillaWalshAcademyFamily.

TheHSABoardmeetsonceamonthduringtheschoolyeartoplanandorganize upcomingevents. Allmembersareavaluablesourceofinformation,soshould youhaveanyquestionsorconcernsthroughouttheschoolyear,pleasefeelfree tocontactanyoneofthem Theyarehappytohelp!

EVENT: VILLA BOUTIQUE

Date: Various dates throughtout the year

Leads: Villa Boutique | HSA VC

Description:

The Villa Boutique sells Villa Walsh Academy spirit-wear, uniform-approved merchandiseforstudents,andgifts.

Parentvolunteersareneededthroughouttheschoolyeartohelpsellmerchandise atvariousevents. Thisisagreatwaytomeetnewandseasonedmothers.Please jointhefun!

The Villa Boutique is available for students and parents to make in-person purchasesonthefollowingdates:

August28,2024:NewStudentOrientationandNewParents’Coffee

September21,2024:Septemberfest

December15,2024:ChristmasConcert

April12,2025:AprilFest

May17,2025:PlacementTestingNewStudents

EVENT: SEPTEMBERFEST

Date: September 21, 2024

Leads: VWA Booster Club | HSA Volunteer Coordinator | Athletic Director

Location: Sr Doris Lavinthal Athletic Building (SDLAC)

Description:

SeptemberfestisaVillaWalshAcademyeventdesignedtocelebrateourfall athletesVWAathletesfromallsportscompeteagainstinvitedschoolsBringthe entirefamilytocheeronyourfavoriteathletesandenjoyacomplimentary barbecueprovidedtoVWAstudentsandtheirfamilies,aswellastheopposing teams’athletesandfamilies.

OrganizedbytheBoosterClub,abattalionofparentvolunteerscomestogether tomaketheeventoneofthemostbelovedtraditionsofVWACheckyouremails foraSign-UpGeniustobesentbytheHSAVolunteerCoordinatorattheendof Augustandhelpoutinanycapacityyouareable.

Volunteersarenecessarytosetupandcleanuptheevent,serve,directparking, grillfood,andprovidedonationsofwaterbottlesanddesserts.Additionally, volunteersareneededtoservecustomersattheVillaWalshAcademyBoutique.

VillaWalshAcademyathletesfromallsportscompeteagainstinvitedschools Bringthewholefamilytocheeronyourfavoriteathletesandenjoya complimentarybarbecueservingVWAstudents,theirfamiliesandtheteam membersandfamiliesoftheopposingteams

GoVillaVikings!

EVENT: HOME SCHOOL PARENT MEETING

Date: September 19, 2024 | 7:30 pm

Leads: Sr. Elaine | HSA Board | Booster Club President

Location: Mother Ninetta Hall Auditorium

Description:

Settingthetonefortheupcomingschoolyear,Back-to-SchoolNightisdesigned to provide vital information for a successful year All parents are encouraged to attendtoreceivetheirrespectiveBack-to-Schoolfolders.

In attendance are the members of the HSA Board, available to answer any questions you may have, and the Fall Festival and Student Fashion Show Chairs whoprovideabriefpresentationofthelargestfundraiseroftheyear.

EVENT: BIG SISTER/LITTLE SISTER | CANDY DAY

Date: September 24 & 25, 2024

Leads: Mrs. Williams

Description:

A longstanding favorite tradition of Villa Walsh Academy, the Big Sister/Little Sister program pairs first-year students (Little Sisters) with senior students (Big Sisters).TheroleofaBigSisteristoguideandsupportherLittleSisterthroughout theupcomingschoolyear.

There are many creative ways in which the Big Sisters and Little Sisters communicateandsupportoneanotherthroughoutthecourseoftheschoolyear. Asaparent,donotbesurprisedifyourdaughterwantstogetalittlesomethingfor her Big or Little Sister. Some students create posters to cheer their favorite athletes,writenotesofsupporttoleaveontheirlockers,leavecandytreatsor smalltokensofappreciation

TherearetwospecialeventsforBig/LittleSistersduringtheschoolyear. Thefirst isCandyDay,duringwhichthefreshmenbringinabagfullofcandyforaMeet& Greetwiththeseniors Astheseniorswalkaroundandintroducethemselves,they receive a treat from the freshmen. The second special event is a picnic lunch providedbytheseniorstosharewiththeirlittlesistersonthelawninfrontofThe Tower.

Botheventscreatelifetimememoriesforthestudents!

EVENT: VILLA WALSH ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES

Date: October 6 | 1:00 - 4:00 PM and October 23 | 6:30 - 8:00 PM

Leads: Sr. Elaine | VWA Faculty and Staff | Student Guides | HSA Board

Location: Start at Sr Doris Lavinthal Athletic Building (SDLAC)

Description: InOctober,VillaWalshAcademyhostsOpenHousesforprospectivestudentsand theirfamilies

TheschooltoursareledbycurrentstudentvolunteersandFaculty.OpenHouses donotgenerallyrequirecurrentVWAfamilyinvolvement,butifyouareavailable tohelpoutonsuchaday,pleaseconnectwiththeVolunteerCoordinatorwhowill contactyouifhelpisnecessary

EVENT: PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES (MEET & GREET)

Date: October 9, 2024 | 6:00 PM

Leads: VWA Teacher and Staff

Location: Grace Ann Café

Description:

The Meet & Greet allows parents to experience an abbreviated version of their daughter’sdayandprovidesanopportunitytomeetherteachers

Parents receive a class schedule a few days prior to the event which designates the rotation times and room numbers to which they are to report to meet their daughter’s teachers. Student Guides are available to direct you through the hallways.

Each class is allotted seven minutes of time during which the teacher provides informationregardingthecurriculumfortheacademicschoolyear.

Teachers accommodate any questions or concerns regarding individual students atprivateconferences. Feelfreetospeaktoanyteacherregardingscheduling.

EVENT: 7TH AND 8TH GRADE CLASS LUNCHEONS

Date: October 16, 2024 | February 26, 2025

Leads: HSA Class Parent Coordinator | 7th and 8th Grade Class Parents

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditorium | Assembly Hall

Description:

Twotimesthroughouttheyear,themiddleschoolholdsClassLuncheonstobring the‘Lifers’togetherinafunandfestiveenvironment

DatesandtimesarecoordinatedwithSr.Elainetocoincidewiththenormallunch schedule.

ClassParentsplanthemeal,setup,serve,andcleanupafterwards

EVENT: JUNIOR RING CEREMONY

Date: October 22, 2024

Leads: 10th Grade Class Parents

Location: St Lucy Chapel | Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description:

JuniorRingCeremonyisanotherbeautifultraditionofVillaWalshAcademy.

Held at the end of the school day, the entire junior class and their respective parentsgatherforMassduringwhichclassringsareblessed.

AreceptionpreparedbytheGrade10ClassParentsisheldafterwards.

EVENT: MOTHER/DAUGHTER DINNER

Date: October 25, 2024 - 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM

Leads: 12th Grade Class Mothers | HSA Fathers | Faculty Volunteers

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description:

A truly memorable event, this long-standing tradition is the hands-down favorite of all VWA mothers and daughters Laugh, cry, and mingle with Villa Walsh Academy mothers and daughters at this beautiful evening that celebrates the seniorclassandtheVillaWalshAcademysisterhood

Details of this very special event are deliberately withheld, as the experience warrants an element of surprise Simply trust that you will not want to miss the opportunitytobeapartofthesespecialevenings,occurringyearlyduringthetime youareatVillaWalshAcademy!

EVENT: HSA FALL FESTIVAL AND STUDENT FASHION SHOW

Date: November 23, 2024 - 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM

Leads: HSA | Fashion Show Chairs | Parent Volunteers

Location: Hanover Marriott | Whippany, New Jersey

Description:

Six to eight months prior to the date of the Fashion Show, Fashion Show Chairs planthethemeandassembleCommitteeChairsforthelargestfundraisingevent oftheyear

This is a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community to celebrate Villa Walsh Academy’s sisterhood Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends-allareinvitedtocelebratetheirspecialstudent(s)! Theeveningendsas theseniorclassishonoredforitsachievementsandgrowthovertheyears.

The Fashion Show and Fall Festival has many aspects during which parent volunteersarenecessaryforitssuccess! Pleasedonothesitatetogetinvolved,as itisawonderfulwaytomeetfriendswhobecomelikefamily

The Fashion Show Chairs and respective Committee Chairs offer many opportunitiesforyoutoshareyourtimeandtalents! Volunteeropportunitiesfall within the Gift Basket Auction, Silent Auction, Direct Investment, Instant Win, JewelryAuction,Decorations,Invitations,FashionsandProduction,tonamejusta few KeepaneyeoutforemailssentbytheHSAVolunteerCoordinatorwithalink to a Sign-Up Genius detailing the dates, times and responsibilities requested. WeeklyFashionShowemailsconnectthe VillaWalshAcademycommunityand keepallinformed

EVENT: CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Date: December 15, 2024 - 3:00 PM

Leads: Mr. Daher | 7th & 8th Grade Class Parents | VWA Boutique

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditurom

Description:

ThebelovedChristmasConcertandtheNativityTableauisopentotheentire VillaWalshAcademyandtheirfamilies Parents,siblings,grandparents,etc are invitedtoenjoythemelodicvoicesoftheVillaWalshAcademyChorusmembers and experience the beautiful Nativity Tableau as we usher in the Christmas Season.

Boththe7thand8thGradeClassParentsareresponsibleforfindingtwoparent volunteersfromeachgradetotiecummerbundsbeforetheconcertbegins.

TheVWABoutiqueisopenforlastminuteChristmasshopping!

EVENT: CHRISTMAS ASSEMBLY

Date: December 20, 2024

Leads: 7-12 Class Parents

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description:

TheChristmasAssemblybringstogethertheentireschoolaftertheAdventPrayer Service,whichisheldonthelastdaybeforeChristmasBreak.

ASignUpGeniusissenttorequestvolunteerstosetupadaypriortotheevent, servetheluncheon,andcleanup.

Itisabeautifuleventtosparkstheholidayspiritinall!

EVENT: SEMI FORMAL DANCE

Date: December 20, 2024 | 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM

Leads: Mrs. Schiro | Mrs. Grabowski | 10th Grade | 10th Grade Parent Volunteers

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditurom

Description:

AllVillaWalshAcademystudents9-12areinvitedto'Semi'alongwithadate

TheSophomorestudentsdecidetheyear'sthemeandalldecorations,setup,and clean up the day after are handled by the 10th grade students and parent volunteers

ThestudentscelebratethesuccessesoftheirfallsemestersandusherinawelldeservedChristmasBreak!Theeveningendsat10pm.

EVENT: SPIRIT WEEK

Date: February 18 -21, 2025

Leads: Mrs. Oliveros | Student Council Executive Board

Location: Villa Walsh Academy

Description: SpiritWeekisafun-filledweekofevents.Themeddaysandspecialeventsare plannedfortheenjoymentofthefaculty,staffandstudentsaswecelebrateall thatmakesVillaWalshAcademyspecial

Theweekculminateswiththefacultyvs.seniorclassvolleyballgame.

EVENT: SPRING MUSICAL

Date: March 7 - 9, 2025 | 7:00 PM - 10: 00 PM

Leads: Mr. Daher | Mrs. Lanni | HSA VC | Parent Volunteers

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description:

VillaWalshAcademy'sannualmusicalproductionsshowcasetheincredibleartistic talentsofthestudents Allstudentsareinvitedtoaudition Thosestudentswhose talents lie off-stage are encouraged to joinstage crew to run the behind-thescenesstagework,sound,andlighting.

Parent involvement is key to coordinate all the elements of this production The HSA Volunteer Coordinator sends a Sign-Up Genius to all parents requesting donations for concessions, set-building, and requests for meals for the cast and crew. Onsite assistance with hair, makeup, and costumes is necessary on all performancedays.

TheVWAMusicalisanopportunitytobuildcommunityandsupportthestudents in the arts programs. Tickets are sold during the school day at lunchtime in the Grace Ann Café the week of the performance, as well as at the door the days of theperformances-Fridays,Saturdayafternoons,andSundayafternoons.

“Kiss The Cast” candy bags are sold as a fundraiser to offset the cost of the production Students,faculty,staff,friends,andfamiliesareencouragedtoshow theirsupport bywritingnotesandprovidingcandyforthebags.

EVENT: FATHER/ DAUGHTER DANCE

Date: March 28, 2025 | 7:00 PM - 10: 00 PM

Leads: Mrs Oliveros | Student Council | Senior Class Mothers

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditurom

Description:

TheFather/DaughterDanceisanannualeventenjoyedbyallVWAstudentsand theirfathersorguestofchoice.

DinnerisservedbyHSAvolunteermothersandfaculty,whilethegirlsandthe fathers enjoy one another's company and that of their classmates. Dance trophies are awarded to the top performers in several dance categories. The schoolphotographerisonsitetotakephotosoftheevening.

Dresscodeisoftendictatedbythethemeselectedeachyear.

EVENT: APRILFEST

Date: April 12, 2025

Leads: Booster Club | Athletic Director | HSA VC | Parent Volunteers

Location: Sr. Doris Lavinthal Athletic Center (SDLAC)

Description:

Much like Septemberfest in the fall, Aprilfest is a spring sport celebration complete with lacrosse games, track and field demonstrations, and softball games.

The VWA Boutique is open for spirit wear and more A barbeque for all to enjoy is sponsored by the Booster Club Many volunteers are needed, so look for the Sign-Up Genius in March We love team spirit at Villa Walsh Academy, and this is the day to show your love!

EVENT: SPRING COLLAGE CONCERT

Date: April 29, 2024 -7:00 PM

Leads: Mr Daher | Mrs Cheiffer | Mrs Lagana | Parent Volunteers

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description:

The Spring Collage Concert features the talents of our VWA Arts students. The concert features both visual and performing arts. The chorus sings several pieces, individual instrumentalists perform compositions, Dance students perform, and visual arts works are on display.

The Spring Collage Concert is followed by a reception of light refreshments donated by parents

EVENT: NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

Date: May 5-9, 2025

Leads: HSA

Location: Villa Walsh Academy

Description:

Teacher Appreciation Week is an opportunity for parents and students to celebrate the faculty and staff of VWA Each day of this special week, the faculty and staff are treated to some type of celebratory expression to convey the admiration and love of the community

Past events included a luncheon, breakfast, individual notes from Student Council and many more memorable events

EVENT: DINNER AND GOLF FUNDRAISER

Date: May 1, 2025

Leads: VWA Booster Club | Athletic Director

Location: Spring Brook Country Club, Morristown New Jersey

Description:

TheSpringGolfOutingisthelargestfundraiserhostedbytheVWABoosterClub. The day typically kicks off with teams of golfers competing in a Best Ball Tournament-andthefunbegins!

Followingtheroundsofgolf,guestsarrivefordinnerandanexcitingGiftAuction, Wine-Pull,DirectInvestmentandSilentAuction Allprizesare contributedfrom thegenerosityofareabusinessesandsupportiveVillaWalshAcademyfamilies Attendeesneednotgolftoattendthedinner

Attire: BusinessCasual/Cocktail

EVENT: HSA FAMILY LITURGY BRUNCH & STUDENT ART EXHIBIT

Date: May 4, 2025 - 9:15 AM

Leads: HSA | VWA Parent Volunteers

Location: St Lucy Chapel | Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description:

Villa Walsh Academy families join together to celebrate Mass All families are invited to a brunch immediately following Mass

Student art is displayed in the auditorium for your viewing pleasure.

EVENT: WELCOME INCOMING STUDENTS | LAWN SIGN DELIVERIES

Date: Spring (Date to be determined)

Leads: Mrs. Manley | HSA Volunteer Coordinator | Grades 7&9 Parent Volunteers

Description: When Villa Walsh Academy's accepted students finalize their enrollment, the VWA community welcomes them to the Villa Walsh Academy family.

Parents volunteer to drive students to deliver a welcome sign to an incoming student who lives in their vicinity The meetings are very meaningful, as they are often the first encounter of the new student and her family with a fellow VWA family

Photos create memories for many years to come!

EVENT: JUNIOR AND SENIOR PROM

Date: May 22, 2025 -7:30 PM - 10:30 PM

Leads: Mrs. Williams | Mrs. Schiro | Mrs. Grabowski | 11th Grade Committee

Grade 10 Parent Volunteers

Location:

Description: EachyearittakesateameffortofcreativityandfuntomaketheJunior/Senior Promanighttoremember!

The Junior Prom Committee creates a theme for the year ' s prom and is responsiblefororderingdecorations,favors,andallnecessitiesfortheevent. Theactualdecoratingisdoneby10thGradeParentVolunteersandVWAfaculty arechaperonesfortheevent.

Promdressesmustbe“pre-approved”asappropriateattirebyVWAintheweeks priortoprom.

EVENT: 8TH GRADE CELEBRATION

Date: May 28, 2025

Leads: Mrs. Harper | Ms. Geraghty | 7th & 8th Grade Parent Volunteers

Location: St. Lucy's Chapel | Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description:

The 8th Grade Celebration Luncheon is hosted by the 7th grade Class Moms. Attended by both the 7th and 8th grade classes, as well as the parents and family members of the Grade 8 students, the prayer service celebrates the end of the middle school years for the 8th grade students. Following the service, Grade 8 students and their families enjoy a celebration luncheon in their honor.

This is a truly beautiful and meaningful celebration of the 8th grade class and all they accomplished during their middle school years

Dress: Suits, Jacket and Tie, or Business Casual

EVENT: SENIOR AWARD ASSEMBLY AND LUNCHEON

Date: May 30, 2025 - 10:00 AM

Leads: Sr. Elaine | 9th Grade Parent Volunteers

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description:

Villa Walsh Academy seniors are recognized for their outstanding high school achievements in academics, athletics, community, and the arts during the Senior AwardsAssembly.Awardpresentations,aslideshow,andkindacknowledgments givenbythejuniorclasshighlighttheday,andarefollowedby abuffetluncheon providedbyVillaWalshAcademy.

This is a large event, with the entire VWA student body, the parents of seniors, faculty, staff, and volunteers in attendance to celebrate the amazing achievementsoftheseniorclass.

Attire:Casual

EVENT: SENIOR GRADUATION & RECEPTION

Date: June 1, 2025

Leads: VWA| HSA | 9th & 11th Grade Parent Volunteers

Location: St Lucy Chapel | Grace Ann Café

Description:

Graduation is a beautiful and memorable day!

In full cap and gown, the senior class students celebrate, for one last time, the bonds of sisterhood that formed when they first came together as a class four years earlier

Tradition has it that once the girls graduate, they take a class photo either in front of the mansion or the tower to memorialize their years at Villa Walsh Academy

CAMPUS BUILDINGS - FLOOR PLANS

DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM

STUDENT ASS STANT COUNSELOR

CAMPUS BUILDINGS - FLOOR PLANS

PRINCIPAL'SOFFICE

REGINA PACIS FIRST FLOOR

CAMPUS BUILDINGS - FLOOR PLANS

CAMPUS BUILDINGS - FLOOR PLANS

SCHOOL SONG

Verse 1: Enter the gate and climb the hill, see around your nature in full. A tower that soars to the heavens above, beyond it lies the school we love.

Chorus:

Villa Walsh, upon you we proudly gaze You’re the glory of our learning days.

O Villa Walsh Academy, your name we praise, we love you forever, our own Villa Walsh.

Verse 2: Steadfast, loving, loyal and true, these are lessons we ' ve learned from you. Your standards high we will proclaim, as tribute to our high school's name.

ForYOU, Lord,o are my Hope.

PS:71:5