Student\Parent Handbook

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 continues to bring Villa Walsh Academy into the technological age.

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,haveauniqueopportunityand 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 proficiency in basic academic subjects

Applicants:

1. Take the Academy entrance examination.

2. Forward previous scholastic and standardized test scores to the Principal’s office

3. Submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher and/or Principal.

4 Submit an additional letter of recommendation (e g , music teacher, athletic coach, co-curricular/ extra-curricular advisor, scoutleader, etc.).

At the discretion of the school administration, an interview of the candidate will be arranged, following the successful completion of admission procedures. NonCatholics seeking admission must be willing to accept and abide by the philosophy and curriculum requirements of Villa Walsh Academy.

After the interview the applicant may request to spend a day at the Academy and attend classes.

CURRICULUM

The curriculum is designed to provide a variety of courses with emphasis on theology,thefinearts,languages,sciences,mathematics,andhumanities.Small classes provide the framework for serious study and individualized learning. Throughlargegroupassembly,smallgroupdiscussion,andindependentstudy, thestudentisencouragedtoassumeagreaterresponsibilityforherownlearning 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.VillaWalshAcademyboastsa9:1student-teacher ratio All courses adhere to the standards established by the New Jersey State DepartmentofEducationandthePatersonDiocese

GRADUATION

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

FRESHMANCOURSES

Theology I

English I/H Biology

ELECTIVES

Algebra I Algebra II/H Geometry/H World History Health Education Physical Education French I/ II Italian I/ II Spanish I/ II Chorus Art

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

SOPHOMORECOURSES

Theology II

British Literature/ H Chemistry/ H Algebra II/ H Geometry /H United States History I H/ AP French II/ III H Italian II/ III H Spanish II/ III H Physical Education Driver Education

ELECTIVES

Web Design with HTML Programming

Introduction to Programming with Java Democracy in a Multicultural World Chorus Advanced Art 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

Physics/ H/ I 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

Intro. to Programming with Java

Advanced Programming with Java

AP Computer Science A

Web Design with HTML Democracy in a Multicultural World

Advanced Art Art & Design Art History Music Theory Chorus Dance

Juniors must choose at least three electives from the above list

SENIORSCOURSES

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/ H/ II AP Physical Education | Health Education

ELECTIVES

AP Physics II

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 Economics H

Web Design HTML

Intro. to Programming with Java Programming

Advanced Programming with Java

AP Computer Science A

Advanced Art Art & Design Art History Music Theory Chorus Dance

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

ADVANCEDPLACEMENTCOURSES

The following AP courses are offered: Biology

Calculus AB

Calculus BC Chemistry

Computer Science A

English Language and Composition

English Literature and Composition

French Language and Culture

Italian Language and Culture

Modern European History Physics I Physics II Psychology

Spanish Language and Culture

Spanish Literature & Culture Statistics

United States History I and II

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. 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+ 97 - 100 A 93 - 96 A- 90 - 92 B+ 87 - 89 B 83 - 86 B- 80 - 82 C+ 77 - 79 C 73 - 76 C- 70 - 72 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, 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 aids, and personal counseling A School Counselor is also available to meet with all students Students and parents are encouraged to check the Guidance Department website for current information.

The guidance program includes personal interviews with the Guidance Counselor 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 Guidance Counselor or School 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

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 ensuing 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.

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

Personal Computers and All Other Devices

The use of cell phones, smart devices, smart watches and the like are not crucial to the educational environment and are, therefore, prohibited during the school day. These devices must be turned off and secured in the student's locker Students are reminded that any wireless connection through alternative carriers is prohibited while on school grounds. Students are permitted to use approved electronic devices at the discretion of teachers and/ or administration

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 free speech using the school's computers must be in keeping with Catholic values as expressed in the school's philosophy and mission statement

Student Responsibilities Personal Safety

Studentswillnotpostcontactinformation(eg,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,orwebsitepostings Studentsparticipatinginanyformofcyberbullying willbesubjecttodisciplinaryand/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

Studentsmustnotpostprivateinformationorimagesofthemselvesoranother

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.

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, whetheritbeasingleincidentoraseriesofincidents,thatisreasonablyperceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on school property, at any schoolsponsored 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 rights of other students andthat:

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:Awrittenreporttotheprincipalmustbemadewithin2days ofemployeewitnessingorreceivingreliableinformationthatastudenthas experiencedHIB

BYSCHOOLDAY11:Theinvestigationmustbecompleteby10withinschooldays fromwrittenreport

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

ReporttoParent/Guardian

Schoolmustprovide“informationabouttheinvestigation”toparents/guardiansof “studentswhoarepartiestotheinvestigation”andfindingswithin5schooldays afterinvestigationiscomplete.Informationwillincludenatureofinvestigation, 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

Demerits

StudentswillbeinformedbythePrincipalatleastonedaypriortotheirdetention.

Detentionwillbeheldafterschoolforonehour

Detentionsessionswillbesupervisedbyamemberofthefaculty. Transportationafteradetentionperiodistheresponsibilityofthestudent Fourdetentionswillwarrantin-schoolsuspension(studentdoesnot

attendclassesbutremainsinadesignatedareatoaccomplishthe schoolworkfortheday) Parentswillbenotified

Ifastudentreceivesexcessivedetentionsduringonescholasticyear,she

willnotbeabletoparticipateinextracurricularactivitiesuntilsheisingood standing.

DRESSCODE

Villa Walsh Academy has an established dress code primarily for the purpose of eliminatingapreoccupationwithdailyfashionconcerns.Studentsareexpectedto adhere to this dress code while keeping in mind that the uniform is to be worn appropriatelyandneatly Skirtsmustnotberolledatwaist.

Skirt: Plaidschoolskirt Noshorterthanoneinchfromtopofknees

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 five (5) 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.

1 Parentswillbenotifiedifstudentsshowapatternofabsenteeismonthe daysoftests/quizzes.

2. Theadministration,inconjunctionwiththesubjectteacher(s),will determinewhethercoursecreditwillbeawardedinlightofexcessive absencesandtardiness.

TARDINESS

There is a serious obligation to arrive at school and to class on time. First period beginsat7:45am Ifastudentarrivesafter7:45am,sheislateandmustobtaina late pass from the Business Office before reporting to her assigned class. If a student reports to class after 7:45 am and does not have a late pass from the BusinessOffice,shewillreceiveonedemeritfromtheteacherandwillbemarked late. Students who are late to any class will receive a demerit from that subject teacher

Students who arrive after 10:15 am. or leave before noon will not be allowed to participate in any after school activity that day, ie, club activities, musical rehearsal,athleticevents,school-sponsoredsocialevents,etc..

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

EARLY DISMISSAL

Studentsshouldmakeappointmentsoutsideofschoolhours However,ifaschool hour appointment is unavoidable, a letter, signed by a parent/guardian must be submitted to the Business Office, or a parent/ guardian may call the Business Officeinadvance.Thestudentwillbedismissedfromtheschoolofficeonlytoa parent/guardianoranindividualidentifiedbytheparent/guardianasassumingthis responsibility

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 periodStudyHallonaFridayispermittedtoleaveschoolatthattime.Aswithany otherearlydismissal,thestudentmustpresentanoteinadvancetotheBusiness OfficesothatanEarlyDismissalPasscanbeissued

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 immunizationtotheHealthOfficepriortotheopeningofschool

Thenurseisavailablethroughouttheschooldayandmustbenotifiedifastudent becomesillorinjuredandcannotattendclass Ifthenursedeemsitnecessaryfor thestudenttobesenthome,shewilltelephoneaparentandmakearrangements. The Business Office will notify teachers if a student has been sent home due to illness

Students themselves are not to call, email or message a parent requesting permissiontoleaveschoolortobepickedup 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 orsportswillbegranted.

Studentsreturningtoschoolafterrecoveringfromacommunicablediseasemust haveawrittennotefromtheirphysicianinordertobereadmitted.Communicable diseases include mononucleosis, chicken pox, strep throat, conjunctivitis, and COVID

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.

STUDENT DRIVING AND PARKING

Driving to school is a privilege. All student drivers are to obtain a vehicle registrationformfromourwebsite.Driversenteringsenioryear,mustcompletea vehicleregistrationformbythefirstdayofschool,orwhentheybegintodriveto schoolandwillthenbeissuedanumberedparkingspace

Any student driver who is late three times per mid-term will have her driving privilegessuspended Ifthestudentdriverisrepeatedlytardyherdrivingprivileges willberevoked Thosewhorideaspassengersmaynotusethetardinessofthe driverasanexcuse.

Aletterofpermissionisrequiredfromparentsofstudentdriversallowingthemto transportotherstudentstoandfromschool.Inaddition,aletterofpermissionis neededfromparentsofstudentsbeingdriventoandfromschoolbythestudent 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:

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.

Thelibraryisopenonallschooldaysfrom7:45am.to3:30pm.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 2022 - 2023 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 insurance that parents may have through work or that insurance that was purchaseddirectly Anyremainingbalances,copayments,deductibles,etc maybe submittedtoourcarrier,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 at 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

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,orpurchasefoodorbeveragesfromthevendingmachines.Microwave ovensarealsoavailableforstudentuse.IntheCafé,eachstudentisexpectedto practicethegeneralrulesofgoodmanners.Leavingthetablesandsurrounding areascleanistheresponsibilityofeachstudent.

TRANSPORTATION

ShuttlebusesleaveVillaWalshatapproximately3:45pm.eachdayandtransport 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

Villa Walsh Academy does not endorse any car services, whether by app or otherwise, to transport your daughter The school will not be responsible for anythingwhichmayoccurwhileyourdaughterisusingsuchservices.However,if parentschoosetouseacarservice,theyareencouragedtotakeeveryprecaution toseethatthedriver'sidentificationisverified.

PHOTO IDENTIFICATION CARDS

PhotoID'sareissuedatthebeginningofeachschoolyeartonewstudentsandare validuntiltheygraduate.PhotoID'sareneededforthefollowing:

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 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.Studentsmustdownloadworkingpapers andhavethemsignedbytheprincipalortheDirectorofGuidance.

CAR INSURANCE FORMS

'Goodstudent'carinsuranceformsaresignedbytheprincipal.

SCHOOL RING

TheVillaWalshAcademyofficialschoolringisengravedwiththelampoflearning andsymbolsofliterature,music,andtheCoat-of-ArmsofthePontificalInstitute oftheReligiousTeachersFilippini Juniorsreceivetheirringsduringaspecial Eucharisticcelebration.Onlyofficialschoolringsarepartoftheceremony,butall juniorstakepartinthecelebration.

SCHOOL COLORS

VillaWalshAcademyschoolcolorsaregreenandwhite.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Allstudentsmusttakephysicaleducationunlessmedicallyexcused.Any prolongedabsencemustbecertifiedbyaphysician Studentsmustcome preparedtoeachgymclasswithappropriateattireasdesignatedbythephysical educationinstructors

STUDENT-ATHLETEANDPARENTATHLETIC HANDBOOK2022-2023

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

Varsity,JV,Freshman,andMiddleSchoolbasketball

VarsityandJVwintertrack

VarsityandJVswimming.

VarsityandJVgolf

VarsityandJVlacrosse

Varsitysoftball

VarsityandJVtrackandfield

MiddleSchoolspringclinics.

ExpectationsofStudent-AthletesandFans

Participationintheathleticprogramisaprivilege.AthletesrepresentVillaWalsh Academy each time they enter a field, track, court, or pool and therefore are expected to conduct themselves respectfully, consistent with the moral values modeledatVillaWalshAcademy Inaddition,aVillaWalshAcademy athleteis askedtoalwaysputforthherbesteffort

Fansareexpectedtousegoodsportsmanshipwheneverattendinganathletic eventinsupportofVillaWalshAcademyteamsandasrepresentativesofVilla WalshAcademy.Afandemonstratingunsportsmanlikebehaviorwillbeaskedto leavetheeventandmayberequiredtoparticipateinasportsmanshipcourse beforereturningtomaintainasportsmanlikeatmosphere.

Medical Policies and Forms

All forms and additional information are available on the school website www villawalsh org or through the Magnus app The forms must be completed and uploaded to the Magnus app by July 19 for fall sports, October 1 for winter sports, and February 1 for spring sports Athletes will be prohibited from participating in a sport until all forms are submitted and approved by the school nurse and school physician.

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 days prior to the first practice session, shall provide a health history update of medical problems experienced since the last medical examination. This shall be completed and signed by the parent "

After the physical forms have been completed, uploaded to Magnus, and approved by the school nurse, the school's physician must certify the physical to complete NJSIAA guidelines. Before the start of each school year, athletic forms must be completed in addition to the school's entrance health forms and submitted on the Magnus app. These annual forms include:

Sports Emergency Information & Consent Release Form for Sports, Student-Athlete Handbook Acknowledgement Form

Annual Physical Exam (4 Parts)

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 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 championship contest in the preceding season, or within three days of the previousseason,aspertheNJSIAA.

Thelengthandtimeofpracticemayvaryfromsporttosport.Duetothehigh demandforindoorgymnasiumtime,itmaybenecessarytopracticeatanoffsite locationorduringtheearlymorning,lateevening,orSundays.

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

AgoaloftheVWAathleticprogramistoteachtheconceptsofsportinadditionto thephysicalaspectsofsportToaccomplishthesegoals,attendanceisrequiredat practicesandcompetitions.However,inanemergency,anabsenceshouldbe communicatedwiththecoachfirstand,ifnecessary,totheAthleticDirector.

AthletesareremindedthattheyhavechosentobeamemberofaVWAathletic teamandtoputthatteambeforeotheroutsideactivitiesorclubteamsduringthe season.

Anathletemustbeinschoolby10:15amtoparticipateinapracticeorcontestthat afternoon, except for extenuating circumstances. Athletes who leave for an excusedreasonandreturnmaybepermittedtoparticipatethatday

AnathletewhoisunabletoparticipateinPhysicalEducationclassduetoaninjury, illness,ornurse'sofficevisitwillnotbepermittedtoparticipateinorattenda practiceorcontestthatday Athletesareremindedthatacademicsareapriority andtomaintaintheiracademicresponsibilitieswhileparticipatinginathletics. Student-athleteswhoneglecttheiracademicresponsibilitiesmaybesubjecttoa leave-of-absencefromateam Duringthistime,theathleteisnottoattendany athleticeventsbuttofocusonimprovingheracademics.

Non-ContactPeriod

There is a non-contact period for athletes two weeks immediately before the officialstartofthefallpreseason.Thenon-contacttimefortennisisaweekearlier, asthetennispreseasonstartsaweekbeforetheotherfallsports.Thesedatesare announced annually by the Athletic Department and posted on the athletic schedulefoundontheschoolwebsite.Duringthistime,therewillbenopractices, conditioningsessions,teamruns,mandatoryorotherwise,held Wesuggestusing thistimefortrips,suchasvisitingcolleges,familyvacations,etc andappreciate whenfamiliesscheduletripsoutsideofastudent-athlete'sseasonofparticipation.

SchedulesandDirections

Schedules and directions are available through the school website at wwwvillawalshorg or found directly on wwwnwjerseyaccombyclicking VillaWalshAcademy Thereisalsoanappcalled'ActivityScheduler'thatyoucan downloadtoyourphoneandsetup VillaWalshAcademy.Parents,athletes,and fans are encouraged to sign up for notifications via the Notify Me option for schedules and changes via email and text. The schedules and directions are updatedasneeded.

Transportation

VWAprovidestransportationtoallathleticcontestsoroff-sitepracticeswiththe exceptionofmorningswimpractices.Athletesarenotpermittedtodrivetooffsiteeventsexceptforearlymorningswimpractices.Aparentmustcompletea driverandriderpermissionformandsubmittotheAthleticDepartment Athletes arepermittedtoleaveanawayeventwithaparentaftertheparentsignsherout withthecoach Anotesignedbytheparentmustbegiventothecoachaheadof timeifanathletewillbeleavingwithanadultotherthanaparent.

Participation

The number of team members in a given sport is limited to individual sport specifications. Therefore, it may be necessary to cut players from a team. The coachingstaff,alongwiththeAthleticDirector,willmakethedecisiononthefinal numberofplayers Thisnumbermayvaryfromyeartoyear Expectationsand criteriaofteammemberswillbesetatthestartofthepreseasonbythecoach Athletesareencouragedtospeakdirectlywithacoachaboutconflicts,strengths, andweaknesses.Ifaplayerwouldliketodiscusstheissuefurther,ameetingmay bescheduledwiththeathlete,coach,andAthleticDirector.

Equipment and Uniforms

Equipment,uniforms,andwarm-upsaresport-specificandareissuedtotheVWA athlete,whoisresponsibleforthecareofallitemsduringtheseason Theathlete isresponsibleforreturningallissuedequipment,warm-ups,oruniformsin acceptableconditionbythelastmeetingoftheseason Thestudent-athletewill bechargedforthereplacementofanyequipmentnotreturnedwithinoneweek oftheendoftheseason Shewillserveadetentionifuniformreplacementhas notbeenreceived.Anathletewillnotbepermittedtostartthenextsportseason untilallissueditemshavebeenreturned.Becausesomeequipmentis individualized,suchasaswimsuitortennisrackets,theyarenotsuppliedbythe athleticdepartment.

Team Orders

AllclothingthatistohavetheVillaWalshAcademylogoornamemustbepreapprovedbytheAthleticDirectorbeforeorderingandmustbeschoolcolorsgreenandwhite Ifahighlightcoloristobeused,lightgreyorathleticyellow/gold willbeused.BlackisnotacolorthatisusedforitemsatVWA.Allordersmustbe approvedbyandplacedthroughtheAthleticDepartment.Donationsaretobe approvedbytheAthleticDirectoraswell PleasecontacttheAthleticDirectorwith anyquestions.

Game Day Dress to School

Athletesarepermitted,ongamedaysonly,towearissuedathleticuniformsor warm-upsalongwithsneakerstoschoolasperthecoach'sdirection.Jackets, exceptfortheVWAathleticissuedwarm-upjacket,arenotpermittedtobeworn intheclassroomandarenotpartoftheschoolorathleticuniform.Studentathleteswearingjacketsintheclassroomwillbegivenademerit Athletesor teamsnotadheringtothispolicywilllosethisprivilege.Team-weariswornonly ontagdaysandnottobewornasapartoftheschooluniformorongamedays. PleasecontactthecoachortheAthleticDirectorwithanyquestions

Personal Belongings

ThecorridoroutsidethePEOfficeandtheSDLACfoyermustbekeptclearof personalitems,asitisasafetyhazardtothevisitorsandresidentsofVillaWalsh Academy.Allbackpacks,sportsbags,andotherpersonalbelongingsaretobe placedinthegymlockerroom,SDLACStudyRoom,secondflooryogaroom,or teamlockerroomduringpracticesandphysicaleducationclasses.

GuidelinesforNCAASigningDays2022-2023

Tocelebrateourstudent-athleteswhowillbecontinuingtheiracademiccareersin college,VWAhasestablishedguidelinesforsigningdays Wewillalignourdates withtheofficialNCAAsigningperiods,whicharecoordinatedwiththeNational Letter of Intent (NLI) program. The NLI is a binding agreementmbetween the student-athlete and a Division I or Division II academic institution which has offered the student-athlete financial aid. VWA will celebrate with Division III athletesplanningoncontinuingtheircareersincollegewithacelebratorysigning day VWAwillcelebratewithstudent-athleteswhochoosetoparticipateinasport offeredatVWAorwiththosewhoparticipateinasportVWAdoesnotoffer,such asequestrian.

Theathleticsofficewillsharethesigningdayphotographsandinformationwith localmediaandschoolsocialmedia Student-athletesplanningtocontinuetheir athleticcareersincollegeshouldlettheAthleticDirectorknowassoonastheNLI hasbeenmadeavailableorthestudenthasbeenadmittedtotheinstitution.

TeamCelebrationsandAwardsCeremonies

Sportsteamswillbehonoredwithacelebrationaftertheirrespectiveseasonsare overwithacelebration.Thecelebrationmaybeheldonoroff-campusandisto beapprovedbytheAthleticDirectorbeforeplansareannounced.Individual,as wellasteamawards,willbeannouncedatthecelebration.Boosterteamparents maybeaskedtohelporganizedonationsandplansforthecelebration.Senior and major athletic awards will be presented at the annual Senior Awards CeremonyheldonthefirstFridayofJune

Theseawardsinclude:

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.

JuniorVarsityteammemberswillreceiveaJVletterandacertificateforthe secondandthirdyearsofJVplay

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

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

Captains

Student-athleteschosenasateamcaptainwillrecognizethetitleasanhonorand a responsibility. Captains may be elected by teammates and/or selected by coaches Teams may opt to name Team Leaders to carry out various responsibilitiesfortheteaminplaceofateamcaptain. Captainswillassumeresponsibilitiesincluding,butnotlimitedto:

AthleticBoosterClub

AllVillaWalshAcademyparentsbelongtotheAthleticBoosterClub.TheBooster ClubmeetsthefirstMondayofeachmonthintheSDLACStudyRoomat7:30 pm,andallparentsarewelcometoattend.TheBoosterClubsupportstheAthletic DepartmentthroughactivitiessuchasSeptemberfest,Aprilfest,andtheannual DinnerandGolfFundraiser.TheBoosterClubencouragesandwelcomesparent participationonanylevel

3.

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

STAFF:

Athletic Director: Mrs Jennifer Fleury fleuryj@villawalsh.org or school x145

Assistant to Athletics: Mrs. Carol Barnhart barnhartc@villawalsh org or school x273

COACHES:

Contact information is listed under the Athletics tab of the VWA website. Email is preferred when necessary for a parent to contact a coach, as many of our coaches work outside of Villa Walsh Academy during the school day. All coach contact information is listed on the Athletics tab of our webpage under Coaches & Staff

Please contact the Athletic Director with any questions.

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 Tricia Brancatella, HSA Volunteer Coordinator.” See you soon!

Tricia Brancatella

HSA Volunteer Coordinator triciabrancatella@verizon net 908-398-8662

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Calendar of School Liturgies

Class Coffees

Booster Club

Home School Association

Back-to-School Night / Home School Parent Meeting

VWA Prospective Student Open Houses Septemberfest

Villa Boutique Garden Club

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:

September16,2022: Bishop’sMass-9:30am

November1,2022: AllSaintsDayLiturgy

November22,2022: ThanksgivingLiturgy-1:45pm

December8,2022: ImmaculateConceptionLiturgy

December16,2022: AdventLiturgy

January13,2022: St.LucyFilippiniBirthdayLiturgy

February22,2023: AshWednesdayLiturgy

April5,2023: LentenPrayerService

May7,2023: HSAFamilyLiturgyandBrunch-9:15am

May11,2021: 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 meetsthefirstMondayeveningofeverymonththroughouttheschoolyear

Whether your daughter participates on 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-September17,2022 DinnerandGolfFundraiser-May4,2023 Aprilfest-April22,2023

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: HOME SCHOOL PARENT MEETING

Date: September 22, 2022 | 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.

Finally,theTuitionRaffledrawingoccursduringBack-to-SchoolNight. Ticketsare availableforpurchasetheeveningofthedrawing,orbymailpriortotheevent

EVENT: VILLA WALSH ACADEMY OPEN HOUSES

Date: October 2 | 1:00 - 4:00 PM and October 5 | 6:30 - 8:00 PM

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

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

Description: InOctober,VillaWalshAcademyhostsOpenHousesforprospectivestudentsand theirfamilies.

TheschooltoursareledbycurrentstudentvolunteersandFaculty.OpenHouses donotgenerallyrequirecurrentVWAfamilyinvolvement,butifyouareavailable tohelpoutonsuchaday,pleaseconnectwiththeVolunteerCoordinatorwhowill contactyouifhelpisnecessary

EVENT: SEPTEMBERFEST

Date: September 17, 2022

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

Location: Sr. Doris Laventhal Athletic Building (SDLAC)

Description: SeptemberfestisaVillaWalshAcademyeventdesignedtocelebrateourfall athletesVWAathletesfromallsportscompeteagainstinvitedschoolsBringthe entirefamilytocheeronyourfavoriteathletesandenjoyacomplimentary barbecueprovidedtoVWAstudentsandtheirfamilies,aswellastheopposing teams’athletesandfamilies

OrganizedbytheBoosterClub,abattalionofparentvolunteerscomestogether tomaketheeventoneofthemostbelovedtraditionsofVWA.Checkyouremails foraSign-UpGeniustobesentbytheHSAVolunteerCoordinatorattheendof Augustandhelpoutinanycapacityyouareable.

Volunteersarenecessarytosetupandcleanuptheevent,serve,directparking, grillfood,andprovidedonationsofwaterbottlesanddessertsAdditionally, volunteersareneededtoservecustomersattheVillaWalshAcademyBoutique.

VillaWalshAcademyathletesfromallsportscompeteagainstinvitedschools. Bringthewholefamilytocheeronyourfavoriteathletesandenjoya complimentarybarbecueservingVWAstudents,theirfamiliesandtheteam membersandfamiliesoftheopposingteams

SeptemberfestisafantasticcommunityeventforallVillaWalshAcademy studentsandparents!Evenifyourdaughterdoesnotparticipateinafallsport,it isadayfilledwithcamaraderieandmemories.

GoVillaVikings!

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:

August31,2022:NewStudentOrientationandNewParents’Coffee

September17,2022:Septemberfest

December11,2022:ChristmasConcert

April22,2023:AprilFest

May20,2023:PlacementTestingNewStudents

EVENT: BIG SISTER/LITTLE SISTER | CANDY DAY

Date: September 27 & 28, 2022

Leads: Mrs Williams

Description: A longstanding favorite tradition of Villa Walsh Academy, the Big Sister/Little Sisterprogrampairsfirst-yearstudents(LittleSisters)withseniorstudents(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: PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES (MEET & GREET)

Date: October 12, 2022 | 11:45 AM -4:00 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 18, 2022 | March 8, 2023 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 25, 2022

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 28, 2022 - 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 19, 2022 - 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 11, 2022 - 3:00 PM Leads: Ms. Vecchio | 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 16, 2022

Leads: 7-12 Class Parents

Location: Mother Ninetta Auditorium

Description: TheChristmasAssemblybringstogethertheentireschoolaftertheAdventPrayer Service,whichisheldonthelastdaybeforeChristmasBreak.

ASignUpGeniusissenttorequestvolunteerstosetupadaypriortotheevent, servetheluncheon,andcleanup. Itisabeautifuleventtosparkstheholidayspiritinall!

EVENT: SEMI FORMAL DANCE

Date: December 16, 2022 | 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 13 -16, 2023

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 17- 19, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 10: 00 PM

Leads: Ms. Vecchio | 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 GraceAnnCafétheweekoftheperformance,aswellasatthedoorthedaysof theperformances-Fridays,Saturdayafternoons,andSundayafternoons.

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

EVENT: FATHER/ DAUGHTER DANCE

Date: March 10, 2023 | 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 22, 2023

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

Location: Sr. Doris Laventhal 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 25, 2023 -7:00 PM

Leads: Ms Vecchio | 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, AP 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 1-5, 2023

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 4, 2023

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

DressAttire: BusinessCasual/Cocktail

EVENT: HSA FAMILY LITURGY BRUNCH & STUDENT ART EXHIBIT

Date: May 7, 2023 - 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 2023 -7:30 PM - 11:00 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 31, 2023

Leads: Mrs. Harper | Sr. Barbara | 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: June 2, 2023 - 10:00 AM

Leads: Sr. Elaine | 9th Grade Parent Volunteers | Sr. Barbara

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 4, 2023 - 11:30 AM

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

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.