Dear Parents and Students,

"What greater work is there than training the mind

and forming habits of the young?
(St. John Chrysostom)
Welcome to St. John Catholic School. In
choosing St. John School you have demonstrated a
commitment to the values and philosophy of a
Catholic education. The Parent/Student handbook
reflects the policies of St. John School since 2010.
Please read this document carefully and sign the
attached agreement. This agreement states that you
intend to abide by the policies of St. John School.
The faculty and staff look forward to working with
you to promote academic excellence and spiritual
development in the context of the teachings of the
Catholic Church. Together let us pray that God,
who has begun this good work in us, may carry it
through to completion. God bless youIn His Love,
Mother Elaine, SCMC
Principal

HISTORY OF ST. JOHN SCHOOL

St. John School opened in 1964 with 70
students in the first and second grades. Each year a
class was added and in 1972 the first eight grade
class graduated. However St. John School did not
reopen in the fall of 1972. The closure of St. John
School was due to a number of factors. The sisters
who staffed the school were withdrawing and
replacements for these departing sisters could not
be found. The school community wanted the
school to be administered by a religious order and
the school was also experiencing some financial
difficulties. For the next twenty years the school
functioned as a parish center, housing the religious
education office and CCD classrooms, a parish hall
for small and large groups, and the Shoreline Soup
Kitchen.
In 1993, surveys began to show a great deal
of support to reopen St. John School. With the
hacking of Dr. Howard Bennett, Superintendent of
Schools for the Diocese of Norwich as well as
local parents, Bishop Daniel Reilly granted
permission to reopen in the fall of 1994. Under the
direction of Father Joseph Hanks, the new pastor,
staffed by the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady
Mother of the Church and qualified lay teachers it
was the only Catholic Elementary school to open
in eth United States that year. St. John School
officially reopened on August 31, 1994 with an
enrollment of eighty-two students in grades prekindergarten to eight. By June of 1995, one
hundred five students were registered. The first
graduation ceremony of the newly opened St. John
School was June 11, 1995 with three graduates.
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The 1995-1996 school year opened with

two hundred sixteen students registered. Classroom
aids were hired and the CCD office and Soup
kitchen were relocated. In 1996 there were sixteen
graduates. The rapid growth and continued support
of the school community was overwhelming and
exciting. It also generated some concerns for the
need of additional space to house larger class size,
extra curricular activities, small group instruction,
and a nurse's office, a larger office for the
secretary, a larger library, a science lab and a
computer room. Talk began to find ways to expand
the physical plant of the school.
The St. John School Building Committee
was established in the beginning of 1996. The
purpose of the committee was not to add additional
grades but rather to add urgently needed space for
existing classrooms, offices, and activities. The
1996 school year began with the addition of a
modular unit and two hundred thirty-one students.
The building committee began in earnest to raise
the one million dollars needed to add a permanent
structure to the north side of the building.
In 1999, a new wing was added to the
school. In 2002-2003, the science lab was
modernized thanks to the generosity of the parents
and community. During the summer of 2003, the
original wing was renovated. Sadly in the spring of
2004, Joanne Terelini, a beloved staff member
passed away. Through donations in her memory a
prekindergarten/kindergarten
playground
and
beautiful garden was put in the area outside the
pre-kindergarten-grade two classrooms. Through
the fantastic efforts of our parents during the 20042005 school year extra monies were made
Page 3

available from the HSA to relocate and improve

our library. Currently St. John School is staffed by
two sisters and a qualified lay staff of practicing
Christians and maintains close ties with the parents
through the Home and School Association.
CATHOLIC IDENTITY
The inherent and basic purpose of Catholic
Schools is to assure that Catholic truths and values
are fully incorporated into the student's life and
academic program. Doctrines and practices that are
specific to the Roman Catholic Church are taught
to all students during daily religion classes and
very often included in secular subjects. "The
Catholic School must be distinguished by its
unique curriculum which strives to integrate
religious truths with life. The curriculum should be
designed to provide instruction not only in human
knowledge and skills but also in religious truths
and values. (Diocesan policy 6140) "Although
students not of our faith are not expected to adhere
to Catholic beliefs, they are expected to regard our
practices and beliefs with respect. Everyone is
expected to participate in class discussions and
complete all religion class assignments. NonCatholic students are expected to accompany their
classmates to Church. Parents applying for their
children's enrollment in our school should
understand and appreciate this religious dimension
of St. John School.

Page 4

MISSION STATEMENT
St. John School is a Roman Catholic School
serving grades pre-kindergarten to eight in Old
Saybrook,
Connecticut
and
surrounding
communities. We provide challenging academic,
extracurricular, and spiritual programs that
encourage the following of Jesus as set forth in the
Gospel. Recognizing that we are disciples of Jesus,
teachers and families are working together to
inspire individual growth, self discipline,
confidence and Christian service. Be it known that
Christ is the reason for this school. The unseen but
ever present teacher in its classes. The model of its
faculty and the inspiration of its students.
SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY
St. John School introduces the growing child
into a community of love, learning and living. This
introduction is implemented by an actively
believing staff in cooperation with the parents to
form a community of living faith and of love for
and in service to others, a community that not only
looks in upon itself, but also looks outward to all
people. In an atmosphere which fosters Christian
moral values and Catholic tradition through
positive adult role models and effective discipline,
students are encouraged to use their individual and
unique talents to share the message of Jesus Christ
with their families and all those with whom they
have contact. At St. John School we are mindful of
the educational mission of the Roman Catholic
Church as stated so clearly in the Documents of
Vatican II and reflected in the document of the
Page 5

National Conference of Catholic Bishops, "To

Teach as Jesus Did." Through education the
Church seeks to prepare its members to proclaim
the Good News and to translate this proclamation
into action. (To Teach As Jesus Did) We, therefore
endeavor:
To prepare the students to proclaim the
Good News of the Gospel, to grow in
Christian values and to embrace Christian
Tradition.
To develop the students' talents: spiritual,
intellectual, and physical- so that they can
contribute to society and prepare for their
eternal destiny.
To guide the students to the realization that
all life is sacred and that they are created in
the image and likeness of God.
To
experience
Catholic
Christian
community so that the students will be able
to build community in their own lives and
in the lives of others.
To develop social awareness in the students
and to work for peace and justice in the
world.
In a word, at St. John School our aim is," to
grow in our commitment to service of God,
to one another, the Church and the general
community." ( To Teach as Jesus Did # 107)

Page 6

PASTOR

By virtue of his office the pastor shall have

overall responsibility for the parish school,
for the implementation of diocesan policies
regarding schools, and for the necessary
compliance with state and federal laws.
The pastor in collaboration with the
principal shall be responsible for matters
within the school which affect worship, the
ministry of the Word, and the spiritual
welfare and moral foundation of the
students. It shall be his duty to see that the
teachings of the church are clearly and
accurately presented.
The pastor shall have the ultimate
responsibility of the fiscal management of
the parish school and for the proper
maintenance of the building.
The pastor shall leave the details of the
school administration to the principal while
maintaining on-going communication. He
shall not hesitate to make a decision in the
extraordinary school problems referred to
him by the principal.
Through a positive and encouraging
attitude, the pastor shall take ownership of
the purpose and pride of the school with
pride and commitment. (Diocesan policy
2205, Revision 3)

Page 7

PRINCIPAL

The principal as professional and

educational leader is responsible for the
administration and supervision of the
educational program of the school. His/her
responsibilities are carried out within the
framework of the policies of the Diocesan
Board of Education.
The principal in collaboration with the
pastor shall be responsible for the spiritual
welfare and moral formation of the
students. The principal shall be responsible
for setting the tone of a learning
environment which enables, motivates and
challenges the school community.
The principal shall participate in the
preparation and management of the annual
school budget.
While
maintaining
an
on-going
communication with the pastor, the
principal shall be responsible for
administrative decisions dealing with
school activities and programs as well as
the immediate oversight of the operation
and maintenance of the physical plant.
The principal is to review and exercise final
authority over all school activities and
programs. (Diocesan Policy 2210, Revision
2)

Page 8

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
Each elementary school shall designate a
teacher to assume the position of Assistant
Principal. The primary task of the Assistant
Principal is to assume the responsibility for any
emergencies that might arise in the absence of the
principal.
ST. JOHN SCHOOL ADVISORY BOARD
The main function of the advisory board
"shall be to advise the pastor and principal in
formulating local school policies, which are
consistent with the Diocesan board of Education."
(Diocesan Policy 206) The school board is
consultative in that the members cannot act apart
from the pastor and principal and cannot make
decisions for the school education program without
the approval of the pastor and the principal.

FACULTY
Due to the distinctive purpose of the
Catholic School as a teaching organization and
because the students learn not only from formal but
informal association with the teacher, the teachers
employed at St. John School are practicing
Christians who not only have knowledge of the
faith adequate to teach its content, but also live out
the practical demands of the faith in their daily
lives. The teachers must comply with the school's
philosophy derived from the general principles of
Page 9

Catholic education and

professional qualifications.

possess

necessary

ACCREDITATION
St. John School is fully accredited by the
New England Association of School and Colleges,
and is approved by the State of Connecticut.
AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL
Authorized personnel in and about the
school
include
the:
secretary,
nurse,
music/art/physical education/computer teachers,
teachers, teachers' aides, custodians, volunteers and
all other people approved by the principal to work
in St. John School.
SAFE ENVIRONMENTS
The Diocese of Norwich has a Safe
Environments Program. It includes training and a
comprehensive screening of adults who interact
with our students. All those who work and
volunteer in our school and at all school related
activities must go through this program. This
includes room mothers and those who would like
to chaperone on field trips. Please contact the
office for this information.

Page 10

HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

St.
John
School
Parent
Teacher
Organization works to support and enhance the
educational ministry of the school. Fund raising,
parent education, and building community are
goals of the organization. Distribution of all
income generated by fundraising must be approved
by the principal and pastor.

Page 11

SECTION II ACADEMICS
ACADEMICS/ADMISSIONS POLICY
To be admitted to St. John School the
following steps are followed before the
registrations are reviewed:
1. At least one parent of the child is interviewed.
2. Parent/s is given a tour of the school.
3. Parents complete a registration form and submit
it with the registration fee.
4. Students are encouraged to spend a day at
school.
5. Reading and Math tests to be given to identify
placement.
6. Copies of previous report cards are given to the
principal.
7. Student records must be received from prior
school.
8. Parents will receive a letter of acceptance,
notification of child being placed on a waiting list,
or non-acceptance.
9. Non-Catholic children are eligible to register
provided space is available.
In its admission policy, St. John School
does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex,
creed or national origin. Each child must be five
years of age no later than December 31 st of the
current school year for kindergarten. All applicants
shall be screened/tested to determine the level of
readiness and/or academic achievement to be
certain the needs of the student will be met. The
student's academic records from the prior school
will be reviewed by the principal. The principal
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will make the final determination of acceptance. A

birth certificate and baptismal certificate (if
applicable) should be presented before the student
will be admitted. State health requirement should
also be met before acceptance. All new students
will be given a trial period in which to prove
himself/herself both socially and academically. If
during the trial period there are any problems a
student may be asked to withdraw his/her
attendance at St. John School. Non-Catholic
students whose parents accept the philosophy of St.
John School will be accepted on a space available
basis. No child will be accepted initially at St. John
School if, in the judgment of the administration, it
is felt that the educational/developmental needs of
the child cannot be met by this school. Even after
admission to St. John School, should it be
determined by the principal and/or staff member(s)
that a child's educational/developmental needs are
not being met, such a child will not be offered a
space in the school the following school year. The
principal has the final say in such matters.
Re-registration of current students for the
next school year is necessary on an annual basis for
children to remain on the roster.
EVALUATION AND TESTING
A student's grade includes many
components - not just written work. The grade is
based on the total performance of the child
including written work and tests; and it is also
based on class participation, extra work,
homework, projects, effort, attitude and conduct.
Standardized tests are given in the fall to students
Page 13

in Grades 2 - 8. These tests are administered to

help teachers assess students' growth. Careful
study of the tests shows strengths and weaknesses.
The "Home Report" of the testing results will be
discussed at the first Parent/Teacher Conference.
St. John School will make every effort to enable
students to make up standardized tests when they
are missed due to illness.
PROMOTION/RETENTION POLICY
Every effort will be made to place pupils at
their appropriate grade level that provides for the
continuous progress of pupils from grade to grade.
Advancement to the next grade at St. John school
is based on a student's daily performance, test
results, recommendations of teachers, and the
student's ability to complete work successfully on a
more advanced level. Promotion to the next grade
depends on successful completion of all subject
areas. The administration may recommend the
repetition of a grade, tutoring, or summer school
classes as a requirement for promotion, when after
conferences with teachers and parents, it is
believed that such an action would better prepare
the student academically or emotionally for the
next grade. Students may also be TRANSFERRED
to the next grade. A student who is transferred to
another grade may not be allowed to continue as a
student at St. John School. The principal has the
final say in this matter.

Page 14

PUPIL RECORD CARDS

Accumulative record card shall be kept for
each student from his/her entrance into school until
he/she leaves. The conditions to access these
records shall comply with the right to Privacy Law.
Cumulative records are made available only to
professional staff members, to a pupil who is 18
years or older, and to the pupil's parents or
guardians.
School records concerning individual
students shall be used for the promotion of the
welfare of the student. Copies of the student's
records are released only after the parent or legal
guardian has signed a release form. St. John School
follows the Buckley Amendment (Family
Education rights and privacy act) in regard to all
student records and the rights of non-custodial
parents.
TIME ALLOTMENTS
"The time allotment for each subject shall
follow the norms established by the Diocesan
School Office" (Diocesan Policy 6111.1, revision
1). Each grade's schedule has been carefully
planned by the classroom teacher in accord with
the time allotments stipulated by the Diocesan
School office. Please understand that our time
allotments may differ from those of the Public
School.
SPECIALS

Page 15

Participation and behavior in Art,

Computer, Music, Library, Spanish, and Physical
Education is as important as in other classes.
Students are expected to be attentive, obedient,
courteous, cooperative and respectful at all times.
Directions are to be followed. Disrespectful
behavior may keep the student off the Honor Roll.
OPEN HOUSE/WELCOME BACK NIGHT
Open House/Welcome Back Night is held
in the fall and provides an excellent opportunity for
parents and teachers to meet one another. At this
time, the teachers will explain to parents their
expectations relative to homework, assignments,
marking, discipline, school and classroom rule, etc.
Parents will also have the opportunity to have their
questions answered. It is important that parents
attend the Open House/Welcome Back Night.
Open House/Welcome Back Night is not the time
for individual conferences with the teachers. If a
conference is desired before the scheduled
conferences that take place at report card time,
parents should call the school to make an
appointment.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are distributed three times a
year. Report cards may be withheld to those
families whose financial obligations have not been
met. Students earn grades not only in written work
and tests but also by participation in class
discussions, giving reports, homework and
working on projects. Work must always be
Page 16

completed on assigned dates and done neatly and

as prescribed by the teacher. Turning in materials
late or in a manner not accepted by the teacher will
result in a reduced grade. Forgotten homework
assignments are not to be faxed to the school by
the child's parent or guardian. Report cards are to
be signed and returned by the child's parent or
guardian to school as soon as possible after
distribution.
PROGRESS REPORTS
A progress report is sent home midway
through the marking periods to all students.
Progress reports are to be signed by the child's
parent or guardian and returned within one week of
their distribution to the teachers. If a conference is
needed a date can be scheduled by calling the
school or by requesting one on the returned
progress report.
CONFERENCES
Teacher-Parent conferences are held at the
end of the first trimester. Other scheduled
conferences with the teachers are strongly
recommended. When there is a concern the
classroom teacher should be contacted. If a
concern remains after the discussion, the principal
should be contacted. Children learn best when
parents and teachers work together and support one
another in all things. If there seems to be a
concern, it is important to schedule an
appointment. We ask that parents not to visit the
Page 17

classrooms without an appointment. Parents are

asked not to call teachers at their homes.
"All visitors to Diocesan and Parish
Schools must sign in and out with the principal or
designee when entering and leaving the building."
(Diocesan Policy 1250, revision 1).
ALL PARENTS ARE TO REPORT TO THE
OFFICE ON ENTERING THE SCHOOL AND
SIGN IN BEFORE GOING ANYWHERE IN
THE BUILDING.
The doors of the school are locked. This is for the
safety of all.
HONOR ROLL
1. Students Grades 5-8 who achieve all A's and one
B earn HIGH HONORS.
2. Students who achieve all A's and B's earn
HONORS;
3. Students may not have anything below an S in
any Specials,
4. Students in Grades 6-8 may not receive a grade
lower than a C in Foreign Language.
5. Inappropriate behavior and lack of respect can
prevent students from being placed on the Honor
Roll.
6. Excessive absenteeism and tardiness, as
determined by the principal, may prevent a student
from being on the Honor Roll.
ACADEMIC PROBATION
A student whose academic performance
indicates serious deficiencies may be placed on
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academic probation. Students on academic

probation will be placed on a two week
improvement plan. At the end of the two week
period, the student's academic progress will be
assessed. Students whose average is an F will not
be allowed to participate in any sports or after
school activity until the grade has improved to a
passing grade of D.
HOME WORK
Homework is closely related to class work.
It provides practice and drill as well as
opportunities for independent study, research,
creative thinking and reinforcement of skills
learned. It is vital that parents help their children
by providing a quiet, comfortable, structured
environment. Homework does not only mean
written work. STUDENTS SHOULD STUDY
EVERY NIGHT.
Total time of assigned homework should follow
these appropriate times:
Pre-K and Kindergarten does not assign homework
on a daily basis.
Primary Grades 1, 2, 3.......................... 30 minutes
Grades 4 and 5... ................................... 50 minutes
Grades 6-7-8... ............................... 1 1/2 to 2 hours
GRADE EIGHT
During the eighth grade year students have
some extracurricular events. These include: class
day, class night, retreat, class trip, yearbook, class
trip, and graduation. Fundraisers support the above
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events. If funds do not cover the expenses then

parents will need to supplement.
Class night and Graduation: Girls' dresses are to be
modest and not low cut. Should a young girl come
dressed in a low cut dress they will be sent home to
change. The hems are not to be more than two
inches above the knees. Boys are to wear nice
slacks and a button down shirt with a tie.
GRADUATION
Eighth grade students must receive an
average of 70 or higher in five of the six major
subjects: Religion, English, Reading, Math,
Science, and Social Studies, to be allowed to
graduate from St. John School. If the student's
grades are deficient s/he will not be allowed to
participate in the traditional end of the year
activities customary for graduating students and
will not receive a diploma until appropriate makeup has been completed. Final exams are not given
to children of families whose financial obligations
have not been met.

Page 20

SECTION III
ATTENDANCE AND DISMISSAL
ATTENDANCE
Diocesan Policy #5113: "Principals shall be
responsible for the regular school attendance of
students."
Diocesan Policy #5113.l: "A written request
from parents or guardians is required for a pupil to
leave school before time of dismissal. The request
must state clearly the reason for early dismissal.
No pupil should be released from school during the
school day without the written request of a parent
or guardian. Elementary school pupils should be
released only to parents or to someone whose name
is on the emergency cards. A pupil who is ill will
not be sent home, until his/her parents or other
authorized person come to pick them up.
Doctor's appointments should not be made
during school hours except in emergency, nor
should appointments be made for/during dismissal.
Early dismissal is disruptive to the classroom and
does not have a positive effect on students'
academics. Teachers are not obliged to give the
student who is being dismissed early homework
that will be missed on that day. For a school day to
count a student be in attendance for four (4) hours.
All students will be picked up by their teachers in
the gym at 8:40 A.M. The school day begins at
8:45 A.M. and ends at 2:55 P.M. Early dismissal
should be rare, but if it is necessary for a child to
leave early a written note must be sent to the
office. A parent/guardian must come to the office
to sign the student out. Other than the regular daily
Page 21

dismissal, no student may leave the school directly

from the classroom nor leave the school without a
parent or guardian.
Frequent absence is detrimental to the
student's academic progress. In the event of an
absence, parents are requested to:
1. Call the office before 9:00 A.M. and give the
reason for the absence.
2. When vour child returns to school, send a
written note giving the date and confirming the
reason for vour child's absence.
3. In the case of five or more consecutive days
due to illness, a doctor's note must be provided to
the office for the child to return. Saturday and
Sunday are included in the five days if the child is
absent on Friday and the following Monday. If a
doctor has not seen the child, a certificate may be
obtained from the school nurse. PLEASE HAVE
YOUR CHILD CONTACT A CLASSMATE
regarding homework assignments.
TARDINESS
Tardiness is disruptive and should be
avoided. Unexcused tardiness is disrespectful to
the teacher and the other students in the class.
Students who arrive after 8:45 A.M. are tardy
(unless a school bus is late). When arriving after
8:45A.M., please use the Administration Entrance
and go to the office for a tardy slip. When a student
is tardy three times he/she receives a detention.
Detentions are on Wednesday from 3-4. Once the
student has served the detention he/she may not go
to aftercare.
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Family vacations should coincide with

scheduled vacations on the school calendar. Going
on vacation during school time is not considered an
excused absence. Assignments will not be given
for these vacations. Students are responsible for
making up all missing work and tests in a timely
manner approved by the teacher."Regular
attendance is essential for satisfactory work.
Excessive absence (20 days or the equivalent of 20
days) can be cause for a student to be retained in
the current grade for another year.
MORNING CARE AND EXTENDED AFTER
CARE
(OR ALL CARE)
MORNING CARE opens at 7:00 A.M.
Children must report to the gym when they arrive.
Student will then be logged in. All students who
report before 8:20 A.M. are considered morning
care. Students are to obey and respect the morning
care staff. Only those students who have their
teacher's request to be seen in the morning may go
to the classroom for extra help.
EXTENDED DAY is available from after
school until 5:30 P.M. Students who attend must
bring their own snacks and drinks. Students MUST
abide by the rules. This includes quiet time for
homework. Students are to go immediately to the
extended day room when dismissed by the office
and bring everything with them as they will not be
allowed to return to the classroom. Students not
picked up by 3:15 P.M. will be placed in the
Extended Day Program and will be charged the
minimum per hour. Students must be signed out.
Page 23

Parents who fail to pick up their child by 5:30 P.M.

will be charged a late fee. It is asked that all
parents picking up their children from Extended
Day park in the playground parking lot and ring the
doorbell between the kitchen and the gym. If a
student is to be picked up from the Extended Day
Program by someone other than a parent, this must
be stated in writing with the person's full name
given. These persons must show a photo I.D.
Extended Day Program on early dismissal days
will be available from 12:55 until 5:30 P.M.
NO EXTENDED DAY ON:
1. Wednesday before Thanksgiving
2. Last day of school before Christmas
Vacation
3. Last day of school before Summer
Vacation.
FEES FOR MORNING CARE: 7:00 A.M. - 8:20
A.M.
One Child
$7.00 PER
DAY
Two Children
$11.00 PER
DAY
Three Children
$14.00 PER
DAY
FEES FOR EXTENDED DAY:
One Child..$10.00
Two Children$13.00
Three Children. $15.00

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PAYMENT POLICY FOR MORNING CARE

AND EXTENDED DAY:
1. You will be billed eachWednesday
2. Late fee is $15.00
3. Full payment is due within 5 days paid directly
to the office in an envelope marked for Before or
Extended Day. Make checks payable to St. John
School Aftercare (for both Morning Care and
Extended day).
4. Accounts in arrears ten days will prevent your
child from participating in the Morning and
Extended Day Programs. For special concerns
regarding this matter, please contact the principal.
BLOGS
Engagements in online blogs such as but not
limited to MY space, Xanga, Friendster, Facebook,
etc. may result in disciplinary action, if the content
of the student or parent blog includes defamatory
comments regarding the school, faculty or other
students or the parish.
BUSES
Students should be on time at their
designated school bus stop and should wait until
the bus comes to a complete stop before boarding
the bus. Behaviors at the bus stop and while riding
the school bus must be courteous at all times.
Students are to remain seated, and not change seats
and keep their hands, head and objects in the bus.
School and bus authorities have the right to deny
bus transportation to any student who is impolite
Page 25

on the bus. Fighting or arguing, bad language,

inappropriate gestures and yelling will not be
tolerated. NO FOOD OR DRINK IS PERMITTED
ON THE BUS AT ANY TIME.
The school busses that bring our students to
school and home are for residents of Old Saybrook.
Children from other towns may not go on the bus,
even when accompanying an Old Saybrook
resident. Any change in a student's transportation
plans should be made known to the office before
9:00 A.M. in writing. No child will be released to
anyone without parental permission.
NO
ELECTRONIC
DEVICES
(INCLUDING CELL PHONES) ARE ALLOWED
ON THE BUS, IN THE BOOKBAG, OR TO BE
BROUGHT TO SCHOOL. This includes: cameras,
camcorders, tape recorders, cell phones, laser
pointers, iPods, MP3 players, etc. If such items are
found in school they WILL BE CONFISCATED
and given to the principal. If there is a second
offense the item will be retained by the principal
UNTIL THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR.
CAR LINE, ENTRANCE, DISMISSAL
Management of the care line and afternoon
pick-up is part of the Risk Management Program.
It is important that everyone follow the car line and
afternoon pick-up rules. The school's primary goal
is the safety of our children. PLEASE DO NOT
USE CELL PHONES during car line. Please pay
heed to the staff members and/or parent monitors.
Students who are dropped off before 8:20 A.M. are
to be dropped off by the gym door on the
Admission side of the building. After 8:20 A.M.
Page 26

students are to be dropped off at the door between

the gym and the kitchen. Students must exit cars
from the passenger side, when the cars are stopped.
They may not walk in front of cars. Please stay in
the car line. Please do not get out of your car. PreK parents are to park by the trees outside of Grade
2 and, using the area between the Jersey barriers
and grass, walk their children to the door between
the gym and the kitchen. NO ONE IS TO PARK
EITHER IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PARKING
LOT OR BY THE GATE. This is for the safety of
all. Parents are ASKED NOT TO GO to their
child's classroom without an appointment.
Old Saybrook buses unload at the Main
Entrance on Maynard Road. Students are to
disembark the bus in a calm manner and enter the
school through the doors near the flagpole.
Students arriving before 8:20 A.M. are to report to
Morning Care in the gym. There will be a charge
for students arriving before 8:20 A.M. Bus riders
are an exception.
DISMISSAL: If someone other than a
parent will be picking up your child on a regular
basis, please send in a note at the beginning of the
school year. Please be sure to send in a note if
someone other than the parent or regular pick-up
person will be picking up your child. If there is no
written permission the student must be signed out
at the office. S/he will be required to show a photo
I.D. In the afternoon cars may not park for
dismissal before 2:40 P.M.
Occasions have arisen when parents would
like their older children to walk to the town library
after school on a regular basis. If this is the case, a
letter is necessary. It must be signed by the parent
Page 27

or legal guardian and sent to the office. Without

this letter your child will not be allowed to walk to
the library. Children are to leave the school
grounds in their school uniform.
AFTER SCHOOL ALL CHILDREN ARE
TO LEAVE WHEN DISMISSED. There is to be
no loitering in the hallways. Extended Day
children are to report to the Extended Day Room
immediately on being dismissed. They may not
leave the school and return. NO CHILDREN ARE
TO BE PICKED UP IN THE CHURCH
PARKING LOT.
Old Saybrook bus riders leave by the front
door. For safety reasons a parent is not permitted to
drive up on Maynard Road, park, and take their
children out of bus line.

CELL PHONES
If a student needs to use a cell phone after school
due to walking home from school. Entering an
empty house where no one is home, or attending
sports practice, he/she shall bring the cell phone to
the office upon arrival in the morning to park the
cell phone in the off position for the day. The cell
phone may be picked up by the student at
dismissal. At no time during the day should a cell
phone be in a students locker, or in his/her
possession. Items taken from students will be
returned to the parent/guardian on the last day
of the school year.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Page 28

Early dismissal time is 12:55 P.M. There

will be early dismissal on the First Friday of every
month for Faculty Meetings and in-service
workshops. Extended Day on early dismissal days
will be available from 12:55 until 5:30 P.M.
CANCELLATIONS
St. John School follows the Old Saybrook
Public School System with regard to cancellations,
delays and early dismissals. Every effort will be
made to put "St. John School" on the three TV
channels 3, 8 and 30. If you do not see the school
name but see Old Saybrook Schools - this will
include St. John School. Sometimes phone lines
are busy and the alert for our school will not be
there. BUT AGAIN: Watch for Old Saybrook
Schools. Please do not call the school. When there
is a delay, NO Morning Care will be available.
Students are not to be brought to school more than
15 minutes ahead of the delayed opening time. If
there is an early dismissal, there will be NO
EXTENDED DAY. Should it be necessary to
cancel school when classes are already in session,
notices will be broadcast by the TV stations and
messages will be sent out by the Alert system.

Page 29

SECTION IV
DRESS CODE
The wearing of a uniform is specifically
designed to encourage and promote Christian
values and learning. Neatness is a must. Students
are to arrive at school and leave school in proper
uniform. No hats or caps may be worn in the
building. Shirts must be tucked in, top buttons
must be buttoned and skirts/jumpers should go to
the knee. Outer jackets/sweatshirts, etc. are not to
be worn to class.
Only apparel purchase from Donnelly
Uniforms may be worn. Please visit their website
or call the office for more details. Donnelly
Uniforms also offers optional wear with logos that
include backpacks, and jackets among other item.
Name tags may also be purchased through them.
Please visit their website to view these options by
clicking on the name of the item.
(www.DonnellysClothing.com)
For girls sneakers that are to be worn for
gym and casual days only. The boy's school shoe is
a sturdy black sneaker that is purchased from
Donnelly. Boys may wear their black school
sneaker on gym days. Pants/shorts must fit
properly at the waist and must not hang loosely on
the hips. A belt must be worn with any pair of
pants or shorts that has belt loops.
HAIR: Students are not to dye or highlight their
hair. Hair is to be off the face, out of the eyes and
neat. The principal has the final say in this matter.
Boys' Hair: Hair must fall naturally above the
eyebrow and not below the ears. Hair may not be
tucked behind the ears. Hair in the back must hang
Page 30

at the nape of the neck. No hair below the shirt

collar line. Trendy or stylist hairstyles are not
allowed. This includes Mohawk hair style.
Girls' Hair: Headbands that are the school plaid
may be worn. Beads and fancy accessories are not
permitted and beads may not be braided into the
hair. Hair should not be in a student's face.
SHOES: Uniform shoes are purchased from the
Donnelly
Uniform
Company.
(www.DonnellysClothing.com). Further uniform
information is available in the school office.
CLEATS may not be worn in the school building.
On NO OCCASION even dress up or down days
may open shoes or heels be worn. This includes:
sandals and flip-flops.
GYM DAY: On Gym days the students may wear
the Donnelly Uniform gym uniform the entire day.
This is the maroon shorts, shirt with school logo
and sneakers. The gym shorts sweat pants and
shirts are to be purchased through the Donnelly's
Uniform Company. They may choose to wear the
Donnellys Uniform sweatpants over the shorts
during the day. No Show gym socks are not
permitted.
TAKE NOTE: No nail polish, fake fingernails,
hairspray, tattoos, perfume, cologne, make-up, lip
stick, lip gloss, or after shave lotion is allowed.
Girls with pierced ears may wear one small, simple
stud in each ear. Boys may NOT wear earrings or
studs. For safety reasons earrings that are studs but
also have a dangling part may not be worn. With
the exception of a small cross or religious medal,
NO JEWELRY may be worn.
ALL UNIFORM ITEMS SHOULD HAVE THE
PUPIL'S NAME ON THEM.
Page 31

The school reserves the right to make the final

decision whether or not a student's grooming and
uniform is in accordance with the school's norm.
All students are expected to comply with the
school's norm. All students are expected to comply
with the school's dress code policy and norms.
Gym shorts and uniform shorts may be worn from
the opening day of school until October 15th and
from April 15th until the end of school except on
the days that the students go to Mass during school
and any other important days that the principal
may ask the students to wear the formal uniform.
These days may include but are not limited to the
days that the Bishop or Mother General visits. The
principal reserves the right to change the dates for
wearing the casual uniform as she sees fit.
Pre-K and Kindergarten:
Pre-K and kindergarten students wear the school
gym uniform wear purchased from Donnelly
Uniform Co.
St. John School Dress Code: For students in
Grades One through Eight
The school dress code may be found at
www.DonnellysClothing.com. No other substitutes
are permitted. For girls SKORTS are no longer an
option. Please use Donnelly Order Forms for
correct purchasing. See order forms on line or call
the office if you have questions.
Dress Down Uniforms:
Occasionally during the school year
students may be allowed to have a dress down or
no uniform days. Casual clothes must be neat.
Students should dress with an awareness of their
self respect. Clothing should be appropriate for
students having recess. If you have any doubts
Page 32

about the school uniform please check with the

school office. Nice jeans and Capri pants (pants
that end mid calf) may be worn. Pants that have
design and embroidery may not be tight fitting,
have frayed edges or have holes in them.
Oversized baggy pants, the droopy kinds
that are worn low on the hips may not be worn.
During the warm weather the only shorts that can
be worn on no uniform occasions are the uniform
shorts or gym shorts purchased through the
uniform company. Tee shirts may be worn but no
offensive or double meaning words or graphics
may be imprinted on the shirts. Students may not
wear flip-flop sandals, open back shoes, tank tops,
tennis shoes that convert to roller skates, biker
shorts, pajama pants, make-up, low cut blouses or
tops, clothing that is tight, and hats. A good rule to
follow is if you think you should not wear it then
do not wear it. All uniform regulations and
guidelines are subject to the discretion of the
Principal and in her absence the assistant principal.
CHEATING
Cheating of any kind will not be tolerated. Students
who choose to cheat face a failing grade, detention,
suspension of expulsion. A student athlete who is
involved in cheating will not be eligible to
participate in sports.

Page 33

SECTION VI
INTERACTIONS
Responsibilities of Teachers, Students and
Parents
We at St. John School consider it a
privilege to work with parents in the education of
children because we believe that parents are the
primary educators of their children. Therefore it is
a parent's right and duty to become primary role
models for the development of their child's
physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and
psychological life. Your choice of St. John's school
involves a commitment and exhibits a concern for
helping your child recognize God as the greatest
good in his/her life. Good example is a strong
teacher. Your personal relationship with God, with
each other and with the Church community will
affect the way your child relates to God and others.
Ideals taught in school are not well rooted in your
child unless they are nurtured by the example of
good Catholic/Christian morality and an honest
personal relationship with God in your family life.
Once you have chosen to enter into partnership
with us at St. John School we trust you will be
loyal to this commitment.
During these formative years (preK-8) your
child needs constant support from both parents and
faculty in order to develop his moral, intellectual,
social, cultural, and physical endowment. Neither
parents nor teachers can afford to doubt the
sincerity of the efforts of their educational partner
in the quest of challenging yet nourishing the
student to reach his/her potential. It is vital that
Page 34

both parents and teachers remember that allowing

oneself to be caught between the student aid the
other partner will not have positive results. To
divide authority between school and home or
within the home will only teach disrespect for all
authority.
If there is an incident at school, you as
parents must make investigation of the complete
story your first step. Evidence of mutual respect
between teachers and parents will model good
mature behavior and relationships. Students are
naturally eager to grow and learn. However
sometimes in the process of maturation new
interests may cause them to lose focus. As this
natural process occurs, students need both
understanding and discipline. At times your child
may perceive discipline as restrictive. However it
is boundaries and limits which provide a young
person with both guidance and security.
St. John School maintains high expectations
and counts on each student to do his/her best. In
order for that to happen, teachers, students and
parents must work together. It is essential that
students take responsibility for grades he/she has
earned and be accountable for homework, long
term assignments, major tests, service projects, and
all other assignments. This responsibility also
extends to times of absence. It is the student's
responsibility to show respect for teachers, staff,
volunteers, visitors and fellow students; to set
appropriate time aside to study for tests and
quizzes; to do assigned homework and project
work on time; to bring necessary materials to class
and home; to follow teacher directions. Students
are not to return to school for forgotten items such
Page 35

as texts, notebooks, reports, uniforms, etc. It is the

teacher's responsibility to show respect for each
student; to set appropriate criteria, guidelines and
deadlines for class and homework assignments; to
monitor and grade student work and report as
necessary to administration and parents. Together
let us begin this year with a commitment to
partnership as we support one another in helping
your child to become the best person he or she is
capable of becoming.
CONDUCT
In accordance with the philosophy of the school,
which emphasizes deep respect for human dignity
and uniqueness of each individual, each student
will be considerate of the rights of others in all
interactions. All students ae expected to cooperate
with the spirit and philosophy of the school, which
are designed to foster mature development and
personal responsibility. This requires courtesy in
all personal relationships, promptness in fulfilling
obligations, concern for eth environment, and
many other factors which the students sense of
appropriateness will indicate to them. The principal
reserves the right to determine the appropriateness
of an action if a doubt arises.
DISCIPLINE
DETENTION
Detention may be issued for a breach in classroom
and/or school rules. Parents are provided with a
detention form with a written notification of a
detention. Detentions are held on Wednesdays after
school from 3-4 PM. Students who have been
Page 36

issued a detention may not go to after care after

their detention.

NURSE
Children who are sick should not be in
school. They should not be sent to school ill, with a
fever, or rash for the nurse to diagnose. Diagnosed
strep throat requires quarantine for 24 hours with
return to school under treatment. Students with
casts are not allowed to participate in athletic
events sponsored by St. John School.
St. John School has a nurse for six hours
every day. The school nurse maintains all health
records required by the state. Children are not
allowed - by state law - to attend school if they
have not met the immunization requirements for
measles, polio, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus,
rubella and mumps. If your child received any
immunizations from your doctor, notify the school
nurse; and health records will always be up to date.
The school nurse administers medicine.
Medication will be given only upon a written order
from the physician to the school principal and a
written parental permission. The parent of the child
must assume responsibility for any reaction to the
medication. Medication (in the original bottle)
must be brought to the school office or to the
nurse's office by the parent or guardian of the
child. This is the law. Medicine should never be
sent with a child. Medication will be administered
ordinarily by the school nurse, principal or
administrative assistant in the absence of the nurse
Page 37

and the principal. In case of medicine being taken

for a brief period of time, a parent or guardian may
come to the school office and administer the
medication to the student or present the required
written orders for the nurse to administer it. Please
note that cough drops are considered medication
and may not be brought to school.
Injuries: Children are required to report all injuries
sustained during school time to the teacher, the
school nurse, and in the nurse's absence, the school
principal. Children in morning care and after care
are required to report all injuries to the morning
care/after care staff. If a student's activities are
limited due to an injury or a health problem, a
written note from a doctor is required. Students
will not be excused from physical education
classes without a note.
The school nurse maintains accident
reports. She will notify parents to pick up a sick or
injured child. Parents must sign out the child in the
school office. Physicals: State Education Law
requires that a physical be recorded on each child's
health record at least once upon entrance to school
in Pre-K, Kindergarten and Grade 6. If you are
planning a physical with your family doctor, please
request the proper forms from the school nurse so
that the information regarding this matter is kept
up to date. Sports physicals are required yearly for
children who wish to participate. Food Allergy
Procedures may be obtained from the nurse's
office.
Students need to have a nurse's pass to visit the
nurse's office.
BULLYING
Page 38

In keeping with Christian values and

recognizing the value of each person we at St. John
School insist on respect for each person.
Harassment will not be tolerated whether it is
verbal, physical, or sexual. Violations of this policy
will be treated seriously. The consequence will be
determined by the seriousness of the violation. The
dignity of every person will be safeguarded by the
administration. If a child is being harassed, please
notify the teacher who will address it right away.
Bullying is repeated, negative behavior towards
another person. There are various forms of
bullying; among these are physical violence and
attacks, verbal taunts, name-calling, put downs,
threats and intimidation, extortion or stealing of
money, and possessions, and exclusion. Bullying
includes repeated overt acts by a student or group
of students directed towards another student with
the intent to ridicule, humiliate, or intimidate the
other student. Behaviors may appear innocent to
others yet if are unwanted and continuous, such
behaviors constitute bullying. Some examples are
repeatedly saying ones name throughout the day,
poking the victim, invading ones personal space,
and/or possessions. Any form of bullying behavior
on school property or at school sponsored events is
forbidden. Not only is this in accordance with state
law, it is also in accordance with God's law. St.
John School with the values it possesses should he
a place where every student feels comfortable. The
following are guidelines for dealing with bullying:
1. Students may, even anonymously report acts
of bullying by leaving notes on a teacher's
desk, in the principal's mailbox outside her
Page 39

office, or on the school secretary's desk. Such

notes will be given to the school principal.
2. Parents may come into the school office to
fill out the St. John School suspected bullying
report.
3. School staff, teachers, and volunteers on
duty are to notify the principal if they witness
acts of bullying or receive reports about
bullying.
4. The principal will investigate acts of
suspected bullying brought to her attention by
staff, parents, students or volunteers. After
investigating the situation the principal will
notify the parents of students named in the
situation of the results of the investigation.
Should the accused be guilty of bullying the
principal will determine the consequence.
5. St. John School attempts to provide a safe
environment for all individuals. Verbal or
written threats made against the physical or
emotional well being of any individual are
taken very seriously. Students making such
threats (seriously or in jest or on-line) face
detention, suspension and/or expulsion.
6. Harassment of any type will not be
tolerated. The Principal investigates all
complaints of harassment. Students involved
in harassing behavior face detention,
suspension or expulsion.
7. Cheating of any type will not be tolerated.
Students who choose to cheat face a failing
grade, detention, suspension, and/or expulsion.
A student athlete who is involved in cheating
will also be unable to participate in sports.
Page 40

BLOGS
Engagement in on-line blogs such as but
not limited to MySpace.com, Xanga, Friendster,
Facebook, etc. may result in disciplinary action if
the content of the student's blog includes
defamatory comments regarding the school, the
faculty, other students, the staff or the parish.
COMMUNICATIONS
All communications/flyers to parents go
home with the youngest child in the family. These
are school notices approved by the Principal.
Notices will be sent home in the Wednesday
envelope. Some notices may be e-mailed as well.
The envelope is to be returned to school the next
day. It is imperative that the envelope be sent back
the next day so it can be used the following week.
We are hopeful that by mid-October the
Wednesday letter will also appear on the website.
All notices sent home, to the media,
businesses, etc must have been reviewed and
have the approval of the principal in order to be
sent out. No notices that have not been reviewed
and approved by the principal will be sent
home. Also no invitations or individual parent to
parent communication will be sent home through
the school.
CUSTODY
If persons are restricted by the court system
from having some or all contact with your child,
copies of the court documents must be filed in the
Page 41

school office with the principal. St. John School

will not restrict contact with a parent if paperwork
has not been given to the principal. In the absence
of a court order St. John School will give the noncustodial parent access to academic records and
other school information regarding his/her child
provided he/she has provided a written request. It
is the duty of the parents to inform St. John School
when they have joint custody of their children so
that we may send progress reports, report cards,
etc. to both parents.
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY, BOOKS,
EQUIPMENT, MATERIALS
Students are responsible for the proper care
of school property. This includes the school
grounds, school building, furniture, and school
materials. Students and their parents are expected
to make restitution for damage to school property,
including the loss or damage to textbooks and
library books, Students are also expected to show
respect for the belongings of other students. Glass
items are not to be brought to school. Parents will
be notified if his/her child has taken part in any
kind of vandalism. General supplies such as
notebooks, math and writing journals, paper,
pencils, glue, crayons, etc. must be provided by the
parent or guardian. Students in grades 3-8 will
receive a Catholic assignment notebook that they
are required to use. These are paid for by the
parents. School books which are the property of the
school must be properly covered. Students must
carry their book to and from school in a backpack.
Lockers are school property. Students in grades
Page 42

one through four are not to have personal items in

their lockers. No decorations may be placed inside
or outside of their lockers. St. John School cannot
be responsible for personal property. Your child's
name should be put on the inside of his/her school
bag, lunch box, sweaters or jackets, uniform pants,
shirts, etc. Lost and found items will be placed in
the lost and found container. If the lost items are
not claimed the items will be disposed of in a
timely manner determined by the principal
according to her discretion. Students shall not
possess or use any remotely activated paging
device, cellar mobile telephones, or any electronic
communication devices while on school property,
being transported to and from school on the school
bus or while participating in a school sponsored
activity. If a student needs a cell phone after school
he or she should bring his/her cell phone to the
office upon arrival in the morning to park the cell
phone in the off position for the day. The cell
phone may be picked up by the student at
dismissal. At no time during the day should a cell
phone be in a student's locker or in his/her
possession. Items taken away from students will be
returned to the parent or guardian on the last day of
the school year.
GIFTS
Students should not exchange individual
gifts at school. This gesture only creates hurt
feelings among other students. Invitations to
birthday or slumber parties should be sent to the
homes of students via US Mail unless an invitation
Page 43

is being given to every student in the class or to all

the boys or all the girls in the class.

LUNCH
Hot lunch is offered every day. . A monthly
menu will be sent home. St. John School
participates in the National Lunch Program.
Therefore no outside food or beverages may be
brought in for school lunches. Parents who are
eligible for free/reduced lunch are to send the
required paperwork into the school principal.

CAFETERIA BEHAVIOR
1. The students are to sit with their classes in the
areas designated by the staff.
2. Students are responsible for maintaining the
cleanliness of the area.
3. Food may not be thrown around or left on tables
or the floor.
4. Proper manners and rules of etiquette should
prevail in the cafeteria.
5. No loud talking or yelling is allowed.
Page 44

6. Once students are in the cafeteria they may not

return to their classrooms or lockers to retrieve
forgotten items.
7. Students will remain seated until dismissed by a
staff member in the cafeteria.
8. Food is not allowed outside after lunch.
9. If a student needs to use the lavatory he/she is to
get permission from the staff member in the
cafeteria.
10. Students who misbehave in the cafeteria will be
sent to the office during recess or receive a
detention.

Page 45

SECTION V
EXTRACURRICULAR
Concerts/Cultural Arts/Extracurricular
Events/Games, ETC.
When a student is absent from school or
leaves school early due to illness, that student may
not participate in any after school event. All
students are expected to be present in school to
participate in our school concerts during the
Christmas season and during the spring.
Attendance at the concerts is a part of the student's
music grade. With the exception of events in which
students are to be with their teachers and classes,
students and their siblings are to REMAIN WITH
their parents. The children are not to wander
around the school hallways or gym during games,
performances, etc.
During the school year extracurricular
activities will be announced on the website and or
in the Wednesday envelope. Good conduct and best
efforts are always required. Participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, Student
Council, clubs, etc. is limited to students whose
academic and behavioral efforts indicate that they
are capable of being involved in both school and
extra-curricular activities without negative results
to their academic progress. Parents should
encourage their child to register for extra-curricular
activities, take the activity seriously and making a
genuine effort.

Page 46

ATHLETICS
The Athletic Handbook may be found on
our school web-site. Both athletes and their parents
are obliged to abide by its contents. Please be sure
to read the handbook carefully in order to be
familiar with all of its contents. Students must
maintain a least a C average in scholastic subjects
and maintain satisfactory behavior in all subjects in
order to be eligible for participation in athletic
activities. Should a student's average in a class fall
below a C, the student will not be allowed to attend
practices or games. After consultation with the
teacher the principal will decide when the student
may be reinstated on the team. Good
sportsmanship is expected at all times. Failure in
this matter could result in removal from the team.
The principal will make the final decision in the
matter after consultation with the coach and the
homeroom teacher.
All students must comply with directives of
the town/state concerning physicals, etc., before
tryouts for any sports team. Students are
responsible for all uniforms and equipment issued
to them. These must be returned to the coach at the
end of the season. Students failing to do so will be
billed for the unreturned item or items that are
damaged through improper use. At all school
related events appropriate attire must be worn.
Parents are responsible for their child/rens
transportation and are required to ensure that their
child/ren is picked up right after practices and
games. Students must always be supervised.
Students may not participate in school-related
Page 47

activities if she is wearing a cast (even with a

doctor's note). This includes both P.E. and St. John
School athletic teams. A student who is absent
from school cannot participate in practice or game
that night. A student who is suspended from school
may not participate in practices or games until the
suspension time if fulfilled.
Coaches are to fulfill all Safe Environment
requirements and take the online course.
BAND
Instrumental lessons and band is offered
through Future Musicians, Inc. (FMI) once a week
for students in grades four through eight. Advanced
band is at 8:10 in the school. Students are to use
the morning care entrance to enter the school.
Cadet band is during recess. Instrumental lessons
are given on an alternating schedule during school
hours. It is the responsibility of the student to find
out what was missed in class while he/she was in
band. Instruments are to be rented/purchased
through local dealers. A meeting for interested
parents is held on a September evening at the
beginning of the school year
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are designed to correlate with
teaching units and to achieve curricular goals.
Field trips are re-evaluated every year to determine
compatibility with curricular goals. A field trip is a
privilege not a right. There are no traditional field
trips. Class participation in a particular field trip
over consecutive years does not mean that this trip
Page 48

has become a school tradition. All grades do not

always have the same number of field trips. Field
trips are permissible for all grades when advance
planning location, and experience insure successful
learning opportunities. Individual teachers in
consultation with the Principal reserve the right to
restrict or deny student participation on any field
trip due to but not limited to poor academic
performance, and/or poor conduct. A written
permission slip signed by a parent, is required
before a child is permitted to attend a field trip
activity. Verbal permission cannot be accepted.
Permission slips are due in the office forty-eight
hours after receipt of the permission slip. A
telephone cannot be accepted in lieu of the proper
field trip permission slip.
Parents may refuse to permit their child
from participating in a field trip by stating so on
the proper form. Students who do not attend the
field trip will remain at home with the parent and
be marked absent for the day. Students who are
participating in the field trip must ride the bus to
and from the field trip. Students not on the bus may
not participate in the field trip and will be counted
absent for the day. All monies collected for a field
trip are non-refundable. Cell phones are not
allowed on field trips unless otherwise directed by
the teacher or principal. Parents who chaperone a
field trip may not bring pre-school or school age
siblings on the field trip. All chaperones must be
18 years of age or older.
"School sponsored overnight field trips for
students in elementary and middle school grades
are prohibited." (Diocesan Policy 6153.1, revision
1).
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TUITION, REGISTRATION, SUBSIDY,

BOOK AND INSURANCE FEEPAYMENT
There are two options for tuition payments.
You may pay in full by August 1 st, or you may join
the FACTS Tuition Program. FACTS application
forms must be completed and returned to the
office. You may choose automatic deduction or use
a coupon book. Please call the office if you need an
application.
Registration fees are payable the scheduled
period. Book and supply fees are due by August 1 st.
It is the responsibility of the parents requesting
parish subsidy to bring the appropriate forms to
their pastor by March 25th. Pastors genuinely
require certain guidelines to be met for a family to
receive parish subsidy. Please check with your
pastor for these.
Parishioners of St. John will only receive
subsidy if they are active members of the parish for
at least a year. This means that the family attends
Holy Mass weekly and supports the church by
using envelopes. This is a diocesan policy.
Re-registration forms and $75 reregistration fee per student are due in January. The
tuition deposit of $200.00 is due April 1 st. The
tuition deposit holds your child's space on the class
rooster. The fees due to checks that are returned
because of insufficient funds are the responsibility
of the person issuing the check. If a check is
returned a second time due to insufficient funds
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further payments will only be accepted by a bank

check or cash.

REFUND POLICY
Both the registration fee and the book fee
are non-refundable. Tuition refunds ale the
following: Full payment by August 1- payment is
fully refundable if the student withdraws by
September 1 pro-rated if a student withdraws by
December 31. After January 1 tuition will no
longer be refunded.
INSURANCE
St. John School is enrolled in an accident
insurance policy with the Bailey Agency. Each
student is covered for any school related accident.
The coverage is from the time the student boards
the school bus or arrives on school grounds by car
until the child is dropped off the bus at home or in
the car for car line dismissal. All school sponsored
after school activities are covered as well. If an
accident occurs during school time or at a school
sponsored after school event please contact the
school office for accident report forms. For more
information about this insurance please contact the
Bailey Agencies. (1 -800-446-8255)

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FUND RAISING AND VOLUNTEER HOURS

HSA
Since tuition and parish subsidy does not
cover all the expenses of the school, it is necessary
that every family participate in the fund raising
program. The assessment given to the school by
the Home School Association is a line item in the
school budget and necessary for the everyday
running of the school. The assessment directive is
aimed at insuring that every family contributes
equally. The school succeeds because of everyones
participation.
The required assessment and service hours
for each family must be completed by the first
week of May. Services hours completed after the
week of May are applied to the following school
year.
There is a $10.00 per hour fee billed at the
end of the school year for every unfulfilled service
hour.
Service hours tracking is self reporting, by
filling out your hours in the Volunteer
Binder that is located in the office.
Committee Chairs will also keep track of
hours; to be turned into HSA.
More than one adult family member can
accrue service hours for the same event.
At the discretion of the Principal families
may be excused from service hour
requirements if circumstances prohibit
volunteer time.

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All volunteers must sign the visitor book

and wear name tags when participating in
school activities.
Families may choose to pay their
assessment by September 30th.

The eight grade fundraisers are for eight grade

expenses. This is not part of the HSA and does not
count toward assessment. Eighth grade fund raisers
are approved by the principal and go towards
defraying the eighth grade expenses.
Please refer to the HSA handbook for a
complete list of fund raising and volunteer
opportunities.

Page 53

MONEY
Collecting money for any purpose needs the
approval of the principal prior to the collection. All
money sent to school with a child must be in an
envelope marked with the student's name. Grade
and the purpose for the money clearly indicated.

EMERGENCY CARDS
Each student is to have emergency
information on file in the school office, principal's
office and nurse's office. This information is on an
emergency card. Home and emergency telephone
numbers are a necessity, and have to be up-to-date
and complete. Cell phone numbers are also helpful.
These home and emergency telephone numbers are
to be up-to date and complete so that a parent can
be notified in an emergency. If a parent or guardian
cannot be reached the next person listed on the
emergency card will be contacted. Please inform
the school office staff of any changes in contact
information. St. John School has instructed all
school personnel that they shall not transport any
ill or injured pupil unless it is an extreme
emergency. Parents are encouraged to keep ill
children home and are responsible for furnishing
transportation to their homes for all students who
become ill or injured by an accident at school. A
child who becomes sick during the school day will
be released to the child's parent or guardian or
another adult who is listed on the emergency card.
The parent/guardian or person on the emergency
Page 54

card who was contacted will then be responsible

for arranging transportation home if the child needs
to leave school due to illness.
VISITORS
All visitors including parents are to report
to the school office upon entering the school
building to sign in and are to wear a visitor's badge
while in school. All visitors must return to the
office to sign out at the conclusion of their visit.
No one is to visit a classroom without the
principal's permission. No parent should be waiting
in the hallways to pick up their child after school.
All parents are to report to car line to pick up their
child at the end of eth school day. When a visitor
enters the classroom all students should stand in
greet the visitor. This includes the priests, principal
and other classroom teachers.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT PLAN/DRILLS

St. John School has a Crisis Management
plan that was devised by the Principal and staff
with the advice of crisis management personnel
from the Town of Old Saybrook. This plan is
reviewed annually. All who volunteer at the school
should meet with the principal to review the plan.
Occasionally a drill of various components of our
plan rather than a regular fire drill will occur
during the school hours. Fire drills are important
Page 55

for all. In order to ensure a quick and safe exit

from the school building, all students will follow
directions.
TRANSFERS/WITHDRAWAL
If you wish to transfer your child to another
school the school office must be informed of your
child's last day and the school your child will enter.
Please let the principal know the reason your child
will be leaving St. John School.
To preserve the unity and harmony of
classes at St. John school once a parent chooses to
transfer his/her child from the school the child will
not be permitted to re-enter. All information
contained in this handbook is subject to the
discretion of the principal. The principal reserves
the right to revise this handbook at any time.
Parents will be informed in the Wednesday letter of
any necessary changes made to this handbook.

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