ST. EDWARD SCHOOL 

Parent & Student Handbook

updated July, 2010

to St. Edward students from Fr. Doug   

Welcome to a new school year!  I hope you will enjoy this new opportunity at St. Edward School to learn as much as you can; for there is much to learn.  You will learn from your teachers and your fellow students as well.  In one way you yourself will also teach others about “who you are” by the way you treat them.   

During this year you will learn about reading, writing and spelling.  You will learn not only about facts and figures but about faith as well.  You will learn about Jesus and what He taught and did.  You will learn about the Catholic Church and what it teaches and believes.  

There is much to learn.  You must always try your best even when things are difficult.  You must ask questions when things don’t make sense.  You must help your teacher and classmates when they need it.  At St. Edward’s we all must work together, help each other, and be respectful to everyone at all times.  This is what Jesus teaches us.This new school year gives you another chance to learn about who God wants you to be; how God wants you to act; and what God wants you to do and say. 

While you do not receive a grade on your report card for this type of learning, it is the reason St. Edward School exists.  It is even more important than receiving all A’s on your report card. I ask that you always be honest in your school work, with your teachers and especially your parents.  You must let them know what is happening so that they can understand what is going and help you.  They can’t always read your mind.  That is why God gave you parents … to help you when you are in need, or feel upset or hurt.  But in turn you must also respect and honor your parents as God has taught us in the Ten Commandments “Honor your father and mother.” Have a GREAT year!  No doubt you will have some homework, but you will also have some fun as well.  Study hard, pray often, work together, and share with others!  God Bless YOU!


to St. Edward parents from Fr. Doug

A new academic year brings new opportunities for growth and service not only for our students, faculty and staff, but for parents as well.  I invite and encourage you to consider how you will share your time, talent and treasure for the well being not only of your child and our school, but for yourselves as well.
Each of us is called to share in the mission of Jesus.  We do this by sharing who we are, what we have, and what we do.  We are called to build up God’s kingdom.  It is not an option, but a duty and responsibility for those who claim to be followers of Jesus.  Your assistance is needed for the welfare and success of our school.  The Scriptures remind us to give without cost.  THANKS for your full cooperation and service in the coming year!

Through Catholic education, the Church assists parents in their duty to educate their child in the ways of faith.  The lead teacher, the faculty and staff cannot do this by themselves.  It takes all of us to provide an example to our students that will inspire them to walk in the way of faith, hope and love.  Your attention and response to this endeavor is vital for your child to receive all they need to grow and succeed not only in life, but in faith.  St. Edward School is here to help you, but you are the first teacher of your child in the ways of faith.  

For our parents who are not Catholic, I invite you to consider learning more about the Catholic Faith.  Each September an Inquiry Class is conducted which provides instruction on the Creed and other doctrines of our Church.  If you are interested or have any questions about it please let me know.  

Children learn how to live their faith by what they see around them.  If you are a thankful person, your child will learn what we teach them about the Eucharist as our primary way we give thanks to God. If you are a forgiving person, your child will learn what we teach them about reconciliation and God’s mercy.  
I thank you for your decision to send your child to St. Edward School… where learning has no limits!  May God bless you and your family as we study, work and pray.  


INTRODUCTION
St. Edward School is strongly supported by both the parish and the pastor of St. Edward.   Rev. Douglas Lauer is the Pastor / Administrator for St. Edward School.  He delegates much of his responsibility for the school to the lead teacher.

Both the Pastor and Lead Teacher collaborate with a number of people and organizations to maintain a strong Catholic identity as well as a sound academic curriculum.  

administration
Mrs. Debbie Henson       Lead Teacher        
Mrs. Jeanette Henson    Administrative Assistant
Rev. Douglas Lauer        Pastor / Administrator
Ms. Sherri Sowder         Business Manager

faculty
Mrs. Kendra Cooper    Fourth & Fifth Grades Reading, First – Fifth Math, K – Fifth Computers
Mrs. Cathy Harpe        Kindergarten Teacher (part-time)
Mrs. Debbie Henson    First Grade Reading, First – Fifth Grammar
Mrs. Debbie McKinley   Second & Third Grades Reading, K –  Fifth Music, Science, Social Studies
Mrs. Gail Westhoff      Preschool – Fifth Religion, Librarian, Accelerated Reading Coordinator

staff
Mrs. Janet Cline         Cafeteria Cook
Mrs. Connie Pierson    Speech Pathologist Harrison County School District

volunteers
Mary Grable             Cafeteria Records & Reports, Virtus Training Coordinator
Lois Judy                school health nurse
Mary Ann Perraut    school health nurse


St. Edward School receives support from the following boards, committees, councils and organizations:

St. Edward Alumni Association provides support for a number of events and material needs for the school.  Association members have received much from their education and formation at St. Edward’s.  Now they wish to give back.

St. Edward Board of Total Catholic Education encourages and assists parishioners to continue their faith formation from the “cradle to the grave.”  The school receives special attention as one of the educational programs of the parish.

St. Edward Finance Council assists the pastor by providing counsel on issues facing the financial health of St. Edward’s.

St. Edward Parents Club works for and promotes the welfare of our students and St. Edward School.  The Club accomplishes this by raising financial resources to subsidize the school’s expenses.  All parents/guardians of St. Edward School students are members of the Parents Club.  The Club’s constitution can be found in the Appendix.

St. Edward Parish Council aids the pastor and every member of our parish in responsible, advisory and beneficial work to further the mission of Christ.  The Council provides counsel and assistance with all facets of parish life.

St. Edward School Advisory Committee & Subcommittees assist the school to become the best it can be.  Their efforts promote the good that is already accomplished and discover ways to improve the areas of the school that are lacking and need revision.  


ST. EDWARD SCHOOL

MISSION
The faculty, staff and parents of St. Edward School work as a team for the education of the children in their care.  Our program strives to provide a Catholic education dedicated to academic excellence, challenging the students to develop their potential to the fullest and develop a sense of respect and responsibility for their family, church, peers and community.

PHILOSOPHY
St. Edward School is a unique Christian community organized to foster spiritual, moral, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth of its members regardless of race, creed, or color.  This is achieved through a spirit of dedication, freedom, and love that is based on the Gospel message.  The faculty and staff believe parents are the primary educators of their children and that they work with parents as a cooperative group having common purposes and motivated by common ideals.  

St. Edward School fosters the religious formation of its students in light of the teaching of the Roman Catholic Church.  Faculty and staff strive to instill a love of learning, an appreciation of God’s world, respect for life, a commitment to stewardship and service, and a true respect for the uniqueness of each individual.

revised and approved by Faculty and Board of Total Catholic Education  Dec. 2006

OBJECTIVES
St. Edward School strives:
1.  to promote the growth of Catholic values and moral attitudes
2.  to emphasize the importance of prayer in the lives of the students
3.  to provide an atmosphere that will encourage and challenge students
4.  to experience a sense of achievement in academics
5.  to provide a flexible curriculum that will accommodate individual needs
6.  to provide opportunities that will develop cooperative learning skills

St. Edward School received its Kentucky Non-Public Schools Commission Accreditation Certificate for the period of July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2012.  
This accreditation recognizes that the program of instruction and the school’s operating and governance procedures are in compliance with the established Kentucky guidelines and requirements.  

Our next re-accreditation must be completed prior to March, 2012.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Children whose parents/guardians are members at St. Edward Parish are eligible for admission to St. Edward School.  These parents/guardians are eligible to receive the active parishioner tuition rate.  The procedure to verify active parishioner tuition rate can be found in this handbook.  

Catholic students from other parishes and non-Catholic students are eligible to attend St. Edward School regardless of race, color, creed, or national origin, if space permits.  These parents/guardians will receive the school family tuition rate.

PRE-REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Pre-registration is conducted from March 1 – 15 for students already enrolled in St. Edward School.  A student is pre-registered when a registration form has been completed and returned to the school office and all Student Fees have been paid.

OPEN REGISTRATION
Open Registration to the public begins on March 16.  Those seeking admission to St. Edward School may be offered admission on a first come, first served basis.  

OTHER ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
A child entering Kindergarten must be 5 years old by October 1.  St. Edward School makes use of the registration and readiness screening procedures established by the Harrison County School District.  It is administered through the Community Education Center.  Contact the Center at 234-7160 between 8:30 and 4:30 to inquire about the Dial-R Readiness Screening.  It is usually conducted at the end of May/ early June.  

STUDENT FILE INFORMATION
Upon enrollment, all children must have on file a copy of:
1.    Birth Certificate
2.    Social Security Card
3.    Current Physical
4.    Current Immunization Certificate
5.    Current Vision Screening
6.    Baptismal Certificate (if Catholic)
7.    First Reconciliation Certificate and First Holy Eucharist Certificate (if not received at St. Edward)
Students will not be admitted without the above documentation in the school office.


FINANCIAL INFORMATION
St. Edward Church provides significant subsidy to every family who has a child enrolled in St. Edward School.  Tuition payments cover 30% of the school’s operating budget.  

TUITION
There are two tuition rates at St. Edward School.
2010-2011 tuition    active parishioner     school family
1 student               $2,400                   $3,000                    
2 students              $3,550                   $4,250
3 students              $4,300                   $5,100

Tuition may be paid:      
1.    ten monthly payments
2.    half in August – half in January
3.    in full in August
Monthly tuition payments (August – May) are due on the first day of the month. After the tenth day of the month your payment is late.  A $25 late fee will be added to your next tuition card/bill each time your tuition payment is late.  Failure to stay current with monthly tuition payments will result in a student’s dismissal.  

A $25 fee, for any check that is returned for insufficient funds, will be added to your next tuition card/bill.  After receiving two insufficient fund checks only cash or a cashier’s check will be accepted as payment for tuition.

TUITION ASSISTANCE
The Friends of St. Edward provide tuition assistance for children already enrolled in St. Edward School.  Applications are available from the church office after May 1 and must be returned by May 31.

The Rev. Louis B. Brinker Trust provides tuition assistance for students to be and/or already enrolled in St. Edward School.  Applications are available from the church office after May 1 and must be returned by May 31.

STUDENT FEES  
A Registration Fee of $180 is required for each student.  This fee is used to purchase student work books and school wide instructional supplies.  

A Technology Fee of $20 is required for each student.  This fee is used to purchase antivirus & software programs, technical support and other expenses needed to maintain the computers.
Both fees are non-refundable.  

PROCEDURE TO VERIFY ACTIVE PARISHIONER TUITION RATE
In recent years the Board of Total Catholic Education, the Parish Council and Finance Council of St. Edward Church have discussed the growing situation in which parishioners do not regularly attend Mass or do not volunteer or financially support the work and ministry of the Church.  

This inaction compromises the present and the future of our school and Church.   This inaction does not follow the precepts of the Church which require not only our regular weekly Sunday Mass attendance but also the need to support the Church materially.  (Catechism of the Catholic Church #2041-2043)

This policy emphasizes the meaning and the practice of our Catholic Faith.  Sharing our time, talent and treasure is the true measure of our success in life.   It is not an option to be taken lightly.  It is a commitment each of us must make for the well being, success and support of our school and Church.  It is a commitment each of us must make so that we are active in practicing and living out our Catholic Faith.

PROCEDURE
After receiving their registration form each eligible Catholic family registered at St. Edward Church will receive a copy of the Parent Promise.  Parent(s) are asked to review the Parent Promise, sign it, and return it to the pastor by the date indicated.  If a signed, dated copy is not received by the indicated date the family will receive the school family tuition rate for the following school year.

To verify that a household will receive the active parishioner tuition rate, the pastor will review prior activity concerning the four requirements listed on the Parent Promise.   The pastor will send each household a letter verifying their status.  This status (active parishioner or school family) will be the grounds for which tuition rate will be applied to a household the following school year.  This procedure is required each and every year.  

approved by St. Edward Board of Total Catholic Education November, 2005



School
Information


BULLYING POLICY
St. Edward School is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all individuals. Verbal or written threats to the physical, spiritual, or psychological well-being of another will not be tolerated. This includes behavior defined as bullying or harassment as set forth below.

Bullying and harassment include aggressive behavior intended to harm or disturb another individual. It includes but is not limited to a willful and conscious desire to hurt another and put him or her under stress through activities such as name-calling, put-downs, taunting, teasing, imposing physical harm, social exclusion, and coercion.

Students engaging in such behavior will face disciplinary action which may include corrective discipline, and/or referral to law enforcement.

A school is an institution where learning is foremost, and to promote this goal there must be a proper atmosphere in which to learn.  Students are to respect the rights of each other to learn. They must accept each other's individuality so that each is free to achieve their potential. These standards extend to all phases of school activity.

It is our policy not to discuss disciplinary actions except with the parent/guardian of the student involved. If the parent/guardian fails to accept corrective action or discipline, his/her child may be asked to leave St. Edward School.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE
The administration may inspect any student’s property at any time for any reason without prior notice. The property includes, but is not limited to desks, computers, books, etc. Additionally any personal items are subject to inspection at anytime and for any reason, without prior notice, as a condition of bringing them onto or taking them from the school’s premises.  Such items include, but are not limited to packages, lunch bags, containers, backpacks, duffel bags, book bags, briefcases, purses, and pockets. An inspection does not imply wrong-doing by the student being inspected.

A student and his/her parent or guardian’s consent to inspection of personal items is a condition of enrollment and attendance at the school. Refusal to consent may result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, even for a first refusal.

SCHOOL RULES
The following rules are in effect for all students:
1.  Students are expected to be obedient and courteous to all in authority at all times.
2.  Chewing gum is not permitted at anytime.
3.  Each student must use a backpack for transporting books to and from school in order to prevent damage to or loss of books.
4.  Students are to walk in the halls.
5.  Students should remain quiet at all times in the halls.
6.  Verbal or written threats, fighting, name calling, cursing, swearing are forbidden.
7.  Note-passing is forbidden at school.
8.  Classroom atmosphere should always be conducive to study and learning. The student is expected to contribute to the proper atmosphere in which to learn by following the classroom rules by:
    a.  being an attentive listener
    b.  participating in discussions and sharing ideas
    c.  cooperating in group projects by becoming actively involved
    d.  completing assignments
    e.  refraining from treating others in a way that diminishes his/her dignity
    f.  complying with the teacher's directions in a respectful manner
9.  Possession of a weapon and/or explosive devices is forbidden. Appropriate authorities will be notified.
10. Possession of any implement that produces a flame or fire is forbidden.
11. Possession or use of over-the-counter and/or prescription medications is prohibited unless the medication policy is followed.
12. Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco products, or illegal drugs is forbidden. Possession or use of inhalants (such as white-out or aerosol cans) is forbidden.
13. Students must refrain from rough games...throwing snowballs, rocks...destroying or defacing school/parish property.
14. All assigned class work and homework must be completed on time, as directed by the teacher.
15. The use of electronic devices, such as: cell phones, Gameboys, beepers, picture phones, etc. is prohibited during the school day and/or during after school activities. Any infraction of this policy will result in the confiscation of the device by the teacher, and a parent or guardian must then retrieve the device. The administration reserves the right to include any electronic device not mentioned in this policy.
16. Any student who makes negative or inappropriate comments via the Internet or on a blogging site, including threats or defamatory statements about others will be held accountable. The administration reserves the right to discipline students for off-campus conduct when off-campus conduct affects the harmony of our school environment.
17. When necessary, the lead teacher will formulate regulations regarding fads or other distracting trends.

These are the basic rules and regulations for safety and good order. Rules regarding safety and respect for school/parish property are always in effect. If a student does not respond in a normal way, they will be called to task and the correction will be administered according to the gravity of the offense.


Suspension and Expulsion Definitions

In-school suspension - The student is kept in school but is assigned to an area outside of their classroom.  Academic work is assigned by the teacher.

Out-of-school suspension - The student is not permitted in school.  Students on out-of-school suspension will be given the class assignments as determined by the teacher. The suspended student may receive a grade of zero for all classroom work and assignments issued during the suspension.

Expulsion - The student is permanently dismissed from St. Edward School following Diocesan Policy.  Growth toward self-control is one of our goals. It is our belief that discipline is a gradual process and can best be developed in an atmosphere of trust, encouragement and cooperation.

Suspension and Expulsion Guidelines
The lead teacher shall have final authority in suspending a student. With the consent of the pastor, the lead teacher shall have authority to start expulsion procedures as outlined in Diocesan Policy.  

Examples of unacceptable behavior that could lead to a suspension or expulsion include but are not limited to:
1.   Any action with intent to injure, or actual injury of another person
2.   Bullying
3.   Consistent disregard for school rules
4.   Consistent disrespect for authority
5.   Defacing of body, clothing or personal property
6.   Destruction or defacing school/parish property
7.   Disorderly conduct
8.   Fighting or name-calling
9.   Misuse of prescription or over-the-counter (non-prescription) medications  
10.  Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs
11.  Profanity or obscenity Stealing, lying, or cheating
12.  Stealing, lying, or cheating
13.  Verbal assault
14.  Verbal or written threat of violence


STUDENT DISCIPLINE POLICY
In order to make St. Edward a place where Christian values can be nurtured and where students can have a safe environment in which they are free to achieve their academic, spiritual and emotional potential, we will follow a new Student Discipline Policy.   

Our Student Discipline Policy is based on research gathered from other schools in the Diocese of Covington and tailored to fit the needs of teachers and students at St. Edward School.  As always, parents are encouraged to contact teachers with any questions or concerns regarding their child’s behavior.  Communication is a key component to resolve conflict and provides for understanding.  

Our goal is to promote positive behavior among students.  The acronym STAR will be the basis of our positive reinforcement behavior plan for the school year.
S  -  self-control          
T  -  teamwork                
A  -  attitude            
R  -  respect

Various means of maintaining good behavior will be to include student participation in morning and afternoon announcements (i.e. leading Pledge of Allegiance, daily prayers, etc.).  Encouraging students with treasure box treats and/or extra recess time are examples of reinforcing constructive results.  The Student Council will survey students for additional ideas whereby all stakeholders of St. Edward School are included.

The following behaviors will receive Demerits:

Behavior                                                                                    Demerits
Unauthorized absence from class                                                   1
Inability to stand in line quietly                                                      1
Inability to move throughout building/church quietly                        1
Chewing gum                                                                             1
Note-passing                                                                              1
Cutting, marring, or damaging school property                                 2
Missing assignment (each assignment missing)                                  2
Loitering in lavatories                                                                    2
Violating dress code                                                                     2
Failure to participate at Mass/Rosary/Stations of the Cross                  2
Tardiness for class                                                                        2
Running in hallway                                                                        3
Annoyance in or outside class (i.e. yelling, talking out, not raising
hand to speak, any distracting noises, excessive talking)                    3
Possession of unauthorized material/devices                                     3 to 5+confiscation
Failure to return detention letter/weekly report                                5
Possession of teacher’s supplies or going in teacher’s desk                  5
Throwing an object/endangering others                                          5
Unauthorized use of electronic device                                              5+confiscation
Disrespect, profanity, insolence, bullying, intimidation, harassment        10
Official expulsion from class                                                             10
Failure to show for detention                                                         10
Falsifying parent’s signature                                                            10
Vandalism and/or teacher endangerment                                          10
Use of tobacco products on school property, weapons, alcohol            10+confiscation

When a student chooses these behaviors he/she will receive a Demerit(s).  Parents will receive weekly behavior reports.  A signed copy of the weekly behavior report will be returned to school.  Should an accumulation of demerits warrant detention, a Notice of Concern (NOC) will be given to the student.  

The NOC be given to the parent and returned with the required parental signatures.  The NOC must be returned to the lead teacher prior to the detention.  Failure to return weekly progress reports and the notice of concern will result in additional demerits or an additional detention.  

School rules are expected to be followed on school/church property and during bus duty.  Property destroyed or damaged may result in monetary restitution or replacement.  

Please note:  in severe cases the Administration reserves the right to void Demerit steps and issue immediate consequences in severe cases.

Number of Demerits        Consequence
2-4                               Lunch at Quiet Table (QT)
5                                  Lunch at QT & no recess
6-8                               Lunch at QT, no recess & first NOC, conference box checked
9-12                             Second NOC & all the above
13-15                           Third NOC, in-school isolation, all the above,Parent/Teacher Conference
16-18                           Fourth NOC, lunch at QT, no recess, after school detention
19-20                           Fifth NOC, all the above and second detention
21-23                           Sixth NOC, all the above and third detention
24-25                           Seventh NOC and Saturday school

If a student earns Demerits within the school day that result in detention, it is his/her responsibility to contact his/her parents regarding transportation home that day.  

Saturday school will be held from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m.  During Saturday school there will be no instruction, no sleeping, no reading, no talking and no eating.  It will consist of non-credit busy work.  Saturday school will be served the week Demerit points total the minimum of 24.  

                  
DRESS CODE
Our dress code is established to help maintain an atmosphere conducive to teaching and learning.  A good attitude about one’s appearance carries over into one’s attitude within the classroom.  For this reason, St. Edward students wear a uniform.  If you are in doubt please check with the lead teacher before purchasing clothing or accessories for school use.  Students must follow the dress code.  Students whose attire does not conform to the dress code will call home for proper clothing.  Parents will be notified if a student is not adhering to the dress code.   Please note:  Any fad that the lead teacher deems improper for school will not be permitted.

FIELD TRIP DRESS CODE
Field trip dress code will be based upon the demands of the field trip destination and the weather.  Individual teachers will confer with the lead teacher to determine acceptable, or required dress and inform parents and students when the permission slips are sent home.

OUT OF UNIFORM
On these occasions the appropriate clothing is required:
Clothing must be clean and in good repair
Shirts must not have words, symbols, or pictures that are not keeping with Christian values
Shorts must be uniform in length.
Bicycle shorts, tank tops, or shirts that do not cover the midriff may not be worn.
If the proper clothing is not worn, parents will be called and asked to bring the appropriate clothing to school into which the student can change.
If a student does not comply with these regulations, he/she will lose his/her out of uniform privileges for the year.
The jewelry rules from the dress code also apply to out of uniform days.

BOYS DRESS CODE
Belts:  if slacks or shorts have loops at the waist band belts must be worn at all times.  Solid colored belts may be black, brown or blue.  Belt buckles must be plain.
Good grooming and cleanliness is expected at all times.  Hair must be neat and clean.  Hair length must be above the eyebrow and above the collar.  Excessive hairstyles, coloring and “tails” may not be worn.
Hats: (including caps, scarves and bandanas) may be worn outside the building only.  
Jewelry:  a religious medal and a watch may be worn.  Necklaces, chains, bracelets, crazy bands, rings, earrings and other jewelry may not be worn.
Pants and shorts:  Khaki slacks (plain) no loops, side pockets, zippered pockets, sequins, studs, appliqués, embroidery, or glitter.  Khaki shorts (plain) knee length.
NOTE:  Shorts may not be worn in November, December, January, or February.
Shirts:  all shirts must be tucked in at all times.  Light or navy blue or white knitted shirts with collars or banded collars.
Shoes:  clean athletic/gym shoes are preferred for the student’s comfort.  Shoes must be tied, buckled, snapped, or velcroed at all times. Dress shoes and sandals with back straps may be worn.  Cowboy or work boots, slings, flip-flops, or plastic “jelly” shoes are not permitted.
Socks:  must be worn at all times.
Sweatshirts, sweaters, vests:  solid light or navy blue, white, sweatshirts, sweaters, and vest no longer than mid-hip with a collared shirt underneath.

Not Permitted:
Any tight fitting clothing and/or any clothing that shows flesh during classroom activities.
Any oversized shirts/blouses, sweatshirts, sweaters, and vests.
Jackets/coats are not permitted to be worn in the classroom or draped on the back of chairs in the classroom, unless there is a general problem with heat.
Jeans, overalls, or non khaki capris.

Tattoos are strongly discouraged: however, if a student has a tattoo, it must be covered by clothing during the school day.

GIRLS DRESS CODE
Belts:  if slacks or shorts have loops at the waist band belts must be worn at all times.  Solid colored belts may be black, brown or blue.  Belt buckles must be plain.
Good grooming and cleanliness is expected at all times.  Hair must be neat and clean.  Excessive or faddish hairstyles and color may not be used.
Hats: (including caps, scarves and bandanas) may be worn outside the building only.  
Jewelry:  a religious medal and a watch may be worn.  Only one pair of stud-type earrings may be worn.  Dangling earrings may not be worn.  Necklaces, chains, bracelets, crazy bands and rings may not be worn.
Make-up: students may not wear makeup of any type during the school day. This includes eye makeup, makeup base, blush, nail polish, etc. Students may not bring hair spray, cologne, hand cream, perfume, aerosol or non-aerosol sprays to school.
Pants and shorts:  Khaki jumpers (plain) no more than 2 inches above the knee and no longer than mid- calf.  Jumpers to the ankle are not permitted.
Khaki slacks (plain) no loops, side pockets, zippered pockets, sequins, studs, appliqués, embroidery, or glitter.
Khaki capris (plain)loose fitting (no spandex blends) knee length/mid calf.
Khaki skorts (plain) must be worn with shorts under them (K, First, Second only)
Khaki shorts (plain) knee length.  
NOTE: shorts may not be worn in November, December, January, or February.
Shirts:  all blouses, knitted shirts, and tops must be tucked in at all times.  Light or navy blue or white blouses, or knitted shirts with collars or banded collars.
Shoes:  clean athletic/gym shoes are preferred for the student’s comfort.  Shoes must be tied, buckled, snapped, or velcroed at all times. Dress shoes (no platforms, heels over 2 inches tall, or boots to knees/mid calf) and sandals with back straps may be worn.  Cowboy boots, slings, flip-flops, or plastic “jelly” shoes are not permitted
Socks:  must be worn at all times.
Sweatshirts, sweaters, vests:  solid light or navy blue, white sweatshirt, sweater,
or vest no longer than mid-hip with a collared shirt or blouse underneath.

Not Permitted:
Any tight fitting clothing and/or any clothing that shows flesh during classroom activities.
Any oversized shirts/blouses, sweatshirts, sweaters, and vests.
Jackets/coats are not permitted to be worn in the classroom or draped on the back of chairs in the classroom, unless there is a general problem with heat.
Jeans, overalls, or non khaki capris.

Tattoos are strongly discouraged: however, if a student has a tattoo, it must be covered by clothing during the school day.

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAM
St. Edward School offers both a breakfast and lunch and program.  Breakfast and lunch menus are sent home at the beginning of each week.  The menu also appears in the Cynthiana Democrat.

If your child wishes to bring his/her lunch from home, it must be kept in their classroom.  This lunch may not contain soft drinks or other carbonated beverages.  Highly caffeinated drinks should be avoided.  

St. Edward School does not have adequate space to keep lunch boxes or drinks in the cafeteria’s refrigerator.  Any lunch brought from home must have its own means of keeping the contents from spoiling.  Parents are asked to observe our School Wellness Policy and send only nutritious lunches.  

In keeping with our Wellness Policy, every effort will be made to serve a nutritious breakfast and lunch.  Care will be taken to model appropriate serving sizes which follow USDA School Lunch Program guidelines.  

Parental input is welcomed with regard to menu ideas.

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PRICES
Breakfast will be:    $1.50 per child each day
                           $2.00 per adult each day
extra milk will cost 50 cents each day
reduced breakfast 30 cents per child each day

Lunch will be:        $2.50 per child each day    
                           $3.00 per adult each day
extra milk will cost 50 cents each day
reduced lunch 40 cents per child each day

BILLING SYSTEM FOR BREAKFAST / SNACK / LUNCH
Each household will receive two food service bills for the food/drink consumed each month.  Please pay your food service bill with a CHECK THAT ONLY COVERS THE COST OF MEALS BILLED since this money is deposited into the cafeteria checking account, not the school account.  An additional late charge will be added to each bill that is not paid in full on time.  

FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH APPLICATIONS
St. Edward School participates in the Federal Lunch Program.  Our students are eligible for Free and Reduced Lunches based upon the size of a family and income.  At the beginning of the school year each family is provided with an application for Free and Reduced Lunches.  

It is very important to the operation of the cafeteria that each family complete and return this application.  

These applications provide additional money to our school cafeteria, even if a family does not wish to take advantage of the Free and Reduced Program.  All applications are held confidential.   The lead teacher determines a family’s eligibility based upon the Federal Guidelines.  The lead teacher will inform the parent/guardian if the family qualifies.  No distinction will be made between students of full paying and free/reduced lunches.

BREAKFAST SERVED FROM 7:30 – 8:00 AM
Students are served at least four (4) components and must take three (3) items from the breakfast menu.  No student should bring breakfast to school.  If not wanting to eat what is being served, students should eat breakfast at home before coming to school.   PLEASE NOTE:  students will not eat lunch until after 12:30 pm on most days of the week.

BREAKFAST CLUB - POWER PANTHER PALS
The Breakfast Club reminds us of the importance of eating breakfast and in turn it will help students to study better and get better grades.  In order to become a member of the Club, all you have to is start eating breakfast every morning at school.  Each day you eat breakfast at school you receive five (5) points and a sticker to place on your card, so that we can keep track of your points each week.  When you reach 100 points you will be eligible for a prize.

At the end of the year if you have accumulated 880 points you will receive a certificate and a gift bag of prizes.  If you have accumulated at least 800 points you will receive a certificate.  If no student has accumulated 880 points, the student with the most points past 800 will receive the gift bag.

MILK BREAK
All students will be given the opportunity to purchase milk or juice during the morning snack for 50 cents per carton.  Students are not to bring snacks to school.

LUNCH SERVED FROM 12:30 – 1:00 PM
Each class enters as a group with their teacher, when going to the cafeteria for lunch.  Each student, those who eat the school lunch or those who bring their lunch from home will be recorded.  Extra milk purchases will also be recorded.  

All students are required to eat lunch, whether it be brought from home or purchased in the cafeteria.  Federal Guidelines require that the student be offered at least five (5) components at lunch.  The student must choose at least three (3) items offered each day.  No lunch may be brought in from any fast food restaurant.  Soft drinks will not be allowed as a lunch beverage.  

Students who bring their lunch from home may purchase milk from the cafeteria.  Students choosing not to drink milk may get a drink from the water fountain after seeking permission from the appropriate staff person.  (Cups will not be made available, unless a student has an allergy to milk.)  

Please contact the lead teacher in writing if your child cannot drink milk for a medical reason.  Arrangements will be made to substitute another drink.  A student may leave the school grounds for lunch only if accompanied by an adult with parent/guardian permission with the approval of the lead teacher in advance.

SUPERVISION / BEHAVIOR
Students are under the supervision of a staff person at breakfast and lunch.  Students are expected to show proper respect.  Students must stay in their assigned seats until finished eating and may not get up unless they are given permission to do so by the staff person in charge.

Students are dismissed from breakfast as soon as they are finished.  At lunch students are dismissed by class.  Each child is to leave his/her place in good order – the floor as well as the lunch table.  

A moderate amount of talking is allowed during the lunch period, however if the level of noise becomes too loud, silent dining may be invoked by the staff person in charge.  A “quiet table” is reserved for students who have been assigned “special dining” by a teacher.  No one eating at this table is permitted to talk.  

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
Birthdays are special for students.  However time and space does not allow for the celebration with parties in the classroom.  Each birthday is recognized with a special acknowledgement in front of the entire student body during lunch at the end of each month.  

In compliance with our School Wellness Policy, special “sweet treats” (i.e., cupcakes, cookies, ice cream, pizza, soft drinks, etc) should not be brought to school to celebrate individual birthdays unless done so at the end the end of the birthday month.  The cafeteria must be notified of the plan to bring such treats two days in advance.  Please consider a non-food item if you wish to share your child’s birthday with classmates.

GUESTS
Throughout the year grandparents and parents are invited to eat lunch with students.  Reservations are required in advance.  If a special reason arises and an adult wishes to join a student for lunch, notification is required before 8:15 am that day.  The lunch count is sent to the cafeteria at that time.  


Daily
Considerations


LENGTH OF SCHOOL DAY
8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (MONDAY – FRIDAY)

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES may a child be left unattended outside the school building if the doors are locked.

Every minute of the day is used in order to maintain at least a six (6) hour instructional day.  
7:30 am    cafeteria door opens
All students remain in the cafeteria until dismissed to their classrooms.
Breakfast is served from 7:30 – 8:00 am

8:00        classes begin
Students entering their classroom after 8:00 am, with the exception of those students riding the school bus, will be marked tardy for the day.  

9:00         Milk Break in class

12:00        Mass (for those classes attending)

12:30        Lunch

2:40 pm     classes stop for prayer

2:45          students riding the school bus are dismissed and escorted to the bus  

3:00           bell rings – dismissal

Parents picking up their children are to wait in the parking lot until the dismissal bell rings.  Students will be dismissed from the cafeteria door by teachers.  No student will be dismissed without an adult escort.

Any student leaving school before 3:00, with the exception of those students riding the school bus, will be marked tardy for the day.  

Mass is considered part of our school day and attendance is required for every student.  Kindergarten and First Grades attend Mass on Tuesday & Thursday.  
Second and Third Grades attend Mass on Wednesday & Friday.  
Fourth and Fifth Grades attend Mass on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday.  
All students attend All Schools Mass on occasion.

LEAVING SCHOOL
If a student needs to leave the school during the day for any reason (i.e., doctor’s appointment, etc.) a note should be sent to the school before hand and inform the teacher of that fact.  A parent/guardian will need to sign out the student in the office and the secretary or lead teacher will call the student from class. 

In like fashion, if a student arrives late for school, for any reason, a parent/guardian will need to sign in the student in the office and he/she will be dismissed to his/her classroom for the day.  

Students are not to be accompanied to and from their classroom by a parent/
guardian during the day.  NOTE:  students will be counted tardy for the time they are not in school.  If the time away is significant, students will be counted a half day absent.

ENTERING THE SCHOOL BUILDING
When entering the school building you are asked to use the double glass doors which face US 27.  This is the main entrance for the school.  

All parents and visitors must stop at the front desk to drop off forgotten assignments, books, lunches, or pick up a student.

Unannounced and unapproved visits to the classrooms are disturbing to students and teachers, as well as to the educational process.

All exterior doors are locked for security reasons.  Students are not permitted to open any exterior door for any person.   

MESSAGES
If a change in your child’s dismissal information is necessary, it is to be given to the school in writing at the beginning of the school day.   In case of an unforeseen emergency, a message may be called in, but this is not to become a convenient habit.  Do not wait until 2:30 pm to call and leave an emergency message!  

If you call the school office and your call cannot be answered, please leave a message and your call will be returned as soon as possible if necessary.


BUS TRANSPORTATION
Bus transportation is provided by the Harrison County School District.  Students are expected to conform to the regulations as specified by the Transportation Department.  Violations will be dealt with according to the disciplinary system of the School District.  

All St. Edward students riding school buses are taken to the Harrison County Middle School in the morning where they are supervised by a St. Edward staff person.  Once all buses have dropped off their students, one bus transports the St. Edward students to St. Edward School.  This procedure is reversed in the afternoon.  

Parents are requested to contact the Harrison County School District Bus Transportation Coordinator to determine which bus will pick up their child/ren at their home.

St. Edward students use the Harrison County School District buses for all field trips.  It is therefore important that all students are familiar with the Bus Rules and Regulations.  These are distributed at the beginning of the school year.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE
Absence from school naturally deprives a student of required information in his/her academic work.  In case of an absence, a parent/guardian MUST CALL by 8:15 am to inform the school of this fact.  A note from a parent/guardian is required for all absences on the day the student returns.  

Students with excused absences will be allowed to make up missed work – both in class and homework.  Missed assignments/ books may be picked up for a student after the dismissal bell has rung at the end of the day.  NO ASSIGNMENTS/BOOKS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP DURING THE SCHOOL DAY.

ILLNESS
Sickness is unavoidable therefore St. Edward School will no longer present a Perfect Attendance Award at the end of the school year.  Instead, those students who have missed five (5) days or less will be recognized.  

PLEASE do not send a child to school sick.  Our policy is that if a child is running a fever over 99.6% a parent/guardian will be contacted to pick up the child.   The Administrative Assistant, Business Manager or another staff member has the responsibility to call a parent/guardian in this case.  

A student will be excused for an absence due to illness with a written note signed by a parent/guardian to be sent to school on the day the student returns to class.  Any absence due to illness that goes beyond three days will require a written note signed by a doctor.  The note should be sent to school on the day the student returns to class.  

The average number of days missed by St. Edward students is four (4) per year.  If a student accumulates more than this average during one grading period, a parent/guardian will be contacted by the lead teacher to ascertain the cause.

A student will be excused from an absence not due to illness on a cause by case basis.  Absenteeism will not be sanctioned for recreational or light reasons without full consideration of the benefits derived from such activities as opposed to the time missed from classroom instruction.  A conference with the teacher and lead teacher is necessary and approval given by both for non-illness related absences in order for the absences to be excused.  

In the event that non-illness absences are excused it will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to see that assignments are working on during the absences.  ALL MISSED ASSIGNMENTS ARE DUE WITHIN THE PERIOD OF TIME SPECIFIED BY THE TEACHER UPON THE STUDENT’S RETURN.

Absences that are not followed by a written note from a parent/guardian, or doctor, or absences which are for non-illness reasons that have not been approved before the fact are considered UNEXCUSED.  Assignments and tests will not be made up for unexcused absences and will result in zeros being recorded in a teacher’s record book.

ABSENCES
There is a distinction made between full and half day absences and being tardy.  St. Edward follows the Kentucky Department of Education Guidelines which state:

If a student misses from 1% -  34% of the school day that student is TARDY.
If a student misses from 35% - 84% of the school day that student is a HALF DAY ABSENT.
If a student misses from 85% - 100% of the school day that student is ABSENT.

TARDIES
With the exception of those students riding the school bus, or who are under the supervision of St. Edward staff by 8:00 am, a student is tardy when he/she enters the classroom after 8:00 am and leaves before the 3:00 pm bell.  Teachers are required to submit to the lead teacher names of any student who is tardy for more than five (5) days within a grading period.  

Tardy students must be signed in/out with the time of arrival/departure recorded.  When a student accumulates 180 minutes of tardy time he/she will be credited with  a half day absence.  Tardy time, due to a medical problem, will be dealt with on a case by case basis.

SCHOOL CANCELLATION
Because we rely on bus transportation, St. Edward School closely follows the Harrison County School District’s schedule.  This includes weather related closings.  If there is a change from the Harrison County School District’s schedule parents will be notified in advance by written communication.  In case of inclement weather parents are requested to listen to the local WCYN Radio, local Cable Channel 6, and / or the Lexington television stations for school closing information.

SCHOOL CANCELLATION – EVENING EVENTS
In the event that school is cancelled because of the weather conditions, any evening event or activity that is scheduled that evening will be cancelled and if possible be rescheduled at another time.

MEDICATION
If a student is to take medication during the school day, the policy is that the medication is to be given to the respective teacher in the original package or prescription bottle.  A note from home giving permission to take the medication accompanied with a Medication Permission Form is to be sent with the medication. The Medication Permission Form can be found in the back of this handbook.  

PLEASE NOTE:  St. Edward School cannot keep Tylenol, cough drops, etc. on hand to dispense from the office.  All types of medications require a Medication Form.   All types of medications must come from home.  Medications will be locked in a cabinet in the office and will only be dispensed with an adult present who will record the time and dosage taken.

STUDENT GIFTS
Throughout the school year parents, friends, and family members sometime feel the need to recognize an achievement of a student or birthdays.  While St. Edward School encourages such interest, we ask that students be honored or surprised with family present and not be sent flowers, balloons, lollipop trees, etc, at school.  Students are not permitted to take these items on the bus and they will not be delivered to classrooms.  

What is intended as a special show of affection becomes a major source of distraction for students not receiving this attention.  If a delivery arrives and the student is picked up, an adult is required to come into the school and take it out with them.  If a student rides the school bus, someone will have to come and pick up the item.

ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
Students ARE NOT PERMITTED to bring any electronic equipment to school unless associated with a school project or assignment which requires written permission from a teacher to be sent home.  This includes:  radios, electronic toys, beeping watches, or any sound equipment.  Any such electronic equipment will be taken and kept in the lead teacher’s office for a parent/guardian to pick up.  Cell phones are, also, prohibited unless a parent/guardian requests a student to have one.  In such an instance, the cell phone will be kept in the school office until dismissal time.


Operational
Considerations


PARENT INVOLVEMENT
By enrolling your children in a Catholic school, you agree to certain important responsibilities.  These include:
1.  to be a partner with the school in the education of your children
2.  to understand and support the religious nature of the school
3.  to read all communications from the school
4.  to know your child’s teacher and to observe the parent-teacher conference dates and any special request for meetings;
5.  to discuss concerns and problems with the person most directly involved before contacting the lead teacher or pastor;
6.  to promote your school and to speak well of it to others;
7.  to meet your financial obligations; (if there is a situation which prevents you from meeting your financial obligationson time, please contact the appropriate person asap.)

St. Edward School will provide opportunities for parents to be involved and share in appropriate decision making through:
1.  School Advisory Committee and Subcommittees
2.  Parents Club
3.  Training workshops
4.  Virtus Trained Volunteer opportunities as needed—Library, Computer, Art, Music, Classroom, Cafeteria, Field Trips, Special Activities

Parents will be notified about their child’s progress, receive interpretation of student assessment results and be provided the opportunity to respond in the following ways:
1.  Mid-term and Quarterly Reports
2.  Conferencing:  at school, over the phone, through letters/memos,and Student Agenda Book
3.  School-Wide Standardized Achievement Assessments (Iowa)
4.  Periodic Reports: Accelerated Reading/ S.T.A.R. Reading and Math

COMMUNICATION
St. Edward School offers the following communication avenues between parents and the school:
1.  Open House
2.  Parents Club Meetings & newsletters
3.  School Advisory Committee and Sub-Committees Meetings
4.  Student / Parent Handbook
5.  Weekly Parent Newsletters and Menus
6.  Conferences—Quarterly Report Cards
7.  Local media broadcasts for weather/emergency related issues
8.  Website:  www.stedwardky.org/school

CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Teacher / Student Problems
1.  A parent should first discuss with the teacher any problems concerning their child.  This is the first place to start.  This procedure is very important.
2.  If a satisfactory solution to the problem has not been reached after reasonable discussion with the teacher involved, the parent may contact the lead teacher or pastor.
3.  The lead teacher will arrange a conference between the parent and teacher to discuss possible ways of solving the problem.
4.  If after discussion with the lead teacher and/or teacher, the parent does not have a satisfactory solution to the issue, the pastor may be contacted.
5.  After discussion with the teacher, lead teacher and pastor, the parent may then contact the Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Covington to help solve the conflict.
6.  At all times, the welfare of the student will be of utmost concern, with the student’s needs taking first priority.
7.  It is important for the student to be involved in conferences that concern his/her academic progress and / or behavior.  Unless the matter is of a sensitive nature, the parent and teacher are encouraged to include the student in conferences as is age appropriate.

FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are taken when teachers feel, that in doing so, the curriculum they are teaching will be enriched.  Certain types of field trips require volunteer supervision from parents/guardians, while other types do not.  It is the policy of the St. Edward teaching staff to utilize parent/guardian chaperones only when needed.  Most field trips are arranged so that only St. Edward staff is needed for supervision.

When chaperones are needed, the field trips are never designed to provide a “family outing” for anyone, so no children other than those classroom students participating are permitted to go on field trips.

All St. Edward students must ride the school bus when taking field trips for which no parent/guardian chaperones are needed.  If a field trip requires a parent/guardian chaperone, the decision as to whether the chaperone’s own child/ren ride the school bus will be made on a case by case basis.  No chaperone will transport a child/ren other than their own if that decision is made.

Field trips are subject to money constraints and school bus availability.

VOLUNTEERS IN SCHOOL
St. Edward School welcomes parents and / or grandparents to volunteer for various activities.  Individual teachers let their parents know of their needs within the classroom at the beginning of the year.  Due to space constraints and length of school day, these volunteer opportunities are usually limited to special projects.  School wide activities such as the Pumpkin Olympics and Environmental Day require volunteers which are coordinated by the lead teacher.  The biggest need for volunteers is in the lunchroom helping to serve lunches and wash trays each day.  

All school volunteers must become a Virtus trained volunteer.

A criminal background check for all volunteers is conducted through the Kentucky Administrative Office of the Courts.  Volunteers are disqualified if the background check reveals a previous conviction involving either sexual misconduct or violence.

St. Edward School conducts a Virtus training so that parents and family members can become an active Virtus trained volunteer. Throughout the year other opportunities to receive this training are available.  The dates, times and locations of this training can be found at www.covingtondiocese.org.  Click on “Virtus Training Schedule for Employees and Volunteers.”

The following steps are necessary to become a Virtus trained volunteer:
1.  complete and return the Volunteer Application to the church office;  
2.  read the 2007 Edition of the Policies & Procedures for Addressing Sexual Misconduct;  
3.  complete the 2007 Edition Acceptance Form and return it the church office;  
4.  register on line and attend a Virtus training class:  visit www.virtus.org
click on Registration - user ID should be your email address
If you are having difficulties with the program, contact Anita Geiger at 1.859.392.1565 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .  

All materials are available from the church office.  If you have any questions contact our local Virtus Coordinator at 234.5444.

Each Virtus trained volunteer maintains his/her active volunteer status by completing on-line training bulletins, quarterly modules and re-certifications.  Volunteers not in compliance will be placed on an inactive list.  As a result these volunteers are not permitted to volunteer for any school activity or event.  

HOW WE CREATE AND MAINTAIN A SAFE ENVIROMENT FOR CHILDEN
There are five steps in creating and maintaining a safe environment for children:  
1.  control access  – in order to have contact with children you must pass a criminal background check.  Volunteers are disqualified if the background check reveals a previous conviction involving either sexual misconduct or violence.
2.  know the warning signs about child abuse  – that is why ongoing formation is important to keep your eyes and skills alert to the signs of child abuse.  Reading your monthly online Virtus bulletins, completing your quarterly training modules and re-certifications are the ways to keep your eyes and skills alert to the signs of abuse.  
3.  monitor all programs & volunteer status – this ongoing step is important to make sure that standards for adult supervision still exist.  The status of each volunteer will be verified in September and April.   All volunteers will receive a notice in the mail indicating their status.  
4.  be aware  – it is not difficult to maintain awareness of what is going on with your own children, it is not always easy to keep that close eye on other children.
5.  communicate your concerns  – be ready to report strange behavior to the appropriate person.  Monthly bulletins, quarterly training modules and recertifications address how to communicate a concern and how to best address an awkward situation in the most effective way.


Academic
Program


STATEMENT
St. Edward School follows the Curriculum Guidelines set forth by the Diocese of Covington’s Department of Catholic Schools.  

RELIGION
Religion is a vital and ever present reality.  All students enrolled at St. Edward are required to participate in the Roman Catholic religion instruction.  God is revealed especially through Christ in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition (liturgy, doctrine, and life experiences).  The series Blest are We is used as the religion text book.  

As a Roman Catholic school we recognize the need for God’s grace and guidance in our life, therefore all students assist at Holy Mass each day.  To promote their participation at Mass, all students are encouraged to take part in reading the Scriptures, the intercessory prayers and in singing the hymns.  During the months of October and May, students pray the rosary, in honor of our Blessed Mother.

Recognizing that faith is passed on and nourished in community, first the community of the family (the domestic church) and then that of the classroom, we strive to strengthen these communities with faith and love.  We hope to create a climate of joy, building on the student’s personal relationship with God.  Through a personal relationship with God there is an awakening and deepening of a child’s awareness of God’s living presence and care for each one of us.  This, in turn, should lead a child to a joyful service and concern for others.

It is the premise of St. Edward School that students are taught not because they are Catholic but because the school is Catholic.  The school shares with students a love of learning and the other benefits and discipline that come from attending a Catholic school.  

The school understands that some of its students are not members of the Catholic Church.  This difference can be a source of misunderstanding when expectations of “Catholic things” are not applied to non-Catholics students.  An example of this is participation in and reception of the sacraments.

While all religious creeds and traditions are respected, as a Catholic school one of our primary functions is to teach our students what it means to be Catholic and how to live a Catholic way of life.  While all students at St. Edward are required to participate in religion classes and other religious observances and practices, non-Catholic students cannot be invited to receive the sacraments.  

The following policies provide an understanding of this issue:

Students at St. Edward School attend Mass regularly.  Only Catholic students may receive the Sacrament of Eucharist.   Non-Catholic students may participate in Mass by reading the Scriptures, the general intercessions and singing the hymns.

Students at St. Edward School go to Confession regularly.  Only Catholic students may receive this sacrament.  Non-Catholic students are invited to come forward for a blessing if this is their desire.

Students in the Second Grade prepare for the sacraments of Penance & Eucharist. While non-Catholic students are not invited to receive the sacraments or take part in the ritual/ceremony, they may receive a Special Blessing in the place of the sacraments, if they so choose.  So there is no confusion about who is receiving the sacrament, the non-Catholic students are seated apart from those students receiving the sacrament.

approved by the St. Edward Board of Total Catholic Education May, 2007

INTEGRATED READING / LANGUAGE ARTS
St. Edward School teaches an Integrated Language Arts Curriculum published by Macmillan/McGraw Hill which includes skills taught in Reading, Language, Spelling and Writing.  Students are taught this curriculum from Kindergarten – Fifth Grade.  A Reading Assistant is employed to help meet the individual need of students as much as possible.  

An Accelerated Reading Program is part of our Reading Curriculum as a means of challenging our students on an individual level.  Periodic Accelerated Reading Reports are sent home to keep parents informed of their child’s progress in this area.

S.T.A.R. Reading (a computer assessment program) is used to report student progress.  The Zaner-Bloser Handwriting Program is used in Kindergarten, First & Second Grades, in conjunction with the Language Arts Curriculum.  Sadlier Phonics text is used as a supplement in Kindergarten. The Hooked on Phonics program is utilized as needed to reinforce phonic skills.


MATHEMATICS
Children grasp mathematical concepts at different grade levels.  An attempt is made to meet each student’s needs in this area.  Through diagnostic tests, such as S.T.A.R. Math (a computer assessment program), and teaching aids, a student’s strengths and weaknesses are determined.  An effort is then made to help the student in the skills not yet acquired, so that he/she will have a sequential development in mathematical concepts and processes.  Sadlier’s Math Curriculum is used.  Students are taught this curriculum at all grade levels Kindergarten - Fifth Grade.

SOCIAL STUDIES
The Social Studies Program enables our students to acquire the skills essential to understanding an every changing world.  Concepts are presented to help students become an effective human being in today’s rapidly changing world.  

Primary grades study the family and local community.  Intermediate grades study state, national and world concepts.  The Harcourt Social Studies Program is used in all grade levels Kindergarten – Fifth Grade.  Students are taught the curriculum as a whole class, alternating grade levels during the two years they are in a particular classroom.

SCIENCE
The Science Program provides a foundation of concepts that help students gain a well-rounded education that leads to understanding their world.  Concept continuity is maintained by a balanced treatment of life science, earth science, physical science, and the human body.  The Harcourt Science Program is used in all grade levels Kindergarten – Fifth Grade.  Students are taught the curriculum as a whole class, alternating grade levels during the two years they are in a particular classroom.

MUSIC / ART
Music and Art are integrated within other curricula in addition to routinely scheduled instruction.  Basic Music instruction includes musical history and styles.  Also there is a focus on enhancing participation at Mass.  Basis Art instruction is often driven by units of study within the classroom instruction.  St. Edward’s consults and utilizes individuals talented in these areas to supplement our instruction on a weekly basis.

LIBRARY
Students are instructed in library skills within the course of their integrated reading/language arts instruction.  Use of the library, both school and public, provides literary enrichment, enjoyment for students, as well as serving as a supplementary source of materials for regular class work.  Each class at St. Edward School visits the Cynthiana/Harrison County Public Library every other week.  Students are responsible for the books they check out.

The Accelerated Reading Program is closely tied with library instruction.  Students are required on a weekly basis to read AR books, in addition to their classroom assignments, and take computerized tests on comprehension.  Students are recognized at the end of each month and grading period when certain levels of achievement are met.

To assist students in becoming responsible individuals, they are expected to conform to the following library rules:
1.  Books may be kept for one week.  They may be renewed one time.
2.  Students are held responsible for any damage done to a book while they have it.
3.  Students who lose or misplace a book will be required to pay for its replacement if it is not located after it is discovered missing.

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
Efforts are made to improve our technology and our use of it.  Our computer lab accommodates an entire classroom at one time.  Computers are linked to the internet through a common server.  Each classroom has internet access with at least two (2) computers.  In addition, each classroom utilizes MACS which contain a number of educational programs.

4-H
On a monthly basis during the school day, students in the Fourth and Fifth Grades participate in the 4-H program that is offered through the local Extension Office.  Opportunities are made available for students to participate in 4-H sponsored extra-curricular activities throughout the school year and summer.

CONSERVATION
On a monthly basis during the school day, students in the Fourth and Fifth Grades participate in the local Conservation District’s Program that is offered to all elementary school aged children in Harrison County.


ACCELERATED READER CERTIFICATION LEVELS

Ready Reader - Accumulate 5 points through any combination of Read To, Read With,
or Read Independently

Independent Reader - Read independently and pass Reading Practice Quizzes for:  
3 books   
1.2 book level or higher
Accumulate 10points (includes points for the 3 books;
other points may be for Read To and Read With)

Rising Reader - Read independently and pass Reading Practice Quizzes for:
    3 books
    1.6 book level or higher
Accumulate 10 points in independent reading (includes points for the 3 books)

Super Reader - Read independently and pass Reading Practice Quizzes for:
    3 books
    2.0 book level or higher
    worth 1 point or more each
Advance Reader - Read independently and pass Reading Practice Quizzes for:
    3 books
    3.0 book level or higher
    worth 2 points or more each

Star Reader - Read independently and pass Read Practice Quizzes for:
    3 books
    6.0 book level or higher
    work 4 points or more each

Classic Reader - Read independently and pass Reading Practice Quizzes for:
    3 books
    6.0 book level or higher
    worth 7 pints or more each

Honors Reader - Read, pass Reading Practice Quizzes, and accumulate 100 points for books from a list of challenging, teacher-selected literature


PHYSICAL EDUCATION / HEALTH
The Physical Education/Health Program contributes to the development of a healthy life through exercise, individual/team play and instruction in health and fitness skills.  St. Edward School follows the Diocesan Wellness Policy.  This policy requires regularly daily physical activities and place greater emphasis on sound nutritional instruction and modeling.  

For this reason each teacher is responsible for conducting his/her own daily physical education class and incorporating health instruction into their science curriculum.  

Students are strongly encouraged to wear clean athletic shoes and socks each day.  All students must participate in Physical Education activities.  A sense of sportsmanship and fair play is expected at all times.  Physical Education grades will reflect a student’s level of success with these expectations.

In addition to the school playground/parking lot and the city hall gym, students may walk to the Reverend Ross Park, the Pleasant Street Park, the Handy Farm Park, and the old City Cemetery for outdoor Physical Education.  Students may, at times, utilize the cafeteria and the church basement in inclement weather.

In case of illness, or if a student is unable to engage in Physical Education class, parents are required to send a written excuse to their child’s teacher.  This will be kept of file with the teacher.  A doctor’s excuse will be required if a questionable number of excuses from Physical Education are written.

SAFETY DAY
During the school day, students in the Fourth and Fifth Grades participate in the Harrison County School District’s resource center sponsored Safety Day held at the 4-H Fairgrounds.

FEDERAL PROGRAMS
When the United States Congress passed the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) legislation, certain provisions allow for assistance to private/parochial schools.  These programs provide funds to the Kentucky Department of Education and establish a flow-through process for funding of local school districts.

The Local Educational Agencies (LEA) are required to provide opportunities for eligible private school students to participate in these Federal Programs.  The Harrison County School District works very closely with St. Edward School to insure that we receive any Federal monies that we are entitled to receive.

It is important that all parents/guardians understand that the amount of financial resources that St. Edward receive is based on the number of students who qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch.  It does not matter whether a student does or does not participate in this food program.  If a student is eligible to receive Free and Reduced Lunches, St. Edward School receives benefits through those programs for which we are eligible.

TITLE MONIES
St. Edward uses funds from this Federal Program to provide assistance to identified students in achieving the educational goals expected of all students.  Based upon testing results and a needs survey, the Title I monies help to provide a variety of resource assistance.  

Such resources have been and may be, depending on the need and amount of funding available, After School Tutoring, Purchasing of License to access Accelerated Reading and Math and United Streaming Websites, purchasing extra classroom supplies to target Title I students.  

Parents/guardians are notified at the beginning of the school year if their child is eligible for Title I services.  Parent meetings for Title I students are held in accordance with Federal Guidelines.  

St. Edward, also, receives Federal Monies to assist with Professional Development and Technology Support.


Homework,

Assessment

and

Reporting


HOMEWORK
Homework is given as a means of helping students master certain skills and concepts as well as providing a means of assessment.  One of the benefits of homework is that it helps students acquire good study habits, self-discipline, and responsibility.  Neglect to perform homework reflects on the students’ class work and grade on his/her report card.

Participation in extra-curricular activities is not an excuse for incomplete homework assignments.  Every child is responsible for the academic work that is given to him/her on a daily basis.  Although parental support and supervision is desirable and necessary, parental assistance to the point of completing assignments for a student will not be tolerated.  

In the event of an excused absence homework assignments will be allowed to be made up.  The general rule is to allow the number of days the student was absent as the accepted number of days for late assignment completion.  However, each teacher is free to extend the time allowed based upon individual situations.   Homework may be picked up at the end of the school day after the students have been dismissed.  PLEASE DO NOT CALL AND REQUEST THAT HOMEWORK BE PICKED UP DURING THE SCHOOL DAY, AS IT DISTURBS INSTRUCTIONAL TIME.   

A written excuse from the parent / guardian is required for every absence.  For absences of three (3) or more consecutive days, a doctor’s excuse may be required.  Absences will be unexcused without a written excuse.  Unexcused absences will result in homework being recorded as “zeros” in the teacher’s grade book and the report card will reflect this action.

Students in the Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Grades are required to keep and maintain a student planning book, commonly referred to as the Agenda Book.  Each day, students write their homework assignments for the day.  PARENTS ARE REQUIRED to sign their name EACH DAY to indicate that they have checked on assignment completion.  Just signing the book each day is not sufficient.  Parents should check to see that the work is completed before signing their name.

HOMEWORK
Because of the nature of our combined classes at St. Edward School and the amount of in-class time that a teacher is able to devote to each grade level separately, it is understood that after school homework will be required on a daily basis to reinforce concepts presented during classroom instruction.

The time spent on homework varies from student to student, however if class time is utilized effectively then the following approximate times should be spent on homework each night:
grade level        amount of homework time
Kindergarten     10-15 minutes
First                 10-20 minutes
Second            20-30 minutes
Third               30-40 minutes
Fourth             40-50 minutes
Fifth                50-60 minutes
These times do not include the time needed for special projects or reports which should not be put off until the day/evening before the due date.

If completing homework becomes an issue with a student, the teacher will address the problem with the parents first.  

- Reinforcing the use of the agenda book will be stressed.

- If failure to turn in homework as assigned continues, the teacher may assign further consequences.  

- If there is no improvement with regard to homework completion a mandatory meeting with parents will be called with the lead teacher, teacher, and pastor in attendance.

- Failure to comply with this policy may result in the dismissal of the student.

ASSESSMENT
Teacher-made and textbook tests are administered periodically throughout the year to determine the progress of students.  Reports are sent home at 4.5 week basis as a Mid-Term report and then quarterly as a Report Card.

As part of our supplemental reading program, the students read and test on Accelerated Reading Books.  Teachers assigned a certain number of books

All students in the Fifth Grade are given the Diocesan mandated test of religion knowledge, K-CAP.

Students are given the TORC-3 Reading Comprehension Test, the Slosson Diagnostic Math Test, LinguiSystems’ Predictive Reading Profile, McGraw-Hill’s Fox in a Box Phonics Test, and the Brigance Test of Basic Skills as determined by a teacher as a means of assessing current skill levels and by the lead teacher, when trying to determine placement/acceptance of a transfer student.

Test reports generated by the Accelerated Math Program, Accelerated Reading Program, the S.T.A.R. Math Program, STAR Reading Program are sent home periodically to inform parents on their child’s progress.

Efforts are made to develop a portfolio that follows each student from grade to grade.  Samples of best work in each grade are kept in the portfolio and used to assess progress over a period of time.

St. Edward students, also, are administered the Diocesan mandated Achievement Test, IOWA, in the spring.  This report is placed in the student’s cumulative folder and a copy given to parents/guardians, either at the end of the school year, if reports are back, or during the Fall Parent/Teacher Conference.


REPORT CARDS
St. Edward School follows the grading system established by the Diocese of Covington.  Report cards are issued quarterly.  According to Diocesan regulations, parents are REQUIRED to call for their child’s report card at the end of the first quarter during a face to face conference with the teacher.  We follow this policy and a mandatory conference is scheduled in October.  

Report cards will be sent to parents by way of the weekly student folder at the end of the other nine (9) weeks grading periods.  If parents wish a conference they may indicate that on the report card’s “parent signature” return slip.  

Conferences during the year may be requested by parent and teacher whenever they are needed.  Parents are encouraged to contact the teacher with any questions concerning grading or homework assignments.

GRADING SYSTEM
The following grading scale will be used when percentage grades are recorded and averaged:
A =    100% - 93%            ** a plus or minus attached to a letter grade
B =    92% - 85%                indicates the upper or lower parameter
C =    84% - 75%                of the respective grade.
D =    74% - 70%
F =    69% - below

the following grade scale will used when anecdotal records are recorded and considered:
E =    Excellent Progress
G =    Good Progress
S =    Satisfactory Progress
P =    Problem Area
I =    Improving Area

PROMOTION
Students are promoted to the next grade on an annual basis.  If a student does not attain satisfactory achievement, retention may be considered.  Parents are kept informed of the student’s progress through report cards, mid-term reports, parent-teacher conferences and communications from the teacher.  The parent is always consulted about retention, and the best possible decision is made for the good of the student.


Student

Activities

and

Honors



STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Students in the Fifth Grade are commissioned as ST. EDWARD KNIGHTS and are permitted to wear a special uniform shirt.

Students in the Fifth Grade and representatives from each grade level serve on an Advisory Student Council.

Students in the Third, Fourth and Fifth Grades may be trained to be altar servers at Mass in September.

Students in the Second Grade prepare to celebrate their First Penance & Communion.

Living Rosary, May Crowning & Awards Program
All students are expected to participate in these activities during the school day.

Christmas and Spring Programs
All students are expected to participate in these activities during the evening.

ADVENT ANGELS
During the Advent Season students participate in Advent Angels.  This activity helps students to focus on the spirit of giving to others, rather than receiving for themselves.  Each classroom makes some type of “angel” that is placed on the school’s Advent Angel Tree located in the school cafeteria the first week of Advent.  Efforts are made to tie this activity in with the Knights of Columbus Tree Lighting observance which is held throughout the nation.

BLUE GRASS ENERGY’S ENVIONMENTAL PROGRAM
Students in the Fourth and Fifth Grades are treated every other year to a nature program.  In it they learn about the creatures in Kentucky that Blue Grass Energy tries to protect while still supplying power to many of Kentucky’s residents.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
Students and Alumni are invited to participate in a number of events which celebrate our past success, our present accomplishments and our future.  These events occur in late January each year.  Events are sponsored by the Alumni Association.

DIOCESAN PARISH ANNUAL APPEAL
Each year, as a school, the students contribute to this Appeal.  Efforts are made to develop an activity that will require the use of the students’ time, talent and treasure.  This activity provides a donation to the DPAA.

LENTEN ACTIVITIES
During the Season of Lent students participate in a school wide observance of the Forty Days of Lent.  These activities vary from year to year.  However, the concept of sacrifice is emphasized.

LIVING ROSARY
During the months of October and May students come together in the church and present the Living Rosary.  Students line the perimeter of the church to represent Rosary Beads and students are selected from volunteers to walk the Rosary as the student body prays the Rosary.  Parents, guests, and parishioners are invited to join.

PUMPKIN OLYMPICS
On October 31, or a day close to it, students are treated to an afternoon of fun games and treats called Pumpkin Olympics.  We emphasize a “fall harvest” theme and avoid too much emphasis on Halloween.    Each student is asked to provide a bag of wrapped candy which is used to provide prizes for some of the activities that are enjoyed in the afternoon.  Many volunteers are needed.  This activity requires Virtus Trained Volunteers.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN
This program is scheduled every two years and is mandated by the Diocese of Covington.  Students enrolled in Preschool through Twelfth Grade participate in this program.  A variety of agencies provide the program to our students.  St. Edward School may utilize: “Kids on the Block” (Family Nurturing Center) “Women’s Crisis Center,” and the “Council on Child Abuse of Southern Ohio, Inc.”

HONORS / AWARDS / RECOGNITION

QUARTERLY
At the end of each grading period students may achieve the following recognition which is published in the local paper:
“A” Honor Roll        students must maintain all “A’s” “E’s” and “G’s” in all subject areas.
“A – B” Honor Roll    students must maintain all “A’s” “B’s “E’s and “G’s”in all subject areas.
School Honors        students must work to their full potential and earn no more than one “C” and “S” during the grading period.

DURING THE YEAR
All students are recognized for their birthday before the entire school population.  
Each child is featured as Student of the Week before the entire school population.
Each month Accelerated Reading Certification takes place before the entire school population.

END OF YEAR AWARDS PROGRAM
At the close of the academic year students will be recognized for outstanding achievement.  Awards will be presented for:
Accelerated Reading Awards
Altar Servers Awards
Attendance - students missing less than five (5) days
and having no more than five (5) tardies all year,
Conservation District Winners – Poster/Essay Contest
Contest Winners sponsored by our local Fire & Police Departments
Most Christ Like Award – selected by students in each grade level
Teacher Awards
The Fifth Grade Exodus


Supporting

Organizations


Cynthiana City Government helps St. Edward through the Fire Department and Police Department.  The City permits students to use the city gym for physical education in exchange for use of the St. Edward parking lot for city functions concerning the gym.

Cynthiana / Harrison County Public Library - Students from St. Edward utilize the Public Library on a bi-weekly basis.  The library staff is always ready to help with special research projects.

Friends of St. Edward provide tuition assistance to Catholic families who receive the active parishioner tuition rate. Applications are available from the church office after May 1 and must be returned by May 31.  

Harrison County Conservation District - St. Edward annually submits a grant application to the District for educational projects.  In addition, the students participate in the Water/Soil Conservation Poster & Essay Contests.  Students in the Fourth and Fifth Graders receive monthly instruction from the county Conservation Agent.

Harrison County School System - students from St. Edward enter the county school system in the Sixth Grade.  For this reason, St. Edward’s has an active exchange of information and resources, when determined to be within legal boundaries.

Harrison County Fiscal Court supports St. Edward by securing bus transportation through the Harrison County School District.

Rev. Louis B. Brinker Trust provides tuition assistance.  Families who receive assistance from the Trust will have demonstrated a strong commitment to the school / and or preschool in the previous year.    Applications are available from the church office after May 1 and must be returned by May 31.  

St. Edward Knights of Columbus The Knights, a group of Catholic men in the parish, support many worthy activities.  The Knights co-sponsors a Lenten Fish Fry on Fridays during Lent.  They provide financial support to the school when needed.

various individuals Throughout the year various individuals, trusts and organizations and companies assist our students by providing financial donations and materials.  Donations, which are tax-deductible, are always welcome.

FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS
St. Edward School is the recipient of much support from our local community, regional and national fundraising programs.  Some businesses donate items and services which help control expenses.  Some businesses provide on-going programs of which we take advantage.  PLEASE make an effort to support these businesses and programs as they provide assistance to our school.

Campbell’s Labels for Education  St. Edward receives points for labels sent to Campbell’s Company.  Items such as:  televisions, carts, physical education equipment and books have been purchased.  Labels can be dropped off at the office any time during the year.

Food Lion Each school year you are asked to register with Food Lion in order to have a percentage of your total receipt donated to St. Edward School.

Ken’s New Market Receipt Program Partners in Education allows us to participate in a 1% rebate program.  You are encouraged to save any Ken’s New Market receipts totaling $10 or more and drop them off at office any time during the year.

Movie Warehouse provides our school with free video rental certificates for various special recognitions throughout the year.

Office Depot our school’s identification number is 70039788. Please give this number to the clerk when you purchase items from the store.  St. Edward’s receive a percentage of each purchase.

Recyclers, USA  our school receives money for recycled printer cartridges and cell phones.  These items can be dropped off at the office any time during the year.

SCRIP our school receives percentages of “gift cards” purchased through this program.  A limited supply of cards is almost always available for purchase from the office. An order sheet is available from the office for larger orders.  This proceeds of this fundraiser are restricted for a New Text Book Reserve.

Snappy Tomato Pizza designates one day a month as St. Edward Nite.  Any orders taken during a specified time frame generate a percentage of the sale to our school.  Flyers are sent home and placed in the church bulletin to inform people of the special St. Edward Nite.  In addition Snappy provides the school with special “school discounts” on their pizza and special mini-pizza certificates for accelerated reading rewards.


School

Wellness

Policy


ST. EDWARD SCHOOL WELLNESS POLICY
developed by the St. Edward School Health & Wellness Subcommittee April, 2008

The Federal Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 requires that all schools participating in the National School Lunch Program implement a Local Wellness Policy.  The new law mandates that Local Wellness Policies include:

I.      Goals for nutrition education, physical activity, and other school-based activities.
Therefore:
St. Edward will include nutrition education in science, health and physical education classes.  Students, parents, food service professionals, health professionals and other interested community members will be called upon to assist the teacher in nutrition education.  St. Edward School will participate in the School Breakfast/Lunch Program.   Students will be allowed to purchase milk mid-morning and students in Kindergarten and First Grade will be furnished a snack as well.  Students will be discouraged from sharing their foods or beverages with one another during meal or snack times.   Given concerns about allergies and other restriction in some children’s diets, a list of allergies will be kept on file and posted with the appropriate personnel. Modifications will be made as deemed necessary to accommodate allergy and diet concerns.  

Child Nutrition Education, Physical Activity, School Based Activities that comply with federal, state and local requirements.
Therefore:
St. Edward Child Nutrition Programs will be accessible to all children.  Meals served through the National School Lunch and Breakfast program will:  
-Be served in a clean, pleasant setting;
-Meet the nutrition requirements established by state and federal statutes and regulations;
-Offer a variety of fruits and vegetables;
-Promote the consumption of fruits and vegetables by offering at no additional cost extra servings;
-Serve reduced fat (2%), low-fat (1%), and fat-free milk in a variety of flavors;
-Offer a variety of whole grain foods.

II.    Nutrition guidelines for all foods selected by the local education agency:
Therefore:
Menu planning at St. Edward School in the Diocese of Covington will be in accordance with the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program Guidelines.  The Diocese will monitor records monthly to insure that St. Edward School plans menus that, over the course of a week, meet the nutrition standards recommended in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (the new Food Guide Pyramid).

Students will be encouraged to start each day with a healthy breakfast since children who come to school hungry may find it difficult to stay alert and learn.

Foods of minimal nutritional value will not be available during the school day.  The focus will be offering healthy food choices, not only in the meal but during snacks.  St. Edward School will only provide beverages to be sold individually that are limited to low-fat and non-fat milk.  

Therefore:
-Allowed – water (without added caloric sweeteners), fruit and vegetable juices and fruit-based drinks that contain at least 50% fruit juice and that do not contain additional caloric sweeteners, and unflavored or flavored low-fat or fat-free fluid milk;
-Not allowed- soft drinks containing carbonated caloric sweeteners, sports drinks, iced teas, fruit based drinks that contain less than 50% real fruit juice or that contain additional caloric sweeteners, beverages that contain caffeine (excluding low-fat or fat-free chocolate milk which contains trivial amounts of caffeine);
-Every effort will be made to include fresh fruits and vegetable in the school (seasonal as budget allows) menus.  Whole grain bread and cereal products will be offered as often as possible;
-To encourage students to try eating healthier foods that may not be familiar to them, taste tests will be done when a new product is offered;
-Children with special needs will be included in lunch and snack offerings, if their needs can be adequately met with reasonable accommodations.

Nutrition Education will be integrated into the curriculum.
Therefore:
-St. Edward School will provide safety, health, and nutrition education within its science/physical education curriculum at each grade level;
-Nutrition Education will be offered as part of a sequential, comprehensive, standards-based program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote and protect their health;
-Includes enjoyable, developmentally-appropriate, culturally organized activities, such as contests, promotions and taste testing;
-Promotes fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, and low-fat and fat-free dairy products, healthy food preparation methods, and health-enhancing nutrition practices.
       
School Food/Health Environment – All foods and beverages made available (including la carte, parties, and fundraising) during the school day will be consistent with the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Therefore:
A.    School based activities such as fundraisers, rewards and celebrations will not involve food or beverages, or will use only foods and beverages that meet the acceptable nutrition guidelines.  St. Edward will only consider promotion of physical activity in fundraising activities.  Rewards for academic performance or good behavior will not be centered solely around food;  
non-food items will be used instead as much as possible.  Celebrations that involve food during the school day will be limited to no more than one party per class per month and healthy food choices should be offered for these celebrations.

-To support children’s health and nutrition efforts, St. Edward fundraising activities will include, but not be limited to, items that will encourage healthy eating and physical activity;
-Snacks/Milk Break will be served mid-morning and no sooner that 30 (thirty) minutes after the last lunch period and will meet the Guidelines for Competitive Food and Beverage Sales;
-St. Edward does not serve fried foods;
-St. Edward limits celebrations that involve food during the school day with exception to Birthday celebration at lunch;
-All foods made available at St. Edward adhere to food safety and security guidelines;

-The school environment is safe, comfortable, pleasing, and allows ample time and space for eating meals.  Food and/or physical activity are not used as a punishment. Efforts are made to use non-food items as rewards for academic performance or good behavior.
         
B. Physical Activity will be provided 30 (thirty) minutes each day. Patterns
of meaningful physical activity connect to students’ lives outside of physical education will be encouraged.  Where possible, certified instructors should teach Physical Education class to all students in Kindergarten – Fifth Grade.  Recess, extra time at lunch and/or breakfast, and scheduled Physical Education classes are to be encouraged as much as possible.  Teachers and school administrators work on scheduling so adequate time is allowed for these activities.  In the event the above cannot be implemented, another form of activity should be in place at school.  

Additionally, students need opportunities for physical activity beyond physical education classes.  In order for students to fully embrace regular physical activity as a personal behavior, they need to be encouraged to maintain a physically active lifestyle and to reduce time spent on sedentary activities, such as watching television.

-Physical education will be an environment where students learn, practice and are assessed on developmentally appropriate motor skills, social skills and knowledge;
-Teachers will be encouraged to incorporate physical activity as possible into subject areas;
-St. Edward will provide a physical and social environment that encourages safe and enjoyable activity for all students, including those who are not athletically gifted.   Good sportsmanship and fair play will be expected at all times;
-Depriving students of physical activity as a consequence for behavior or academic performance will be discouraged;
-Physical Education will be held 20 (twenty) - 25 (twenty five) minutes with a five minute break each day.
                       
III.    A plan for measuring implementation of the Local Wellness Policy:
In order to ensure compliance with the Local Wellness Policy, the Diocese of Covington’s Food Service Director will conduct a review of the school’s program and will attach a copy of that review to            the local Monitor Review conducted annually.   

The policy will be developed with the involvement of parents, students, representatives of the school food authority, the board of education, and school administrators.  The lead teacher will be responsible for ensuring the Wellness Policy Guidelines are met.
Therefore:
-A copy of St. Edward’s Wellness Policy will be submitted to the Diocese of     Covington for review each year;
-Menus will be published in local paper and copies sent home each week to parents, and will be posted on school website.
    
IV.      Designation of Food Service Director to Ensure Implementation of Wellness Policy on Local Schools
The Director for Catholic Education designates the Diocesan Food Service Director to be responsible for ensuring that Wellness Policy goals are being implemented at the local level.
Therefore:
-The lead teacher and cafeteria manager will work closely with the Diocesan Food Service Director to ensure compliance with guidelines.

V.   Public Involvement in Development of Wellness Policy for Schools
The involvement of students, parents and the community are already a valuable component of the National School Lunch Program; however, with the implementation of the Local Wellness Policy, it becomes critical to invite further participation.
Therefore:
-St. Edward School will establish a Health and Safety Subcommittee of its School Advisory Committee that will provide input into the school’s wellness policy.
-The Health and Safety Subcommittee will report periodically to the school’s Advisory Committee.
-The Wellness Policy will be reviewed annually and updated at needed.

            

History of

St. Edward,
the confessor

and

St. Edward
Parish & School



ST. EDWARD, THE CONFESSOR … OUR PATRON SAINT

(1003 – 1066)  Son of King Ethelred III and his Norman wife, Emma, daughter of Duke Richard I of Normandy, he was born at Islip, England, and sent to Normandy with his mother in 1013 when the Dans under Sweyn and his son Canute invaded England.  Canute remained in England and the year after Ethelred’s death in 1016, married Emma, who had returned to England, and became King of England.

Edward remained in Normandy, was brought up a Norman, and in 1042 on the death of his half brother Hardicanute, son of Canute and Emma, and largely through the support of the powerful Earl Godwin, he was acclaimed King.

In 1044, he married Godwin’s daughter Edith.  His reign was a peaceful one characterized by his good rule and remission of odious taxes but also by the struggle, partly caused by his natural inclination to favor the Normans, between Godwin and his Saxon supporters and the Norman barons, including Robert of Jumieges, whom Edward had brought with him when he returned to England and whom he named archbishop of Canterbury in 1051.  

In the same year, Edward banished Godwin, who took refuge in Flanders but returned the following year with a fleet ready to lead a rebellion.  Armed revolt was avoided when the two men met and settled their differences; among them was the archbishopric of Canterbury, which was resolved when Edward replaced Robert with Stigand, and Robert returned to Normandy.

Edward’s difficulties continued after Godwin’s death in 1053 with Godwin’s two sons: Harold who had his eye on the throne since Edward was childless, and Tostig, earl of Northumbria.  Tostig was driven from Northumbria by a revolt in 1065 and banished to Europe by Edward, who named Harold his successor.  After this, Edward became more interested in religious affairs and built St. Peter’s Abbey at Westminister, where he is buried.  

His piety gained him the surname “the Confessor.”  He died in London on January 5, and he was canonized in 1161 by Pope Alexander III.  His feast day is October 13


taken from “Dictionary of Saints” by John J. Delaney


HISTORY OF ST. EDWARD SCHOOL

The history of Catholic education in Harrison County predates the official establishment of the parish in 1864.  While still a mission of the Church of the Annunciation, Paris, KY the parish rented the Wall School House as a site for worship – no Catholic Church building then stood in Harrison County.  With the availability of this building, Catholic children began attending classes in 1858.

Twenty years later, in 1878, the first order of nuns arrived to teach the children.  The Sisters of Mercy came and served Catholic children for three years.  After their departure, Fr. Zang oversaw the school for the next five years.  For reasons unknown to us … the school closed.

From current sources we do not know if the school was active in the years following 1883, until 1920.  In 1920 property adjacent to the church was purchased and the Sisters of Divine Providence came to serve St. Edward School.  The school has been in operation ever since.  The sisters established eight grades, along with a good music program.

For 61 years the Sisters of Divine Providence served the school well and faithfully, establishing St. Edward as an educational leader of Harrison County schools.  In 1982 the order could no longer staff the school.  The Sisters of Notre Dame took up the charge and staffed the school until 1994.  

Our school enrollment and our available space require that we have double grade classrooms.  There are advantages to having a small enrollment and combined grades.  The school becomes a large family.  The students, faculty and staff come to know and understand those who participate in the educational endeavor we call St. Edward School.

The future looks bright as parents, faculty, staff and students work together for the betterment of those who walk through the doors of St. Edward’s.  Our legacy is one which involves the sacred and the ordinary.   It is Jesus who is the center for our purpose, and it is He who leads and guides us still today.  


HISTORY OF ST. EDWARD CHURCH

In Harrison County (formed in December 1793) there were Catholics as early as 1825, visited by priests from St. Francis Mission, White Sulphur, Scott County.  In 1849, there is record of Masses by Fr. P. Kroger of Cincinnati, held for a colony of German Catholics in the Broadwell Meeting House which stood on the Ruddles Mill Road near the intersection with the Millersburg Road.

In 1852 Bishop George Carroll instructed Fr. Force, pastor of Paris, KY to establish a mission in Cynthiana which had a growing number of Catholics.  Many Irish workers were moving in to lay track for the Kentucky Central Railroad.  At first Masses were held in the homes once a month.   Then the neighboring Presbyterians generously offered the use of their present church until the Wall Street School House could be rented.

In 1860 Fr. Edward Brandtz, native of Holland, pastor of Paris, was given charge of Cynthiana and is regarded as the real founder of St. Edward’s.  
A 86‘ x 206’ lot on Back Street (the site of the present school) was purchased and a frame church was built for $3,000.  It was dedicated in 1864, honoring Fr. Brandtz’s patron saint, St. Edward.

By 1871 the congregation had grown so that a new larger church was started.  The original frame church was moved to the back of the lot, where it became known as “the Hall” and housed many a card party and school play or concert.  It was torn down in 1961 when the present school was erected.  On October 29, 1876, the second church building at 123 North Walnut was dedicated.

This church building and the next-door rectory were destroyed by fire on December 30, 1965.  The fire of undetermined origin was discovered by workmen on the church roof.  Within two hours, the church and rectory were damaged beyond repair.  On Nov. 3, 1968, our present church building was dedicated by Bishop Richard Ackerman.

The future of St. Edward’s is bright.  Many dedicated parishioners help in the mission and ministry of the parish.  Over the past several years a significant number of people have been received into the church.  This is an indication that all is well and growing at St. Edward’s.



Appendix


ST. EDWARD SCHOOL




Dear Parents,

As we begin the new school year I wanted to inform you of some of the procedures that we will follow regarding the health of your child.

1     A Medical Information Card must be completed and returned to the school office as soon as possible.  Please update the school office on any medical information that we should know.

2.    If your child needs to take any medication at school you must provide the school with the following:

a.    A signed Medical Permission Form:  this includes nonprescription (such as cough drops, over the counter pain medication, etc.) as well as prescription medication.  Two permission forms can be found on the next page.   Additional permission forms can be obtained from the school office as needed.

b.    The medication in its original container.  This is especially important in prescription medication.  By law we are required to have the bottle which has the name of the medication, dosage, instructions and name of the doctor prescribing the medication.

3.    Sometime after the first of the year, I will conduct vision and hearing screening on all students.  Scoliosis screenings will be conducted on all Fifth Grade students.  If you have any questions or objections to any of these screenings, please contact the lead teacher.

Sincerely,

Volunteer School Nurse



MEDICATION PERMISSION FORM
When a student must take medication at school this form must be completed for each medication.  Each medication must be sent to the school in its original bottle before the school staff can dispense it at school.

St. Edward School has my permission to give my child:

student’s name ____________________________________________________________

medication ________________________________________________________________

dose ______________________________________________________________________

time ______________________________________________________________________

reason for medication _______________________________________________________

parent signature ____________________________________________________________

date _______________________________________________________________________



St. Edward School has my permission to give my child:

student’s name ____________________________________________________________

medication ________________________________________________________________

dose ______________________________________________________________________

time ______________________________________________________________________

reason for medication _______________________________________________________

parent signature ____________________________________________________________

date _______________________________________________________________________


Permission for Student self-administration of Asthma Medication
Pursuant to the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, St. Edward School permits a student to possess and self-administer asthma medication at school and at school-related functions upon completion of the following information by the parent/guardian and the student’s physician, and waiver of liability by the parent/guardian.

TO BE COMPLETED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN:

student name _____________________________________________________ grade ________

I/we authorize St. Edward School to allow the above-named student to self-administer asthma medication at school and school-related functions, according to the directions of the student’s physician.
I/we release the school and its employees and agents from any and all liability as a result of any injury sustained by the student from the self administration of asthmas medication.  
I/we agree to indemnify and hold harmless the school and its employees and agents against any claims relating to the self-administration of asthma medication by the student.

father/guardian _________________________________________________ date ___________

mother/guardian_________________________________________________ date___________

TO BE COMPLETED BY THE STUDENT’S PHYSICIAN:
I have prescribed asthma medications for the above-named student and the student has been instructed in self medication of that asthma medication.

name of the medications ___________________________________________________________

prescribed dosage _________________________________________________________________

the time(s) the medications are regularly administered _________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

special circumstances under which the medications are to be administered

__________________________________________________________________________________

length of time for which the medications are prescribed ________________________________

physician’s signature ________________________________________________ date _________

approved for the ________________________________________________________ school year

lead teacher’s signature ____________________________________________ date ___________