St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School

306 West Grizzard Street  Tullahoma,  TN 37388

Phone: 931-455-4221 - Fax: 931-455-8298

Email:  stpaulcc@cafes.net

Home of the Cougars

 

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School

Parent/Student Handbook

 

 

 

306 West Grizzard Street

Tullahoma, TN.  37388

     Office: (931) 455-4221

Fax: (931) 455-8298

www.cafes.net/stpaulcc

 

 

 

Parent/Student Handbook

Of

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School

306 West Grizzard Street

Tullahoma, TN.  37388

(931) 455-4221 or (931) 455-6570

stpaulcc@cafes.net

 

 

PHILOSOPHY of ST. PAUL SCHOOL:

The purpose of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School is to teach, build community, and serve.  This is in accordance with the statement of the Catholic Bishop's Conference.  We seek to form an environment of academic excellence that will foster Christian beliefs and practices involving the family and parish community.  This will result in the development of the total child, which includes the academic, spiritual, emotional, moral, and physical needs with respect for each person as an individual.  We trust this environment will encourage Christian values and principles of peace and justice.

 

MISSION STATEMENT:

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School…..where students are embraced by faith and inspired to learn.

 

SCHOOL OFFICE HOURS and INFORMATION:

School Office  455-4221

School Fax #  455-8298

School email  stpaulcc@cafes.net

Extended Care  461-3079

Cafeteria  461-3079

School Office Hours 7:30am-3:00 pm

 

DAILY SCHEDULE:

7:00am  Gym doors open.

7:45am  Main building open.

7:55am  School begins.

1:00pm Last Wednesday of the month early dismissal.

2:55pm Regular dismissal.

 

VISITORS:

All parents and visitors coming onto school property during school hours MUST report to the school office to receive a visitor badge.  CLASSROOMS MAY NOT BE DISTURBED WHILE SCHOOL IS IN SESSION.  School personnel will attend to the "deliveries and pickup" made between students and their parents when necessary during school hours. All visitors need to wear a visitor pass while on campus.

 

ADMISSION and REGISTRATION:

Registration is open to everyone regardless of sex, race, religion or national origin.  An admission interview is required for all middle school students.  St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School reserves the right to deny admission to any student whose educational needs may be better fulfilled elsewhere.

 

At registration all new incoming students must have:

Birth Certificate and Social Security Number

Baptismal certificate (if Catholic)

Evidence of satisfactory medical examination.

Green immunization sheet from your doctors or health department in Tennessee.

Signed custodial arrangements pertaining to your child. (if Applicable)

A yearly non-refundable Registration Fee of $100.00 per family.

All of these papers must be on file before your child will be allowed to attend St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School.

 

Order of Admission:

Siblings of present students of active, contributing members of St Paul, St. Mark, and Good Shepherd Parishes.

Children of active contributing members of the parish.

Children of teachers.

Catholic students of active families outside our parish.

Other students on a first come, first serve basis.

 

As stated in Tennessee Code Annotated Section 49-1792-2, a child must be five years of age by September 30th to enter kindergarten.  Proof of all necessary immunizations and a kindergarten physical examination written on health sheets and signed by physician is required at time of entrance.  All kindergarten students must undergo a kindergarten screening process before admission.  We do not accept children who are not ready for kindergarten.  New students in grades kindergarten through eight will be admitted on a probationary status for the first full grading period after admission.  A student may be evaluated at any time to ensure that St. Paul is meeting their needs.  No new students will be accepted without records from their previous school.

 

 

Registration begins in the spring with a pre-registration for currently enrolled students.  Each family must pay a $100.00 non-refundable Registration Fee.  Once enrolled and registration fee is paid, your child's place is reserved for the upcoming year.

 

ATTENDANCE:

Arrival:

Students may enter the gym beginning at 7:00am.  At 7:45am, the doors to the main building will be opened and any students in the gym are dismissed to class.  No student may enter the main building before 7:45am unless arrangements have been made by a specific teacher.  Students are not permitted to enter school through the office doors

( prior to 7:45am.)

 

Daily Schedule:

The morning bell rings at 7:55am and the outside doors are locked at this time.  Any student arriving after this time will have to report to the school office.  Students who are late must be accompanied into the school office by a parent or the person responsible for bringing them to school.  The school sign in sheet must be signed before the student will be admitted to class.

Morning prayers, flag salute, and the days announcements follow the 7:55am bell. (Prayer service on Tuesday and Mass on Friday begin at 8:05am)

Regular dismissal is at 2:55pm.  Last Wednesday of the month is 1:00pm dismissal.

 

Absences:

Regular attendance and diligent application to study are essential for scholastic success.  Poor schoolwork is often the result of excessive absence.

EXCUSED ABSENCE- Absence will be excused on the basis of verified contact of a parent or guardian for the following reasons:

1.  Personal illness of the student

2.  Medical and dental examinations and/or treatment of the student when appointment cannot be scheduled other than during school hours.

3.  Student participation in school sponsored activities taking place during school hours.

4.  Tardiness due to emergency situations arising from unusual weather conditions or vehicle accidents.

5.  Reasons of extenuating circumstances to be judged by the principal.

 

Absences other than those mentioned will be considered UNEXCUSED.  In the case of an unexcused absence, the teacher is not required to instruct again, give credit for work missed, or provide make up tests.

 

Verification of absence is made by a telephone call from the parent or guardian to the school office no later than 8:30am. (A message may be left on the answering machine).  Three (3) or more consecutive absences for illness will require a doctor’s certificate for readmission to school.  Failure to produce appropriate explanation will result in the absence or tardiness being classified as unexcused.

 

State Law requires that parents be notified in writing when a student has missed five(5) days of school.  These do not have to be consecutive days.

 

After a total of TEN (10) days of absences, a review with parents, principal and teacher will be held. Another meeting will be conducted if 5 more absences are accrued.  After a total of 20 absences, the student may be retained in the current grade.

 

Make-up assignments are the responsibility of the student and he/she should make provisions to obtain assignments and books on days absent.  Contact with classmates should provide material covered during an absence.  If it's necessary for a parent to pick up assignments for a student, the office must be notified by 8:30am.  The assignments and books will be available in the school office after 3:00pm.

 

 

TARDINESS and EARLY DISMISSAL:

St. Paul School maintains that tardiness and early dismissal is a disturbing experience for the student, and disruptive to the classmates and teachers.  Similarly, in cases of absence, careless habits on the part of the family negatively impact the student’s school life and academic achievement.  Both the Diocese of Nashville and the State of Tennessee maintain similar positions concerning attendance:

After seven (7) tardies or early dismissals, parents will receive notice a meeting will be held with the principal and teacher to review the situation.

In the case of further violations, the case will be considered a disciplinary action and handled as needed.

 

Parents must sign in/out their child in the school office. Please do not go to your child's classroom for an early dismissal; your child will be called upon your arrival.  All tardies/early dismissals may be considered excused only if a note signed by the parent or doctor is presented when the student returns to class.  If no note is sent the tardy/early dismissal will be considered an unexcused absence.  NOTE: If a student is absent for more than two (2) hours of the school day, or is admitted to class late or dismissed early from school without valid excuse, it will be counted as a half-day absence.

 

TUITION:

The annual tuition of St. Paul School does not reflect the amount it costs to educate your child.  St. Paul Church underwrites the budget of the school to a very high percent.  Tuition is collected by the Smart Tuition Services.  ECP and cafeteria bills will be paid in the school office.  No mid-term or final report card will be issued or records transferred until all accounts are paid in full.  The school’s operating budget depends on the timely payments of tuition.  Please notify the administration if a financial crisis disrupts your financial obligation (accounts delinquent 30 days or more).

 

DISMISSAL PROCEDURE:

Traffic will descend the hill on Grizzard Street at the direction of the teachers.  (Please do not block the driveway across from the church).  Regular dismissal takes place at 2:55pm.  Children will be dismissed at 1:00pm on the last Wednesday of each month for faculty meetings.  Kindergarten children will be brought to the school’s dismissal line.  To ensure the safety of the children, all students will be picked up at the dismissal area. Children should enter the car on the passenger side only for safety reasons.  Please do not ask your child to meet you elsewhere.  Students not picked up by 3:15pm (or 1:15pm on early dismissal days) will be sent to Extended Care Program and WILL BE CHARGED THE DAILY RATE.  Students who walk, ride bicycles, or are picked up by someone other than parent or guardian must have a written note on file in the office.  NO CHILD WILL BE LEFT UNATTENDED ON ST. PAUL SCHOOL GROUNDS.

 

TRIPS AND VACATIONS:

All trips and vacations should be scheduled to coincide with the school's two (2) week breaks and or holidays.  Children should not be taken out of school for such trips except in special circumstances.  The principal should be consulted before any child is taken out of school.

 

Teachers should not be expected to provide work assignments in advance of an absence.  Some teachers, however, may elect to provide the student with his/her assignments if the absence is going to be a lengthy one.  If advance assignments are given to the student, all work is due when the student returns to school.

 

Please plan your summer vacation in accordance with the school calendar.  Students will not be permitted to take final examinations early nor will report cards be issued without the results of these examinations.

 

WITHDRAWAL:

Parents transferring children to other schools are required to notify the school office in advance and must submit the name and address of the new school. Notification of withdrawal must be in written form.  Test scores, transcripts, and other school forms necessary for a student to transfer will only be completed by the teacher, principal, and school secretary upon official notification of withdrawal by the parents.  The new school must request the records – no official records will be released to the parents.  Records will not be forwarded until all accounts have been cleared. Any threat or act of violence by a student, parent, or guardian upon a teacher, staff member, or administrator shall result in the immediate dismissal of that student from St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School.

 

MASS:

Religion is a very important part of Catholic school education. All children are expected to attend Prayer Service every Tuesday, Mass every Friday and Holy Days of Obligation.  Prayers are said in all classrooms each morning, at lunchtime, and as the children are dismissed to go home in the afternoon.  In Mass, the students are expected to sit with their classmates only and participate in the service.

 

CONFERENCES (PARENT-TEACHER):

Formal parent teacher conferences are scheduled for the fall and spring of the school year for all children grades K-8th. Conferences for middle school students will be held whenever the teachers deem it necessary or at the parent’s request. This home – school contact is considered essential for a successful program.  Any parent who wishes to speak to his child’s teacher should call the school office and leave a message.  The teacher will return the call as soon as possible.  It is not appropriate to come to the classroom before, after, or during school hours to have discussions with the teacher.  Please Do Not Call Any Teacher At Home.  If a parent wishes to discuss the progress of his/her child, they should first contact the child’s teacher.  If further discussion is needed, the principal should next be involved.  Involvement of the Pastor should be reserved for the most serious situations.  Parents are expected to follow this chain of action.

CURRICULUM:

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School is a state approved school and received an accreditation from the Southern Association of Schools in 1998.  The core subjects are Christian Doctrine, Reading, English, Spelling, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science.  The minor subjects are Physical Education, Spanish, Art, Music, and Computers.  Report cards are issued at the end of every nine weeks.  A mid-term progress report is issued in the middle of each nine-week period to students in the first grade through the eighth grade. It is intended to give students and their parents an idea of the grade averages up to that point.  This allows any necessary changes to be made before the final report card is issued at the end of the quarter.

Core subjects are graded as follows for 2nd through 8th grade:

A+ 99-100  B+ 91-92

A 95-98  B 88-90

A- 93-94  B- 86-87

 

C+ 84-85  D+ 75-76

C 79-83   D 72-74

C- 77-78  D- 70-71

 

F 69 and below

 

K-3: Art, Music, P.E. and Computers are graded as follows:

S+ Outstanding work

S   Satisfactory work

S-  Needs improvement

U   Unsatisfactory work

 

Children in kindergarten through first grade receive quarterly written report cards detailing skills mastery. Kindergarten receives their first report card the second nine weeks.

 

ACADEMIC PROBATION:

Children with any grade below a C- (77) in a major subject or a "U" in a minor subject at mid-term will be considered to be on academic probation.  This means the privilege to participate in any school sponsored extracurricular activities (such as athletics, school clubs, school dances, field trips) may be suspended.  Academic probation is handled on an individual basis by the faculty.

 

HOMEWORK:

The length of home study depends on the initiative and ability of the student and also the type of assignment given.  Long-range assignments are often given to develop a sense of responsibility.  Homework should extend the learning begun at school, provide extra practice needed to perfect fundamental skills, make use of resources outside the school, and encourage individual initiative.  Parents should take an interest in homework, but must remember that homework is only beneficial to the student when he/she does the work themselves.  Individual teachers will give a copy of their homework policy to the parents and students at the beginning of the year.  These policies are considered to be extensions of this handbook.

 

 

STUDENT CONDUCT CODE:

Rationale:

The goal of good discipline is that of guiding, directing and encouraging students to choose what is good, right and just for themselves and for the good of others.  Discipline possesses the attributes of positive self-image and the ability to conduct oneself in a manner keeping with respect and human dignity.  Rules and good conduct are in place for the purpose of leading others to virtues as well as order and harmony in human relationships.  The moral obligation of training children in good conduct and discipline rests first with parents.  The responsibility of the school is to give broadening and experience to parental training.  The teachers at St. Paul School are dedicated to finding the best means of aiding, guiding and implementing positive self-discipline for children, and in this way helping parents.

 

It is extremely important that a child be thoroughly convinced that his/her parents stand behind the school.  Without such an understanding, a child can perceive that home and school are unrelated areas of authority and he/she soon learns to communicate differently at home and school.  Parents and teachers can best serve the students they jointly care about by working together. It is in the student’s best interest that we come to some understanding which will safeguard the student’s respect for parental and school authority.

 

Development of Student Attitudes and conduct:

The St. Paul Student Code of Conduct shall include, but not be limited to, the following concepts:

Students shall treat each other, school employees and visitors with the concern and respect that is a sign of Gospel values.

When attending a school or social function the students are expected to conduct themselves in a courteous and Christ like manner. This includes use of school property during and after school hours.

Any disruptions of the learning environment is considered an infringement on the rights of others and handled according to the behavior code of the school.

Students shall be concerned about the health of themselves and others while on the school grounds.  They shall not knowingly possess, use, or transmit weapons of any kind.  Students shall not knowingly possess, use, transmit, or be under the influence of an intoxicant of any kind, or any drugs not prescribed for them by a physician.

Students shall use material items with care and respect that shows they understand what it means to live in a world in which our resources are limited and need to be shared.  Any attempt to damage or steal material goods will be handled according to disciplinary procedures.

 

 

Courtesy and Discipline:

True courtesy is born of Christian charity and prompted by consideration for others.  School authorities have an obligation to expect a wholesome respect from their students and a spirit of loyalty and cooperation.  This is shown by the students' behavior to one another as well as outward marks of respect such as rising when an adult enters the room, speaking in a polite manner, holding and opening doors, and general acts of kindness towards adults and students alike.  Students are expected to show obedience and respect to each teacher in the school, not just their own.  They are expected to show respect to each teacher in school, not just their own.  They are expected to show respect to volunteers of St. Paul School thus recognizing that people are giving of time and talent on their behalf.  In turn, each student is to be treated by teacher, staff, students and volunteers with dignity and respect as befits a child of God.  This reciprocal courtesy will help to create an atmosphere where each person is seen as important and valued.

 

 

Discipline is as fundamental in education, as it is fundamental in life.  Correct training implies that a child act in conformity with regulations imposed by parents, teachers, and others in authority.  This, in time, yields to self-discipline: the sense and the ability to do what is right, just, and good for oneself and others.  St. Paul School pupils are expected to be students of fine character, loyal, spirited, and learning to assume responsibility.  Proper modes of behavior and self-direction are objectives of the school.  If students follow these guidelines, there should be no recourse to disciplinary action.  If they violate these guidelines, they are subject to disciplinary sanctions.

 

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS:

At the discretion of the teacher and/or principal, disciplinary action in grades kindergarten through fourth may include:

     Verbal reminders.

     Time out in the classroom.

     Loss of playtime.

     Written and/or verbal contact with parents

 

Disciplinary action in grades five through eight is handled with a "points system".  At the beginning of each week, the student has 100 points.  If infractions occur, points are subtracted from the total.  The final total of points at the end of each week is the student’s conduct grade for that week.  These weekly grades are averaged to give the report card grade.

 

Each quarter, when a student obtains his/her first weekly conduct grade below 70, students are placed in detention. Participation in school-related activities including, but not limited to, athletics, school clubs, school dances, etc. is considered to be a privilege given to students.  

 

Should a student obtain a third weekly conduct grade below a 70, the parents will be called to a conference with the principal and teacher.  

 

DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS MAY BE USED FOR, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE FOLLOWING INFRACTIONS:

    Disrespect and/or disobedience to teachers, staff or volunteers during all school activities.

     Uniform violations.

     Demonstrates inappropriate behavior or disrespect at school Mass.

     Chewing gum on school property

     Running, screaming, or loud raucous behavior in class, halls, or cafeteria.

     Chronic failure to complete homework or assigned work.

     Fighting of any kind.

     Academic dishonesty, including cheating, forgery, or plagiarism.

     Use of profanity, or crude language.

     Obscene conduct, gestures, or speech.

     Misuse of school property

     Bullying of any form

Eating during school hours without permission or not in designated area.

Possession of audio or visual equipment, cell phones, or IPods at school without permission. (St. Paul will not assume responsibility for any toy, item, or valuable brought to school without permission or for a valid educational reason).  

Rude or inappropriate behavior in the cafeteria.

 

SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS:

Unfortunately, but realistically, there are times when students choose to violate the guidelines of Christian behavior in a serious manner.  For this reason, the Diocesan Board of Education mandated that "each school shall establish a procedure for the positive disciplinary action of students" (Diocesan Policy #3130).

Due to the fact that students are capable of many serious actions, which cannot be itemized, St. Paul School administration reserves the right to decide about serious disciplinary actions and their subsequent consequences.  Just cause for disciplinary action (in school suspension, out of school suspension, or expulsion) will include but not limited to any of the following serious violations.

Fighting of any kind.

Repeated academic dishonesty, including cheating, forgery, or plagiarism.

Belligerent, disruptive, or incorrigible behavior to teachers, staff, students, or volunteers.

Possession of narcotics, drugs (including counterfeit or look a like drugs), drug paraphernalia, or alcohol at any school related functions.

Smoking or carrying of cigarettes or tobacco products.

Habitual and willful use of crude and profane language.

Obscene conduct, sexual acts or possession of obscene literature or materials.

Theft or stealing of school, staff, teachers, or student's property.

Deliberate damage to school property, furnishings, books, and equipment.

Possession of knives, firearms, weapons of any kind, fireworks, etc…

Leaving school grounds without permission.

In case of a serious infraction, the following actions will be taken:

The student will be immediately removed from the classroom or the company of his/her peers and sent to the principal’s office.  The parents will be notified and the student may be sent home for the remainder of the school day.

 

A meeting of the disciplinary committee may be called by the principal or at the request of the parents.  This committee, made up of the principal, teacher(s) involved, the parents, and the priest, will meet to discuss the student’s behavior and consequences for such behavior.  The committee will be an advisory committee only and the final decision rests with the principal and the priest.

 

 

 

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES:

All doors are kept locked in all buildings (visitors must report to the school office).  Fire drills are held on a regular basis, as well as tornado drills during the tornado season.  At the beginning of the school year, the children are taught the proper procedures for each class to follow.  St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School adheres to the procedures of the Tullahoma City School System regarding closure of school due to snow, ice, etc… unless a specific announcement is made concerning our school.  Listen to the Nashville television station WKRN ABC Channel 2 News for information regarding our school closing.  Procedures are currently in place to handle all other emergencies.

 

ACCIDENT and ILLNESS:

When a student is too ill to stay at school, parents will be contacted and are expected to make arrangements for the student to leave school.  We do not have the facilities to care for a sick child.  A child who has been ill must be without fever for 24 hours before returning to school.  Parents will be notified of accidents involving injury to their child.  In case of serious injury, parents and emergency agencies will be contacted.  All faculty members are certified in emergency first aid and CPR.

 

MEDICATION:

Parents should try to schedule doses of medicine so that the school is not involved.  The school will not dispense medication without written instructions from the parent.  Medication is kept in the school office under lock and key.  Students may not keep any type of medication (including non-prescription) in their possession.  The parents and students are responsible to make certain that all medication returns home when no longer needed at school.

 

SCHOOL LIBRARY:

Students in kindergarten may check out 1 book at a time from the school library.  Grades 1-8 may check out up to 2 books at a time.  Each book is due one week from the date of check out.  All students may renew their books up to 2 times.  If a book is not returned after three consecutive weeks, it will be considered overdue.  If a student has an overdue book, no other books may be checked out until the overdue book is returned or paid for.  There is no fine for overdue books.

Replacement charges for lost or severely damaged books will be the actual current cost of the book plus a processing fee of $1.00.  If the replacement cost is unknown, the charge will be $6.00 for a paperback book, $10.00 for old hardback books, $15.00 for new hardback books.  Replacement of books-on-tape will be between $15.00 and $50.00 depending on the number of tapes.  Report cards will be held at the end of the school year if there is an outstanding library debt.

Every class will have an assigned time to come to the library each week for check out of books.  Other "open library" times will be posted in the library.

Our library continues to grow each year, but new books are always needed.  Please consider giving the gift of a book donation to honor a special occasion.  Hardback books your child has outgrown may also be donated.

 

 

DRESS CODE:

St. Paul School not only sets the pace in excellence, but also in the way children present themselves.  For this reason, we take great pride in our uniform standards.  It is the responsibility of the parents to insure that their children are dressed in accordance with the uniform standards and weather conditions.  Parents will be notified immediately when children are dressed inappropriately.   The administration will make all the decisions regarding proper dress on non-uniform days.  Clothing for non-uniform days must be appropriate for the occasion.  No shirts with inappropriate slogans or advertisements may be worn at anytime.  Children may not wear shorts on non-uniform days from October 31st till April 1st.  Students in violation of these standards will be asked to call their parents and appropriate clothing must be brought to school.  Adopted for use beginning fall 1999, the dress code was made with the idea that the uniform be neat, clean, and simple.  The uniform colors are taken from the plaid jumpers/skirts/skorts.  The school uniform colors are navy, green, and white.

 

 

   Uniform Policy

 

Uniforms should be bought from Larose or JCPenney (pants, shorts, shirts and dress/skirt and skort)

Pants: Navy may be worn by all grades: Khaki will be reserved for older grades (6th-8th). The Khaki must be a consistent color.  No cargo pockets.  They should have side pockets and 1 back pocket.  Should not be rolled up.

Shirts: White may be worn by all grades: Dark Green (K-5th) and Navy (6th-8th).  The shirts may or may not have the logo(all colors).  Each student should have 1 each of a St. Paul T-shirt or Sweat shirt (not hooded).  No turtlenecks, Peter pan collared shirts, or button down blouses. Shirts must be tucked in at all times.

Plaid: this is still for the girls only.  The pinafore (K-5th) and the skirt (6th-8th).  A navy skort for girls (K-5th) may be worn.

Shorts: skirts, and skorts must be no more than the width of a dollar bill above the knee.  Teachers will measure if needed.  Should not be rolled up.

Sweaters: Navy Cardigan sweater from Dennis-Larose, No sweater vests. Hooded outerwear is not a part of the school uniform.

Shoes: All leather athletic shoes. No Cartoons, no lights should be on the shoes.  They should be white or gray (or Saddle Oxfords from Claytons). If there is color on the shoe it should be minimal amounts of blue, black or gray.  No heels, boots, vans, heelys, sandals, clogs, jellies, crocs or high tops.  White shoelaces only that are tied tightly on the foot for safety.

Socks: Crew socks only. All white only (see example in office).

Tights: Nylon tights white/Cable knit tights white (K-2)

Belts: Should be worn with shorts/pants.  Should be standard leather belt/weave in black, brown or navy.  Should not have ornamentation or excessive buckles.  Belts suggested for K-3rd, MANDATORY 4th – 8th.

Hair:  Should be neat and clean.  Boys: no longer than middle of forehead, off the collar, ears and neck and should be of natural color (no artificial coloring).  Girls: Above the eyebrows, pulled off the face, and of natural color (no artificial coloring).  Bows, barrettes, scrunchies, headbands, and ponytail holders are allowed only in the following colors: Solid navy, green, white, or uniform plaid.  Colored floss or beads are not allowed.

Jewelry: One earring may be worn per earlobe, must be stud size (no dangles). Boys are not allowed to have piercings or wear earrings.  No body piercing.  No tattoos.  ONLY RELIGOUS JEWELRY (necklaces, and bracelets).  No rings allowed for K-5th and only 1 ring for 6th – 8th.  Standard watches may be worn. Only CLEAR nail polish may be worn 6th-8th grade girls.

Make-up: should not be worn except for clear lip gloss 6th –8th grade girls.

Enforcement: 1st infraction – note/warning sent home with required parent signature. (Your student_______ is non-compliant with the uniform policy.  He/she will not be allowed to be out of uniform the remainder of this grading period or as per the principals discretion). 2nd infraction- Mom/Dad will be called to bring appropriate clothing to school for you to change into.  3rd infraction and beyond, will be at the discretion of the principal.

No tattoos, writing on their skin

 

 

Out of Uniform Days

No short shirts (i.e. crop tops/tank tops/spaghetti straps/when arms raised above head, stomach must be covered)

Shorts and skirts must meet the width of $1.00 bill regulation

No clothing with holes

All shirts must have sleeves and be without inappropriate or suggestive language, (No references to drugs, alcohol, sex or musical groups).

All clothing must fit properly (not baggy or tight fitting)

No make - up except for clear lip gloss 6th-8th grade girls

All leather athletic shoes. Must be tied tightly on the foot for safety.

No hats

 

 

EXTENDED CARE PROGRAM (ECP):

Before school care is provided in the morning starting at 7:00am Monday through Friday.  After school care is provided until 5:30 pm on days that school is in session.  Study hall and playtime activities are provided and conducted by qualified personnel.

 

TECHNOLOGY:

Computers with Internet connection are located in each classroom, the computer lab, and the library.  Computer use will be supervised at all times.  A separate policy outlining all procedures will be signed by all students and their parents before use.

 

WEEKLY FOLDERS:

Folders will be sent home each Wednesday.  All assignments, tests, and other graded work will be found in these folders.  Please take time to review your child’s work.  Also please read the newsletters, notices, and calendars.  Folders must be returned by Thursday.

 

LOCKERS:

Middle school students are given one locker and a lock for books and personal items.  Having a locker is a privilege and abuse of this privilege will result in its loss. Lockers are the property of St. Paul School and are therefore subject to inspection.   

 

LUNCH PROGRAM:

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School operates a hot lunch program.  Milk or water is also sold for those who bring lunch for home.   Soft drinks, drinks in glass containers, or lunch brought to school from a fast-food restaurant are not allowed.  Parents and guests are invited to join us for lunch anytime.  Please call the school office by 9:00AM to reserve a lunch.

 

ACCELERATED READER PROGRAM:

Our school uses the Accelerated Reader Program to help evaluate the reading skills of students in grades 1-8.  This program is a series of computerized tests on many of the books in the library.  Students can read these books on appropriate reading levels and receive grades and points for their comprehension.  A complete list of all Accelerated Reader Program Tests may be redeemed in a "school store" held twice a year. Kindergarten participates in "Book It".

 

TESTING:

In the spring of each year, students participate in the Iowa Test of Basic Skills.  This test is given as a means of knowing each child's potential and thereby improving the instructional program as it relates to the child as an individual and the class as a whole.  The scores and reports from this testing are filed in the school office.  The scores are also recorded on each child's permanent record.  Parents are given a copy of the results usually with the last report card.  It is important all children be present and well rested for tests.

 

GRADUATION:

Eighth grade students have a special graduation Mass and Awards Ceremony at the end of the school year.  Students, parents, and guests of the graduating class are invited.

 

 

LOST AND FOUND:

Is located in a bin in the storage area of the gym. All articles of clothing and supplies (lunch boxes, etc.) should be clearly marked with the child’s name.  Unmarked, unclaimed clothing will be kept for a short period of time.  Inquire in the school office about missing clothing.

 

FIELD TRIPS:

In accordance with insurance and safety mandates, (only St. Paul students and adult chaperones) may participate in field trips. Class visits to places of cultural or educational significance give enrichment to lessons of the classroom.  A permission slip with details of the trip will be sent home anytime a child is to leave the campus. Students will attend field trips in uniform (exceptions Camp Marymount/8th grade field trip).  Early in the school year a volunteer driver list will be compiled.  Parents who think they may be able to drive sometime during the school year are asked to fill out a volunteer driver form and return it to the office. All volunteer driver forms, will be checked by the police department.  Only those who have filed this form will be allowed to drive. All staff members have this form on file in the office.  Drivers for field trips will be selected at the teacher’s discretion.

 

FIFTH/SIXTH GRADE TRIP:

All fifth/sixth grade students will take a week long trip to Camp Marymount.  This program includes study, work, and team building activities all used to guide students to discover and develop their individual potentials.  Faculty members will accompany these students.

 

EIGHTH GRADE TRIP:

Every year, the graduating class of eighth graders takes a short trip together.  Teachers and parents accompany the students as they visit museums, cultural events and "educational activities" in a location that changes each year.  Past trips have been to St. Louis, Chicago, and Orlando.  Throughout the year, the eighth grade students sponsor fund-raisers to make money necessary for this trip.

 

TELEPHONE USE and MESSAGES:

Messages and deliveries from home should be left in the school office.  Since the telephone is a business phone, students are not allowed to use the phone except in case of illness or extreme emergency with permission of the administration.

 

PARTIES/DANCES:

Birthdays may be celebrated with a small treat for the class.  Please inform your child's teacher in advance of the treat to be shared.  While we fully endorse any student's right to invite friends of their choice to private parties, we want them to be sensitive to the feelings of all their classmates.  We therefore ask that, unless all classmates are being invited (or all same sex classmates), invitations are sent through the mail. We do not allow children of any grade level to distribute, in the classroom or anywhere on campus, social invitations to select friends.  Classroom parties are held for Halloween, Christmas, and Valentines Day only.  The room mothers are in charge of these events.  All other parties must have prior approval by the principal and scheduled at least two weeks in advance.

 

ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT:

IPods, MP-3 players, and cell phones have no place in class since they are not conducive to a quiet learning environment.  In the event that your child brings such an item to school, the item will be kept by the teacher and returned to the parent.

 

ROLLER BLADES:

Roller skates, roller blades, heelys and skateboards are not allowed at St. Paul School for safety reasons.

 

 

HISTORY OF ST. PAUL SCHOOL:

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School is a mission commitment on the part of St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Tullahoma.  For more than fifty years, the parish community has subsidized the school with its operating budget and St. Paul Parish is committed to sustaining that support for the years to come.

 St. Paul the Apostle School is committed to giving its students a quality Catholic education, keeping in mind the philosophy that the school teaches as Jesus teaches.  The idea of St. Paul the Apostle School was first conceived in 1952 when a building fund was started and later a tract of land was purchased on West Grizzard Street for the site of the new church and school.

  By the spring of 1954, plans were completed for a two story facility.  The upper level consisted of the church, four classrooms, and a convent.  The lower level was a combination auditorium-cafeteria and small living quarters for the pastor.  Due to the construction, Father Manning rented a house in Tullahoma for three Dominican sisters who were to teach in the new school.  On August 31, 1954, Sister Jane Frances, Sister Mary Leonard, and Sister Rosemary moved from St. Cecilia mother house in Nashville to the temporary quarters in Tullahoma.  That was the beginning of twenty-five years of continuous and dedicated service that the Dominican Sisters rendered to St. Paul Parish.

 The first school year began with classes in the mission church and temporary convent.  After several weeks of makeshift classrooms, the students moved into the new, but as yet unfinished, St. Paul School.  The second school year began with 106 children registered, an increase of 30 students over the total number attending classes the previous year.

 In June 1963, due to the increasing number of students, the parish decided to expand the school from four to eight classrooms.  The original auditorium-cafeteria and the old rectory on the first floor of the school were modified to four classrooms.  It was decided to construct a much larger auditorium/cafeteria that could be used as a basketball court.  

  In September 1965, the school opened with 199 children registered – the largest number of students ever to attend St. Paul School.

 In August 1984, the school added a kindergarten to its state approved grades 1-8 program.

 In August 1991, an Extended Care Program began.  This offered quality care for students whose parents worked later in the evening.

 A building was purchased in 1996 to house a pre-school and renovation began to convert this building into a quality facility.  The new preschool opened in August 1997 for four-year-old children.  Also in 1997, St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

 At the present, we are growing yearly.  St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School will continue to give quality Catholic Education to all its students in the years to come.

 

Handbook Acknowledgement

 

 

I have received a copy of the St. Paul School student parent handbook.

 

 

Parent Signature__________________________________

 

Date______________________________________

 

 

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