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BISHOP GUILFOYLE
CATHOLIC
HIGH SCHOOL
“Goodness, Discipline, Knowledge”

FACULTY
MANUAL

2017-2018
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 CATHOLIC EDUCATION AND
BISHOP GUILFOYLE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Jesus, the rabbi and teacher, when he addressed his apostles for the last time, charged them with the
responsibility, “Go, make disciples of all the nations. . . and teach them to observe all the commandments
I gave you. And know that I am with you always, even to the end of time.” (Matthew 28:19-20) Our
Lord’s words are the cornerstone of the mission of Catholic education at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High
School. We acknowledge the Lord’s command to make disciples by teaching his message and
proclaiming his Good News. We believe in the cherished promise that Jesus will abide with us in a
community of believers until his second coming.
Next to the family, the Catholic school is the most effective place for Christians to learn and practice the
truth and beauty of our Catholic faith and traditions and to form the Catholic leaders of tomorrow. The
Catholic school is unique because it is a religious community within an academic community. Bishop
Guilfoyle High School is a community of learners and teachers, administrators and parents, staff and
resource people. At the same time, we are a faith community of young Christians and adults who come
together to make Christ present among us in a special way. In order to be an exemplary Catholic school
in our community, we must always strive to have the proper blend of both learning and believing.

Catholic schools must teach individual subjects according to their own particular methods. In other
words, our high school must be effective in promoting the skills and knowledge of a humanistic program.
At the same time, we must not neglect the religious goals of growing in faith as individuals and as part of
the believing community. Bishop Guilfoyle High School, as an academic center and as a community of
believers, attempts to integrate faith and life and culture. It is an association of people who have a special
commitment, a sense of unity, a consensus on goals, and an awareness of our specialness.

The Catholic student needs careful guidance to be able to make morally mature decisions. In the area of
values, Bishop Guilfoyle can be of service to our students. We will be straightforward and aboveboard in
proposing Christian values because they are at the core of our school. We are not neutral on critical
issues nor do we steer clear of moral topics.
A Catholic school is privileged to be able to help students recognize what are the true values in our lives,
what are the hidden values that are subtly propelling them into actions, and what values are not worthy of
those who have been redeemed in Christ. It is our goal at Bishop Guilfoyle for a student to make
decisions as one who thinks, judges, and acts constantly and consistently in accord with right reason
illumined by the supernatural light of the example and teaching of Jesus Christ.

Bishop Guilfoyle High School seeks to permeate every educational experience within the guidance of the
school with the message of love and the vitality of Christ’s presence. This task is immense. If we were to
attempt it alone, we would be sure to fail. We find our strength in the words of Jesus: “Know that I am
with you always, until the end of time.” (Matthew 28:20)

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 TEACHERS AT BISHOP GUILFOYLE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

“Beautiful indeed and of great importance is the vocation of all those who aid parents in fulfilling their
duties and who, as representatives of human community, take the task of education in schools. This
vocation demands special qualities of mind and heart, very careful preparation, and continuing readiness
to renew and adapt.” (Vatican Council II)

Teachers are of great importance because they guide the educational process in the classroom by
designing the learning experiences for their students. They create a classroom environment of trust and
caring; they organize extensive and complicated subject matter into goals and specific objectives through
planning. Although students must, in the long run, be their own source of motivation, a good teacher is
an inspiration, a support, a prodder, a director, a model, a philosopher, a sociologist, a psychologist, a
loving instructor.

Teachers are of great importance not simply because of the transmission of knowledge but pre-eminently
because they help to form human persons. The Catholic teacher is inspired by the Christian concept of
the human person as the image of God. Catholic educators are challenged to make human beings more
human precisely because they propose Jesus Christ as both the model and means of all perfection.

In the arena of values, Catholic schools and teachers are not neutral. All life and teaching here at Bishop
Guilfoyle High School is steeped in the value system presented by our Master Teacher, Jesus Christ.
Students learn of Christian values in subject areas and in extracurricular activities, in liturgies and other
religious celebrations. Values of community, faith, hope, reconciliation, courage, service, justice, and
love are considered particularly necessary for these times. While serving well the educational needs of
students, Catholic school teachers unabashedly promote Catholic values and embody those values in
prayer and work.

Teachers at Bishop Guilfoyle High School share a twofold responsibility: to be professionally competent
in their disciplines; and to be aware that they possess a vocation, a mission in the Church, the apostolate
of teaching. They are witnesses of Christ not only by word, but also by behavior. As such, they have a
special calling to personal holiness and apostolic mission. The words of Pope John Paul II to teachers are
appropriate:

“Modern people listen more willingly to witnesses

than to teachers, and if they do listen to teachers,
it is because they are first of all witnesses.”
- POPE JOHN PAUL 11
Evangelii Nuntiandi, #41

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 VISION / MISSION / BELIEF STATEMENTS

Description of the School

Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is a secondary school serving students in grades 7-12.
The school is governed by an independent Board of Trustees. Guided by the founding values of
GOODNESS, DISCIPLINE, and KNOWLEDGE, the school provides a faith-based,
academically challenging, and progressive educational program on a contemporary and
disciplined campus. The school welcomes students of all faiths who desire these educational
values.

Mission Statement
The MISSION of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is to prepare young men and women
for rewarding and productive lives in our global society; young men and women of vision and
passion who are securely grounded in Christian spirituality, academic proficiency, and personal
accountability.

Vision Statement
The VISION of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is to be an integral and perpetual
resource for our community by providing exceptional educational experiences that guide and
inspire students to fully develop and share their abilities and talents for the good of all God’s
children.

Belief Statements
WE BELIEVE:
• That Catholic values and beliefs, grounded in our love for Jesus Christ, are the source and center from
which we teach and learn.
• That celebration of the sacramental life of the Roman Catholic Church, within the parish as well as
the school community, is the central source of strength for the Bishop Guilfoyle family.
• That we complement and support parents as the primary educators of their children.
• That we must nurture the spirit, mind, and body of all members of the Bishop Guilfoyle community.
• That instilling and integrating Christian values and teachings is imperative in preparing our students
for the contemporary world.
• That all individuals are to be treated with dignity and respect from the moment of conception to the
time of natural death.
• That accountability for one’s actions and decisions and respect for all persons are necessary
components of a disciplined and effective learning environment.
• That students should be met on their individual levels and educated toward lifelong learning.
• That we must help students to develop critical thinking, communication skills, and problem solving
strategies within the context of a Christian approach to meeting life’s challenges.
• That students should be prepared to understand and actively engage in the complexities of a global,
interdependent society, creating rather than accepting the future.

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RESPECT FOR OTHERS

A Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School student is one who respects and cares for others
regardless of differences including but not limited to age, gender, sexual orientation, set of
interests, race, country of origin, ethnic, geographic or financial background. Any student who
teases, hazes, disrespects, harasses, fights, or attacks another acts in direct opposition to this
belief. Lack of respect can manifest itself in the overt ways mentioned above, or in more subtle
ways such as cyber-bullying, snobbery, gossip, exclusion, and unfriendliness. In any case, the
result is the same. The other is hurt and alienated. Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School often
refers to itself as a family. Therefore, we must absolutely reject disrespectful attitudes and
behaviors that hurt and alienate others.

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICES OF BISHOP GUILFOYLE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

FACULTY MEMBERS
The Faculty Member:
• Recognizes and respects the primary role of the parents in the education of their sons and
daughters;

• Integrates Christian truth and values into all courses and realizes that the integration of
faith, culture and life in Catholic education is permeated by the integration of faith and
life in the person of the teacher;

• Exhibits professional standards of attendance, punctuality, grooming, language,

preparation, and relationship to students as both an adult example and member of a faith
community;

• Possesses a Bachelor’s degree with evidence of adequate educational background for the
assignments given him/her and has, or is working toward, the Pennsylvania credential or
its equivalent for Religion teachers;

• Has an understanding of the goals and objectives of the entire school program;

• Is open to continuous progress using contemporary approaches of instruction, technology

and methodology;

• Strives for continual professional growth;

• Is accountable to and accepts professional evaluation of performance;

• Is aware of and observes the legal obligations of a teacher as a caretaker of minors;

• Is aware of and enforces disciplinary procedures as established by school policy;

• Exercises mature judgment in forming relationships with students, recognizing that some
types of interaction appropriate to adult relationships are inappropriate in the context of a
faculty/student relationships;

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 • Portrays the school in a positive manner; public criticism of the school including
governance, administration, faculty, students, parents is not acceptable.

FACULTY MANUAL – GENERAL INFORMATION

ACTIVITIES (CURRICULAR, EXTRA-CURRICULAR, RELIGIOUS)

Planning and discussion of any curricular, extra-curricular, and religious activities are done
within the framework of school policy. Teachers and moderators are responsible for
coordinating plans, supervising students, handling funds, completing yearly financial and activity
reports, and arranging for chaperones. Teachers and moderators have the following general
responsibilities:

Approval: All organizations must have their vision/mission/purpose and all activities
approved by the school administration.

Communication: Newsworthy information about projects and activities should be made

known through the monthly newsletter so that the general community may be kept well
informed of the extracurricular life of the school.

Supervision: Teachers and moderators are responsible for all aspects of the activity they
sponsor and for all students who participate in that activity. Students involved in all
activities are to be under the supervision of the teacher and moderator at all times. No
group may meet, and no activity may be conducted unless the teacher/advisor is present.
Teachers and moderators are responsible for enforcing all school policies during all
meetings and events.

Reports: All teachers and moderators must provide a detailed financial report for any
activity or event involving collections of money from students; this includes all retreats,
dress-down or spirit days, field trips, etc.

Practices: Practices for any performance or game are not generally held on holy days of
obligation. Since Sunday is a day of prayer and rest, practices (athletics, chorus,
forensics, etc.) are not ordinarily scheduled except under unusual circumstances and only
with explicit permission of the school administration. Under no circumstances are any
practices or school activities to begin before 12 noon on Sundays. School organizations
will not sponsor or schedule any dance, party, or other social events after the close of the
school term.

Scheduling: Activities; including but not limited to meetings, activity purchases,

practices, rehearsals, assemblies, dances, fundraising projects, field trips, class/club
sponsored activities, Masses, and religious activities; must have the prior approval of
the school administration. Once approved by the administration, the activity will be
included on the annual calendar. Appropriate paperwork must be completed and
submitted to the school office.

Requests for activities must be submitted for administrative approval. If approved, the
activity will be placed on the calendar. The monthly activity calendar will be available
on the school website.
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 Special Considerations:

Field Trips:
1. Field Trip Regulations and Application Form is to be submitted at least one
month prior to the date of the requested trip.
2. Field trips will only be permitted if directly related to the approved written
curriculum for a specific course of study; only students enrolled in that course
of study will be permitted to participate in the field trip. An appropriate
number of chaperones are required; only two staff chaperones will be
authorized per forty student bus. Completed Field Trip Form and list of
students participating in the trip must be submitted five (5) days prior to the
trip.
3. Class Trips: One annual class trip will be permitted for each of the four grade
levels. An appropriate number of chaperones are required; only two staff
chaperones will be authorized per forty student bus. Completed Field Trip
Form and list of students participating in the trip must be submitted five (5)
days prior to the trip.
4. Club Meetings: Club meetings will not be permitted during regular class
periods.

AIDS POLICY

A complete policy statement is available to faculty by request in the school office.

NETWORK ACCEPTABLE USE AND SAFETY POLICY (NAUSP)

All employees must read, sign, abide by, and enforce student compliance of the Bishop Guilfoyle
Network Acceptable Use and Safety Policy.

ASSEMBLIES

All faculty members are to be present and to sit among the students at all school assemblies
(Masses, pep rallies, presentations, etc.) and to accompany students to and from their places at
assemblies.

ATTENDANCE

The teacher’s normal day extends from 7:35 A.M. to 3:05 P.M. Teachers must sign in and out of
school at the office. Teachers are not to leave the building before 3:05 P.M. All faculty are
expected to be available for students needing extra help after school.

When circumstances arise that necessitate a faculty member’s leaving the school building during
the school day for any reason or length of time, the teacher may request a one-half personal day.

Any teacher who is going to be absent should call the school office no later than 6:30 A.M. on
the day of absence, giving the reason for absence. Lesson plans are to be readily available
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through eBackpack for any unexpected absences; assignments. A Leave Form, available from
the office, must be completed for every absence upon the teacher’s return to school, or
beforehand when the absence is a planned one. This form is required for every absence,
regardless of the reason for or the purpose of the absence.

All teachers are responsible for maintaining accurate records of their own use of sick days,
personal days, and all other absences. If your absence exceeds your limit, payroll will be
deducted for each day over the limit even if the reason for your absence is approved by the
Principal. Deduction will be based on 188 contracted days.

CERTIFICATION OF PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES

It is the policy of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School to only hire professional employees
who are properly certified for their respective assignment.

In the event that Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is unable to hire a professional
employee who is properly certified for a particular assignment, the school administration may
grant emergency certification to a non-certified individual. The person granted emergency
certification will have a specific, limited time to obtain their certification. Failure to obtain
certification within that period of time will be cause for dismissal.

Failure by any professional employee to maintain an active professional certificate will be cause
for dismissal.

CHEATING/ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Cheating by students is both an academic and disciplinary offense. Teachers must establish and
enforce classroom procedures and supervision that prohibit a student’s opportunity to cheat. It is
the policy of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School that any student who is proven to have
cheated on any assignment, quiz, test, or project will receive a mandatory “0” grade on that
assignments, quiz, test, or project. In additions, any student who is proven to have cheated on
any assignment, quiz, test, or project will face disciplinary consequences as specified in the
Student Handbook.

Teachers are not to be seated during students’ assessment periods.

CLASSROOM/OFFICES

All classrooms and work areas should be kept in organized, neat, professional appearance.
Bishop Guilfoyle is not responsible for employees’ personal belongings brought on to or stored
on school property.

COLLECTIONS

No monies may be collected from the students for any reason without the authorization of the
Principal. All monies collected with permission must be turned in to the Business Office daily.

CONFIDENTIALITY

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In their position as instructors, teachers will necessarily become aware of confidential
information. Strict adherence to honoring such information and respect for every individual’s
right to privacy are absolute requirements of every employee. The right to privacy of every
student and employee in the school must be carefully maintained in conversations in and outside
the school.

Teachers and counselors, in daily interaction with students, may often become aware of
confidential matters affecting a student’s welfare, such as suspected child abuse, suicide
attempts, drug and/or alcohol problems, and similar grave situations. In keeping with legal and
moral responsibilities, such information should be made known to the administration so that
proper action may be taken for the well-being of the student. Confidential matters will always be
handled with due discretion and sensitivity. This notice serves to alert faculty to the legal
obligations surrounding the health, safety, and welfare of the students. See Child Protective
Service Law.

Confidentiality in the PowerSchool system and in use of the system is essential. Teachers may
never leave their computers/laptops unattended when logged on to PowerSchool. They may
never allow anyone else to enter or read PowerSchool data protected by their password. Breach
of confidentiality or misuse of the data within this system will be grounds for immediate
disciplinary action. Violation of confidential matters is subject to grave disciplinary action.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

Corporal punishment is inconsistent with the philosophy and mission of the Catholic school and
may never be employed.

DIOCESAN ACCREDITATION REQUIREMENTS

Religious Studies Requirement: All teachers must complete a religious studies program
of at least 30 clock hours in length within three years of hire.

Youth Protection Program: All faculty must read and comply with the Policies for the
Diocesan Youth Protection Program as written by the Altoona-Johnstown Children and
Youth Protection & Advocacy Office.

Failure to Comply: Failure to comply with either the Religious Studies Requirement
and/or Youth Protection Program Requirement will result in termination of employment
at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.

DISCIPLINE

In order to provide the best opportunity for effective teaching and learning, discipline must be
maintained in the classroom including effective enforcement of all school polices. Essential to
maintaining good student behavior in the classroom are well planned and well executed lessons
that keep students interested and engaged in the teaching/learning process. For those students
who do not satisfactorily engage in the learning process or who do not follow school rules and
regulations as defined in the Student Handbook, a disciplinary consequence process is in place.
The process is designed to correct and improve behavior, not to punish.

Consequences for violation of rules and regulations are as follows:

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 Demerits/Referrals
Detentions
Loss of Student Privileges
Probation
Suspensions
Faculty Disciplinary Council
Expulsion

Demerit/Referral: Infractions that lead to demerits are outlined in the Student Handbook.
Issuing a demerit is a teacher-utilized disciplinary tool designed to improve behavior.
Teachers are to issue demerits as disciplinary referrals. Demerits are turned in at the main
office no later than one day after the offense occurs.

Detentions: Student detentions will be issued according to provisions in the Student

Handbook.

Loss of Student Privileges: Students may lose student privileges as a result of disciplinary
issues.

Suspensions: Student suspensions, both in-school and out-of-school, will be determined

by the school administration according to provisions in the Student Handbook.

Faculty Discipline Council: The Faculty Discipline Council will be utilized according
to provisions in the Student Handbook.

Expulsion: Expulsion is the disciplinary action of last resort. It will be utilized

according to provisions in the Student Handbook.

DRESS CODE

Faculty are expected to dress in a professional manner. All teachers are expected to remain in
professional attire until the end of their school day. Clothing should be appropriate for a
Catholic school setting. For both males and females, body piercing (other than standardized ear
piercing for the women) and visible tattoos are unacceptable.

Male teachers wear dress shirt and tie, socks, dress slacks, belt, and dress shoes. Men should be
clean-shaven each day, or beards should be neatly groomed. Hair should be well groomed and
above the collar in length. Earrings or studs are unacceptable.

Female teachers are also to wear suitable attire as formal as that of the men. Skirt/dress length
must be no shorter than two (2) inches above the knee. Hair styles and make-up must be neat and
conventional. Clothing should be business-like rather than casual: no capris; shorts; low-cut,
tight, revealing clothing; casual sandals; flip flops.

At extracurricular activities and dress-down days, teachers’ casual dress should always be
appropriate and tasteful.

Teachers may dress in business casual attire for scheduled faculty in-service days. Jeans, shorts,
t-shirts, flip flops, sneakers are not appropriate.

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DRUG TESTING

Drug testing of all employees of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School will be conducted
randomly in accordance with the contract between Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School, Inc.
and Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School Teachers Association.

DUPLICATION OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL

Materials needed for class may be duplicated by the teachers, utilizing the copiers in the library
and Room 222. Copyrighted materials are not to be duplicated without the written authorization
of the publisher; that authorization must be obtained by the teacher and placed on file in the
office. The office copier is used for all general school business and correspondence. In
occasional high volume jobs, the office will use the library copier.

EMAIL

Faculty are provided a school email address, Domain @bguilfoyle.org; no other emails are
permitted on the school network. All teachers are expected to check their school email daily.

EVACUATION PROCEDURES

Evacuation drills are held periodically to ensure safety should a hazardous situation arise.
Teachers are to acquaint students with the directions for evacuating the building from each room
where they teach or monitor. Each classroom contains directional signs and instructions.
Teachers must maintain their Crisis Management Plan in an easily accessible location in the top
drawer of their desk.

Teachers are responsible for students under their supervision at the time of the evacuation.
Windows and doors should be closed. Silence, good order, and attention are important for safety.
Evacuating the building as quickly as possible is a priority for student safety. Teachers must
carry their roll books and Crisis Management Plan with them during any evacuation.

FACILITIES USE AND REPAIRS

To ensure efficient maintenance supervision and coordination of school facilities, teachers must
complete the Facilities Usage Request Form for all events/activities in any area of the school.
Forms are to be submitted at least two weeks prior to the events/activities.

Maintenance problems and needs are reported in the office via work order forms, also available
in the faculty rooms. Any vandalism must be noted by teachers and reported to maintenance
immediately. Teachers are responsible for the general appearance and care of the rooms in
which they teach and supervise.

FACULTY DINING ROOM

The faculty dining room is for use by staff and faculty members only. Teachers should not send
or invite students into the faculty dining room at any time. Any student wishing to see a teacher
should be taken out into the hall for the discussion.

FOOD
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Teachers should not eat or drink in the classrooms when students are present. Students are not
permitted to have food and/or drink in any area of the school building before, during, or after
school hours except in the vicinity of the vending machines and in the cafeteria. Faculty are
responsible for seeing that this policy is observed throughout the school day and during after-
school activities. Parties for individual classes require the explicit permission of the Principal.

FUNDRAISING GUIDELINES

Student organizations are permitted to conduct fundraising projects for specific projects that may
not be funded by the school provided the following guidelines are followed:

1. Requests for fundraising projects must be submitted to the school administration on an

official request form at least one month prior to the requested start of the proposed
fundraising project.
2. Fundraising projects cannot be undertaken until written approval is obtained from the school
administration.
3. All money raised through the fundraising project must be deposited daily into the
organization’s account with the school business manager. An official deposit slip must
accompany all deposits.
4. All bills associated with the fundraising project must be paid by check through the school
business office. In order to be paid, all invoices must be signed by the individual responsible
for the fundraising project and attached to an official request for payment form.
5. At the end of the fundraising project, the person responsible for the project must complete,
sign, and submit a fundraising project report with the school administration. The report will
be filed for audit.
6. All money raised through fundraising projects must be solely used for the benefit of the
students participating in that activity.
7. All fundraising projects must be voluntary; students cannot be punished for failing to
participate in a fundraising project.
8. Organizations are prohibited from soliciting businesses and corporations without prior
written approval from the school administration.

GRADING POLICY

Purpose: A grading system provides a means to measure student proficiency with respect to the
objectives of the course of study. A grading system provides a means to inform students and
parents of the student’s progress toward achieving the course objectives. A grading system also
provides a degree of uniformity, consistency, and fairness in evaluating student performance.

Types and Numbers of Assessment: Teachers must use a variety of assessment instruments to
determine a student’s mastery of the objectives of the course of study. These instruments may
include but are not limited to tests, quizzes, homework, reports, projects, papers, labs, journals,
diaries, portfolios, exhibits, performances, interviews, debates, and class participation. Teachers
must use an adequate number of assessments to determine a student’s mastery of the objectives
of the course of study. During a marking period, teachers are required to use a minimum of nine
(9) assessments to determine a student’s mastery of the objectives of the course of study; at least
three (3) of the assessments must be major (of substantial depth). Teachers are to maintain a file
of all graded assessments for each student. The file must be maintained through the end of the
school year in which the assessments were administered.
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 Class Participation Grade
Teachers may evaluate students for class participation; however, class participation
grades must not be valued higher than 10% of the marking period grade.

Extra Credit Grade

Teachers may provide extra work to enable low achieving students who are making an
honest effort earn extra points to achieve a passing grade. The extra work must be
academic in nature and must be directly related to the course of study.

Weekly Grades: All grades are to be updated on a weekly basis, the days end every Wednesday.

Calculating/Recording Marking Period Grades: Grades for all courses must be entered into the
grade book (PowerSchool) on a point basis. The points will be converted to a percent on an
ongoing basis (total number of points earned divided by the total number of possible points).
Composite marking period percent scores of .5 or higher will be rounded to the next whole
number. For full-year (two semester) courses, 50% is the lowest composite percent score that
will be issued for the first three marking periods; the actual earned composite percent score will
be issued for the last marking period. For semester courses, 50% is the lowest composite percent
score that will be issued for the first marking period of the semester; the actual earned composite
percent score will be issued for the last marking period of the semester. Semester grades will be
recorded at the actual percent score earned.

Semester Examinations: Semester exams will be given in all courses of study. Semester exams
must be comprehensive in nature, covering course content for the entire semester. Students must
provide a medical excuse or an excuse previously approved by the school administration to be
absent during a semester exam. Requests to take semester exams at other than scheduled times
will be handled on an individual basis. There will be no exemption to either first or second
semester exams. School administration must authorize all special scheduling arrangements for
exams. A semester exam grade should not exceed 100%.

Calculation of Final Grades: When calculating the final grade for a full-year (two semester)
course, the grade for each marking period will be valued at 20% of the final grade and the two
semester exam grades will be valued at 10% of the final grade. When calculating the final grade
for a semester course, the grade for each marking period will be valued at 40% of the final grade
and the semester exam grade will be valued at 20% of the final grade.

Grading Scale:

94-100 Advanced A
85-93 Highly Proficient B
75-84 Proficient C
70-74 Basic D
Below 70 Below Basic F

GPA Conversion Scale:

4.0 100 – 98.67 2.9 88.49 – 87.70 1.9 79.49 – 78.50

3.9 98.66 – 97.33 2.8 87.69 – 86.90 1.8 78.49 – 77.50
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 3.8 97.32 – 96.00 2.7 86.89 – 86.10 1.7 77.49 – 76.50
3.7 95.99 – 94.67 2.6 86.09 – 85.30 1.6 76.49 – 75.50
3.6 94.66 – 93.33 2.5 85.29 – 84.50 1.5 75.49 – 74.50
3.5 93.32 – 92.50 2.4 84.49 – 83.50 1.4 74.49 – 73.50
3.4 92.49 – 91.70 2.3 83.49 – 82.50 1.3 73.49 – 72.50
3.3 91.69 – 90.90 2.2 82.49 – 81.50 1.2 72.49 – 71.50
3.2 90.89 – 90.10 2.1 81.49 – 80.50 1.1 71.49 – 70.50
3.1 90.09 – 89.30 2.0 80.49 – 79.50 1.0 70.49 – 70.00
3.0 89.29 – 88.50

Withdrawals: Withdrawal from a course during the first 5 weeks of a course may be permitted at
the discretion of the parents and school administration. At the start of the second marking period
a students may withdraw from a course with the approval of both the parents and the school
administration; however, the withdrawal will be noted on the student’s transcript as WP
(Withdraw Passing) or WF (Withdrawn Failing).

Incomplete Grades: Students who receive an incomplete grade for a marking period must make
up the required work within a two (2) week period. Exceptions may be granted by the school
administration. If the work is not made up during that time, the grade will be recorded as a “0.”
Incomplete grades will not be given at the end of the final grading period without approval from
the school administration.

Make-Up Work: Students with an excused absence (suspensions are included as excused
absences) from class are responsible for all class work, assignments, and test missed during their
absence. Make-up work should be arranged with the teacher on the day of return to class and
should be completed in a reasonable time as determined by the teacher. A grade of “0” is
recorded for any work that is not made-up by the date specified by the teacher. Students with
unexcused absences do not receive credit for any work missed during their absence.
Nonetheless, it is expected that all make-up work will be completed in order for the learning
process to continue.

Report Cards: Formal reports on student progress will be reported to parents on Report Cards,
which will be issued on a quarterly basis. Parents may access their child’s grades on an ongoing
basis by using the Parent Portal of PowerSchool (the school’s electronic grade
recording/reporting system).

CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICE LAW

Any person who, in the course of their employment, occupation, or practice of their profession
come into contact with children shall report or cause a report to be made to ChildLine (800-932-
0313) when they have reasonable cause to suspect, on the basis of their medical, professional or
other training and experience, that a child coming before them in their professional or official
capacity is a victim of child abuse. (Source: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of
Public Welfare.

All employees are required to complete Act 126 Training and other training as mandated by
school law or Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.

ACT 71
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SUICIDE AWARENESS, PREVENTION AND RESPONSE (ACT 71)

Purpose
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is committed to maintaining a safe school environment;
to protect the health, safety and welfare of its students; to promote healthy development and to
safeguard against the threat or attempt of suicide among school-aged youth. The impact of
students’ mental health on their academic performance and the effect of mental health issues and
suicide on students and the entire school community are significant. Therefore, in order to ensure
the safety and welfare of students, the school entity will work to educate school personnel and
students on the actions and resources necessary to prevent suicide and promote mental well-
being
Authority
This policy shall apply in any situation where a student is expressing suicidal thoughts or
intentions of self-harm on school property, at any school-sponsored activity, or on any public
vehicle providing transportation to or from a school or school-sponsored activity. This policy
shall also apply following a student’s suicide threat or attempt that does not occur on school
grounds or during a school-sponsored activity, but that is reported to or becomes known by
school administration.

Definitions
At-Risk for Suicide shall mean any youth with risk factors or warning signs that increase the
likelihood of suicidal behavior.

Crisis Response Team shall include, but may not be limited to, the administrators, school
counselors, teachers, and/or other members of the Student Assistance Program (SAP), as
designated, and may include other members as deemed appropriate by the school
administrator/school entity. Community mental health agency and law enforcement resources
may be called for assistance to be a part of the team.
Expressed Suicidal Thoughts or Intentions shall mean a verbal or nonverbal communication
that an individual intends to harm him/herself with the intention to die, but has not acted on the
behavior.

Prevention refers to efforts that seek to reduce the factors that increase the risk for suicidal
thoughts and behaviors and increase the factors that help strengthen, support, and protect
individuals from suicide.

Protective Factors shall refer to characteristics (biological, psychological, and social) that
reduce risk and the likelihood of the individual developing a mental illness.

Qualified School Professional shall refer to a school employee trained to conduct interviews
with students in order to informally assess the level of suicide risk. A Qualified School
Professional includes professional school counselors and school nurses.

Resilience shall refer to an individual’s innate ability to persevere in the face of adversity and
reduce the risk of unhealthy outcomes.

Risk Factors shall mean the personal or environmental characteristics that can be associated
with suicide. People affected by one or more of these risk factors have a greater probability of

15
suicidal behavior. However, having one or more of these risk factors does not mean someone
necessarily is suicidal.

School Connectedness shall mean the belief by students that adults and peers in the school care
about their learning as well as about them as individuals.

School Personnel include, but may not be limited to, administrators, counselors, teachers,
support staff, coaches, custodians, and cafeteria workers.

Suicide shall refer to death caused by self-directed injurious behavior with any intent to die as a
result of the behavior.

Suicidal Act or Suicide Attempt shall mean a potentially self-injurious behavior for which
there is evidence that the person probably intended to kill him/herself; a suicidal act may result in
death, injuries, or no injuries.

Warning Signs are evidence-based indicators that someone may be in danger of suicide, either
immediately or in the very near future.

Suicide Awareness and Prevention Education

Protocols for Administration of Student Education
Students shall receive age-appropriate education on the importance of safe and healthy choices,
coping strategies, how to recognize risk factors and warning signs, as well as help-seeking
strategies for self or others including how to engage school resources and refer friends for help.
Lessons shall contain information on comprehensive health and wellness, including emotional,
behavioral and social skills development. . These lessons may be taught by, but not limited to,
health and physical education teachers, community service providers, classroom teachers or
school counselors. Students who are in need of intervention shall be referred to the school
counselor for screening and recommendations.
Student education may include but is not limited to the following:
1. Information about suicide prevention.
2. Help-seeking approaches amongst students, promoting a climate that encourages peer
referral and emphasizes school connectedness
3. Increasing students’ ability to recognize if they or their peers are at risk for suicide
4. Addressing problems that can lead to suicide, such as depression and other mental health
issues, anger and drug use.

Protocols for Administration of Faculty and Staff Education

All Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School employees including, but not limited to,
administrators, teachers, support staff, coaches, custodians and cafeteria workers, shall receive
information regarding risk factors, warning signs, protective factors, resilience, response
procedures, referrals, and resources regarding youth suicide prevention.
As part of the school’s professional development plan, professional educators in the school
building shall participate in four (4) hours or more of youth suicide awareness and prevention
training every five (5) years. Additional professional development in risk assessment and crisis
intervention shall be provided to identified school personnel.
The school entity shall establish a crisis response team. The crisis response team may include,
but is not limited to, administrators, school counselors, the school nurse, officer, teachers and/or
members of the school’s Student Assistance Program team. Community mental health agency
and law enforcement resources may be called for assistance to be a part of the team.
16
Intervention/ Prevention
In compliance with state regulations and in support of the school’s suicide prevention methods,
information received in confidence from a student may be revealed to the student’s parents or
guardians, administration, or other appropriate authority when the health, welfare or safety of the
student or other person(s) is at risk.

Any school personnel who has identified a student with one or more warning signs or who has an
indication that a student may be contemplating suicide, shall refer the student for further
assessment and intervention to administration and/or the school counselor(s).
Any school personnel who are made aware of any threat or witnesses any attempt towards self-
harm that is written, drawn, spoken, or threatened shall immediately notify administration or a
school counselor. Any threat in any form shall be treated as real and dealt with immediately. No
student should be left alone, nor confidences promised. A student’s confidentiality may be
waived. The school entity’s crisis response procedures shall be implemented.
The school entity along with the parents/guardian, should create a safety plan to support a
student if the student has been identified as being at increased risk of suicide.
If an expressed suicide thought or intention is made known to any school personnel during an
afterschool program or athletic event and the principal is not available, the parent should be
notified and a call mobile crisis must be made: 814-889-8879 (if in Blair County) or 911 (if out
of Blair County). Thereafter, immediately inform the principal of the incident and actions taken.

Procedures for Parental Involvement

The school will immediately attempt to notify the student’s parent/guardian of a student
identified as being at risk of suicide. If the attempt is successful, the parents/guardian will be
involved in consequent actions. If the attempt to contact the parent/guardian is unsuccessful, the
school will continue attempts to notify the parent/guardian, but will act in loco parentis which
may include, but is not limited to, allowing the student to be seen by a crisis counselor and
having the student escorted to the hospital by the police. If any mandated reporter suspects that a
student’s risk status is the result of abuse or neglect, that individual must comply with the
reporting requirements of the Child Protective Services Law.
If the parent or guardian refuse to cooperate and there is any doubt regarding the child’s safety,
the school personnel who directly witnessed the expressed suicide thought or intention will seek
a mental health assessment by calling mobile crisis: 814-889-8879 (if in Blair County) or 911 (if
out of Blair County and ask for a delegate. The delegate will listen to concerns and advise on the
course of action. The first-hand witness will need to be the petitioner, with support from the
principal or other administrator.

Response to Suicide or Suicide Attempt on Campus

The first school personnel on the scene of a suicide or suicide attempt must follow Bishop
Guilfoyle’s crisis response procedures, and shall immediately notify the principal or designee.
The school entity will immediately notify the parents or guardians of the affected student(s).

Resources for Youth Suicide Awareness and Prevention

A comprehensive set of resources for youth suicide awareness and prevention is accessible
through the Department at www.education.pa.gov
PA Youth Suicide Prevention Initiative - http://payspi.org/
Oct. 2014 Dear Colleague Letter related to peer harassment of students with disabilities:
http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/publications.html#Section504
Suicide Prevention Resource Center - http://www.sprc.org/
17
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - http://www.afsp.org/ Reference:
2012 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention: Goals and Objectives for Action

COUNSELING DEPARTMENT

Any teacher may request information from the Counseling Office concerning particular students.
Teachers may also refer students to a counselor if need arises. In such cases, the teacher should
acquaint the counselor with his/her concerns about the student and allow the counselor to
schedule meeting times and procedures. Students may be called to the Counseling Office for
interviews or other business. Teachers may request a re-scheduling when students are having a
test.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION TO STUDENTS

School Email is considered the official electronic method of communication to Bishop Guilfoyle
students. All students are assigned a school email account (lastname.firstname@bguilfoyle.org).

Users should exercise extreme caution in using email to communicate confidential or sensitive
matters, and should not assume that email is private and confidential. It is especially important
that users are careful to send messages only to the intended recipient(s), especially when using
the 'reply' command during email correspondence. Finally, although many users regard e-mail as
being like a telephone in offering a quick, informal way to communicate, users should remember
that e-mails can be stored, copied, printed, or forwarded by recipients. As such, users should not
write anything in an e-mail message that they would not feel just as comfortable putting into a
memorandum.

All use of email will be consistent with other Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School policies

FERPA (The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)

Information and guidance on FERPA is available via the following link:
http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/for-parents.pdf. A brochure can be obtained in
the main office or via a link to the brochure:
http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/brochures/parents.pdf.

GUESTS

All guests visiting Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School during the school day must be pre-
approved by school administration. All guests must sign in at the front office and obtain a visitor
pass. Approval must be obtained in advance from an administrator for guest speakers or other
visitors to any class or school activity. Visitors must receive and wear an authorized pass
available in the office.

GRADUATION

It is our custom and privilege to have commencement exercises and celebration of the Eucharist
at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. All teachers are expected to be present for
commencement program and baccalaureate Mass. Except in the case of emergency or
extenuating circumstances teachers are required to participate in the commencement program

18
and baccalaureate Mass. Faculty members are to dress in academic dress, process in after the
graduates, and before the priests and Bishop. They are then seated behind the graduates.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

As a general rule, an employer will own the intellectual property created by its employees in the
course of their employment.

FACULITY TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT ISSUED

IPads are provided by the school and remain the property of the school. Allocation of iPads for
use by faculty is governed by the policies set by the school administration with regard to
guidelines covering use within the school. Teachers are required to manage their own device.
Teachers are expected to incorporate the use of iPads in all classes and are responsible for
enforcement of guidelines set for students’ iPad usage.

Laptop computers are provided by the school and remain the property of the school. Allocation
of laptop computers for use by faculty, staff, and students is governed by the policies set by the
school administration with regard to on/off site campus use, dates covering distribution and
recall of laptops, and general guidelines covering use within the school. Laptop technical
configuration will be standardized following the policies and procedures governing uses of
electronic equipment set forth by the administration.

LIBRARY USE

No teacher may send students to the library unattended. If it is necessary to take entire classes to
the library for research, prior arrangements must be made with the librarian. The subject teacher
must be present to supervise the students while they are in the library and on their way to and
from the library.

LOCKERS

Teachers must monitor the lockers of students that are adjacent to their respective classroom and
enforce the provisions that govern the maintenance of lockers that are found in the Student
Handbook.

LUNCH

Cafeteria lunch service is available for all teachers. By federal law, all teachers must pay for
lunch at the school or they may choose to bring their own lunch. Teachers are asked to leave the
faculty dining room in good order.

LUNCH MONITORS

Teachers assigned to supervise lunch periods are to be on time and present for the entire period.
Monitors are expected to walk around and supervise student behavior including supervision of
the lunch lines. The monitors’ attention should be directed to the students throughout the entire
30-minute lunch period. Proper table manners, respect for food, and orderly behavior are

19
essential. Faculty monitors are to insure these basic lunch room qualities of courtesy, respect,
and good conduct.

When the bell rings at the end of the lunch period, monitors dismiss the students. Before
dismissing, monitors check that all tables and the floor are reasonably cleared of debris.
Students should not be unnecessarily detained from classes.

Lunch monitors must take care to note the presence of any student who does not belong in that
lunch period and send that student to the office.

MAIL BOXES

Mail boxes for each member of the faculty are located in the faculty rooms. They should be
checked daily for mail, announcements, and messages. Various forms will also be available in
the faculty rooms.

NON DISCRIMINATION

Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School does not discriminate with respect to race, sex or
ethnic origin.

NOTICE OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY

As part of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School’s effort to maintain a safe environment, all
employees are required to immediately disclose any felony or misdemeanor charges, accusations,
pending action or please of no contest to the school administration. Failure to comply with this
requirement will constitute grounds for disciplinary action.

OFF SITE CLASSES/EVENTS

Parent permission forms are required for all students participating in any off site class, meeting
or event. Teachers may not take student off the school premise without a completed parent
permission form.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent/Teacher conferences are scheduled annually for the entire school. Teachers are expected
to attend all scheduled conference days. Except in the case of an emergency or extenuating
circumstances teachers are required to participate in scheduled parent/teacher conferences.

In addition to school scheduled conferences, teachers are encouraged to frequently contact

parents relative to student performance or concerns. Teachers are expected to respond to
parents’ phone calls or emails within 24 hours, with the exception of weekends or holidays.

PARKING

All faculty are required to register their vehicles and park in the assigned area. The vehicle
registration tag must be displayed from the rear view mirror of the car.
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PHOTO ID

All faculty are required to have the photo ID provided by the school. Replacement IDs cost
$5.00.

PUBLIC MEDIA

All inquiries and communication with reporters from the media must be authorized by the school
administration. Should you be approached by a reporter relative to Bishop Guilfoyle, please
direct him/her to the school administration.

PURCHASES

All items, services, goods, and materials to be paid from school accounts must be processed
through a purchase order. Purchase orders must be completed prior to any purchases. In order to
maintain a thorough and efficient business office operation, no purchases may be made without a
prior authorized purchase order. Payments will NOT be made without this authorization.
For the purchase order process the Staff/Faculty need to fill out the vendor, what requesting with
an amount. Attached should be a quote or estimate pricing. When requesting the employee with
sign the “Requested by” and receive authorization by department managers (signature on
“Authorized” line). The authorization can be pre-authorized by being a “budgeted item” which
needs written on the authorized line. Upon receiving approval to purchase the items the
employee will retain the purchase order until items are purchased and received. Once the items
are received, the requestor needs to sign the “Authorization to Pay”. Payment will not be made
unless it is authorized to pay and invoices or receipts are attached. Please provide as much
description or the group that it is being purchased for, so that is properly get accounted for. For
further clarification, please contact the business office.

Annual budget requests will be directed through office memos.

Deposit envelopes including name, date, amount, and purpose of the deposit are provided in the
office. All money must be deposited via the Deposit Box in the office.

REIMBURSEMENTS

Requested employee reimbursements must be submitted to the school business office within 60
days of purchase. An authorized Purchase Order and receipt are required.

Eligible Medical Reimbursement Policy

Medical benefit reimbursement deductible expenses must be submitted to business office for
reimbursement within 3 months of the end of the medical benefit period.

RELIGION

Teachers who choose to teach in a Catholic school are expected to lead exemplary Christian lives
and to assist wholeheartedly in the mission of presenting Christ and his teachings to our students
by word and action. All teachers must attend and participate in all religious programs and
activities of the school; all are expected to contribute positively to the religious atmosphere in the

21
school. Every effort should be made to incorporate Catholic moral and social principles into the
classes taught by each teacher.

In addition to active participation at school, faculty members are encouraged to exercise

leadership and service in their own parish churches.

The chapel is available for use at any time. Having Jesus sacramentally present with us is a
source of strength for all engaged in the demanding vocation of educators.

ROLL BOOKS

In addition to PowerSchool, each teacher receives a roll book for recording grades. Roll books
should be kept neat and legible. At the end of the year, the roll book and grade sheets are handed
in to the office. Teachers may print weekly score sheets from PowerSchool. Printed score sheets
must be maintained throughout the year and submitted at the end of the year.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Definition of Social Media:

Social media is defined as any form of online publication or presence that allows interactive
communication, including, but not limited to, social networks, blogs, Internet websites, Internet
forums, and wikis. Examples of social media include, but are not limited to Facebook, Twitter,
YouTube, Google+, and Flickr.

1. An employee shall not make statements that would violate any Bishop Guilfoyle
Catholic High School policies, including its policies concerning discrimination,
harassment, or obscene material.
2. The employee shall uphold Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School value of respect for
the individual and avoid making defamatory statements about Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic
High School, employees, students or a student’s family.
3. An employee will not disclose any confidential information of the school or confidential
information obtained during the course of his/her employment about any individual or
organization, inducing students and/or their families.
4. Personal use of social media is unacceptable during an employee’s workday.
5. Employee’s personal use of social media to engage in personal communication with
students is unacceptable.

Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is only responsible for quality of the information posted
by the official BG account represented and not for the quality of the information posted by other
users.

The official sites of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School are listed below
Home Website http://www.bishopguilfoyle.org
Facebook http://facebook.com/BGCHS
Youtube http://www.youtube.com/user/BishopGuilfoyleCHS/
Twitter http://twitter.com/BGCHS_PA or https://twitter.com/MarauderMirror
Student Online Newspaper www.maraudermirror.org

An employee’s use of social media must positively reflect the values, mission, vision and belief
statements of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School and must appeal to professional decorum.

22
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School employees should not speak as official representatives of
the school to the media or post on social media comments of conflict relative to the operation of
the school.

Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School Social Media Guidelines

A. Introduction/Purpose
1. Social media technology can serve as a powerful tool to enhance education,
communication, and learning. This technology can provide both educational and
professional benefits, including preparing Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School
(BGCHS) students to succeed in their educational and career endeavors.
2. The Board of Trustees, President and Principal are committed to ensuring that all
BGCHS stakeholders who utilize social media technology for professional purposes
described below, including staff and students, do so in a safe and responsible manner.
BGCHS strives to create professional social media environments that mirror the
academically supportive environments of our schools.
3. These Social Media Guidelines (“Guidelines”) provide guidance regarding recommended
practices for professional social media communication between BGCHS employees,
associated personnel1, and BGCHS students.
4. In recognition of the public and pervasive nature of social media communications, as
well as the fact that in this digital era, the lines between professional and personal
endeavors are sometimes blurred, these Guidelines also address recommended practices
for use of personal social media by BGCHS staff.2 Please refer to the BGCHS’s Network
Acceptable Use and Safety Policy (“NAUSP”) for additional guidance.

B. Definition of Social Media

Social media is defined as any form of online publication or presence that allows interactive
communication, including, but not limited to, social networks, blogs, Internet websites,
Internet forums, and wikis. Examples of social media include, but are not limited to,
Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google+, Flickr, Instagram, Tumblr, and Pintrest.3

1. Professional social media is a work-related social media activity that is either school-
based (e.g., the BGCHS principal establishing a Facebook page for his/her school or a
BGCHS teacher establishing a blog for his/her class), or non-school-based (e.g., a
BGCHS coach or volunteer establishing a Facebook page or twitter account to facilitate
communication with supporters and the community at large).
2. Personal social media use is a non work-related social media activity (e.g., a BGCHS
central administrative employee establishing a Facebook page or a Twitter account for
his/her own personal use).

1BGCHS employees and associated personnel include teachers, principals, school staff, coaches, activity
moderators, volunteers, etc.
2 These Guidelines do not address student-to-student communication via social media. The Student Handbook
sets forth expected standards of behavior with respect to student communication. The Discipline Code establishes
the range of disciplinary options and guidance intervention that can be used when students engage in misconduct
involving social media.
3These Guidelines do not address the professional use of third-party collaboration tools for purposes other than
social media.
23
C. Applicability
These Guidelines apply to all BGCHS employees, associated personnel, and others who may
be seen as representing the school on social media or online.

D. Professional Social Media Use

1. Maintaining Separate Professional and Personal E-mail Accounts

BGCHS employees who decide to engage in professional social media activities should
maintain separate professional and personal e-mail addresses. As such, BGCHS
employees should not use their personal e-mail address for professional social media
activities, rather, employees should use a professional e-mail address that is completely
separate from any personal social media they maintain. Regular and continuous use of a
personal e-mail address for professional purposes, including social media use, may result
in BGCHS considering the e-mail address, and the corresponding use of that address, as
a professional account.
Use of Official Name and Logo. Use of the school name or logo for branding or titling
pages of for accounts related to the functions and activities of BGCHS is permissible, but
must be approved in writing prior to use. Requests for prior consent to use such names
or logos will be made to the Principal or designee. Any uses in existence at the time of
adoption of this policy are not grandfathered and would be authorized pursuant to this
policy. Permission to use the name or logo of the school may be revoked at any time.
Using the name of the school in the title or branding of personal accounts is not
permitted.

2. Communication with BGCHS Students

BGCHS employees, coaches, volunteers and others who work with students and
communicate4 with students through professional social media sites5 should follow these
guidelines:
a. Professional social media sites that are school-based should be designed to
address reasonable instructional, educational, school activity, or extra-curricular
program matters;6
b. Each school year, BGCHS parents7 will be notified about the professional social
media activities their children may participate in. Here is sample language
schools can use. BGCHS will instruct parents to contact the school with any
questions or concerns;

3. Guidance Regarding Professional Social Media Sites

a. BGCHS employees should treat professional social media space and
communication like a classroom and/or a professional workplace. The same
standards expected in BGCHS professional settings are expected on professional
social media sites. If a particular type of behavior is inappropriate in the

4 The term “communicates”, as used in this Guidance, refers to activity, including, but not limited to, “friending,”
“following,” “commenting,” and “posting messages” using social media sites.
5 The term “site” and “sites” refer to an online social media account or usage.
6 BGCHS employees should use school-based professional social media sites that involve BGCHS

students for professional purposes only.

7 The host parent means the student’s parent or guardian, or any person in a parental or custodial relationship to the
student. This includes: birth or adoptive parent, step-parent, legally appointed guardian, and foster parent.
24
 classroom or a professional workplace, then that behavior is also inappropriate on
the professional social media site.
b. BGCHS employees should exercise caution, sound judgment, and common sense
when using professional social media sites.

c. When establishing professional social media sites, supervisors and employees

should consider the intended audience for the site and consider the level of
privacy assigned to the site, specifically, whether the site should be a private
network (for example, it is limited to a particular class, group of participants, or
particular grade with in the school) or a public network (for example, anyone
within the school, a larger group within the BGCHS community can participate
or individuals outside of the BGCHS). It is recommended practice for
professional social media sites to be private networks, unless there is a specific
school need for the site to be a public network.
d. To the extent possible, based on the social media site being used, BGCHS
supervisors or their designees should be given separate administrator rights
providing limited access to the professional social media accounts established by
BGCHS employees. See FAQ #22, for more information.
e. BGCHS employees should obtain their supervisor’s approval using a registration
form the school chooses before setting up a professional social media presence.
This approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. BGCHS will provide
supervisors with a sample registration form.
f. If a professional social media site undergoes a significant change (for example, a
Facebook page being used to share questions about reading assignments will now
be used to share ideas with a class at a school in another country), consider
whether a revised registry form and revised parental notification is needed. As
needed, schools can continue to inform families about newly created social media
sites.
g. The principal and their designees are responsible for maintaining a list of all
professional social media accounts within their particular school or office.
h. Professional BGCHS social media sites should include language identifying the
sites as professional social media BGCHS sites to differentiate from personal
sites. For example, the professional sites can identify the BGCHS class, activity,
or particular grade that is utilizing the site. See FAQ 11 for more information.
i. Individuals that wish to create a social media presence for their professional
purpose should work with the technology office, or other designee of the
principal to insure guidelines are being followed.

j. Professional social media sites (including those that are not school-based) should
have a clear relationship to the mission and function of BGCHS.
k. BGCHS employees should use privacy settings to control access to their
professional social media sites with the objective that professional social media
communications only reach the intended audience. However, BGCHS employees
should be aware that there are limitations to privacy settings. Private
communication published on the Internet can easily become public. Furthermore,
social media sites can change their current default privacy settings and other
functions. As a result, each employee has a responsibility to understand the rules
of the social media site being utilized.
l. Professional social media communication must be in compliance with the
BGCHS Network Acceptable Use and Safety Policy, other BGCHS policies and
25
 applicable laws, including, but not limited to, prohibitions on the disclosure of
confidential information and prohibitions on the use of harassing, obscene,
discriminatory, defamatory or threatening language.
m. No personally identifiable student information may be posted on professional
social media sites that are open beyond the classroom. If images of students are
to be posted online there must be a media consent form on file at the school for
each child featured.
n. BGCHS students who participate in professional social media sites may not be
permitted to post photographs or videos featuring other students without the
approval of the teacher or other BGCHS employee responsible for the site.
o. It is not recommended that BGCHS employees post photos of other BGCHS
employees on professional social media sites without prior permission of the
photographed employee.
p. If the owner of the professional site decides to no longer maintain or be active on
the site, login information and control of the site should revert to the school
administration who may decide to assign control of the account to another
employee or volunteer. In this way disruptions can be minimized and the value
and support for students/families can continue even as employees and volunteers
change over time.

4. Monitoring of Professional Social Media Sites

a. BGCHS supervisors, or their designees, are responsible for monitoring and
providing feedback regarding their employees’ professional social media sites.
The monitoring responsibilities include reviewing the professional social media
sites on a regular basis. If supervisors discover questionable communications or
behavior on professional social media sites, they are required to contact the
appropriate authorities for assistance.8

b. BGCHS supervisors (i.e., principal/designee, etc.) reserve the right to remove

postings and/or disable a page, of professional social media sites that do not
adhere to the law or do not reasonably align with these Guidelines.
c. Employees using professional social media have no expectation of privacy with
regard to their use of such media. BGCHS supervisors, or their designees, will
regularly monitor professional social media sites to protect the school
community. The person creating the site must assist in enabling monitoring and
must not interfere with reasonable attempts to monitor the site and postings

5. Press Inquiries
a. Any press inquiries received via professional social media sites should be referred
to the BGCHS President or Principal

E. Personal Social Media Use

1. Communication with BGCHS Students

In order to maintain a professional and appropriate relationship with students, BGCHS
employees, coaches, volunteers, and other adults associated with the school should not
communicate9 with students who are currently enrolled in BGCHS schools on personal

8 Existing BGCHS reporting requirements must be followed.

9

26
 social media sites. BGCHS employees’ communication with BGCHS students via
personal social media is subject to the following exceptions: (a) communication with
relatives and personal family friends established prior to attending BGCHS, outside and
apart from the school (b) if an emergency situation requires such communication, in
which case the BGCHS employee should notify his/her supervisor of the contact as soon
as possible.

2. Guidance Regarding Personal Social Media Sites

BGCHS employees should exercise caution and common sense when using personal
social media sites:
a. As a recommended practice, BGCHS employees are encouraged to use
appropriate privacy settings to control access to their personal social media sites.
However, be aware that there are limitations to privacy settings. Private
communication published on the Internet can easily become public. Furthermore,
social media sites can change their current default privacy settings and other
functions. As a result, employees are responsible for understanding the rules of
the social media site being utilized.
b. It is not recommended that BGCHS employees “tag” photos of other BGCHS
employees, BGCHS volunteers, BGCHS contractors or BGCHS vendors without
the prior permission of the individuals being tagged.
c. Personal social media use, including off-hours use, has the potential to result in
disruption at school and/or the workplace, and can be in violation of BGCHS
policies.
d. The posting or disclosure of personally identifiable student information or
confidential information via personal social media sites, is prohibited.
e. BGCHS employees should not use the BGCHS’s logo or make representations
that their personal social media sites speak in an official BGCHS capacity. Use of
the BGCHS logo that is automatically populated on personal social media sites,
such as LinkedIn, is permitted.
f. Notwithstanding the guidelines above, postings by a BGCHS employee may be
protected activity under applicable labor laws and collective bargaining
agreements.

F. Applicability of BGCHS Policies and Other Laws

1. These Guidelines provide guidance intended to supplement, not supersede, existing
BGCHS policies and laws. Users of professional social media sites must comply with all
applicable federal, state and local laws, including, but not limited to the Children’s
Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) (http://business.ftc.gov/privacy-and-
security/children), Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
(http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/index.html), and intellectual property laws.
2. Public social media are not intended for the use of children under the age of 13. Any site
that is oriented toward youth between the ages of 13 and 18 must require registration for
all users and must be password-protected so that only registered users may access the
site. Users of such a site may not post images of minors without the prior written
consent of a parent or legal guardian of any minor depicted. The school may maintain
this permission; site owners are encouraged to verify that permission is on file with the
school.
3. Anyone who submits content online must comply fully with copyright law. Any posting
of materials to social media must adhere to all copyright laws. Images and other

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 materials from the school websites will not be copied and uploaded to other forums
without the prior written consent of the Principal or designee.
4. BGCHS employees who are mandated reporters10 are required to abide by the same
reporting responsibilities in a social media context.

G. Additional Inquiries
This document is meant to provide general guidance and does not cover every potential
social media situation. Should any questions arise, please contact the BGCHS President or
Principal.

H. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General
1. Why is the BGCHS issuing guidance regarding social media?

Social media technology offers many educational benefits. BGCHS is issuing this
guidance to provide recommended practices for employees to take advantage of this
technology in a manner that encourages professionalism, responsibility, safety, and
awareness. In addition, these Guidelines provide recommended best practices for
employees who use social media for personal communications.

2. May BGCHS parents, students and employees provide feedback on these Guidelines?

Yes. BGCHS welcomes feedback regarding these Guidelines and the FAQs. Because
technology and best practices change rapidly, BGCHS plans to review and update its
guidance as necessary.

3. Do the Guidelines apply to all BGCHS employees or just school-based employees?

The Guidelines apply to all BGCHS employees: school-based staff, as well as coaches,
activity moderators, parent volunteers, religious clergy, and others who interact with
students or represent the school with students and the public.

4. Do the Guidelines apply to e-mails, video chat, and instant messaging?

No. The Guidelines apply to sites that are used primarily for the purpose of social media
as defined in Section B. BGCHS is not including, nor do the Guidelines address, sites
that are primarily utilized for one-to-one communication such as e-mail, Voice Over
Internet Protocol (such as Skype or Facetime), or chat (such as Gchat or AIM).

5. What are some common types of social media?

Blogs - Short for ‘web-logs’, these are sites that can function as ongoing journals with
multiple entries. Typically, entries are categorized with ‘tags’ for easy searching. Most
blogs allow for reader comments. Examples: Blogger, Wordpress, TypePad.

10 Various BGCHS Regulations impose reporting requirements on employees for issues such as child abuse, child
maltreatment, school-related incidents and crimes, abuse, unlawful discrimination or harassment by employees,
student-to-student sexual harassment, and student-to-student bias based harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying.
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 Micro-Blogs - These blogs allow for shorter content posts, typically with a limited set of
typed characters allowed. Micro-blogs can be used for status updates and to quickly
communicate information to ‘friends’ or ‘followers.’ Examples: Twitter, Tumblr.
Networking - These sites allow people to connect with each other around common
interests, pursuits and other categories. Examples: Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, Ning,
Pintrest.
Photo/Video - These sites allow people to share videos, images, slideshows, and other
media. Often these sites allow viewers to comment and share posted content. Examples:
YouTube, Vimeo, Flickr, Instagram, Snapchat.

6. The Guidelines state that they are intended to supplement not supersede, existing
BGCHS policies, What does this mean?

This means that all social media use should be in compliance with existing Regulations,
BGCHS policies, and applicable laws. Therefore, before using a student’s name or other
personally identifiable information on social media, BGCHS employees should pay
attention to legal precautions linked to individual students and the Network Acceptable
Use and Safety Policy

Personal Social Media Sites

7. Why is it a recommended practice to have separate professional and personal social
media sites and e-mail addresses?

The reason for this distinction is to ensure separation between personal and professional
spheres of online communication for BGCHS employees. In this context, this separation
is intended to clarify that professional social media and personal social media are
different. Professional social media is work-related and may involve employee-to-
student communication. Personal social media is not work-related and, subject to certain
exceptions noted in the Guidelines, does not involve employee-to-student
communication.

8. May BGCHS employees using social media for personal use communicate with BGCHS
colleagues?

These Guidelines do not address communication between employees on personal social

media sites. BGCHS employees who use personal social media are encouraged to use
appropriate privacy settings to control access to their personal social media sites.

9. What are recommended best practices for BGCHS employees with personal social media
sites that are professional in nature and involve students but are unrelated to the
BGCHS? For example, a BGCHS staff member who runs a book club in their free time.
Employees should follow the identified best practices as stated in the Guidelines.
Employees should think about their privacy settings and limit their audience. Also
remember, even though an employee is “off the clock,” students will think of the
employee as an authority figure. If an employee discovers that he or she is engaging with
BGCHS students through social media in this type of activity, the BGCHS employee
should notify the students’ parents or guardians.

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Employees
10. What if BGCHS employees are already using social media for either professional or
personal purposes?

Professional social media use: BGCHS employees currently using social media for
professional purposes should examine whether their use aligns with the Social Media
Guidelines and these FAQs. Any use not consistent with these documents should be
altered or amended within a reasonable period of time. We will answer any questions
and address concerns during training sessions. If employees have linked a professional
social media site to a personal e-mail address, they should transition the site to a
professional e-mail address.
Personal social media use: The Guidelines recommend that BGCHS employees who use
social media for personal purposes should remove current BGCHS students, from those
sites. There are exceptions noted in the Guidelines.
Employees should periodically review the Social Media Guidelines and FAQ – which
will be updated as needed – to ensure familiarity with the recommended practices.
BGCHS will notify employees when the Guidelines are updated. School administrators
will ensure their teachers and other staff are informed.

11. When using social media, when and where should the BGCHS logo be used?

The BGCHS logo should be used for official BGCHS business. Websites that officially
represent a school may use the BGCHS logo. BGCHS employees should not use the logo
if they are creating a non-official communication. A blog, for example, where an
employee discusses education, but where the employee does not officially represent
BGCHS, should not have the BGCHS logo. Please note that when a social media site,
such as LinkedIn and Facebook, generates the BGCHS logo automatically, it does not
pose a problem.

12. What other technology-related guidance exists to guide BGCHS employees participating
in social media?

BGCHS’s Network Acceptable Use and Safety Policy (IAUSP) governs all electronic
activity of users using and accessing BGCHS’s network, including e-mail. Student use
of BGCHS Internet systems, including social media, is also governed by the IAUSP and
applicable law.

13. Who monitors professional social media sites and how frequently are they monitored?
The Guidelines recommend that professional social media sites should be reviewed and
monitored by supervisors, or their designees, on a regular basis.
The specific frequency and level of review required for each professional social media
site will depend on the particular characteristics of the site. Sites that are interactive, for
example, those that allow comments and posting, should be monitored more closely.
Other factors that impact the frequency include the level of privacy assigned to the site,
specifically, whether the site is a private network (for example, limited to a particular
class) or a public network (open to anyone within the school or a larger group within the
BGCHS community). Employees who decide to establish professional social media sites
can engage in a voluntary review of their specific site on a regular basis.

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 14. What should BGCHS employees who want to develop professional social media for their
classroom, school, or office do?

Employees should review the Social Media Guidelines and FAQ periodically to ensure
that they are familiar with their contents and are aware of any updates. Employees
should research and familiarize themselves with the social media site they intend to
utilize.
If the proposed professional social media use involves students, employees are required
to review the social media site’s regulations and determine at what age children are
allowed to use the site. For example, if a teacher planned to create a Facebook page for
his class, he would learn that Facebook requires users to be 13 or older to use their site
and insure that every student is above this age.

Employees should understand the default privacy and viewing settings for the social
media site. Where possible, we recommend that BGCHS employees establish groups or
pages, rather than individual profiles, for educational purposes.

School Leaders

15. How does BGCHS address parents expressed concerns about their children’s use of
social media?

BGCHS recognizes the powerful benefits for students, teachers, and school communities
through the thoughtful use of social media. After understanding the benefits and reasons
for social media use, if parents have concerns the school will address them on a case by
case basis for the benefit of the student. We inform parents of the opportunities social
media will provide with respect to college and career readiness. Families should know
that use of technology, and more specifically technology-based tools, is an important
piece of what it means to be work-ready in today’s society.

Skills learned by using social media responsibly cover all five of the most frequently
reported applied skills employers rated as “very important:” Professionalism/Work Ethic,
Oral and Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration, Critical Thinking/Problem
Solving and Ethics/Social Responsibility, as reported in a study entitled Are they Really
Ready to Work?, highlighting employers’ perspectives on skills needed for the 21st
century workforce.

16. What are effective methods that BG administrators may use to monitor information that
is posted on professional social media sites?

Maintain a register of all professional social media sites being created and used by
faculty, staff, coaches and volunteers,
Designate an administrative point person,
Ask to be made a member of all professional social media sites to view posted materials,
Depending on the site, set up e-mail notifications to alert you when any new material is
posted,
Consider having more than one person monitor the sites set up for professional use, and
prioritize which sites need to be monitored more frequently.

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 Highlight examples of model social media usage as training for others.

17. Certain social media sites are blocked at school. How can we access blocked websites?

If the Principal agrees, a site can be unblocked.

Teachers and Other School-Based Staff

18. What happens if a BGCHS employee changes the privacy or access level of a social
media site beyond what was initially approved during the school year?

If the professional social media site undergoes a significant change (for example, a
Facebook page being used to share questions about reading assignments will now be
used to share ideas with a class at a school in another country), the BGCHS employee
should inform the principal.

19. Should parents be notified regarding their child’s social media use for school-related
activities?

Yes. BGCHS will notify parents on an annual basis if their child is invited to participate
in professional social media activities. Parents who have questions or concerns about
their child's use of social media for school purposes should contact the school for more
information.

20. The Guidelines recommend that principal (or their designees) have administrator rights.
Does this mean that teachers or school-based staff are required to hand over their
professional social media username and password to principals and their designees?

It does not. Teachers and staff can give the principal or principal’s designee
administrator access to a site. The purpose is to provide supervisors with limited access,
using their own log-in username and password. For example, if a teacher is out
recovering from an extended illness, the principal or designee, or network point person
can continue to monitor the professional social media site.

21. Are teachers mandated reporters when it comes to online activity?

Yes. Teachers are mandated reporters.

Relating to Students
24. How should BGCHS employees or other associated adults respond to “friend” requests
by current BGCHS students on their personal social media sites and accounts?
If BGCHS employees or associated adult receives a request from a current BGCHS
student to connect or communicate through a personal social media site, they should
decline the request.
Here’s a suggested response: “Please do not be offended, but I cannot accept your
request. As a BGCHS employee, it’s best for us to communicate using my professional
social media account. The school’s Social Media Guidelines discourage interactions with
current BGCHS students on personal social media sites. If you do want to connect,

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 please contact me through the school (or class) page or group at ____ [insert link to your
page].”

25. What should BGCHS personnel do when they discover or receive a report of
inappropriate activity?
They should report it to the BGCHS principal or president and the person who
administers the social media site. They may also be required to report it to legal
authorities depending on the nature of the inappropriate activity.

26. How can BGCHS employees and supervisors determine what constitutes confidential
information or personally identifiable student information that should not be posted or
disclosed? What about graded work?

Posting student names, contact information, graded material, etc. may be in violation.
Questions should be addressed to the principal or president.

27. Are teachers or other school-based staff personally liable for student posts on
professional social media sites?

No. For example, if a teacher views an inappropriate post, the teacher is required to
follow existing BGCHS regulations regarding reporting obligations. BGCHS also
recommends that teachers act as moderators for professional social media sites – and that
students should not be able to post on professional social media sites without teacher
approval.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

The school Sexual Harassment Policy is on file in the office for reference.

SMOKING AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Smoking and the use of any other tobacco products are prohibited in the school, on school
grounds, and at school sponsored events.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SAP)

The Student Assistance Program (SAP) Team comprises mental health liaisons, drug and alcohol
liaisons, school administrators, school guidance counselor and teachers. Child protective
services note that teachers serve as loco parents and are responsible for the health and safety of
students. Teachers should utilize the Student Assistance Program (SAP) referral system to alert
the Counseling Office of concerns involving the health and safety of students.

STUDENT REVIEW

Yearly, every teacher shall request from the students in each class a written review of the course
work and instruction given during the year. This is an opportunity for students to provide

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feedback and suggestions as to what was or was not effective and as an aid to instructional
improvement. Student reviews should be kept on file for a year, available if need arises.

STUDENT SURVEYS

Student Participation in Third-Party Surveys

Consent Required Before Student Participation in a Federally Funded Survey, Analysis, or
Evaluation
A student will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or
evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns:
• Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent.
• Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family.
• Sexual behavior or attitudes.
• Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.
• Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family relationship.
• Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and
ministers.
• Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents.
• Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to determine the
student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance
under such a program.

Parents have a right to receive notice of and deny permission for your child’s participation in:
• Any survey concerning the private information listed above, regardless of funding.
• School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information
gathered from your child for the purpose of marketing, selling, or otherwise disclosing
that information. Note that this does not apply to the collection, disclosure, or use of
personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing,
evaluating, or providing educational products or services for, or to, students or
educational institutions.
• Any nonemergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a condition
of attendance, administered and scheduled by the school in advance and not necessary to
protect the immediate health and safety of the student. Exceptions are hearing, vision, or
scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state
law.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

When a teacher is absent or otherwise unable to be at an assigned duty, another teacher may be
asked to substitute. The following directives are intended to make the substitution process as
easy and clear as possible for all concerned.
The Class Teacher:
1. All materials that a substitute may need (seating charts, assignments, etc.)
should be on the desk or in a top drawer, clearly visible.
2. Each teacher should have an emergency assignment prepared for every class.
Every period assignment should be in a separate, clearly labeled folder or
envelope and left in the desk in the room in which the class is held. These
assignments will be used only when a regular assignment cannot be provided.

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 Once the emergency assignment has been used, another should be immediately
prepared. In no case should students simply be given a general study period.
3. The substitute is ordinarily not expected to teach the class; therefore, directions
for the students should be simple, clear, and brief. If the assignment includes
handouts or other materials, the class teacher should provide them.
4. Assignments should be meaningful; students must be held accountable for
them. All assignments are to be graded and returned to students.
5. Reports prepared by the substitute should be reviewed and completed by the
subject teacher and turned in to the office.

The Substitute Teacher:

1. Substitutes should check roll immediately and report to the office any absences
not listed on the daily absentee bulletin.
2. Substitutes are responsible for seeing that students work on the assignment left
by the class teacher; students are not to be excused from that work.
3. A “Substitute Teacher Report” is to be completed for every period covered and
the form placed in the regular teacher’s mailbox.

SUPERVISION/EVALUATION

The school administration is responsible for supervising and evaluating all professional
employees. The primary purpose of supervision and evaluation is to help professional
employees achieve greater success in their position and to maintain excellence in the school’s
academic program.

Classroom observations will be unannounced. A formal classroom observation form will be

completed for most period-long classroom observations.

Formal evaluations/rating of all professional employees will be in compliance with provisions

found in the contract between Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School, Inc., and the Bishop
Guilfoyle Catholic High School Teachers Association. Non-tenured professional employees will
be formally evaluated/rated at least once each semester. Tenured professional employees will be
evaluated/rated at least once each school year. Evaluations/ratings may occur on a more frequent
basis.

SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS

Teachers are required to be in their classrooms during the assigned times to supervise the
students under their care. This directive applies also to other assigned duties (lunches, studies,
assemblies, etc.) and extracurricular activities for which any teacher is responsible. At no time is
any student or group of students to be alone and unsupervised by a school educator/moderator.

STUDENT SUSPENSIONS PROCEDURES

In School Suspensions

The office will email teachers on Friday of each week prior to a scheduled in-school suspension
students assigned to in-school suspension for the following week. An assignment form will be
attached to the email.

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Teachers must return to the office an assignment form for their students assigned to in-school
suspension. The assignment sheet can be emailed or a hard copy of the assignment form can be
returned. The assignment sheet, along with any handouts, tests, or other materials needed to
complete the assignment, must be returned to the school office no later than 7:50 AM on the day
of the assigned in-school suspension.

Student assignments will be placed in the teachers’ mailboxes.

Teachers may assign work that is scheduled for his/her class period on the day of the in-school
suspension or may assign alternative work. In-school assignments may be graded assignments.

Out of School Suspensions

The office will notify teachers if a student from his/her class is assigned an out-of-school
suspension.

For one (1) day out-of-school suspensions, the student will be responsible for checking with
his/her teachers for any missed work during the suspension.

For two (2) or more days of out-of-school suspensions, teachers will be emailed directives for
providing assignments for the student(s) assigned to the multiple day out-of-school suspension.

TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS

Requests for equipment must be made to the Technology Coordinator. Requests are to be made
in advance of the needed date, please submit to the Technology Coordinator. All materials and
equipment should be returned promptly after use.

Requests for technology repairs/services are to be entered on the on-line (in-house) PR system.
Instructions are on the IT website.

Requests to use school equipment outside the school building must be made to the Technology
Coordinator, indicating dates and purpose.

TECHNOLOGY LABS

Use of the Anthony Misciagna Technology Center and other computer labs is a privilege
afforded to the students and personnel of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. Careful
supervision of students is the responsibility of every teacher who uses the Center/Lab for class
work. Failure to observe the rules and general expectations will result in loss of Technology Lab
privileges, including first and foremost the opportunity to use the Center. Teachers who take
their classes to the Center must sign up in advance.

TELEPHONE / CELL PHONES

Teachers may not make or receive phone calls during school time except in emergencies. Calls
should be made before or after school or at lunch time. Office telephones are to be used only for
necessary school business calls.

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TEXT MESSAGING

Text messaging, multimedia messages, and other forms of person to person communication
between students and adults can be useful tools for educational purposes. These communications
must adhere to the follow rules:
• Inappropriate content is not permissible. If you would not share it with a responsible
adult face to face, do not send it electronically.
• Adults should use group texting websites to communicate with students rather than one-
to-one.
• Parents and supervisors are to be invited to join the group text.
• Adults are to keep a record of all texts sent and received to/from students.

TRAFFIC FLOW – START & END OF DAY

To help alleviate traffic congestion and to better assure student safety at the start and end of the
school day, the following traffic flow patterns are instituted for all vehicles entering and leaving
school grounds between 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM and 2:15 PM – 2:45 PM:

1. School buses will enter school grounds by way of Hudson Avenue, drive
toward the gymnasium entrance, drop off students, loop around, and exit
school grounds by way of Hudson Avenue.
2. Family members and friends who are dropping students off at school will
enter school grounds by way of Hudson Avenue, drive toward the
gymnasium entrance, drop off students, exit school grounds by way of
Pleasant Valley Boulevard.
3. Students who drive to school will enter school grounds by way of Hudson
Avenue and then park in their assigned parking spaces. At the end of the school
day, all student drivers will leave school grounds by way of Hudson Avenue.

VAN USAGE POLICY

Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School provides two twelve-passenger vans for the purpose of
student transportation for school related events and activities. The following is the policy for its
proper usage.

All operators of the vans must have approval from the Business Office. Approval is obtained by
completing a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) application. MVR’s must be completed a minimum
of 3 days in advance for a new driver. MVR’s are required annually for all drivers. All drivers
are fully insured by Bishop Guilfoyle.

Van usage is scheduled through the main office. Van keys are stored in the main office. Keys
need to be returned to the main office or placed in the after-hours drop box after use, located at
the main entrance of the school. If usage needs to occur over the weekend, the driver will need to
obtain a drop box key during normal business hours on Friday from the main office or athletic
office to retrieve the keys. Fuel cards may be stored in the van console compartment.

Vans are for the purpose of transporting students. If there are adult groups who choose to use the
van for a school-related activity, this usage must be approved. Student groups take precedence
and priority over adult groups.

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School vans are exclusively for transporting Bishop Guilfoyle students, Bishop Guilfoyle
employees, and Bishop Guilfoyle Volunteers. Family members and/or friends are prohibited to
be passengers in the vans.

Each driver should scan the body of the van for any visible damage or defects prior to operation.
If any issues are found, the driver should report them to main office.

VIRTUAL SCHOOL DAYS

Virtual school days will be automatically implemented on weather-related school cancellations.

Also, planned virtual days may be implemented throughout the school year.

Guidelines:
Students are required to email their attendance in to their period one teacher on the virtual day
only between 6:00 am and 11:00 am. The students’ emails need to simply state that they are
checking in for the day. Any student who fails to report their attendance will be marked absent
for the day (student handbook guidelines on attendance will apply to virtual days).

First period teachers are required to submit via email their class attendance to the school office
(nmcconnell@bguilfoyle.org). A report must be submitted even if no students are absent.

All teachers are required to post via eBackpack an instructional, student-engaged assignment.
Assignments result in a flow of continuity of instruction and require student accountability such
as posts to discussion boards or submitting student work.

Students are required to log into their eBackpack account to access and complete the posted
assignments for each of their scheduled classes. Students must complete and submit all posted
work by 8:00 pm. Students are to email their teachers if they have any questions or concerns
about the posted lesson or assignment. Each teacher will determine the means for students to
submit classwork for the day, i.e. email, eBackpack, discussion board, etc.

Teachers are required to check their school email during required “office hours” (10:00 am –
5:00 pm) and respond to student questions or concerns about the posted lesson or assignment.

FACULTY MANUAL - SPECIFIC TEACHER INFORMATION

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Teachers who wish to make announcements are to email the announcement to the office. All
announcements must be signed by the teacher/moderator responsible and submitted to the office
by 7:45 A.M. Announcements are made each morning.

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES

1. Attendance must be taken at the beginning of the first period of the school day and
reported to the school office.
Teachers are to record in PowerSchool all absences from class for every class period.

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2. If a student arrives late for class, the teacher asks for the signed hall pass. If the pass is
unsigned or missing, the student is issued a demerit. NOTE: Teachers should not detain
students from any class except in emergencies.
3. Students returning after an absence must have an admit slip in order to be admitted to
classes; that slip must be signed by the teacher in each class. The Admit Slip will specify
the absence as Excused or Unexcused.
4. Students who are absent from class for any reason are responsible for making up all
work. Make-up work for an excused absence receives credit; for an unexcused absence,
no credit.
5. Occasionally, a student may be out of school for an extended period. Notice will be sent
to teachers who may then arrange with the parent/student for any make-up work. At
times, requests may be made from the main or guidance offices for ongoing work
assignments. When requests are made, teachers should provide their assignments by the
end of the school day or make them known via e-mail to the office.
6. Students who arrive at first period class after 7:53 AM are considered tardy and must
report to the office for a Tardy Slip.
7. First period teachers are to take an accurate attendance count and promptly forward the
information to the office.
8. Teachers must call the main office to report the name of any student who is absent from
any class or homeroom and whose name is not listed on the school absentee report.
These calls must be made at the beginning of the class period or homeroom period.
9. School policy requires a doctor’s excuse for any students after ten (10) total days’
absence. Attendance and classroom participation are important parts of grading.
Absenteeism results in lack of class participation and therefore will directly affect a
student’s grades. Ordinarily, students who miss thirty (30), fifteen (15) for semester
course, or more school days will not receive credit for the current year’s courses. Student
who are tardy thirty (30) or more school days will not receive credit for their period one
(1) class.
10. Occasionally, a student may be suspended from classes. Assignments must be provided
promptly upon request from the office. Students who miss classes because of suspension
must make up and receive credit for all tests, assignments, and class work missed during
the suspension. A grade of “0” is recorded for any work not made up.
11. When one or more school district dismissed from school early due to a inclement weather
or other emergency, teachers must take attendance at the beginning of each period for the
remainder of the school day and notify the school office if any student is absent from
class but not noted on the daily bulletin.

CLASSROOM PROCEDURES

1. Each class begins with reverent, unhurried prayer, traditional or spontaneous, led by the
teacher or a student.
2. All absences from every class are recorded in PowerSchool. Admit slips are submitted
and signed. Students without required admit slips are sent to the office.
3. Up-to-date seating charts should be readily available on the top of the desk.
4. Students are to be on task and appropriately supervised for the entire class period.
5. A reasonable amount of homework is an important part of classroom instruction,
learning, and grading. Students must be held accountable for work done outside of class
and for work assigned when the teacher is absent.
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 6. At the end of the class period, students are not permitted to leave class until verbally
dismissed by the teacher. Students are to remain in their assigned seats until dismissed
by the teacher. Teachers must be at their doorway at the beginning and end of the period;
this will help assure that students enter and leave the classroom in an orderly fashion.
7. Teachers may not excuse a student from attending a class for any reason, including the
request of another teacher, except with permission of an administrator or request from the
school counselor.
8. Teacher proctors (study halls, substitutes, etc.) must take care to be aware at all times of
what each student is doing and keep all students on task.
9. Teachers are responsible for the care and appearance of each room they use. Bulletin
boards are to be kept neat and timely with material appropriate to the course being taught.
Any damage to property and/or littering must be dealt with directly and firmly, and the
situation rectified. Teachers are also responsible for books assigned to students. A
record of book numbers is kept on file.
10. Students who become ill or suffer injury during school time are sent to the office with a
properly authorized pass or a call to the office. Students are never to be sent directly to
the nurse’s room. If a student is unable to go to the office, a school official should be
notified immediately. All student medications are kept in the school office and
administered there.
11. Teachers must step into the hall or to be at their doors to help regulate and control the
flow of traffic during class change.
12. Teachers are responsible for enforcing the school’s dress code. Specifics of the dress
code policy are in the Student Handbook.
13. Students are never to be excused to go anywhere without a hall pass and authorized by a
teacher. Only official school passes may be used.
14. Permission to leave classes for any reason, particularly for lavatory purposes, should be
given only when there is real need. Students who habitually ask to be excused from class
should be discouraged from this practice. Hall passes should be examined carefully when
they are presented; patterns and excessive use of the pass should be noted and use of the
pass restricted accordingly. Only one student at a time may be excused for the lavatory.
15. In addition to the use of the hall pass, students who leave a room during class periods are
to sign the sign-out sheet when they leave class and when they return to class. These
records of student movement may be requested by the office when need dictates.

16. Teachers may not request that students be excused from another teacher’s class without
permission from the school administration. If the students’ names are listed on the
absentee bulletin as excused, permission has been given.
17. Behavior problems are to be handled with the individual student. Disciplinary measures
should not involve the entire class.
18. Grades shall not be used to maintain class control or to punish students for misconduct.
19. Use of class periods for activities other than instruction must be approved by the
Principal.
20. Classroom management should be fair and consistent; students should know what to
expect from the teacher. A serious approach to the students and the subject goes a long
way toward maintaining a disciplined, pleasant atmosphere in the classroom. Students
should, when necessary, be corrected quietly. Most problems can be dealt with after
class. Also essential to effective management of the students is the maintenance of good
relationship and communication with their parents.

DUTIES
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Any teacher may be assigned duties that the principal or the principal’s delegate deems necessary
for the good running of the school. All teachers are expected to be on duty for retreats, Masses,
Penance services and other religious activities, and all assemblies and gatherings. Other duties
may include substituting for absent teachers, monitoring special programs/activities during the
school day, inventorying textbooks, supervising standardized testing, monitoring corridors and
other school areas, and similar needs.

HALL MONITORING

Hall monitoring in the morning requires that teachers be in the hall outside their assigned
classroom from 7:45-7:53 AM. During that time, teachers are to keep students moving toward
their classrooms and monitor student behavior. Students are not permitted to run, push, or shout
in the halls or stair areas. They are to move into the classrooms as quickly as possible. During
the school day, teachers are to step out into the halls to facilitate class changes after each period.
At the end of the school day, teachers should supervise orderly dismissal procedures.

LESSON PLANS / SEATING CHARTS

Daily lesson plans for each class are to be completed and maintained by the teacher each week.
Teachers are required to present lesson plans to administration upon request. Lesson plans must
follow the lesson plan template outline provided by administration. Daily plans should include
planned course of study topic, objective, procedure/technology application, and evaluation of the
lesson. Lesson plans are derived from and complete the year long course of studies developed
by each teacher for each subject taught.

Each teacher is responsible for maintaining updated seating charts for all classes they instruct,
including those held in the Technology Center. Seating charts are to be kept in a visible location
on the desk. A copy must be on file in the office and one in the emergency plan folder.

HOMEROOM
Homeroom is usually scheduled on Thursday mornings. Students may not leave homeroom for
any reason without a hall pass. Homeroom teachers are expected to assist with homeroom
activities and approved projects.

MOVIES, TAPES, DVDS

All movies, tapes, DVDs, and other similar materials used in the classroom must have a justified
educational purpose and must directly relate to the lesson as specified in the teacher’s lesson
plan. All such materials must be previewed by the teacher, be age appropriate, and fall in line
with the morals and values of the Catholic church.

SYLLABUS

Students will receive a syllabus for each scheduled course. It must be signed by the student and
a parent and returned to the teacher. A copy of the syllabus is due in to the office by August 1st
prior to the opening of the school year.

STUDENT iPADS

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Teachers are to monitor students’ use of iPads. Teachers should conduct routine checks to
monitor that students are in compliance with appropriate use of iPads. Teachers are expected to
communicate their classroom policies and expectations relative to students’ classroom use of
iPads.

TEACHER RESOURCES

Teachers’ assessment should be unique to the teacher and class; noting that many teacher
resources are available online and accessible by students.

TESTING

Teachers are required to monitor and facilitate school-wide testing as directed or assigned.
Teachers are required to actively supervise students throughout the assigned testing period.
Teachers should not be seated during the testing period.

THREAT ASSESSMENT PROCEDURE

Scope
The purpose of this procedure is to provide a mechanism to assure that threats of violence in the
school environment are addressed, whenever possible, before they are carried out. The protocol
is intended to identify credible threats of violence and address those threats and the individual
making the threat.

Threats outlined in these guidelines include but are not limited to those made: on school
property, during a school session, anywhere at a school sponsored function, before and after
school while under the supervision of the school, or Internet threats that materialized and
substantially disrupts the operations of the school or the administration reasonably anticipate that
the expression or conduct is likely to materialize and substantially disrupts the operation of the
school.

Threat Assessment Team*

Principal, Assistant Principal, School Counselors, Student Assistant Program (SAP) Liaison,
Mental Health Liaison, Police Services Liaison
*Stakeholder Educational Rights

Definitions
Threats – an expression of intent to do harm or act pout violently against someone or something.
Posing a threat means engaging in behaviors that further a plan to harm a target. Examples
include but are not limited to: threats made directly against students, school officials or school
property; wirings, artwork, communications, or behaviors suggesting a student’s intent to harm;
allegations of bomb-making or possession of a firearm by a student; or direct or indirect threats
that may be written, verbal, posted on the Internet, or made by gesture.

Early Warning Signs – those behavioral and emotional signs that, when viewed in context, cause
concern for members of the school system. A combination of events, behaviors, and emotions
may lead to aggressive or violent behavior toward self or others. Early warning signs call for a
referral to the threat assessment team.

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Imminent Warning Signs – those that indicate a student is very close to behaving in a way that is
potentially dangerous to self and/or others. Imminent warning signs require an immediate school
and law enforcement response.

Precipitating Events – recent events or “triggers” which may increase potential for violence.

Threat Assessment Inquiry – initiated and controlled by the school threat assessment team

Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School recognizes that threats are a significant concern to the
school environment. Whether real and carried out or intended as a prank or for some other
purpose, a threat represents a potential danger to the safety and welfare of the students and staff.
Any threat will be regarded as a serious matter and treated accordingly.

Procedure
Reporting Requirements:
Students, staff, volunteers, and agency personnel in the school comminute have the responsibility
to report immediately all threats of violence or harm. Any student, parent, or school staff
member, upon receiving information that a person is threatening shall assume the threat is
serious and immediately report the threat to a school administrator or law enforcement officer. If
the alleged act appears to represent an immediate threat of harm the principal will immediately
contact the police service liaison and President.

Other information indicating a concern that a student may pose a threat of violence should be
reported to the principal. The threat assessment team will identify a point of contact of the
building and inform all members of school team.

Prior to any threat assessment protocol being implemented, all students, staff, and parents shall
be provided with information about the protocol and procedures. This will serve as notice that
threat behavior will not be tolerated. This notice shall be given at least annually and as deemed
necessary by the administration.

Students, staff, and parents should be advised on the kinds of information that should be brought
forward regarding potential threats of violence.

Threat Assessment Team: A trained threat assessment team should be comprised of school
administrators, law enforcement, school counselors/school psychologists, mental health
professional liaison, and Student Assistance Program (SAP) members.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Any school administrator who becomes aware of a threat shall determine whether the
information warrants convening the threat assessment team or referring for immediate law
enforcement intervention. If it is determined that the threat assessment team should not be
convened and law enforcement intervention is not necessary, the incident will be documented for
future reference.

The principal shall be the designated point of contact for the threat assessment team. Individuals
who have information about students that is cause for concern should provide that information to
the principal.

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The principal or designee shall initiate the protocol for convening the threat assessment team.
The roles and responsibilities of the threat assessment team are to gather and analyze information
about the behavior and communications of the students of concern. To achieve this goal, the
threat assessment team will: Use all available resources to assess the seriousness of the threat and
will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of the school community.

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TEACHER ROLES REGARDING SAFE SCHOOLS

• Be familiar with and follow all school district/building policies and procedures, including
crisis/emergency procedures, screening and visitor procedures, and other security
measures.
• Participate in the overall safety of the school. Check your work area and report anything
suspicious.
• Ask visitors to the building to state their name, purpose, and remind them to register in
the main office. Question visitors without badges and direct/escort them to the main
office.
• Supervise students (halls, gym, classroom, cafeteria, parking lots, locker rooms, etc.).
• Be observant, recognize the signs of bullying behaviors, and intervene immediately.
• Be calm in dealing with a hostile student. Sarcasm and threats cause more conflict and
escalates the situation.
• Be familiar with the early and imminent warning signs for school violence.
• Report threats immediately to school administration. Report all concerns regaining
health, safety, and welfare to the counselor, principal, or Student Assistance Team.
• Execute protective actions for students as directed by the school administration or
designee. Take practice drills seriously and direct students to do so.
• Take your gradebook and/or roster with you for all drills and incidents. Assemble and
account for students. Report the names of any students that are unaccounted for (e.g.
using the color card system).
• In the case of an evacuation, travel with students and assist in reunification with parents.
• Understand the importance of confidentiality, maintaining accurate information, and
relaying information to others.
• Be proactive in connecting with and supporting all students. Be respectful and fair. Call
students by name.

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EMPLOYEE/VOLUNTEER’S CODE OF CONDUCT

Our children are the most important gifts God has entrusted to us. As an employee/volunteer, I
promise to strictly follow the rules and guidelines in this Employee/Volunteer’s Code of Conduct
as a condition of my providing services to the children and youth of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic
High School.

As an employee/volunteer, I will:

• Treat everyone with respect, loyalty, patience, integrity, courtesy, dignity, and
consideration.
• Avoid situations where I am alone with children and/or youth at activities.
• Use positive reinforcement rather than criticism, competition, or comparison when
working with children and/or youth.
• Refuse to accept expensive gifts from children and/or youth without prior written
approval from parents or guardians and the pastor or administrator.
• Refrain from giving expensive gifts to children and/or youth without prior written
approval from parents or guardian and the past or administrator.
• Report suspected abuse as directed by PA Mandated Reporting guidelines and
requirements.
• Cooperate fully in any investigation of abuse of children and/or youth.

As an employee/volunteer, I will not:

• Smoke or use tobacco products in the presence of children and/or youth.

• Use, possess, or be under the influence of alcohol at any time while working or
volunteering.
• Use, possess, or be under the influence of illegal drugs at any time.
• Pose any health risk to children and/or your (i.e., no fevers or other contagious
situations).
• Strike, spank, shake, or slap children and/or youth.
• Humiliate, ridicule, threaten, or degrade children and/or youth.
• Touch a child and/or youth in a sexual or inappropriate manner.
• Use any discipline that frightens or humiliates children and/or youth.
• Use profanity in the presence of children and/or youth.

I understand that as an employee/volunteer working with children and/or youth, I am subject to a

thorough background check including criminal history. I understand that any action inconsistent
with this Code of Conduct or failure to take action mandated by this Code of Conduct may result
in my dismissal as an employee or removal as a volunteer with children and/or youth.

NOTE: It is the responsibility of all Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School employees and
volunteers to review and comply with all school policies, procedures and protocols as
outlined in this manual and the Student Handbook as well as those communicated by
school authorities.

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