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Family Handbook2019-2020

3750 William D. TateGrapevine, TX 76051

817-421-8000

A poem from the book, The Power of Positive StudentsBy Dr. William Mitchell and Dr. Charles Paul Con

~exemplifies the importance of the home/school relationship~

I dreamed I stood in a studioand watched two sculptors there.

The clay they used was a young child’s mindand they fashioned it with care.

One was a teacher ~ the tools she usedwere books, music, and art.

The other, a parent, worked with a guiding handand a gentle, loving heart.

Day after day, the teacher toiled with touchthat was careful, deft and sure.

While the parent labored by his sideand polished and smoothed it o’er.

And when at last their work was donethey were proud of what they had wrought.

For the things they had molded into the childcould neither be sold nor bought.

And each agreed they would have failedif each had worked alone.

For behind the parent stood the schooland behind the teacher, the home.

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Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to Holy Trinity Catholic School! In choosing Holy Trinity, you have demonstrated a commitment to the values and philosophy of a Catholic Education.The Family Handbook reflects the policies of Holy Trinity Catholic for the 2019-2020 school year. Please read this document carefully and review the policies and procedures with your child(ren). Please sign the Family Handbook Agreement and return it to the school office. Although this handbook is revised each year, Holy Trinity reserves the right to add/change or delete policies as warranted due to various circumstances or Diocesan directives.The faculty and staff of your school look forward to working with you to promote spiritual development, academic excellence, physical growth and emotional stability in the context of the teachings of the Catholic Church.Together let us pray that God, who has begun this great work in us, may carry it through to completion.God bless you,Rev. Jeffrey K. HeiplePrincipal

Table of ContentsHOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL................................................................................................................1HISTORY.......................................................................................................................................................1PARISH MISSION STATEMENTS....................................................................................................................2

Good Shepherd Parish Mission Statement:.............................................................................................2St. Francis Parish Mission Statement:......................................................................................................2St. Michael Parish Mission Statement:....................................................................................................2

HOLY TRINITY MISSION STATEMENT...........................................................................................................3VISION STATEMENT.....................................................................................................................................3MOTTO & VIRTUES......................................................................................................................................3PHILOSOPHY................................................................................................................................................3GOALS..........................................................................................................................................................4PROFILE OF AN HTCS GRADUATE................................................................................................................4

Person of Faith:.......................................................................................................................................4Moral Decision Maker:............................................................................................................................4Appreciative Person:...............................................................................................................................4Culturally Sensitive:.................................................................................................................................4

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Academically/Technologically Proficient:................................................................................................4Effective Communicator:.........................................................................................................................5Creative Learner & Problem Solver:........................................................................................................5Critical Thinker:........................................................................................................................................5Life-Long Learner:....................................................................................................................................5

ACADEMIC INFORMATION..........................................................................................................................5Curriculum...............................................................................................................................................5Religion....................................................................................................................................................5Language Arts (English and Literature)....................................................................................................5Mathematics............................................................................................................................................5Science.....................................................................................................................................................6Social Studies...........................................................................................................................................6Computer Literacy...................................................................................................................................6Spanish....................................................................................................................................................6Music.......................................................................................................................................................6Art............................................................................................................................................................6Physical Education...................................................................................................................................6Preparation for High School.....................................................................................................................7

ACADEMIC PROBATION AND RETENTION...................................................................................................8ACCREDITATION..........................................................................................................................................8ADMISSION INFORMATION.........................................................................................................................8

Non-Discrimination Policy.......................................................................................................................8Qualifications:..........................................................................................................................................9Requirements:.........................................................................................................................................9New Students..........................................................................................................................................9Returning Students................................................................................................................................10

ADVISORY COUNCIL...................................................................................................................................10Eligibility:...............................................................................................................................................11Council Membership:............................................................................................................................11

ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION..........................................................................................................................11ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES....................................................................................................12

General Information:.............................................................................................................................12Arrival:...................................................................................................................................................12

Before and After Care Drop-Off:........................................................................................................12Drop-off:............................................................................................................................................12

Dismissal:...............................................................................................................................................12Early Dismissal...................................................................................................................................12Office Lobby Dismissal.......................................................................................................................13Carline Dismissal................................................................................................................................13Multipurpose Room Dismissal...........................................................................................................13Students who are not picked up by 3:30 PM:....................................................................................14

ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE.....................................................................................................................14Absence Policy.......................................................................................................................................14Excused Absence...................................................................................................................................14Unexcused Absence...............................................................................................................................14Absence & School Work........................................................................................................................14Procedures Regarding Absences and Late Arrivals................................................................................15Appointments and Early Release...........................................................................................................15

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Unexcused Early Release.......................................................................................................................15Tardiness...............................................................................................................................................15Excused Tardiness..................................................................................................................................16Unexcused Tardiness.............................................................................................................................16Consequences for Unexcused Tardiness...............................................................................................16

AWARDS....................................................................................................................................................16BACKPACKS................................................................................................................................................17BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAM..............................................................................................17BEHAVIOR AND CONSEQUENCES..............................................................................................................18

CONDUCT GRADES for 1st through 3rd.................................................................................................18CONDUCT GRADES for 4th through 8th.................................................................................................19

BIRTHDAYS and CELEBRATIONS.................................................................................................................21BULLYING...................................................................................................................................................21CELL PHONES, E-READERS & OTHER TECHNOLOGY...................................................................................22CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT......................................................................................................................23COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS...................................................................................................................23COUNSELING SERVICES..............................................................................................................................23CUSTODY ISSUES.......................................................................................................................................23DISCIPLINE.................................................................................................................................................24E-MAIL GUIDELINES...................................................................................................................................24EMERGENCY PROCEDURES........................................................................................................................24

Emergency Closing/Delayed Opening....................................................................................................24Unstable Weather Conditions...............................................................................................................25

EXPENSE REQUEST/SALES TX REIMBURSEMENT POLICY/CHARGES ON SCHOL CREDIT CARDS.................25Policy Statement....................................................................................................................................25Reimbursement of Sales Tax.................................................................................................................25Credit Card Charges...............................................................................................................................25Substantiation and Original Receipts.....................................................................................................25

EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES.........................................................................................26Eligibility................................................................................................................................................26Athletic Program....................................................................................................................................26National Jr. Honor Society.....................................................................................................................26Student Council.....................................................................................................................................27

FAMILY DIRECTORY...................................................................................................................................27FIELD TRIPS................................................................................................................................................27

Field Trip Rules for Volunteers..............................................................................................................28FINANCIAL.................................................................................................................................................28

FEE SCHEDULE (Dates are for the upcoming 2018/2019 school year registration.  Fees reflect current school year fees and may be changed)...................................................................................................28TUITION.................................................................................................................................................28DISCOUNTED TUITION RATES................................................................................................................28OTHER COMMITMENTS and FEES..........................................................................................................29FINANCIAL POLICIES:.............................................................................................................................29

GRADING SCALE.........................................................................................................................................30GRADUATION............................................................................................................................................31HEALTH......................................................................................................................................................31

Administration of Medication by designated school staff:....................................................................31Field Trips:.............................................................................................................................................32

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Health rules to be followed at Holy Trinity Catholic School include:.....................................................32Health Regulations................................................................................................................................33Nut Awareness Policy............................................................................................................................34

HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION................................................................................................................35HOMEWORK..............................................................................................................................................35INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT.........................................................................................................................36

Extra Set of Books..................................................................................................................................37Tutoring.................................................................................................................................................37

INTERNET...................................................................................................................................................37Internet Acceptable Use Policy for Students.........................................................................................37Student Use of Internet.........................................................................................................................37

LATEX SENSITIVE DIOCESAN POLICY..........................................................................................................38LIBRARY-MEDIA CENTER............................................................................................................................38LOCKERS....................................................................................................................................................39LOST & FOUND..........................................................................................................................................39LUNCH PROGRAM.....................................................................................................................................39

Bringing Lunch.......................................................................................................................................39No Lunch................................................................................................................................................40Eating Lunch with Your Child.................................................................................................................40Lunch Recess.........................................................................................................................................40Lunchroom Rules...................................................................................................................................40

MASS/PRAYER SERVICES............................................................................................................................40ORGANIZATIONAL CHART..........................................................................................................................41PARENTS....................................................................................................................................................42

Parents’ Role in Education.....................................................................................................................42Covenant Agreement.............................................................................................................................42Parent Cooperation...............................................................................................................................45Parent/Teacher Conferences.................................................................................................................45Volunteers.............................................................................................................................................46Family Service Hours Initiative...............................................................................................................46

The Importance of Volunteers in the Life of Our School....................................................................46Guidelines..........................................................................................................................................46What Qualifies?.................................................................................................................................47

Other Notes...........................................................................................................................................47Service Hours Opportunities..................................................................................................................47

PARTIES.....................................................................................................................................................47PICTURES...................................................................................................................................................47PLANNERS..................................................................................................................................................48PROMOTION GUIDELINES..........................................................................................................................48RECESS.......................................................................................................................................................48RELEASE OF STUDENT TO OTHER THAN PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIANS.......................................................49RENWEB....................................................................................................................................................49ROOM PARENT..........................................................................................................................................50ROOM RESERVATION................................................................................................................................50

General Guidelines:...............................................................................................................................50Gym Rules:.............................................................................................................................................51Health Rules:.........................................................................................................................................52

Safe Environment Training: Protecting God’s Children (VIRTUS)..............................................................52

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SAFETY & SECURITY...................................................................................................................................52SEARCHES OF STUDENTS AND SCHOOL PROPERTY...................................................................................52STUDENT RECORDS...................................................................................................................................53TEACHER REQUEST....................................................................................................................................53TESTING.....................................................................................................................................................53TRANSCRIPT & RECOMMENDATION REQUESTS........................................................................................53TRIPS/VACATIONS.....................................................................................................................................54TUTORING.................................................................................................................................................54UNIFORMS.................................................................................................................................................54

Pre-Kindergarten:..................................................................................................................................55Kindergarten -5th Grade:.......................................................................................................................556th – 8th Grade:....................................................................................................................................55General Appearance..............................................................................................................................56Dress for School Sponsored Activities....................................................................................................57Physical Education.................................................................................................................................57Hair........................................................................................................................................................58Jewelry and Make-up:...........................................................................................................................58Crusader Fridays:...................................................................................................................................58

VISITOR/CAMPUS CHECK-IN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES........................................................................58WITHDRAWAL OF STUDENTS....................................................................................................................59VIOLENCE AND WEAPONS.........................................................................................................................59APPENDIX A – RELIGION STANDARDS........................................................................................................60APPENDIX B – LANGUAGE ARTS STANDARDS............................................................................................60APPENDIX C – MATHEMATICS STANDARDS...............................................................................................61APPENDIX D – SCIENCE STANDARDS.........................................................................................................62APPENDIX E – SOCIAL STUDIES STANDARDS..............................................................................................63APPENDIX F – TECHNOLOGY STANDARDS.................................................................................................63APPENDIX G – SPANISH STANDARDS.........................................................................................................64APPENDIX H – MUSIC STANDARDS............................................................................................................64APPENDIX I – ART STANDARDS..................................................................................................................65APPENDIX J – PHYSICAL EDUCATION STANDARDS.....................................................................................65APPENDIX K – DIOCESAN USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICY...........................................................................65APPENDIX L – CAR SEATS...........................................................................................................................67APPENDIX M – IMMUNIZATIONS...............................................................................................................68

Immunization Policy..............................................................................................................................68Provisional enrollment..........................................................................................................................68

APPENDIX N – PARKING & CARLINE MAP..................................................................................................70APPENDIX O...............................................................................................................................................72

5212 REQUIREMENTS FOR INDIVIDUALS WISHING TO COME ON SCHOOL PROPERTY OR ATTEND SCHOOL ACTIVITIES...............................................................................................................................72

APPENDIX P...............................................................................................................................................736205 ONLINE SOCIAL MEDIA.................................................................................................................736210 THE MINIMUM SOCIAL MEDIA REQUIREMENTS...........................................................................75

APPENDIX Q - Firearms and Weapons Policy.............................................................................................75

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HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL

The primary goal of Holy Trinity Catholic School is the development of the whole child (mind, body, spirit) in light of his/her own faith journey and responsibility towards society.  Teachers are sensitive to the spiritual, intellectual, social and physical needs of each child. The ideal of educating the whole child permeates every classroom and activity.  The religious program, presented in the Catholic tradition, is centered on (1) gospel values and (2) service to others.  

The curriculum provides age-appropriate rigor within a loving and respectful community, which calls forth from the learner academic excellence and self-discipline.  Every student is provided the opportunity to maximize his/her educational potential in a structured and safe environment. 

Instruction in all content areas flows from the Diocesan curriculum, which focuses on traditional and innovative teaching strategies which emphasize valued principles, critical thinking, and problem solving.  HTCS offers an educational experience incorporating a variety of resources including technology and engaging approaches to learning.  

At the core of Holy Trinity's success is the intentional blending of the classical model with the instructional enhancement of current technology.  This balance, along with the commitment to faith, fellowship and prayer, creates a superior education within the Catholic tradition.

HISTORYIn February 1993, in response to numerous requests from Catholic parents living in Northeast Tarrant County, Bishop Joseph P. Delaney commissioned a feasibility study for a Catholic elementary school in the area. The data indicated substantial interest on the part of a large segment of the Catholic population to support the establishment of a new elementary school.

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The last Catholic elementary school founded in the Diocese, St. John the Apostle School in North Richland Hills, began in 1967. Holy Trinity Catholic School represents a uniquely successful collaboration between the diocese, the three sponsoring parishes, and the Catholic families being served.The pastors of three neighboring parishes (St. Francis, Grapevine; St. Michael, Bedford; and Good Shepherd, Colleyville) agreed to co-sponsor this new ministry, and committed themselves to share the governance of and provide financial support to the school. Work began with the hiring of principal Ed Doherty on November 1, 1993. St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church provided office space, and an administrative assistant was hired in February 1994.Holy Trinity Catholic School began operation in August 1994 in five modular classroom buildings on the property of St. Michael’s parish. The school began with a morning prekindergarten program for 4 year olds, three sections of kindergarten and one first grade class. Before and after school care (the Extended Day Program) was also offered to school families. A total of 87 students were enrolled with a faculty of nine. The school’s plan called for adding one grade level each year until the grade range included prekindergarten through eighth grade. Holy Trinity’s first graduation ceremony took place on May 24, 2002.Soon after opening, the school council and the pastors began looking for a permanent site for the school. Thirty-one parcels of land were considered before the 7.23 acres on the west side of S.H. 121, just north of Hall-Johnson Road was purchased. The school moved into the first 16 classrooms, multipurpose room and offices on October 11, 1997. A second wing, including classrooms and a library, was completed in June 1998. Construction on the third phase was completed in December 1999. This phase included middle school classrooms, a science lab, an art room, and a physical education room. The school facilities will be complete with the addition of a permanent chapel. In 2002, the first 8th grade class graduated and became HTCS alumni. In 2003, HTCS earned the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Award for Excellence. It was also in 2003 when St. Elizabeth Ann Seton opened in Keller, which had a negative impact on our enrollment. In 2012, a classroom was converted into a temporary chapel which was blessed by Bishop Vann. In the spring of 2012, the graduating class gave the Jesus with Children statue to adorn the front entrance of the school. In the fall of 2012, Greenlaw Field was dedicated to allow soccer play on the campus. In the fall of 2014, a cafeteria kitchen was opened to serve hot lunches.The school experienced tremendous growth in the years following

PARISH MISSION STATEMENTS

Good Shepherd Parish Mission Statement: Be Disciples. Make Disciples.In welcoming all, we form disciples who know, love and serve God and neighbor.

St. Francis Parish Mission Statement: We are building a Church of missionary disciples by preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ and reaching the poor.

St. Michael Parish Mission Statement:St. Michael Church is a sacramental Catholic stewardship community.

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Our parish is centered on the celebration of the Eucharist, studying and teaching Christ’s word, carrying our His service and works through our prayer, service and generosity, and proclaiming the good news of the Gospel.

HOLY TRINITY MISSION STATEMENTHoly Trinity Catholic School, a ministry of Good Shepherd, St. Francis of Assisi, and St. Michael the Archangel parishes, nurtures the gifts and talents of each student forming lifelong learners, joyful servants of Jesus, and influential leaders.

VISION STATEMENTHoly Trinity Catholic School strives to be the first choice for our parish families, and those of other faith traditions, who desire to provide for their children a superior educational experience. Holy Trinity produces life-long learners, faithful servants and influential leaders.   Motivated by the desire for continuous growth and improvement, and inspired and strengthened by the Holy Spirit, the faculty and staff of Holy Trinity Catholic School model and teach reverence, respect and responsibility within a life of service and prayer. 

MOTTO & VIRTUESMotto: Learn Serve Lead Latin:  Discere  Serve  Duco 

Virtues: Reverence, Respect, Responsibility

PHILOSOPHYHoly Trinity Catholic School is a community committed to the educational ministry of the Catholic Church, and we welcome all people who share in our belief that God calls us to become active participants in the life of the Church and civic community. We at Holy Trinity are committed to providing an appropriate educational setting for the children of all parish families who desire to attend, insofar as this is possible. Our dedicated faculty, staff, and strong leadership value the talents of individuals and the whole group while recognizing the importance of the work they do. We work together to make sure that every one of our children is served. We serve them through high academic standards and expectations, and also in the areas of creativity, fine arts, cultural experience, health of mind and body, physical fitness, technology, personal interests, God-given talents, and social opportunities which develop the whole child. We encourage and foster a strong cooperative relationship between home and school because it is an essential ingredient in an effective education. It is our belief that when all of the partners in the education process work together, children are assured the best possible educational experience. Together we commit ourselves to helping our students become (1) life-long learners and (2) active members of the Catholic faith.It is our responsibility, in partnership with our sponsoring parishes, to teach our children respect, self-discipline, personal responsibility, social justice, service to others, how to pray, and how to grow daily in their faith. We recognize that it is through the Holy Spirit that we are strengthened

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in our mission. It is through the Holy Spirit that we are inspired and nurtured to personal and community prayer as well as regular liturgical celebrations in order to carry out this responsibility.

GOALS To provide a Christ-centered atmosphere for living gospel values in the Catholic tradition

and to foster in all members of the community a personal relationship with God through religious education, prayer and liturgical celebrations, and serving others.

To challenge each student to achieve his or her full intellectual potential by providing a quality academic program that includes a wide range of studies, offers a variety of opportunities for student success, and fosters a desire for life-long learning.

To develop moral decision making skills and appreciation of each person’s uniqueness through a strong religion and guidance program that includes faith formation, violence prevention, Christian sexuality, and individual and cultural differences.

To develop respect for self and others by exemplifying the values of responsibility, respect, self-discipline, social justice, strong friendships, loving families, and community service.

To develop positive attitudes toward physical fitness, health, and safety through programs centered on exercise, fair play, good hygiene, healthy nutritional habits, and participation in individual/team games and sports.

PROFILE OF AN HTCS GRADUATE

Person of Faith: The graduate is able to articulate the teachings of the Catholic faith, while continuing to put these teachings into practice.

Moral Decision Maker:The graduate considers the moral and ethical implications of decisions and chooses to do what is right according to the teachings of the Church.

Appreciative Person:The graduate will develop an appreciation for the beauty in the world and the wonder of his/her body through fine arts and physical activity.

Culturally Sensitive:The graduate exhibits global awareness and cultural sensitivity, and supports the Church’s teachings regarding social justice.

Academically/Technologically Proficient:The graduate is academically and technologically prepared for higher education.

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Effective Communicator:The graduate dialogues objectively while refining persuasive skills through various modes of expression, seeking to clarify diverse points of view through active listening.

Creative Learner & Problem Solver:The graduate applies creative talents to solve problems and serve others.

Critical Thinker:The graduate uses reason in pursuit of Truth, recognizing that all Truth is rooted in the person of Christ.

Life-Long Learner:The graduate engages in the pursuit of knowledge as a life-long activity.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

CurriculumThe curriculum offered includes religion, language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, library skills, health, and guidance at all levels PK4-8th grade. Spanish and computer begin in kindergarten and continue through 8th grade. Music, art, and physical education are taught PK4-8th grade. HTCS follows the TCCBED guidelines regarding time allotment for all subjects. The curriculum for each subject is set by the Diocese of Fort Worth.

ReligionThrough the study of religion, our students will progress beyond knowledge of precepts of the Faith to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Spirit of the Living God dwelling in each and every person. From this awareness comes a deep respect for the dignity integral to every human being and an acceptance of the Christian’s role as a disciple in the building of the Kingdom. (Religion Standards – Appendix A)

Language Arts (English and Literature)Through the study of language arts, our students will develop the intellectual, social, moral, and spiritual qualities necessary to serve their parish and civic communities. In the knowledge explosion of the Information Age, the 21st century, students need basic language skills to access and understand information, evaluate its quality, and convey ideas to others. Thus, language arts are the building blocks of all learning, both in school and throughout life. (Language Arts Standards – Appendix B)

MathematicsThrough the study of mathematics, our students will learn about patterns, chance, form, algorithms, and change. They will learn to observe, predict, analyze, and solve problems related to routine daily tasks. By its nature, mathematics promotes logical and abstract thinking. The methodical approach needed to reach conclusions fosters the self-discipline necessary to solve simple and complex exercises. The importance of mathematics instruction and learning lies in the universality of its problem solving applications to everyday life. Holy Trinity offers an accelerated math program beginning in PK, therefore, 8th grade students are placed in Algebra I. (Math Standards – Appendix C)

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ScienceThrough the study of science, our students will gain the knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and processes required for participation in a 21st century world. They will learn to appreciate the wonders of the universe, analyze the problems presented by life, and develop appropriate and morally responsible solutions to those problems. (Science Standards – Appendix D)

Social StudiesThrough the study of social studies, our students will become multi-culturally literate and globally aware. Social studies is the integrated study of the social sciences and the humanities to promote civic competence. Through the study of social studies our students will develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a diverse, democratic society. The standards for social studies have four main strands – history, geography, civics, and economics. (Social Studies Standards – Appendix E)

Computer LiteracyTechnology skills are taught to all students to allow them opportunities to incorporate these skills into other areas of the curriculum. All students are instructed in the areas of word processing, spreadsheets, publishing tools, typing skills and proper use of Internet resources. The students will be given opportunities to demonstrate mastery of these skills through other areas of the curriculum. (Technology Standards – Appendix F)

SpanishStudents in grades PK-8 are provided with an opportunity to engage in learning the Spanish language. They will develop vocabulary, reading, speaking and writing skills as they move through the various levels. (Spanish Standards – Appendix G)

MusicAll students will have the opportunity to develop an appreciation of music through various musical opportunities incorporated into the daily curriculum. Through weekly music classes students will study parts of music including rhythm, composition and history. They will also have opportunities to learn about various instruments and cultural aspects of music. (Music Standards – Appendix H)

ArtThrough the art curriculum students are exposed to artists such as Matisse, Van Gogh, Degas, Warhol, and others. They learn about various types of art such as Anasazi designs, Pop Art, clay and many others. Students have opportunities to craft their own style and apply their own interpretation into their art works. (Art Standards – Appendix I)

Physical EducationThrough the physical education program students will learn about the importance of being physically active and maintaining that habit for life. The physical education program goal is to develop physically educated individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of healthful physical activity. (Physical Education Standards – Appendix J)

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Preparation for High SchoolThe HTCS Middle School program is designed to help students gain an edge in college preparation early in their academic careers. These courses help students prepare to take Honors, Accelerated, and Pre-AP/AP courses when they enter high school. Students develop and improve study habits necessary for succeeding in rigorous course work while exploring the world from various perspectives while assuming the responsibilities of reasoning, analyzing, and understanding for themselves. The principal, learning support coordinator, and teachers review the Iowa Assessments and COGAT scores, as well as student goals, grades and classroom achievement to determine appropriate class placement and curriculum for each child. Holy Trinity offers an accelerated math program beginning in PK. Therefore, 8th grade students are placed in Algebra I.

ACADEMIC HONESTY

At Holy Trinity Catholic School, we place great importance on original and creative work. Anything less is disappointing and unacceptable. An individual’s ideas are his/her intellectual property; the ideas of others are theirs. Proper documentation is required for information, ideas and/or images obtained from any resource, including the internet.

All work must be the student’s own. Cheating in any form (sharing work, copying work, testing irregularities, deception about the acquisition of information, failure to follow test procedures, forgery, plagiarism, etc.) will result in a zero and notification of parent through RenWeb.

The term “plagiarism” refers to any materials represented as the student’s own which have been paraphrased or copied from another source without proper credit. It may also include citing information not traceable to the document source. As defined by St. Louis University School of Law:

Plagiarism results from the unacknowledged use of material found in print sources, oral presentations, or visual, electronic or other media sources. Plagiarism does not require an intention to deceive. It can result when a student submits as his or her own work ideas, language, data or other material contained in a source not acknowledged by the student, if the student knew or should have known that such acknowledgement was required. Plagiarism includes, without limitation, the following:

A. Submitting another author‘s published or unpublished work, in whole, in part or in paraphrase, as one‘s own work, without fully and properly crediting the other author with footnotes, citations or other bibliographical reference.

B. Submitting as one‘s own original work any material, including data, tables, graphs, charts or other visual material obtained from any source, without acknowledgement and citation of the source.

C. Submitting as one‘s own original work material produced through unacknowledged collaboration with others, unless such collaboration is permitted by the instructor.

Through the combined efforts of classroom teachers and the school librarian, students at all levels will be thoroughly educated on the expectations for academic honesty within reasonable expectations for their age and will be held accountable for adhering to the guidelines in all HTCS academic activities.

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ACADEMIC PROBATION AND RETENTIONAny student in grades 5-8 with a “69” or below average in any of the six major subjects (English, Math, Social Studies, Religion, Science, and Literature) at the end of the school year will be placed on academic probation. Any student who receives a “69” or below in three or more of the six major subjects at the end of the school year will be automatically retained. A student in grades 5-8 that is on academic probation must do one of the following to be removed from probation:

1. The student must complete a summer school program in the failed subject(s) and achieve a grade of 70 or above in such subject(s). A report documenting the achievement must be sent to the school.

2. The student must satisfactorily complete a tutoring program in the failed subject(s). Written confirmation of the objectives covered and results must be sent to the school.

All summer school and tutoring programs referred to above must be approved in advance by the Principal.A student in grades K-4 may be placed on academic probation by the Principal based upon teacher recommendation, test and grade report `scores and/or observation by the learning support coordinator or other professionals. A student in grades K-4 that is on academic probation must comply with the school’s recommendations to be removed from academic probation.If a student does not satisfy the above requirements, he/she will not be promoted to the next grade. In addition, the student may be refused readmission to the school.

ACCREDITATIONHoly Trinity Catholic School is accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department (TCCBED), one of the associations recognized by the Texas Education Agency for accrediting non-public schools in Texas. In cooperation with the diocesan school offices, the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department oversees the accreditation of Catholic elementary and secondary schools of Texas. The Education Department is assisted by the Texas Catholic Conference Accreditation Commission and is part of the state-approved Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC).The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department, through its association with the TEPSAC, is recognized by the Texas Education Agency, and is responsible for the implementation of the accreditation process for Texas Catholic schools.Holy Trinity’s enriched curriculum exceeds the minimum standards established by the State of Texas.Holy Trinity is also governed by the policies and guidelines of the Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Fort Worth and holds memberships in the National Catholic Education Association.

ADMISSION INFORMATION

Non-Discrimination PolicyHoly Trinity Catholic School is in compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other federal statutes of non-discrimination in its employment and admission practices. It admits qualified students of any race, color, creed, sex, national or ethnic origins to all the rights,

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privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

Qualifications:In accordance with the Texas Catholic Conference accreditation standards, Holy Trinity Catholic School complies with all age and immunization requirements of the State of Texas and the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth. As a Catholic, non-public school dedicated to academic excellence within a disciplined, value-centered environment, the school actively seeks students and families who have a positive attitude toward the value of a Catholic education.The most important qualification for acceptance into the school is the Principal’s assessment that the applicant will have a successful school experience. This assessment is made in consultation with the family as well as through examination of the student’s past academic and conduct records, which must be provided by the parents prior to admission. All reports from professional assessments (academic, behavioral, emotional or developmental) MUST be provided at the time of application for admission. All new students are admitted conditionally for the first 9 weeks.As openings become available, the following priorities will be used to accept students to Holy Trinity Catholic School:

1. Active members of Good Shepherd/St. Francis/ St. Michael2. Members of other Catholic parishes3. Non-Catholic students

Requirements:1. Children entering Pre-Kindergarten must be 4 years of age by September 1st of that

school year and have to be able to take care of all their personal needs within the bathroom. Should bathroom accidents occur, the student must be able to change himself/herself.

2. Children entering Kindergarten must be 5 years of age by September 1st of that school year.

3. Children entering 1st grade must be 6 years of age by September 1st of that school year.

Holy Trinity Catholic School cannot make any exceptions to these regulations.

New StudentsApplications for new students are accepted beginning in February prior to the new school year. New applicant files will be processed and evaluated once all documents are provided. Incomplete applications cannot be processed. In addition to the completed application, the following documents must be submitted:

Registration fee Official county issued Certificate of Birth (copy) Official Certificate of Baptism (Catholic students only) (copy) Most recent report cards (grades 1-8) Completed Parent Questionnaire - Student Placement Copy of most recent standardized test scores (grades 1-8) Applicable information regarding psychological/educational evaluations Immunization records Applicable information regarding special health needs

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Signed release for records from previous school Letter of Reference (current school Principal for grades 1-8) Custody documents (divorced or nontraditional guardians)

Incoming students will complete an assessment conducted by the Learning Support Coordinator and their parents are required to meet with the principal prior to acceptance.Children with special needs will be admitted if, with reasonable accommodations on the part of the school, they can be successful in the school environment. Under these circumstances, the child will be conditionally accepted and status will be reevaluated if the need arises. Once the application file has been reviewed by the administration, parents will be notified of the student’s acceptance status. After the student is accepted the parents will complete the registration process and receive a tuition statement. To receive the reduced Parish Tuition rate, the family must be a registered, active member of a sponsoring parish. By August 1st, new students must turn in the Catholic School Health Report form (including immunization record) signed by a physician or nurse practitioner, a copy of Baptismal and First Communion certificates (if applicable), and the Authorization for Release of Student Records Form (Gr. 1-8). Stamped signatures, electronic signatures and faxed copies will not be accepted. By the first day of school new students must turn in the Student Emergency Information form, and other forms requested by the administration in the school-wide summer mailing/e-mail.

Returning StudentsStudents returning to Holy Trinity must provide the following documents:

Registration forms Registration and other fees paid to date Updated immunization record for all students and a Catholic School Health Report for

Middle School students who might participate in sports. Stamped signatures, electronic signatures and faxed copies will not be accepted.

Custody documents for divorced or nontraditional guardians.

The Student Emergency Information Form must be turned in by the first day of each school year. It is the responsibility of the parents to provide up-to-date and accurate addresses, phone numbers, and health information throughout the school year by immediately notifying the School Office of any changes.

ADVISORY COUNCILAlthough the daily operation of the school is reserved to the Principal, Assistant Principal and the administrative staff, both parents and parishes need to be closely involved in the governance of the school. This work is done through the School Advisory Council as an advisory board to the pastors, the Principal, and the Assistant Principal. The purpose of the School Advisory Council is to discern how the school can most effectively carry out its mission through long-range planning, policy-making, program evaluation, marketing and public relations, and financial oversight. These responsibilities are accomplished by:

1. Developing a structure and policies which best serve the institutional needs of the school, as well as the individual needs of the staff, students, and their families;

2. Articulating the vision and coordinating the planning for, the future well-being of the school;

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3. Expressing broad goals which focus the activities of the school staff, and;4. Working with the Principal to prepare the annual school budget for the approval of the

pastors and diocesan officials.

Eligibility: The nine (9) Advisory Members of the Advisory Council must not be a paid employee or spouse of a paid employee of Holy Trinity Catholic School, the Diocese of Fort Worth, or of St. Francis, Good Shepherd, or St. Michael parishes. Council members must be 25 years of age or older and be willing to give time and energy for the betterment of Catholic education.

Advisory Council Membership: The Advisory Council shall consist of the following: The Superintendent of Schools for the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth

The Pastors of Good Shepherd, St. Francis, and St. Michael parishesAdvisory Council ChairAdvisory Council Secretary1 appointed by the pastor of Good Shepherd Catholic Church1 appointed by the pastor of St. Francis Catholic Church 1 appointed by the pastor of St. Michael Catholic Church1 appointed by the Holy Trinity Catholic School Principal1 officer of the Home and School Association Finance Council ChairFormer Chair of the Advisory CouncilThe Principal of Holy Trinity Catholic SchoolAn additional member may be appointed by the Principal or Bishop

New members are installed in August. The school Advisory Council meets monthly except for during the month of June. The December meeting is a joint meeting with the Finance Council which includes parish business managers to present the new school year budget. The Council Agenda will be prepared and distributed to members one week in advance of the scheduled meeting. Meeting dates are posted on the monthly calendar and are open to all parish and school families with the exception of executive session.

ASBESTOS NOTIFICATIONBoth the architect and the contractor have attested that they have not knowingly installed any materials containing asbestos in the school building. Holy Trinity Catholic School is in compliance with the requirements of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations concerning asbestos in schools. The complete file is available for review in the Principal’s Office.

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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

General Information: HTCS is a cell phone free zone during arrival and dismissal (this includes texting). The drive in front of the school is one way with the entrance on the North end and exit on the

South. A very limited number of parking places are available in front of the school’s main entrance

designated for 15 minute parking only. Parking in these spaces is prohibited during arrival and dismissal. Parents should never park in these spaces and walk across traffic.

Parents are asked to park only in the North lots and to not park in the spaces designated for administrative use only and teacher/staff parking lots (designated areas in north and south parking lot). Please see the map (Appendix N) for the designated visitor parking and carline flow.

Please Note: Arrival and dismissal are critical times when Administration and teachers are occupied supervising the safety of children and preparing for the school day; these are not appropriate times to communicate with teachers. Please email or call the individual you wish to visit in order to set up an appointment.

Arrival:Before and After Care Drop-Off:

Before and After School Care students may arrive after 6:45 a.m. and before 7:30 a.m. Parents must park and accompany their child (ren) to the Before and After School Care Room through the doors at the south end of the building.

Drop-off: Parents are strongly encouraged to use carline for drop-off. Students must exit the car on the passenger side. They should never exit the car on the driver

side due to traffic. All backpacks and nap mats must be in the car with the students and must exit with the students.

For safety reasons, students are never allowed to retrieve items from the trunk of the car. For regular arrival 7:30 - 8:00 a.m. children are dropped off at the main doors of the school or in

the car line only when a staff member is present. Children should NEVER be dropped off in the parking lot and allowed to walk into the building unsupervised.

For the good of individual students as well as the class, parents of students in grades 1 to 8 are asked to say good-bye to their children in the main lobby, and not to accompany them to the classroom door.

*Parents of PK and K students may see their children to the classroom door for the first semester. *The first week of school all parents are invited to walk their students to the classroom.

Dismissal: Early Dismissal

A note must be sent to the Office when a student will be leaving early.  If a note is emailed to the teacher, the Office should also receive a copy at attendance@holytcs.org.  If an appointment is made during the school day, the Office should be contacted.

Students with afternoon appointments will need to be picked up by 2:50 p.m. Parents should plan accordingly.

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After 2:50 p.m., all dismissals will begin at 3:05 p.m. to carline or multi-purpose room. An early dismissal between 8:15 and 9:30 a.m. on Wednesdays is not possible due to

Mass and/or Prayer Service.Office Lobby Dismissal

The ONLY students that will be dismissed to the Office will be the children of the families who purchased this arrangement at the auction.

Children of volunteers that help in the Office and Workroom until the end of the school day will be called to the Multipurpose Room.  In appreciation for their help, the volunteer’s children will be called first. 

Carline Dismissal Regular pick-up (PK - Gr. 8) takes place between 3:05 p.m.- 3:30 p.m. Families are provided 2 name cards for use at dismissal time. School-issued name cards should

be attached to the passenger side visor to facilitate efficient pick up. The name card must be displayed until the car exits the campus.

Cars not displaying the school-issued name card (handmade signs are not acceptable) should not enter the carline. Students will need to be picked up in the multipurpose room for dismissal.

In case your card is damaged or lost, or an additional card is needed, a new set of car signs may be ordered from the office. Please call the Receptionist.

Follow the traffic line and stop at designated pick-up points (cones 1-10). Always move to the most forward pick-up point available. Students will be directed into cars by supervising staff members.

DO NOT exit your car in the pick-up line for any reason. Students must be able to buckle themselves in the car. If they are unable to do this,

parents should pick up in the MP Room. Follow traffic line to exit. For safety reasons, never pull around waiting cars. If your student does not hear his/her name during carline you will exit the campus and re-

enter carline. PLEASE DO NOT BLOCK THE CARLINE. In the event of lightning, severe storms, or below freezing temperatures, we may run a

modified carline* and/or parents may park in the main lot and come into the multi-purpose room to pick up their children.  Parents will be notified by a Renweb Parent Alert text.  In addition, a red flag will be displayed at the entrance to the school parking lot and also on the marquee.  *Modified carline: Five cones will be placed directly in front of the building. Students may be either inside the front doors or directly outside of the front doors under the front porch area. Students will be walked directly to their car by a faculty member.

Multipurpose Room Dismissal Parents who choose to park and walk in to the school to pick up their children must arrive

between 2:50 - 3:00 p.m. (11:50 am – 12:00 p.m. for noon dismissal) in order to sign the multipurpose room call list.

Parents are asked to wait in the multipurpose room and respect the school environment by remaining quiet as classes will be in session.

The Multipurpose Room dismissal will begin between 3:05 and 3:10 p.m.

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Students who are not picked up by 3:30 PM: Students who are not picked up by 3:30 p.m. will be escorted to the Before & After School Care

and charged the Before & After School Care Program after school rate. They can be picked up through the south doors (you will need to sign them out). Parents who are excessively late will be asked to conference with the Principal.

ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE

Absence PolicyStudents are expected to be present and on time every day. Permission for “special absence” (short or long) must be prearranged. Parents may call or write a note to the Principal explaining the situation beforehand. A student is responsible for work missed because of absences. Parents are asked to schedule vacations during regular school breaks. Missing several days of classes is detrimental even to the strongest student.Students who are in attendance less than 90% (162 days) of the school year are in jeopardy of not advancing to the next level. Repeated unexcused absences may be considered grounds for summer school, suspension, retention, or even dismissal. All cases will be reviewed, and final decisions will be determined by the Principal.

Excused AbsenceAn excused absence is one over which the family has no control, such as:

Student illness, Serious illness or death in the family School-sponsored trips, or Emergency

Medical or dental appointments, etc., are to be scheduled outside of school time. Exceptions will be made if absolutely necessary, but only after a note from the parents and an appointment card from the doctor, presented either before going or upon returning from the appointment, have been submitted to the office.A major goal of any school is to teach responsibility to the student. Students should not be out of school for family vacations, scout trips, etc. If a parent believes that a student should miss school for any reason other than illness or a family emergency (such as a death in the family), the parent must contact the Principal in writing in advance of the absence. These absences may be unexcused.

Unexcused AbsenceAny absence that does not meet the above criteria is unexcused. A student’s absence from school due to an out-of-school disciplinary suspension is unexcused. In addition, every five tardies per semester is deemed to equal one day of unexcused absence and is recorded as an absence on the student’s permanent school record.

Absence & School WorkEach student is to complete all work missed during an absence. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain and complete assignments covered during the period of absence and to make arrangements with the teacher for make-up tests and other help at a time convenient for the teacher. Students are allowed to make up work for excused absences.

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A student is allowed one day (not including the day they return) to make up work missed for each day of absence unless the work was due the day of the absence. Make up work for unexcused absences will NOT be given a grade. Teachers will not provide work in advance for students to complete during any absence. In grades 4-8, long-term assignments, such as projects, book reports, research papers, etc., must be brought to school by 8:00 a.m. on the day they are due whether or not the student comes to school. Grades will be lowered for long-term assignments handed in late as per 4th-8th grade policies.Books and assignments for a student who is ill may be requested by emailing the homeroom teacher by 11:00 a.m. The email should indicate whether homework should be sent home with a sibling or picked up in the office (after 3:30 p.m.). Emails after 11:00 a.m. cannot be honored because teachers may not view the email or have the free time to prepare the work. Absent work that is not requested to be sent home will be in the homeroom classroom upon the student’s return. Students may also check RenWeb and/or call a classmate for the homework missed due to an absence.

Procedures Regarding Absences and Late ArrivalsIf a child is absent, parents must call the school office or email (attendance@holytcs.org) the office before 8:00 a.m. to inform the administration of the nature of the absence.A written excuse will be required from parents after a student’s absence. A note from the physician is required when the child has been absent 3 or more days, noting necessary restrictionsThe Public Health Department requires a doctor’s note to re-admit students with conjunctivitis (pink-eye) or meningitis. School Administration may also require a doctor's note to re-admit a student who has been ill if they deem necessary.

Appointments and Early ReleaseStudents arriving after 10 a.m. will be counted as a half day absence. Students leaving before 2 p.m. will be counted as a half day absence. See Dismissal/Early Dismissal Sections for more information.

Unexcused Early ReleaseStudents will have an unexcused early release for reasons unrelated to doctor, dental, or other excused appointments.

TardinessTeaching children to be on time starts very early. When they arrive on time and are picked up on time, children learn lifelong skills. Students should arrive by 7:45 a.m. so that they can prepare to begin promptly at the 8:00 a.m. bell. Please ensure punctuality; absence and tardiness interfere greatly with student progress for your child and cause classroom disruptions for all.Students arriving late must be accompanied by an adult into the building and should NEVER be dropped off at the front door.    A late arrival between 8:15 to 9:30 a.m. on Wednesdays is not possible due to Mass or Prayer Service. Students may not be left without parent supervision if they arrive on campus before Mass/Prayer Service is over.

Students arriving after 8:00 a.m. are considered tardy and are to report to the reception desk for an admittance slip. Tardy PK-3rd grade students will report to the homeroom classroom and turn in their

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admittance slip to their teacher. 4th-8th grade students should go to their scheduled class after checking in at the reception desk and give the admittance slip to that subject’s teacher.

Excused TardinessTardiness to school will be excused for the following reasons:

Court appearance (parent note and court notice required) Car accident Doctor/Dentist appointment (doctor’s note required) Extenuating circumstances with administrative approval

Unexcused TardinessOversleeping, car problems, and traffic are usually unexcused. In cases of major traffic accidents near the school or excessively bad weather, tardies may be excused at the Principal’s discretion.

Consequences for Unexcused TardinessEach student begins with a clean slate for tardies at the outset of each quarter, even though tardies are listed cumulatively on the report card. Consequences will be given for tardies each quarter as follows:3 tardies

Call, e-mail, or letter to parents5 tardies

Call, e-mail, or letter to parents Equals one day of absence and recorded on permanent record card

7 tardies Conference with Principal Subsequent tardies in increments of five (i.e. 10, 15, 20, etc.) will result in one day of

absence for every five unexcused tardies and notification to parents at each increment.

AWARDSAn Awards Ceremony will be held after each quarter. The following awards will be distributed to 4th - 8th grades students who exhibit the criteria outlined below:

ACADEMIC HONOR ROLL HIGHEST HONORS: Overall numerical average of 96 or above with all grades being a 76 or

higher, and no incompletes as of the last day of the 9-week term. Students must have at least an “S” in Conduct.

HIGH HONORS: Overall average of 91 to 95 with all grades being a 76 or higher, and no incompletes as of the last day of the 9-week term. Students must have at least an “S” in Conduct.

HONORS: Overall average of 86 to 90 with all grades being a 76 or higher, and no incompletes as of the last day of the 9-week term. Students must have at least an “S” in Conduct.

STRAIGHT “A” RECOGNITION Each quarter, students who achieve all “A’s” (grades 94 and above) in all classes, having no

incompletes as of the last day of the 9-week term, and having at least an “S”in Conduct, will be recognized at our Quarterly Awards Ceremony held after Mass. It is possible for a student to receive both High Honors OR Highest Honors AND receive recognition for achieving all “A’s”

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Each quarter teachers in K-8th grade will distribute the Crusader Award. The Crusader Award is for students who exemplify Christ-Like Behavior by: Helping others without being prompted Standing up for what is right Being kind and respectful to teachers and classmates Being honest

Caught-Being-Good Awards are given once a month based upon a random drawing from “Kindness Reports” submitted to the office throughout that month recognizing individual acts of kindness and good behavior of students.Additionally classroom teachers provide incentives to recognize individual and group exemplary conduct.

BACKPACKSStudents in grades PK-3 are allowed any type of full-sized backpack.Students in grades 4-8 may use school bags or backpacks without wheels to carry their books to and from home. Backpacks should be clearly marked with the student’s name on the inside of the backpack. Because of safety concerns and the lack of space in the classrooms, backpacks must be able to fit in the locker. If a doctor prescribes a rolling backpack, the school must have a current prescription on file (updated yearly).

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAMThe school offers a Before and After School Program for supervision of students before and after school from 6:45 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Pre-registration is required. Same day attendance is accepted if contacted by 2 p.m. Before school fees:Before School only $7.00 per day

After school only from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. is $10.00 per day. $16 will be charged beginning at 4:31 p.m.

After School only until 6:00 p.m. is $16 per day

Both Before School and After School is $22 per dayStatements will be sent out weekly via e-mail. Payments must be made the week the expense is incurred. A $10.00 late fee will be assessed on all accounts two weeks past due.A late fee of $2.00 per minute will be charged for parents arriving after 6:00 p.m.

BEHAVIOR AND CONSEQUENCESWe are all called to build God's Kingdom by the choices we make. Personal behavior and choices affect a person's ability to form positive relationships with those around him/her. Therefore, the Holy Trinity Behavior Plan holds three major goals:

1. to develop self-awareness and self-management skills in order to achieve success in school and life,

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2. to use social awareness and interpersonal (i.e., relationship) skills to establish and maintain positive relationships,

3. to demonstrate decision-making skills and responsible behaviors in personal, school, and community contexts.

Teachers regularly review the guidelines for behavior within their classrooms and around the school. The positive expectations progress with the age level of the students. Students who choose to follow school and classroom rules and who actively and positively involve themselves in the Holy Trinity community will be recognized through age-appropriate acknowledgement.

When a student struggles to adhere to school rules and classroom guidelines, teachers use strategies and assign consequences when needed to redirect minor infractions. These may include (1) discussion with the student, (2) written communication with the parent, (3) verbal communication with the parent, (4) "recovery" (time for the student to think about the situation and redirect him/herself when ready) in the classroom or in another classroom, (5) loss of recess or other privileges, and (6) opportunities to make amends with others. When these methods do not result in significant improvement of an unacceptable or repetitive behavior, or when a more serious infraction occurs, teachers refer the student to the Principal.

CONDUCT GRADES Students will receive letter grades in overall conduct:

Letter Designation Description

E Excellent Consistently participates, listens, and follows directions and school rules. Consistently treats people with dignity and respect.

G Good Often participates in class, listens, and follows directions and school rules. Often treats people with dignity and respect.

S Satisfactory Occasionally participates, listens and follows directions and school rules. Occasionally treats people with dignity and respect.

N Needs Improvement Rarely participates, listens, or follows directions and school rules. Rarely treats people with dignity and respect.

U Unsatisfactory Does not participate, listen, or follow directions/school rules and/or exhibits consistently disruptive behavior. Does not treat people with dignity and respect.

Students must maintain a “G”or above in conduct to be on the honor roll. A student with a conduct grade of “N” or below is ineligible for field trips. However, in special circumstances the Principal may give permission for a field trip due to a conduct grade of “N”. A student with a conduct grade below “N” is ineligible for extra-curricular participation until the next grading period (next quarter).

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Major disciplinary issues that will result in immediate referral to the Principal, who will choose the appropriate consequences, include, but are not limited to the following:

Violence or threat of violence to others (including fighting, pushing, hitting, etc.) Disruptive behavior of major or recurring nature which may include physical, verbal,

sexual or any other type of harassment or abuse Insubordination/Disrespect/Disobedience Damage, theft, or destruction of property, either that of the school, or that of another

individual (student or teacher) Possession of drugs/alcohol Possession of a weapon of any kind, even a toy weapon (references to guns, drugs, etc.

will always be taken seriously) Any other matter which the Administration determines is detrimental to the school

community Biting (Biting is a serious health issue. A student who bites will be picked up by a parent.

A second incident will result in a parent-Principal conference and possible removal of the student.)

Student referrals to the Principal will result in the issuing of a RenWeb discipline report, and an email or phone call, which communicate the following:

The reason for the report (nature of the incident, repetitive behavior, or lack of expected honesty/responsibility)

Area(s) needing improvement The action taken by the teacher/Principal, including consequences when applicable Additional Information/Recommendations See Family Handbook, page 20

For Grades Pre-K through 3rd, when a Report to Parent is issued, the form is sent home with the student. This form is completed by the teacher and signed by the Principal. Parents are asked to read the details regarding the reason for the report and the assigned consequences, discuss with the child to determine how home support can help improve the situation going forward, sign and return the form, and send it with your child to deliver to the homeroom teacher the next morning.

As noted on the form, if the parent has questions regarding the contents of the form, please sign the form and write a note in the comment section so that the teacher can contact you to discuss or set up an appointment.

The student is accountable for returning the signed form the next morning to indicate that he or she followed through in delivering the communication intended for the parent. If there is a reason for delay in returning the form (parent out of town, etc.), parents should e-mail the issuing teacher to explain.

For Grades 4th through 8th, a Report to Parent is issued as a RenWeb discipline report as described above.

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Through this notification process, staff and parents can together help students develop consistent patterns of responsibility and good decision making in their daily actions in order to maintain a safe, respectful, and serious learning environment for others at Holy Trinity.

One or two Report to Parent forms in a single quarter may drop a student’s conduct grade; this is at the discretion of the teacher/Principal, depending on the nature of the report. However, 3 or more Report to Parent Forms in a single quarter will automatically result in the following:

a “Needs Improvement” or “Unsatisfactory” overall conduct grade on the report card for that grading period

a conference with the Principal to determine next steps disqualification from Honor Roll (4th – 8th grade) and probationary status for Student

Council/National Junior Society, and extra-curricular activities

The student is a Holy Trinity Catholic School student at all times, including during extracurricular activities. A student who engages in conduct, whether inside or outside the school, which is detrimental to the reputation of the school, may be disciplined by school officials.

Parents are cautioned never to challenge or directly approach a student or his/her parents with whom their child has had some conflict at school. If you have a concern in this area, contact the Principal. The Principal is the final recourse in all disciplinary situations.

Note: Attendance at any Catholic school is a privilege, not a right.  The administration can, at any time, withdraw any child, subject to the applicable grievance procedure  through  the Superintendent  of  Schools  for  the  Diocese  of  Fort Worth.  

 Any action/incident not covered in the Handbook will be handled at the discretion of the Administration.

BIRTHDAYS and CELEBRATIONSBirthdays are important days in the lives of children. If you wish to send a birthday treat to share with classmates, please contact your child’s teacher in advance. The snack should be simple and will be shared during snack time or during recess with your child’s homeroom. Birthday treats must be brought to school in individual portions (i.e. cupcakes) that do not require any preparation before serving.If your family is planning a birthday celebration for your child or any other social event, invitations may only be handed out at school if every child in the class (or every girl or boy) is to be invited. The Family Directory (located on Renweb) contains the addresses of all students and can be used to mail invitations.Gifts, thank-you notes, pictures, etc. should not be distributed at school to prevent hurt feelings and the use of teachers’ time for extraneous tasks.The delivery of balloons, limousines, gifts, flowers, etc. are not allowed at school and should be reserved for celebrations at home.

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BULLYINGBullying will not be tolerated on or off campus while students are under school supervision.According to our Steps to Respect Program, bullying is unfair and one-sided. It happens when someone intentionally keeps hurting, frightening, threatening, or leaving out someone. Bullying is a form of harassment. Harassment is words or actions from a person that causes someone to feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or threatened. Racial, ethnic, religious, or gender harassment includes, but is not limited to, oral, written, any form of cyber bullying, psychological, physical and other demonstrative actions with regard to race, creed, ethnic origin, religious preference, or gender.Bullying includes a wide variety of behaviors, but all involve a person or a group repeatedly trying to harm someone who is weaker or more vulnerable. It can involve direct attacks (such as hitting, threatening or intimidating, maliciously teasing and taunting, name-calling, making sexual remarks, and stealing and damaging belongings) or more subtle, indirect attacks (such as spreading rumors, encouraging others to reject or exclude someone).Any person who believes he or she has been the subject of harassment/bullying shall report the alleged harassment to a teacher or staff member. The teacher or staff member shall follow the steps in our Steps to Respect Bullying Prevention Program, which includes affirming feelings, asking questions, assessing safety, and ACT by coaching. A teacher or staff member will complete a reporting form and turn into the Principal. The Principal will investigate the complaint and document the investigation, which will be kept on file in the school office. The consequences for bullying will vary depending on the situation and may include, but not limited to, apology letter, after-school detention, in-school detention and / or out-of-school suspension, and expulsion.Anyone witnessing or suspecting harassment/bullying has the obligation to report it to the Administration. Any disciplinary action taken will be at the discretion of the Administration and will depend on the results of the investigation.In an effort to provide awareness and strategies among our students related to bullying, PK-8th grade students participate in the Second Step Program and Steps to Respect Programs every year.

CELL PHONES, E-READERS & OTHER TECHNOLOGY Cell phones must be turned off and in the student’s backpack at all times while on campus. They are only for use before and after school if a parent chooses to send them with a child. While on campus, students should request to use the school phone if a need arises. This policy includes wrist watch/phones. If a Kindergarten-5th grade student’s cell phone is seen or heard during the school hours, he/she will receive a Report to Parent and any appropriate level consequences. If a 6th-8th grade student’s cell phone is seen or heard during school hours, the following hierarchy of consequences will occur:1st Violation: A RenWeb notice will be issued and the cell phone will be confiscated to be picked up by the parent. The student will serve a lunch/recess detention. 2nd Violation: A Renweb notice will be issued, and the cell phone confiscated, to be picked up by the parent after school on the following school day. The student will spend one day in In-School-Suspension and the overall conduct grade will be lowered by 5 points.

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3rd Violation: A Renweb notice will be issued and the parent and Principal will meet to discuss further steps. The student may lose privileges, including that of having a phone on campus and may be subject to suspension. Any 1st offense intentional misuse of a phone or electronic device such as playing games, taking photos or video, or voice recording may be treated minimally as a 2nd or 3rd violation, depending on the circumstances and at the discretion of administration. E-readers are allowed in school in grades 4-8 only when they are used as a replacement for an independent reading book. Students may not download information while at school or use the device for playing games, etc. Parents are responsible for the content on the e-readers. If a student uses an e-reader for any other purpose while on the school campus, he/she will receive a Renweb notice and any appropriate consequences at the discretion of administration. These include the loss of privileges including that of bringing the e-reader to school and possible suspension.Holy Trinity Catholic School is not responsible for the loss or theft of cell phones, e-readers, or any other electronic devices brought to school by students, with or without permission from their parents.Students are encouraged to always exercise the utmost caution when participating in any form of social media or online communications, both within the HTCS community and beyond.Students who participate in online interactions must remember that their posts reflect on the entire HTCS school community. As the student is a Holy Trinity Catholic School student at all times, if he/she engages in conduct, whether inside or outside the school, that is detrimental to the reputation of the school, he/she may be disciplined by school officials.In addition to the Diocesan Social Media Policy and regulations found in this Family Handbook, students are expected to abide by the following:

To protect the privacy of HTCS students and faculty, students may not take a picture of someone without their permission. Posting pictures of others on social medial sites is discouraged. Posting disparaging or inappropriate pictures is prohibited.

Students may not, under any circumstances, create digital video recordings of HTCS community members either on campus or at off-campus HTCS events for online publication or distribution.

Students may not use social media sites to publish disparaging or harassing remarks about HTCS community members, athletic or academic contest rivals, etc.

Students who choose to post editorial content to websites or other forms of online media must ensure that their submission does not reflect poorly upon the school.

Failure to abide by this Policy, as with other policies at HTCS, may result in disciplinary action as described in the Family Handbook, or as determined by administration.

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECTSchool teachers and administrators who suspect that a child has been abused or neglected are required by law (Texas Family Code, Chapter 34) to report to Child Protective Services.

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COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURSIncoming 6th graders will need to complete 6 hours of service during the school year, incoming 7th graders will need to complete 7 hours and incoming eighth graders will need to complete 10 hours. Service hours must be completed between June 1st and April 30th of the current school year. Service must be done outside of the HTCS community, e.g. your parish, non-profit organizations, etc. All service must be without compensation and school service hours cannot count toward NJHS service requirements.

COUNSELING SERVICESHoly Trinity does not employ a licensed counselor on staff. Holy Trinity Catholic School has a professional referral list which includes numerous child and family counselors. When referrals are made, families use services through their parishes, Catholic Charities, or private practices. The school and parents work together and support each other’s efforts to the extent possible. Parents may sign a Consent for Release of Information which allows Holy Trinity personnel to speak directly to a child’s therapist, counselor or doctor to gain insight into the best ways to help a student.

CUSTODY ISSUESSpecial legal considerations that affect the custody of a student must be given to the Principal and are maintained on file with the school. Communication with the school regarding legal decisions related to custody arrangements is very important. Any change in custody or guardianship must be submitted to the Principal through the administration office. Upon request, the non-custodial parent may receive a family packet and other school information. Upon request, a teacher will set up a separate parent conference for the non-custodial parent. A parent whose parental rights have been legally terminated is not sent a family packet or any other school information if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating those rights.

DISCIPLINERealizing that self-control is essential to good classroom order and to effective education, Holy Trinity Catholic School expects from students a sense of responsibility for their own behavior. Discipline policies set loving, consistent, firm, and reasonable limits for school behavior. The primary purpose of Holy Trinity Catholic School is to prepare students to live effectively in the world as Catholic young people, and in the future as Catholic adults.

E-MAIL GUIDELINESThe following guidelines have been established for email between teachers and parents:

E-mails should be limited to brief and school related subject matters. Junk or joke e-mails should not be forwarded to the teachers/staff. E-mails should not take the place of parent/teacher meetings or conferences. Information that includes grades, medical issues will not be transmitted via e-mail. Because of assigned duties, teachers will not be able to answer e-mails right away.

Turnaround time may be 24-48 school hours (1-2 school days).

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EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Emergency Closing/Delayed Opening When the Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District announces that it will be

closed or opening late due to hazardous weather conditions, Holy Trinity Catholic School will generally follow the same procedures.

If the Grapevine-Colleyville ISD closes for any other reason, Holy Trinity Catholic School will be open unless a specific announcement to close is made.

Circumstances may result in a decision to close Holy Trinity on a day the Grapevine-Colleyville ISD remains open.

Visit the website www.holytcs.org for school closing information. On days when the school closes or opens late due to bad weather, the Before & After

School Care program will follow the same hours. If afternoon activities are cancelled due to bad weather, the Before & After School Care program will follow the same hours. If afternoon activities are cancelled due to bad weather, the Before & After School Care program will close at 4 p.m. Parents will be notified to pick up their children by 4 pm.

If the school closes early for any reason students must be picked up at the time the school requests in the parent alert. A fee will be charged for parents who are late picking up their child.

When HTCS classes are cancelled, an announcement will be made on television: Channel 5 (KXAS), Channel 11 (KTVT), Channel 8 (WFAA), Channel 4 (KDFW); and on the radio: KRLD (AM 1080), and WBAP (AM 820). In addition, a text message and email message will be sent via RenWeb to the cell phone numbers and emails listed in Renweb for each parent. Text messages from the school will come from the number 34166. The school cannot receive any replies to this number.

Unstable Weather ConditionsIn the event that we are under a “Tornado Warning” or extreme weather conditions, we will not dismiss the students to the parents. Parents are welcome to come in and seek shelter at the school. If the sirens go off, we will have the students seek immediate shelter as designated during our drills. Once the storm has passed, students will be dismissed.

EXPENSE REQUEST/SALES TX REIMBURSEMENT POLICY/CHARGES ON SCHOL CREDIT CARDS

Policy Statement

This policy defines an allowable business expense as a necessary, reasonable, appropriate, and allowable expense incurred for a valid business purpose to fulfill the mission of the School.

In general, this policy ensures appropriate use of School funds in support of its mission, follows Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and complies with federal, state, local rules, and regulations.

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Please submit all receipts by the 10th of the following month the expense is incurred to the Business Manager.   Check request forms can be found in the front lobby. If the purchase is for the Home and School Association, the HSA Check Request Form must be completed.   

Reimbursement of Sales Tax

Holy Trinity Catholic School is recognized as a non-profit, 501(c) (3) institution, and is exempt from sales tax on most purchases. Individuals purchasing materials, supplies, and services subjected to Texas state sales tax should have in your possession the tax exemption form.

These exemptions are not applicable for goods/services purchased for personal use.

Expenses will be reimbursed for applicable sales tax only in those situations in which the purchaser could not avoid the tax and the goods or services were purchased utilizing the appropriate purchasing services method.

Credit Card Charges

Please use the sales tax exemption form on all purchases charged to any School account. You will be responsible for reimbursement of the tax if the form is not used.  The Credit Card /Charge Account Receipt Form is available in the lobby.

Substantiation and Original ReceiptsIn order for an expense to be approved and reimbursed, it must be properly substantiated. Original receipts for all expenditures are required.  

EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIESA list of extracurricular activities is posted on the website.

EligibilityStudents must maintain at least a 76 overall average in each class and at least an “S” in Conduct in order to be eligible to try out and / or participate in extracurricular activities. Eligibility is checked by administration every two weeks (Friday or last day of school week). The purpose of the 2-week probation is to allow the student sufficient time to raise the grade(s) in question. If a student on probation does not meet the minimum requirements of 76 at the next grade check, he or she will become ineligible to attend or participate in meetings, games or practices. Notices of probation or ineligibility will be sent home by administration to notify the parents. [Note:] Attendance at any Catholic school is a privilege, not a right.  The administration can, at any time, withdraw any child, subject to the applicable grievance procedure  through  the Superintendent  of  Schools  for  the  Diocese  of  Fort Worth.    Any action/incident not covered in the Handbook will be handled at the discretion of the Administration.

Athletic Program 5th -8th grade students may participate in the Fort Worth Diocesan Interscholastic Sports

Program in the following sports: football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, track, softball (girls) and baseball (boys).

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The purpose of the program is to encourage participation by all eligible students in order to develop and/or increase basic skills and coordination while teaching the responsibilities of competition, cooperation, and sportsmanship.

An original Catholic School Health Report documenting a doctor’s examination dated after June 1st is required. Stamped signatures, electronic signatures, and faxed copies will not be accepted.

Fees are charged to fully cover the cost of this program. Students will only wear the uniforms authorized by the school.

Students must maintain a numerical grade average of 76 or above in each subject and at least a 76 in Conduct to participate in sports. Periodic checks will be done by the teachers and Principal resulting in probation, then ineligibility, when minimum requirements are not met.

National Jr. Honor Society7th and 8th graders who have a cumulative scholastic average of 95% in core classes in their prior grade are eligible to apply for admission into NJHS. Invitations to apply are mailed during the summer after 6th grade and after 7th grade to those who meet the 95% requirement, but were not admitted in their 7th grade year. Students meeting this requirement are asked to submit a nominee application exhibiting the following characteristics: leadership, citizenship, character, and service. An essay giving reasons for deserving membership is also required with the application. A faculty committee reviews the applications and selects the candidates who meet the standards in leadership, citizenship, character, and service for membership. Members are required to uphold the ideals for which they are selected, attend meetings during the school day, serve before and after school on occasion, and complete required service hours.

Student CouncilThe mission of the Student Council is to serve the school by promoting communication between the students, faculty, and administration, and by contributing ideas and carrying out projects that enhance student life. It aims to develop leadership skills, instill responsibility, create a bond between students and faculty, and build pride in the school. Members of the Student Council are required to attend meetings after school and participate in various activities during and outside of regular school hours.

FAMILY DIRECTORYThe Family Directory is accessible on RenWeb. The following information is included for both parents: address, home phone, cell phone and email address. If you would like to block any of this information, go to RenWeb under School Information/Web Forms and update according to your preferences. The Family Directory is solely for communication of school-related information among members of the school community. Its use for any other purpose is not authorized.

FIELD TRIPSAn important part of a child’s education is taking advantage of learning opportunities in the community through field trips.

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Field trips are curriculum-related and well-planned in advance by teachers, with the approval of the Principal.

Parents of students with special needs may be asked to accompany their children on field trips.

Transportation for field trips will only be by bus provided by the school. A signed permission slip must be returned for students to participate. Only the original

permission slip will be accepted. No email, facsimile, or phone permission will be accepted.

If a student does not turn in the permission slip they must stay home and be counted absent for the day, as no one is available to supervise them on campus.

A limited number of parent chaperones will be welcomed and necessary on some field trips. All chaperones will ride on the bus to supervise students.

Parents are asked not to follow the bus or meet the students at the field trip site unless requested to do so by the school. This causes confusion and makes it more difficult to ensure students’ safety.

Field trips are privileges afforded to students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip. Students may be denied participation if they fail to meet academic or behavioral requirements. These students will remain on campus and complete assigned material.

Students are not to bring money, electronics, cell phones, or other items of value on field trips unless otherwise directed.

Administration of medication during Field Trips – see Health section. Chaperones are to remain supervising the students until released from that duty.

Field Trip Rules for Volunteers All school/program rules are enforced, unless the administrator has explicitly stated

otherwise. Chaperones are to stay with their assigned groups. Chaperones should refrain from cell phone use during field trips. Supervision is both mental and physical. Be sure that your attention is always on the

young people who have been assigned to you for supervision. Chaperones are not to purchase snacks or anything else for students on field trips. If your own child is on the trip, he/she must not be treated any differently than any other

child. Chaperones must plan childcare arrangements for their other children so they can be free

to provide the supervision necessary. Siblings will not be allowed. All volunteers must be current with Keeping Children Safe training.

FINANCIAL

FEE SCHEDULE (Dates are for the upcoming 2019/2020 school year registration.  Fees reflect current school year fees and may be changed).  

Application Fee:New Students Pre-K – Grade 8 $50 per student (Non-refundable, Applies to Registration Fee)

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Registration Fees:New Family Registration Pre-K – Grade 8 $450 per student (Non-refundable)Registration dates: Beginning February 6 (Less $50 credit from Application Fee)

Students of Current Families Pre-K – Grade 8Early Bird Registration January 25- Feb. 3 $350 per student (Non-refundable)Late Registration beginning February 4 $450 per student (Non-refundable)

TUITIONPre-Kindergarten – Grade 8 Per Student $8,845 $ 884.50/mo.*

DISCOUNTED TUITION RATESRegistered ParishionerPre-Kindergarten – Grade 8 One Student $7,270 $ 727.00/mo.*

Registered Catholic Out of Parish One Student $7,880 $ 780.00/mo.*

Multiple Child Discount: Families enrolling two children receive a 3% discount on the second child and families enrolling three or more children receive a 6% discount on each additional child. 

*Based on a 10-month FACTS installment plan. 11 and 12-month plans are also available.Tuition Assistance is available; see below for details.

OTHER COMMITMENTS and FEESFACTS Enrollment Fee - All families will be required to enroll in and pay tuition through FACTS, whether paying in full or on a payment plan.

Tuition Guarantee Fee: 2.75% of any amount placed on a monthly, or other payment plan will be billed on June 20.

Tuition paid in full by June 5 – late fee will apply after June 5 No Administrative Fee to FACTS

Tuition paid in two payments June 5/Dec 5 − late fee will apply after June 5 & Dec 5 $20 Administrative Fee paid to FACTS

Monthly payment plan option – must select this plan by June 5 to avoid a late $50 Administrative Fee paid to FACTS Before & After School Care Registration $ 50 per student (Non-refundable) 8th Gr. – Graduation Fees $225 per student (includes t-shirt,

Diocesan Mass lunch, Final Touch etiquette luncheon, year-end trip and graduation and reception)

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Sports $65 per sport ($195 annual maximum)

Field Trips Fees are announced prior to trip.Extracurricular Activities Fees are announced prior to sign up.Family Service Commitment 25 hours annually

FINANCIAL POLICIES:Terms of Registration

Families must be current on all tuition and fees at the time of registration to guarantee a reserved place in the next school year. Registrations will be withheld until all past due balances are paid.

Tuition Discounts: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, St. Michael Catholic Church, and Good Shepherd

Catholic Community own and subsidize Holy Trinity Catholic School. Families who are registered members and active stewards of one of these parishes qualify for the Registered Parishioner tuition discount. Parishioner status will be verified before a tuition discount is applied.

Catholic families who are members of non-supporting parishes will receive the Registered Catholic out of parish tuition discount. Your parish membership will be verified before a tuition discount is applied.

Multiple Child Discount: Families enrolling two children receive a 3% discount on the second child and families enrolling three or more children receive a 6% discount on each additional child. 

Tuition and Fees PaymentAll families will be required to enroll in and pay tuition through FACTS Management Company, whether paying in full, by semester, or by the month. Families are asked to verify their payment plan in FACTS no later than May 1st. Families will be required to pay all FACTS fees and set-up a full, partial and/or monthly payment plan upon enrollment in FACTS. Full payment or first semester payment must be completed by June 5. A Tuition Guarantee Fee of 2.75% will be charged on all amounts placed on any payment plan. This fee will added to your first or second already scheduled payment. On June 6, if FACTS enrollment is incomplete and/or full/semester payment has not been received, the Registration Fee may be forfeited and the space offered to another child, at which time a late fee of $100 will be assessed. On June 20, an additional penalty fee of 2.75% will be charged if enrollment and/or full/semester payment has not been received. Graduation fee of $225 must be paid no later than the first day of school.

Accepted forms of Payment through FACTS Holy Trinity is able to collect tuition payments via ACH (Automatic debit from your checking or savings account) Master Card, Visa, Discover and American Express may also be used. If you choose to use a credit card for tuition payments you will be responsible for any and all transaction fees associated with that credit card.

Tuition AssistanceTuition Assistance is available to qualified families of registered and accepted Catholic students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Assistance is available from the Diocese of Fort Worth through the Bishop’s Scholars Fund and through the school. Families may be eligible

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for tuition assistance through their parish as well. To be considered for Diocesan, school or parish grants, families must complete the application process through FACTS Grant & Aid, Holy Trinity Catholic School’s financial aid processor. Students must be registered for the 2019-2020 school year before being awarded tuition assistance. You can complete the FACTS Grant & Aid application during the online enrollment process or you can visit https://online.factsmgt.com/signin/44S4L to apply. To be sure your Application is considered it must be submitted by February 15th.

Refund PolicyAs a rule, tuition will be refunded ONLY if a student’s transfer from HTCS is due to his/her family’s relocation. A family will be deemed to have relocated if they move more than 50 miles from their current address. If a family qualifies for a tuition refund, the school will retain 10% of the total tuition and the refund will be prorated based on the enrollment period.

All outstanding financial obligations must be resolved before official records will be released. This contract shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws of the state of Texas.

GRADING SCALEReport cards are issued four times a year after each nine-week grading period.

Grades are given for academic achievement, effort, and conduct. The final report card is sent home after the last day of school.

Report Cards for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten are designed to inform parents of specific skills and concepts mastered.

Students in Grades 1-8 receive number grades based on the following scale:A 94-100 ExcellentB 86-93 GoodC 76-85 SatisfactoryD 70-75 Needs ImprovementF below 70 Unsatisfactory

As an accredited school, the grading scale has been fully approved and recognized by TCCBED.RenWeb Weekly grade postings and Mid-quarter progress reports, Report cards, and students’ returned daily work and tests are the primary means used to communicate progress to parents. Parents whose children are achieving below average or failing grades, or have a significant drop in grades, will be provided teacher recommendations for improvement on the posted Mid-quarter progress report.Teachers will explain specific grading procedures each fall at parent orientation meetings. In addition, some projects and larger assignments should include a grading rubric.

GRADUATIONPromotion from eighth grade is marked by special activities and ceremonies. The school attempts to give recognition to all the students who have completed one phase of their Catholic education and are advancing on to another, while at the same time avoiding excessive or elaborate events that are inappropriate for the age level of the students. A “graduation fee” is charged to cover expenses of various items and activities that the school provides for these students. This fee also

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includes the purchase (or rental) of a gown to be worn over dress clothes for the commencement Mass and exercises.

HEALTH

Administration of Medication by designated school staff: In accordance with Diocesan Health Policy, the school nurse and/or designated school

staff may administer a limited category of medications during school hours and on school sanctioned field trips.

Only medications necessary to treat ADD/ADHD, Diabetes, Asthma, Severe Allergies, and Epilepsy may be given at school by designated school staff.

Ibuprofen (Advil) and/or Tylenol are the only over the counter medications that may be authorized to be given at school by designated school staff.

All medications (prescription or over the counter), must be authorized by a physician and parent signed Diocesan Medication Permit. All permits must have original signatures. Permits submitted by fax or email will not be accepted.

According to Diocesan policy, all students with a prescribed epi pen must provide the school with two epi pens. The epi pens must have the original pharmacy label and a current expiration date. Diocesan policy prohibits the administration of expired epi pens by school staff. Students with any less than 2 unexpired epi pens will not be allowed to attend school until 2 current epi pens are given to the nurse.

Students are not allowed to have any medications, prescribed or over the counter, in their possession. Cough drops and sun screen are not allowed at school.

Only a parent or parent designated adult may deliver authorized medication to the school. All authorized prescription medication must have a current and accurate pharmacy label. Ibuprofen (Advil) and Tylenol must be delivered in an unopened, original container.

All medications will be stored in the school health clinic per Diocesan Health Policy. Parents are responsible for maintaining an adequate supply of medication at the school.

Field Trips: Only Medications to treat life threatening emergencies (inhalers and epi pens), will be

sent on field trips. Only designated school staff members may carry these medications and only they or the student’s parent may dispense medication on the field trip.

All teachers and staff are trained in the use of epi pens. However, teachers/staff are not required to administer medications that require injections such as epi pens. The Nurse will work with the parents regarding participation on the field trips.

Nebulizer treatments for Asthma may not be given by non-medical school staff on field trips. Parents of students requiring nebulizer treatments will be asked to attend the field trip.

Students that require care for Diabetes must be accompanied by a parent on field trips. Parents of students with special health requirements should contact the school nurse at

least one week prior to the field trip in order to make appropriate arrangements to ensure the health and safety of the student.

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Health rules to be followed at Holy Trinity Catholic School include: Every new student and any student playing middle school sports must submit a

completed Catholic School Health Report (stamped signatures, electronic signatures and faxed copies will not be accepted) prior to attending classes.

Every student must have a Student Emergency Information form on file with the school which designates at least one person other than a parent as an emergency contact. The form is completed from the information via Renweb and must be signed by the parent and returned to the school before the child may attend classes. The parents are responsible for accurate and up to date information throughout the year.

Immunizations must be up to date and physical examinations provided as required. Parents of students who have been in the school a year or more should send the school a

doctor’s notice of any additional immunizations whenever they are given so that the child’s health record may be kept current.

Any other information pertaining to a child’s mental or physical condition (allergies, asthma, regular medications, etc.) must be part of his school health record.

Hearing, vision, scoliosis and other health screenings are given at school according to state and diocesan regulations.

In the event major first aid is required, the school will try to contact first the parent(s), then, the person noted on the Student Emergency Form. If none of these can be reached, the school administration will seek the emergency care needed, parents being liable for any expense incurred.

Parents must keep a child home if he/she:o Is unable to follow class routine.o Has a fever (temp. > 100.0) or had a fever the day before or during the night

(Students must have a normal temperature for 24 hours before returning to school).

o Is vomiting, was vomiting, or has diarrhea the day before or during the night. (Students must have been free from vomiting for 24 hours before returning to school).

o Coughs excessively and is a distraction in the classroom.o Has an active, contagious infection.

Contagious diseases should be reported to the School Office. A doctor’s note is required for re-admission after a diagnosis of conjunctivitis (pink eye) or meningitis, or after any absence of three days or more. Students with head lice must be completely free of nits before being re-admitted.

Conjunctivitis is a highly contagious infection of the eye. Symptoms include red, irritated eyes, discomfort such as burning or scratchy feeling. Conjunctivitis spreads very easily, especially in a school environment. If a student exhibits symptoms of conjunctivitis, the nurse or administrator can request that the student be picked up from school and taken to a medical doctor for evaluation. A doctor’s note is required for the student to be readmitted to the school.

The use of nebulizer treatments in school for the treatment of asthma should be done with extreme caution. Only a registered nurse may give nebulizer treatments at school. If a RN is not available the parent must give the treatment. The parent is ultimately responsible for the care of their asthmatic child.

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Care of diabetic students must be administered by a licensed nurse. This includes glucose testing and administration of insulin. If a licensed nurse is not available the parent must give treatment.

A parent note must be received by the school administration prior to PE class in order to have a student be excused from physical activity for that day. If a student requires an excuse from physical activity for more than one consecutive PE class then a doctor’s note is required. If a doctor’s note is received to excuse a student from physical activity, a doctor’s note is also required to allow that student to return to full participation in PE class. If you have any questions concerning participation in PE class, please call the school nurse.

Health RegulationsFor the good of your child and all other children in the school, we adhere to the following regulations:

Students having a temperature of 100.0° F or above will not be permitted to return to the classroom. The parents, or persons designated on the Student Emergency Information form, must be available to pick up your child within 30 minutes of notification by school personnel in the case of injury or illness. Advance arrangements by the parents are necessary to comply with this regulation.

Students who have an elevation of temperature above 100.4 ° F will be expected to remain at home until 24 hours after the temperature has returned to normal. Any exception to this policy requires the written approval of a physician.

Parents will be notified by phone if a student is injured at school and requires follow-up medical care by a physician.

School personnel may not change soiled undergarments. If an accident should occur, parents must come to school to pick up their child.

A doctor’s note is required for students to use crutches at school. 6th grade students must have the scoliosis screening by a doctor or nurse practitioner.

This screening is required by the State of Texas.

Nut Awareness Policy Holy Trinity Catholic School recognizes that nut allergies represent a health and safety

hazard, which can have serious consequences for students who have an allergy to peanuts/nuts. In order to protect our students with any nut allergy from an environment that may be harmful to their health and safety, we have instituted a policy to minimize the risk of exposure to “peanut” items for these students with peanut allergies, however, we cannot ensure other food products haven’t been manufactured in a facility who uses peanut/nuts in other products.

All teacher and staff will be given a list of the students with peanut/nut allergies. All school employees will have annual training in August during orientation, and have refresher training as needed.

According to Diocesan policy, all students with a prescribed epi pen must provide the school with two epi pens. The epi pens must have the original pharmacy label and a current expiration date. Diocesan policy prohibits the administration of expired epi pens by school staff. Students with any less than 2 unexpired epi pens will not be allowed to attend school until 2 current epi pens are given to the nurse.

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It is the parent’s responsibility to inform the school nurse if they have a child diagnosed with an allergy that requires emergency medication or individualized care or awareness.

Holy Trinity Catholic School will have a designated table in the lunchroom for students whose parents request in writing that they do not sit at a table with students who have peanut/nut products in their lunches. This designated table will be cleansed before and after each lunch.

Students with peanut/nut allergies may only eat food that is brought from home unless written permission is received by the teacher/nurse from the parents.

No snacks or any other food with peanuts or nut products will be served in the classroom or other rooms in the building or used in any class project. All students must bring “peanut/nut – free” snacks if they are to be consumed in the classroom, however, we cannot ensure other food products haven’t been manufactured in a facility that uses peanuts/nuts in other products.

Students without allergies may have peanut/nut products in their lunch containers. If time permits, in an unusual situation when lunch must be served in other areas of the

building, the school nurse will work with administration and teachers to create a safe environment for the students with peanut/nut allergies.

Only “peanut/nut free” snacks will be permitted in the classrooms during parties or class projects that include food. However, we cannot ensure other food products haven’t been manufactured in a facility that uses peanuts/nuts in other products.

HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONThe purpose of the Home & School Association is to foster a close relationship between parents and school staff by promoting a spirit of cooperation and support. All parents of students enrolled in HTCS are members of the H.S.A. and are encouraged to become involved.

This is accomplished by various fundraisers and community-building events throughout the year which provide for teacher-approved activities as well as materials needed by the faculty.

The H.S.A. promotes school spirit by scheduling family activities throughout the year. H.S.A. officers meet monthly during the school year, and the H.S.A. generally sponsors at least

two meetings for parents each year. Other events for parents or families are scheduled as determined by the H.S.A. each year. All parents are urged to become actively involved in the H.S.A. The school does not provide or sponsor baby-sitting at any events. H.S.A. will provide Teacher Bucks gift certificates for purchase.

HOMEWORK Homework provides practice, enrichment and/or extension opportunities for newly formed skills

and concepts. Homework also encourages students to take initiative and responsibility, and allows families to

provide a supportive role in their child’s education. Parents are encouraged to provide a good study environment and a regularly scheduled study

time. Parents may answer questions for a student, approve his/her work, and assist the student in

learning to organize materials and pack the backpack each evening, but should not do the homework for the child.

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Homework time may vary from day to day and with the individual child. K-3 students will have approximately 30 minutes of homework each night. 4th – 5th grade students will have approximately 30 minutes to 1 ¼ hours of homework each night. 6th - 8th grade students’ homework will be approximately 1 ½ to 2 hours per night. Homework time estimates do not include daily reading time.

Homework will not be assigned over weekends unless deemed necessary (this excludes long term projects). No major projects will be due on Mondays.

Projects in the lower grades will primarily be completed in class. Students in Grade 1 - 8 are required to use the Daily Planner (Assignment Notebook) provided

by the school. In order to develop a sense of responsibility, students are not permitted to return to their

classrooms after dismissal for forgotten materials, books, glasses, band instruments, etc., nor are students permitted to call home to request that parents bring forgotten work. Teachers in grades K-5 will assist students in using planners, preparing materials for classes, and packing for dismissal.

When students do forget assignments or materials, parents are encouraged to foster a growing sense of responsibility by allowing students to experience the natural consequences that occur.

When a student arrives at class without assigned work or materials, the student may be required to use recess time to complete the assignment or other work as directed by the teacher.

Late or missing work may result in a lower grade or a zero for all students per grade level team policies. In grades 4-8, parents will be notified through RENWEB and adjustments to grades will be made.

Students are responsible to personally bring each assignment to school/class, or it will be considered late and graded as such. Homework received via facsimile transmission, e-mail, courier, or any similar means is never accepted. Assignments brought to the office by parents will not be graded as on time.

INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT The school is committed to providing an appropriate educational setting for the children of all

parish families who desire to attend, insofar as this is possible. The school provides a Learning Support Coordinator who assists classroom teachers in meeting students’ individual needs.

Learning differences may appear as problems related to behavior, reading, writing, spelling, or math. They can occur singularly or in clusters and are not related to intelligence. Any and all written reports obtained by parents regarding a student’s academic, emotional or behavioral issues must be provided to the school.

The school administration may request specialized testing to diagnose or determine learning or psychological differences and will inform parents of appropriate procedures in the event such testing is indicated at the parent’s expense.

After reviewing the results, the school will make every effort to provide special accommodations suitable for the child based on the recommendations.

If parents do not seek the necessary assistance or if the most appropriate environment cannot be provided, the principal may decide that the child’s educational needs cannot be met at Holy Trinity Catholic School.

If a teacher believes that a student is not mastering the basic curriculum in any area, the administration may recommend that the student undergo educational testing to determine

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whether the student needs additional instructional support. Generally, teachers receive only introductory training regarding these diagnoses. Therefore, assessments and recommendations must be given by an educational psychologist or other appropriate medical professional.

Parents are notified if the school recommends educational testing. All school recommendations, reports, grades or teacher surveys will be mailed directly to the testing facility; parents must include the address of the tester or the facility on the request form.

If the school had not recommended educational testing but parents desire for the school to provide instructional support for their child, the parents must first contact the school’s Learning Support Coordinator and follow the school’s procedures for educational testing.

In order for the school to consider providing additional instructional support to any student, the above guidelines must be followed and a complete diagnostic report, including complete test scores, must be submitted to the school office. The school will then evaluate the test results to determine what, if any, additional instructional support may be provided to the student.

If additional instructional support is recommended by the diagnostic report, the student’s parents must sign a permission form before the student is given the recommended support. If the parents do not want the student to receive the recommended support, they must sign a waiver form stating so. However, the student is still expected to fulfill the same requirements as the other students in the grade.

Extra Set of BooksOnly students who have testing that demonstrates a specific learning need on file at the school may be provided with an extra set of books to be kept at home. Parents requesting an extra set of books should contact the Learning Support Coordinator. Extra books issued require care and are subject to the same repair/replacement charges as the other student texts.

TutoringParents who request tutoring for their child from an independent tutor during school hours must submit a request to the Principal. A professional assessment report that indicates a need for tutoring during school hours must be on file with the Learning Support Coordinator. If permission is granted by the Principal, tutoring may be done in school during the time specified by the Principal. The Learning Support Coordinator will facilitate the scheduling, and any tutor on campus must meet all Diocesan Safe Environment requirements.

INTERNETThe School has a policy for acceptable use of the Internet that is carefully explained to every student. Students who do not use this tool within the parameters of the policy will not be permitted access to the Internet. The policy is listed below:

Internet Acceptable Use Policy for Students

Holy Trinity is pleased to offer Internet access for student use. This will provide our students with access to a variety of Internet resources including hundreds of databases, libraries and computer services all over the world. In order for students to use the Internet at school, they must first read and understand the following acceptable use policy. (Parents, please read and help your child understand the policies stated in this document prior to signing the permission form.)

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Student Use of Internet No student may access the Internet at school until the Parent/Guardian and the Student

electronically sign the Holy Trinity Acceptable Use Policy for Students. This is part of the enrollment process. Parents should read and discuss the policy with their student.

Students may access the Internet only under close and direct supervision of the classroom teacher. At no time may students use the Internet without a teacher in the classroom. A student’s computer privileges will be revoked for breaking this rule.

With the exception of the Chrome Box account, no students at Holy Trinity Catholic School will have electronic mail privileges at school. While at school, students may not set up or check any mail accounts they may have at home or elsewhere.

Students may not download any programs or software over the Internet. Students must receive permission from the teacher to download files over the Internet.

This may be done only under the direct supervision of the teacher. If files are downloaded, the teacher must run a Virus Scan program on the downloaded file.

All rules of conduct guiding morality in speech and behavior at Holy Trinity apply to Internet use and computer use in general. Any students attempting to intentionally access sites containing inappropriate material or topics will be subject to discipline and loss of computer privileges at school.

Copying the work of others via the Internet is a form of cheating and will not be tolerated at Holy Trinity.

Students must adhere to the policy that the Internet is to be used for educational purposes only. Entertainment or game websites students may use at home or elsewhere are not to be used at school.

Students must never fill out any on-screen forms asking for personal information about themselves or information about the school.

Students must notify their teacher if they inadvertently view Internet material that seems inappropriate, dangerous, or in any way disconcerting to them.

Students must notify an adult immediately if they have knowledge of any inappropriate use of the Internet by anyone else at school.

Students may not access social media web sites such as Facebook.com, Twitter, YouTube.com, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.

Students may not use any form of technology to taunt, bully, gossip, use foul language, name-call, or attempt to degrade or destroy the reputation of another student, the faculty, or administration or the school in general, whether on or off campus.

The Fort Worth Diocese has a Technology Policy. Please see Addendum A of the handbook.

LATEX SENSITIVE DIOCESAN POLICYDue to the potential for serious latex-related allergic reactions as well as choking hazards associated with latex balloons, no latex balloons will be allowed in school buildings or on school grounds. Mylar balloons may be used in place of latex.

LIBRARY-MEDIA CENTERCirculation Period Two WeekRenewals Books may be renewed for as long as needed

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Overdue No fines are chargedLost or Damaged Materials Family is charged current replacement cost

All overdue and lost material must be either returned or paid for before the beginning of each semester. Otherwise, the student will not receive a report card.

A student who chronically fails to return library materials on time will lose the privilege of checking out items. Overdue items must be returned before other books may be checked out.

LOCKERSLockers are available for use by students in grades 4-8. Lockers remain the property of the school. The school reserves the right to open student lockers at any time without probable or reasonable cause. Students are responsible for keeping their lockers neat and clean. No locks (4th-5th grade only), tape, decorations, magnets, or tension rods are allowed. 6th-8th grade lockers must remain locked at all times except when in use by the student. 6th-8th grade students will be issued locks. No student may share his/her locker combination with another student or go into another student’s locker. Students are allowed drawers and free standing shelves (student purchased) for organizing school lockers.

LOST & FOUNDPlease make sure your child’s name is clearly written on all clothing and articles brought to school each day. Lost and found articles will be traced if at all possible. Items not marked with a child's name are rarely claimed. Items not claimed will be placed in the “Lost and Found” bin near the office and given to charity at the end of each quarter.

LUNCH PROGRAM HTCS is committed to providing students a fresh, nutritious, hot meal at lunch.  Educational Catering Incorporated (ECI), a contracted school meal service company, will be providing lunch service beginning the first day of school, which will be cooked on-site in the kitchen, located off the multi-purpose room.  The price of the meal will include a meat entrée (except during times of Abstinence in which another protein source will be substituted), two sides and milk or water.  A la carte items will also be available.  Desserts and other snacks will be available at an additional cost.  Students will use a pre-paid account and be able to view an upcoming menu schedule via the HTCS website. More information regarding the hot lunch program will be sent to families in the July newsletter and via email.   As a matter of policy, carbonated beverages are not permitted in the lunchroom. Parents are encouraged to contact the school for more information regarding the volunteer lunch supervision program.  No birthday celebrations or fundraisers will be held during lunch. Volunteers to help in the lunchroom are always needed. In an effort to maintain a calm, respectful, and orderly environment that staff and students can enjoy, the following guidelines apply to lunch procedures:Bringing LunchWe know that occasionally it is necessary to deliver a lunch after the school day begins. Each morning, teachers make a list of children who do not have a lunch ordered or a sack lunch with them.

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If you intend to bring your child lunch, send a note to the child’s teacher in the morning. To facilitate planning and so that we know that your child will have a lunch, deliver your child’s lunch before 10:00 a.m.

Bring the lunch to the school lobby. As a matter of policy, carbonated beverages and energy drinks are not permitted in the

lunchroom.

No Lunch Occasionally, mix-ups occur and a child does not have either a school lunch or a lunch from

home. If a child does not have lunch, we will provide your child with a drink and a lunch and we will bill you directly.

Eating Lunch with Your Child There are special occasions when parents may wish to eat in the lunchroom with their child. Before you meet your child in the lunchroom, it will be necessary to sign in at the office and put

on a visitor’s badge. You may sit with your own child only at the designated visitor’s table, not at the student tables. As a matter of policy, carbonated beverages are not permitted in the lunchroom.

Lunch Recess Students in grades PK-8th have approximately 15 minutes of free play recess before or after

lunch. This unstructured playtime is intended to allow students to expend energy, build friendships,

engage in social play, and work out differences with limited adult intervention.

Lunchroom RulesIt is important to follow the directions of the teachers and lunchroom monitors. When the whistle blows everyone should be quiet to hear the announcement. Behavior in the lunchroom is guided by the following rules:

Walk only. Raise your hand for help or permission to leave your seat. Use “inside” voices Keep your hands to yourself Use the bathroom before lunch. Don’t play with food and clean up after yourself.

When a student does not comply with the above rules, consequences may include eating and spending recess in an alternate environment such as at a separate table, assigned seating area, classroom, or office. For serious or repetitive infractions, the student may also be referred to the Principal and receive a Report to Parent or notification through Renweb.

MASS/PRAYER SERVICESAll students will participate in Mass or Prayer service every Wednesday and Holy Days at 8:25 am in the multi-purpose room unless a change is announced in the weekly bulletin. Parents are always welcome to join our celebration. No flash photography is permitted during Mass, and

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pictures should be taken from the back of the multi-purpose room so as not to interrupt the liturgical atmosphere. Food and drinks are not allowed in the multi-purpose room before or during Mass.

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ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

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PARENTSParents’ Role in EducationA strong, cooperative partnership between home and school is an essential ingredient in effective education.

The best interests and needs of the student remain paramount, yet must be balanced against the good of the entire community.

With all partners in the process working together, the student is afforded the best possible educational experience.

The academic and spiritual development of the students holds the primary position in relation to all other school programs and activities.

Parents, teachers and administrators can expect to be treated with respect at all times and to have access to conferences at mutually convenient times when concerns arise.

Parents who have a concern should first contact the teacher directly. If a satisfactory solution is not reached, then a conference with parents, teacher, and principal will be scheduled.

The student will be involved in most conferences and problem-solving decisions. This will enable the student to take ownership of his/her education and choices.

A diocesan grievance policy is available to parents if a satisfactory resolution is not achieved. The first step requires that within ten days following the event, a written grievance must be submitted to the Principal.

Covenant AgreementFamilies are asked to sign the Covenant Agreement to indicate their partnership with the school.

Collectively and individually we, the members of the Holy Trinity Catholic School community, agree to abide by this Covenant Agreement to ensure that our school is conducted in a respectful manner, and in a way that will generate respect and credibility for our school and community.

Provide Service to the school in the form of at least 25 service hours or contribute the equivalent in the amount of $15 per hour.

We will conduct ourselves in a professional and civil manner at all times as representatives of the Holy Trinity Catholic School Community. If we find ourselves in disagreement with the Administration or Faculty, or if we have a school-related concern, we will discuss the matter with the appropriate school personnel involved rather than speaking negativity about the school within the community.

We will treat each person with respect at all times, regardless of an individual’s opinion, or differences.

Even in the face of disagreement or differences of opinion, we will demonstrate esteem and deference for others. We will commit to good faith efforts to resolve any grievances. We will agree to disagree without being disrespectful.

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Under no circumstances during meetings, functions, or events will we engage in, or threaten to engage in, any verbal or physical attack on any other individual. This includes using any type of social media (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Texting, Instagram, Snapchat, Vine, etc.) as a means of conveying threats (insinuated or direct) or disparaging remarks against community members, faculty, staff, coaches, referees, and/or administration.

We will communicate honestly and respectfully to school personnel, even when upset, to resolve disputes or relay concern in a timely manner.

We will commit to communicate our ideas and points of view clearly, and allow others to do the same without interruption and with active listening.

We will not use language that is abusive, threatening, obscene, or slanderous, including using profanities, insults, or other disrespectful remarks or gestures. Any type of derogatory language about an individual’s ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, age, disability, or religion will never be tolerated.

We will refrain from using, or being under the influence of any mind altering substance (i.e. drugs, alcohol, etc.) when in attendance at any school-sponsored function (both on-campus and off-campus) or when students are present.

We commit to learning the applicable procedures, policies, and rules that govern Holy Trinity Catholic School, and will not knowingly violate any of these procedures, policies, and rules.

We will abide by Holy Trinity Catholic School's procedures, policies, and rules in order to create a safe and effective environment at all times.

At moments when individuals become disruptive and violate the Covenant Agreement that we have pledged to follow, we will work to encourage that the person conducts him/herself in a respectful and orderly manner..

We will seek to present information truthfully, and will not knowingly misrepresent, mischaracterize, or misquote information received from others.

We will take full responsibility for all visitors who we bring on to the campus or to events and functions

We will take full responsibility for our own actions and subsequent consequences.

We will continue to teach our children Christ-like behavior to prevent the hurtful consequences of bullying, teasing and intimidating behavior towards others.

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If someone is found to be in violation of this policy, depending on the severity of the violation, the school administration reserves the right to address the issue in the following manner:

1. In a conference, the Administration will review the violations and give a written warning about possible consequences that may occur if further violation is witnessed.

2. If another violation is committed, the Administration will enact a necessary and appropriate consequence up to and including being restricted from attendance at school functions or events for a period of time.

3. If the individual's behavior continues to be deemed a problem or if he/she violates that restriction, the administration will enact a necessary and appropriate consequence up to and including dismissal from the school community.

4. If the violation is severe and/or public, the Administration reserves the right to dismiss the student and family upon the first infraction.

All members of our community [parents, guardians, visitors, faculty, and staff] will be held to the same standards. While Covenant Agreement violations are usually held in the strictness confidence, some Covenant Agreement violations may be so public or significant that the Administration (in consultation with the Pastors) may need to inform the school community.

Any questions regarding such policies or procedures should be directed to the Administration as deemed appropriate.I understand the education of my child is a collaborative effort involving my child, myself, and the faculty and administration of Holy Trinity Catholic School. I further understand that my child’s teachers are dedicated professionals who make sacrifices to teach in a Catholic School.

I can expect from the school: to collaborate and communicate with parents while providing a comprehensive

educational experience for my child. to uphold the teachings of the Catholic Church, share the faith with enthusiasm and

pastoral care, and be worthy role models. to provide an excellent academic program and a safe, positive environment. to respond to concerns in a professional and timely manner, while protecting the child’s

and family’s confidentiality. to be good stewards of the resources provided by the school.

In order to demonstrate fully my commitment, full support and cooperation with Holy Trinity Catholic School, I will:

ensure that our family prays regularly and attends Sunday Mass or Church service weekly as well as on Holy Days.

honor my financial obligations to the school through timely tuition payments and give to my parish or church.

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personally pray for the well-being of the school, the faculty and staff, and the students and families as I am able.

agree to the school’s expectations concerning dress, behavior, attendance, respect for others, and use of technology as outlined in the Family Handbook and monitor my student’s use of TV, computers, games, telephones, social networking sites and other media.

expect my child to use respectful verbal and body language, and model respect by refusing to start rumors or listen to gossip.

understand that all students and parents are responsible for the good name of the school, knowing that behavior outside of school that is non-exemplary or harmful to the school’s good reputation may lead to disciplinary action at school.

provide my student with assistance and support needed for academic and social success, and hold my student responsible for his/her own choices and behavior.

understand that, as a parent, I am a member of the HTCS Home and School Association, and will support the H.S.A. activities to the best of my ability.

trust that the school authorities will do everything in their power to facilitate your child’s reaching of his/her full potential in Spirit, Mind and Body.

Parent/Guardian signature signifies an endorsement of the school’s policy as outlined in the Family Handbook, and a pledge to uphold and encourage the child’s compliance.

We further understand that HTCS will follow a strict protocol with regard to the release of a child from school which requires written permission from a parent or guardian. In case of an emergency dismissal HTCS will attempt to contact parents through local media outlets and notices through RenWeb informing parents of sudden changes in the regular schedule.

Parent CooperationIn keeping with the Christian nature of the school, the very highest standards of conduct and courtesy are expected at all times, not only of the students, but also of the parents. Parents are expected to treat all school employees and volunteers with courtesy and respect, to support the authority of the school employees and volunteers, and to cooperate in good faith with the implementation and enforcement of all policies and procedures set forth in the Handbook. In accordance with diocesan policy, continued admission will be denied to those children whose parents fail to follow school policies and regulations, to cooperate with the staff, or interfere in matters of school administration or discipline so that the school’s ability to serve any student is affected.

Parent/Teacher ConferencesParent/Teacher conferences for all students are scheduled after the first grading period and as needed throughout the school year. Parents and teachers work together for the betterment of the student.

Communication with parents will be made when a serious or consistent problem arises. Teachers or parents may request additional conferences. Parents may schedule a conference with a teacher by calling the School Office to leave a

message for the teacher or by emailing the teacher directly. Parents are asked never to call or email their teachers at their homes.

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Administrators may choose to attend any Parent/Teacher conferences. In the best interest of the child, it is the school’s policy to schedule only one conference time that

both parents may attend. Custodial parents are responsible for sharing the report card, communicating information on

school events, and notifying the non-custodial parent of conference times.

VolunteersThe time so generously given by our school volunteers is sincerely appreciated. In order to ensure a professional and secure atmosphere for our children and staff, volunteers agree to adhere to the following guidelines:

Out of respect for our students, any information regarding students, parents or teachers that you may learn at school should not be disclosed for any reason.

Follow teachers’ and staff members’ directions. Be knowledgeable regarding class and school rules and the consequences for students who

disregard them. Inform the teacher about any behavioral problems. Consistency in behavioral expectations is crucial for an effective instructional program.

Whenever you are working in the classroom or other areas, be mindful of other people and keep noise to a minimum.

Refrain from engaging in conversation with students who are waiting near the office for disciplinary reasons.

Young children are not permitted in the workroom, classrooms, or other areas where you are assisting. In order to maintain a safe and effective learning and working environment, please arrange for childcare away from school.

The Staff Lounge is provided for teachers and staff to use during break times, for personal phone calls, etc. Parents are asked not to enter this area.

If you are unable to come at your scheduled time, advance notice is greatly appreciated.

Family Service Hours Initiative

The Importance of Volunteers in the Life of Our SchoolThe benefits of total family involvement in our community are real. Parents (and grandparents, etc.) working on behalf of the school help to strengthen and increase our spiritual and scholastic environment. National studies also indicate that students perform at higher levels when parents are actively involved in their child’s school. Additionally, volunteer service hours contributed at HTCS help to provide an economic bridge between tasks necessary to operate our school and the ever increasing demands on our budget.

GuidelinesEach family is asked to provide a minimum of 25 volunteer service hours per year. Families are responsible for keeping a record of their volunteer service hours on RenWeb during the school year from April 30, 2019 to April 15, 2020.

Get involved and track your service hours. To log your hours, go to RenWeb/Family Information. Select the family member who completed the hours. Click on the Service Hours tab. Click Add Service Hours. Enter the date, description, number of hours completed and any notes that are relevant.

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In April 2020, each family is asked to contribute $15 per hour for each hour not completed.

This initiative is not a fundraiser, as the School encourages all parents to be involved in the life of HTCS. All funds collected through this initiative will be dedicated to the Tuition Assistance Fund in the following school year.

What Qualifies?All efforts directed toward assisting the school are acceptable, including hours served/volunteered, assignments completed at home, and even gifts made and/or donated to the school. Service hours may be counted for volunteer hours in any of the many activities sponsored by Holy Trinity or our Home and School Association (H.S.A.).The school will make every effort to assist single parents, working parents, and parents of infants who may require “take home” work for their volunteer service hours. Contact the appropriate committees and chairpersons for more information on opportunities and working from home.Gifts/Donations: One service hour may be earned for every $15.00 spent and unreimbursed toward the purchase related to teacher appreciation events, class parties, and HSA event supplies. This does not apply to major Holy Trinity fundraising efforts such as the spring auction, annual fund, nor teacher gifts.

Other Notes All volunteers on campus will require a criminal background check as well as completion of

the “Virtus” Safe Environment training required by the Diocese. Training dates and locations are listed on the Diocese website, www.fwdioc.org. Also, please note that the required training hours can be counted as part of your 25 volunteer service hours.

There are usually some additional opportunities for service hours given by the individual teachers (i.e. take home work, field trips, reading buddies, etc.). Your child’s teacher will ask for help with these opportunities.

Service Hours Opportunities Please see the Family Service Hours Initiative document located on our website under Current Families for a list of service hour opportunities.

PARTIESClassroom celebrations for seasonal holidays/holy days will be planned throughout the school year as designated by the Principal. Families are asked to assist the room parents in implementing these festive occasions as requested. Please try to provide a variety of snacks and activities to include everyone. Check with the homeroom teachers to be aware of any special dietary needs or allergies. No carbonated drinks are permitted; only water or clear non-carbonated drinks are allowed. To ensure 100% focus on safety and supervision, siblings are not allowed to attend classroom parties. Parents helping with school parties are asked to make arrangements for younger siblings to be supervised away from school.

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PICTURESEarly in the fall semester, the school arranges for each student to be photographed in uniform for the files and yearbook. In the spring, a school panoramic picture is taken. PK-8th grade students have an option to take an out of uniform picture available through Glamour Craft. Purchase of pictures is optional.

PLANNERSStudents are required to use school-provided planners to record assignments each day and refer to each evening when packing to prepare for the next school day. Teachers at all grade levels will work with students to use the planner as part of the development of effective organization skills and personal responsibility. Assignments and materials/forms will be available on RenWeb as a reinforcement, but students are expected to have the planner with them and to use it consistently every day as part of the required materials. Parents should reinforce school systems at home.

PROMOTION GUIDELINES A student is advanced to the next level/grade if all the state and Texas Catholic

Conference Accreditation Commission requirements have been met. Reteaching and re-evaluation of basic skills will occur throughout each course to aid in the determination of promotion.

It is recommended that students be given “the gift of an extra year” in the early childhood or lower elementary levels if an appropriate stage of maturity for learning has not been reached.

If in the teacher’s judgment, retention is considered, this option will be discussed with the Principal and arrangements will be made for a conference with the parents no later than the middle of the third quarter.

Written documentation of this conference will be placed in the child’s record. If parents disagree with the recommendation for retention following this conference, it is

possible that the student’s future educational needs cannot be met by Holy Trinity Catholic School.

When a student is promoted against the advice of the professional staff, parents will be required to sign a statement that this is the case.

The Principal makes the final determination.

RECESSRecess periods are scheduled to provide students with opportunities for physical exercise and socialization with peers.

Recess provides students with a unique learning situation and is purposely unstructured in order to allow students to develop personal abilities such as leadership, organizational skills, creativity, etc.

Recess is held outdoors, weather permitting. All students are expected to dress appropriately to enable them to go outdoors for recess. If a student has a medical reason to stay indoors, a note from his/her doctor is required. Students with asthma or other limiting conditions will be permitted to sit quietly outdoors when

necessary.

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Students who are injured or become ill during recess periods are accompanied to the nurse’s office, or the nurse will come to the injured person

Parents are asked to refrain from interacting with students or distracting the adult supervisors during recess periods, as time is limited and free play activity is important to the students’ development.

RELEASE OF STUDENT TO OTHER THAN PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIANS During online enrollment you were asked to designate those people who have permission to pick

up your children in car pool groups. To ensure the child’s safety, if circumstances require someone other than those designated to

pick-up a child, notification is required in writing and must include the name of the person. That person will be asked to show proof of identity. If the person will be picking up your student more than once you should also go to RenWeb/Web Forms/Family Demographic Form and add them to your designated Transportation list or email the office with the change.

The designated person may also be given a car sign with the student’s name and allowed to proceed through carline.

When a court order restricts parental contact with a child, the school MUST be given a copy of the order and the opportunity to consult with the custodial parent’s attorney if further explanation is deemed necessary.

RENWEBRenWeb’s ParentsWeb is a private and secure parents’ portal that will allow parents to view academic information specific to their children, while protecting their children’s information from others. You can see your child’s grades and homework, as well as other useful school information. You can also communicate with teachers and other school staff online whenever necessary. All you need is an Internet-capable computer, a tablet, or a smart phone, and the email address you gave the school. To access RenWeb:

Go to www.renweb.com and click Logins.

Click ParentsWeb Login.

Type your school's District Code: HTC-TX *You will need this code every time you log in.

Click Create New ParentsWeb Account (if you do not already have one).

Type your email address (listed above) and an email is sent to you.

Click the Click to change password link. This link is only valid for 30 minutes.

A web browser displays your Name and RenWeb ID.

Type a User Name, Password and Confirm the password.

Click Save Password. A message displays at the top of the browser, "User Name/Password successfully updated."

You can now log into ParentsWeb using your new User Name and Password.

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A Parent RenWeb App is available and paid for by the H.S.A. for all families. In grades 1 – 3, RenWeb class page information is provided for the parent.  Teachers of grades PreK-3 will send weekly emails via RenWeb with information about class activities and upcoming events. Student grades will be updated weekly and can be viewed at any time on RenWeb. Note: The school-wide planner notes and Tuesday folder of graded material are always the primary means of communicating student progress between home and school as they directly involve the student and are often more detailed. In grades 4 – 8, RenWeb information is intended for the parent and the student. Students may log in using their email address that was submitted during online enrollment. A student’s planner is the most up-to-date resource for assignments. Homework will be listed daily and student grades updated weekly. Category 1 (major tests, papers & projects) preparation documents such as study guides and rubrics will be posted in addition to other resources provided at the individual subject teacher’s discretion. Students will be taught in each class how to navigate that subject’s page. If a child is having difficulty locating assignments or materials, the teacher should be notified in a timely manner so that he/she can assist the student in using this important tool. [Note: The school-wide planner notes and Tuesday folder of graded material are always the primary means of communicating student progress between home and school, and the use of these is required in each class.]

ROOM PARENTRoom Parents are a part of the Home and School Association and are very important in enriching the classroom environment. Opportunities to sign up are provided at the beginning of the school year through the H.S.A. All Room Parents serve the school under the direction of classroom teachers.

ROOM RESERVATIONAny group wishing to use the HTCS campus for meetings/practices must adhere to the following guidelines:

General Guidelines: Classrooms/gym may be reserved beginning after the Labor Day holiday and ending the

last day of June. The campus (classrooms and MP Room) will be unavailable on days the school will be closed for in-services, holidays and Holy Days (See School Calendar). The gym is the only exception and is at the discretion of the office. The entire campus is closed on Sundays, except for parish activities and events.

Required forms for school sponsored groups: (must be turned in at least one week prior to your first meeting/practice):

o Room/Gym Reservation Schedule Request Formo Roster: must include student names, leaders’ names and phone numbers. Two

adults must be present at all times and must have completed the Diocesan Safe Environment training.

Required forms for non-school sponsored groups: (must be turned in at least one week prior to your first meeting/practice):

o Room/Gym Reservation Schedule Request Form

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o Contract for Use of Facilitieso Certificate of Liability: You will need to supply a copy of the sponsoring league’s

(YMCA, City of Grapevine, Girl Scouts, etc.) liability insurance.  The certificate of insurance must provide general liability coverage of not less than one million dollars per occurrence and must name Holy Trinity Catholic School and the Diocese of Fort Worth as insured. 

o Roster: must include student names (when applicable), leaders’ names and phone numbers.

a. Rental Fee: to be determined through the Business Office*Groups will not be allowed to use the facilities until all completed forms are turned into the office.

School-sponsored and Parish groups have precedence over non-school sponsored activities and groups.

The classroom/gym must be clean and returned to the original set-up. Please do not use any of the teacher’s supplies, games, or equipment. Never remove any furniture from the classroom or bring any other furniture into the classroom.

The children will be called to their activities after the carline is completed. Younger siblings, if they will be meeting with you, will also be called after carline is over.

To use additional areas on campus the space must be reserved in advance separately from the room you are using. (playground area, multi-purpose room, courtyard, etc.)

Emergency contact information: o Leaders/coaches must give their personal phone number to the parents. The

office closes at 3:45 p.m. o Leaders/coaches must have emergency contact information for each child with

them at all times. Student Emergency Information forms will be distributed to you by the office once we have received your student roster (School sponsored groups only).

Coaches are responsible for having emergency contact information. Dismissal after meeting:

o Every leader is responsible for making sure every child goes to a parent or to Before & After School Care, if registered.

o An adult leader must return Before & After School Care students to a caregiver and check them in. Do not drop off a child without checking him/her in and speaking to the caregiver.

o Do not leave a child unattended.

Gym Rules: No kicking or hanging on the blue mats on the wall. Only water is allowed in the gym. (No Gatorade, etc.) You must bring your own equipment (volleyballs, basketballs, etc.) If you will be using the volleyball net, you must contact the Athletic Director before the

first practice. No hanging on the rim or the nets on any of the baskets or mats. Sweep the gym floor after practice. The gym must be clean and returned to the original set-up.

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If needed, adjust the gym thermostat by only a few degrees and return to original temperature before leaving.

Do not prop open doors.

Health Rules: First aid kits are located outside the multi-purpose room and in the gym. These kits

include disposable gloves, band aids, gauze, baggies for ice packs, small envelopes for teeth, antiseptic towelettes and a plastic trash bag. Please notify the Athletic Director if products in the first aid kit are used so they can be replenished.

Leaders/Coaches must have on site the Student Emergency Information form for all students.

In case of minor injury, basic first aid may be administered. In case of major wounds or injury, call 911 if appropriate and parents must be notified immediately.

In the event that a student must be transported for emergency medical care and parents cannot be contacted you may call the secondary contacts listed by the parents on the Student Emergency Information.

Coaches must complete the Diocesan Accident / Incident Reports and submit to school administration within 24 hrs. or the next school day. If an ambulance is called, the Principal must be notified immediately.

Students may not carry medications to sports events. Only parents may administer medications to their children during sports/extracurricular events.

Please follow Diocesan Policy for Heat and Heat Index and Cold Weather Guidelines (policy in packet).

Safe Environment Training: Protecting God’s Children (VIRTUS)Since 2008, it has been the policy of the Diocese of Fort Worth that all volunteers in schools must, minimally, have safe environment training, sign the Diocesan Code of Conduct, and have a background check. This applies to all school volunteers whether or not they have direct contact with students. The VIRTUS training seminar must be taken through the Diocese of Fort Worth in a classroom-based format. This must be renewed every 3 years.

SAFETY & SECURITY During the school day, all exterior building doors remain locked. Parents must enter at the front

door (main entrance) and ring the bell to be allowed entry into the school building. Please do not knock and request entry through other doors. Staff and students are

directed not to open these doors. In the event of a serious disruption of normal activities, the school has a crisis management plan

and will work together with law enforcement agencies.

SEARCHES OF STUDENTS AND SCHOOL PROPERTYThe Principal may conduct a reasonable search of a student on the premises if there is probable cause to believe that the student has in his/her possession an item, the possession of which constitutes a criminal offense under the laws of this state or may pose any threat to health and safety. The search will be made

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in the presence of a third party. The Principal may conduct a search of the physical plant of the school, including lockers and desks, on suspicion of a threat to the health, welfare, or safety of the school community. Any property on the school campus may be searched at any time including phones and other devices.

STUDENT RECORDSThe student’s parents or legal guardians have the right to inspect their student’s records in the presence of the Principal. A minimum of three days’ notice in writing is required should a parent or legal guardian wish to review a student’s file. In the case of separation or divorce, the non-custodial parent shall have access to student records unless restricted by court order.

All requests for information including Records and Recommendations should be submitted to the office in writing.  Teachers who get emailed Request for Recommendations will route them through the office for review and approval. The information requested will be transmitted in a timely manner to the school admissions counselor. All responses to these requests are transmitted directly to the schools from Holy Trinity. Copies are not given to parents to give to the schools.

TEACHER REQUESTThe administration welcomes any insightful factors, (in writing to the Principal before April 30th of the preceding year), which may contribute to your child’s success. However, no request for specific teachers is accepted. Multiples and twins will be placed in separate classroom for PreK through 2nd grades unless a request in writing is submitted by the parents to the Principal for consideration. However, starting in 3rd grade, multiples and twins will be placed in separate classes.

TESTINGStandardized tests (The Iowa Test Assessments and COGAT) are given in September of each year to grades 1-8. When the results are returned to the school, an individual report for each child is provided to the parent(s). A national assessment of Religious Education outcomes (A.C.R.E.) is given in the 5th and 8th grades. Individual scoring for students is not done; the school receives a general report only. Standardized testing results provide a snapshot of a student’s performance on a particular date. The results are used as a measure of student progress, and to plan appropriate instruction for the current year, and overall program improvement.

TRANSCRIPT & RECOMMENDATION REQUESTSTranscript and recommendation requests to other schools should be submitted to the office in writing. All school recommendations, reports, grades, or teacher surveys will be mailed directly to the school; parents must include the address of the school on the request form.

TRIPS/VACATIONS Vacations are not considered valid reasons for absence.

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Parents are asked to make every effort NOT to plan vacations during school time. If a vacation or trip is necessary during the school year, a note must be sent to the Principal 2 weeks in advance of the planned absence. The Principal will determine whether or not to excuse the absence. Students will be allowed 2 days to make up the missed work upon their return, if the Principal has approved the absence.

If the absence is not approved, any homework or tests will be recorded as a zero. Teachers will not provide work in advance for students to complete during any absence.

Report cards will not be issued until all tests, class work and homework have been completed.

TUTORINGOccasionally a child may benefit from professional tutoring outside of the school day. If this situation is recommended for a child, the Administration of Holy Trinity will make every effort to provide the parent direction. Fees for tutoring sessions are the responsibility of the parent. Teachers are also willing to provide additional help to students between the hours of 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., at times available in the individual teachers’ schedule. Please note, however, that Holy Trinity Catholic School teachers are never permitted to tutor their own students for a fee. Questions regarding assistance from your child’s teacher should be addressed to the individual teacher. All other tutoring questions should be emailed to the Learning Support Coordinator.

UNIFORMS Holy Trinity Catholic School is pleased to have a uniform, which helps identify our students and contributes to the sense of cooperation and community that is important in a Catholic school.

School uniforms are to be worn by all students in Pre-K -8th grade, except when designated by the Principal.

Exceptions to the uniform code are made only with a doctor’s note for medical reasons. When a student arrives at school out of uniform, the child will receive a Behavior

Notification via RenWeb. Three or more uniform reminders in a quarter will result in a lowering of the overall conduct on the Report Card.

For students in grades 4 to 8, any teacher or staff member may issue a dress code violation (via Renweb). The fourth dress code violation, and any one after that in a given nine week grading period, will result in a detention.

All uniform clothing must be purchased from Mills Uniform Company, 5460 E. Loop 820 South, Ft. Worth, TX 76119. The phone number is (817) 563-7100. Mills also has an online store at their website: www.millswear.com. When ordering, use the Holy Trinity Catholic School I.D. number 3388.

Sweatshirts and t-shirts are ordered through the H.S.A. Optional Uniform. The form can be found on the website under Current Families/Forms & Flyers.

Pre-Kindergarten:Pre-Kindergarten students must wear the HTCS spirit shirt ordered through the H.S.A. They must also follow the dress code in regards to shoes, jewelry, hair, cosmetics and modesty shorts (any type is acceptable). PK students are not required to purchase shoes at Mills, but tennis shoes must be solid black, navy, white or subtle combination of these colors. If you choose to wear a school uniform, it must follow the Kindergarten guidelines.

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Kindergarten -5th Grade:Girls:

Jumpers with modesty shorts (K-4th) Plaid skirt (5th) White blouse with navy piping, short or long sleeve (4th may wear white oxford) White Polo shirt Girls in 4th-5th grade must wear flesh-colored or white camisoles under their white

shirts. Blue oxford blouse (5th Gr. Option) HTCS turtleneck Navy uniform slacks, shorts or culottes Black or navy belt (Kinder optional) Navy cardigan sweater or sweater vest with logo Plain white crew socks (insignia free) at least 3 inches above the ankle when not

folded down Required school shoes (K-8) are not required to be purchased at Mills. Prayer Service and Mass Days: Jumpers (K-4th) or Plaid skirt (5th) with white

blouse or HTCS turtleneck, HTCS logo sweater, and knee socks (solid navy or white). No HTCS jackets may be worn during mass.

Boys: Navy uniform slacks or shorts Black or navy belt (Kinder optional) White Polo shirt White oxford shirt HTCS turtleneck Navy cardigan sweater or sweater vest with logo Plain white or navy crew socks (insignia free) at least 3 inches above the ankle

when not folded down Required school shoes (K-8) are not required to be purchased at Mills Prayer Service and Mass Days: Navy uniform slacks or shorts with black or

navy belt with pants with belt loops, white button down collar oxford, HTCS sweater or sweater vest only. No HTCS jackets may be worn during mass.

6th – 8th Grade:Girls:

Uniform khaki slacks or shorts Skirt (with modesty shorts) Blue oxford blouse Black, navy or brown belt Navy or White Polo (may be worn with plaid skirt or khaki shorts and slacks) Plain white crew socks (insignia free) at least 3 inches above the ankle when not

folded down Required school shoes (K-8) are not required to be purchased at Mills. Navy Cardigan sweater or sweater vest with logo V-neck or varsity sweater with logo

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Prayer Service and Mass Days: skirt, blue or white oxford shirt, HTCS logo sweater or vest, knee high socks, required dress shoe, tie. No HTCS Sports jackets may be worn during mass.

Boys: Uniform khaki slacks or shorts Black, navy or brown belt Navy or White Polo White oxford White, navy or black crew insignia free socks at least 3 inches above the ankle

when not folded down Required school shoes (K-8) must be purchased at Mills. Navy Cardigan sweater or sweater vest with logo Varsity sweater Prayer Service and Mass Days: Uniform khaki slacks only (no shorts), black,

navy or brown belt with slacks, white button down collar oxford, HTCS sweater or sweater vest, required dress shoes, tie. No HTCS Sports jackets may be worn during mass.

NOTE: Students in upper grades may wear any uniform item from their grade level and below. Students may not wear items in the next grade level up from their current class that are not specifically listed in their uniform code.

General Appearance Students must enter and leave the school grounds in proper uniform. All students are required to have their shirts tucked in both indoors and outdoors on the

school campus. All tops must fit properly. They may not be too tight or too big. Pants must be worn at the natural waist. Sagging and low-rise pants are not allowed.

Pants must be the proper length, may not drag on the floor or bunch up on the foot. Shorts may not be shorter than 2 inches above the knee. Skirts must reach the top of the

knee. This includes denim shorts and skirts worn on t-shirt days and field trips. All clothing must be neat and in good repair. No holes, tears, or extremely faded or

discolored items are acceptable. Body art, including tattoos (temporary or permanent), henna, paint, writing, etc. is never

permitted. Only solid white t-shirts or PE shirts (on PE days) may be worn under school shirts. Girls in 4th-5th grade must wear flesh-colored or white camisoles under their white

shirts.

Dress for School Sponsored ActivitiesGrooming and appearance contribute to a positive climate and reflect an expectation of high standards to our students. All students are to observe the following when attending, participating in and/or observing school-sponsored activities, even as a spectator, including H.S.A. sponsored activities, sporting and fine arts events:

Shirts and blouses must be long enough to be tucked in. Tops must cover the chest and the stomach. All tops must have sleeves. Students are not to wear tank tops, tube tops or

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“spaghetti” straps. Tight-fitting or see-through clothing is never permitted. Offensive or suggestive wording and/or pictures must not be worn. 2 piece bathing suits and bikinis are not permitted at school sponsored activities. A t-shirt and shorts may be worn over a 2 piece suit.

Pants, shorts, skirts and skorts must be worn at the natural waist. Dresses and skirts must reach the top of the knee, and shorts and skorts must not be shorter than 2 inches above the knee.

Athletic, basketball, track, gym, boxer, or biker shorts are not allowed. Any clothes that are tight-fitting (including leggings and jeggings) or see-through are never

permitted. Students can wear any type of tennis shoe (laced or slip on) or School-required

shoes. Jewelry may be any style, religious or non-religious, but may not be excessive. No hoop,

or dangling earrings or earrings that reach beyond the ear lobe are permitted. Hair accessories may be any color but of modest size and decoration. No hoodies will be allowed.

Students will not be allowed to attend, participate in or observe an event in attire which causes a distraction or hinders a student’s participation as determined by the Principal or faculty chaperone.

[Note:] Attendance at any Catholic school is a privilege, not a right.  The administration can, at any time, withdraw any child, subject to the applicable grievance procedure  through  the Superintendent  of  Schools  for  the  Diocese  of  Fort Worth.    Any  action/incident  not covered in the Handbook will be handled at the discretion of the Administration.

Physical Education Students are expected to dress appropriately for outdoors, including jackets or sweatshirts, hats

and gloves when needed. On sunny days, students may wear solid white, black or navy ball caps. PK-3rd grade girls wearing jumpers will remove the jumper before P.E. and put it on after the

class. In Grade 4 and above, students change into the P.E. uniform gray t-shirt and navy or black, long,

mesh shorts. No modesty shorts are allowed for P.E. In cold weather, students in Grade 4 and above may wear solid black or navy sweat pants and

sweatshirts over P.E. uniforms. In grades 4-8 P.E. uniforms must be brought back and forth to school in a small gym bag. In grades K-3 students who have P.E. on Mass or Prayer Service days must bring a pair of tennis

shoes and change during their class.

Hair Boys’ hair must be above the eyebrows and collar and no longer than mid-ear. No fad

haircuts, tails, shaved heads, or other unacceptable hair designs are permitted. Boys’ sideburns are to be no longer than the middle of the ear. Girls’ bangs must be above the eyebrows or hair must be secured away from the face. Hair must be of a color and style that does not hinder learning or distract other students.

No bleached hair or two-toned hair color is permitted.

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All hair should be of a natural color with no adornments attached. Modest headbands are permitted. No “costume” headbands (ears, tiaras, crowns, etc.) are

permitted.

Jewelry and Make-up: Students are permitted to wear one watch, one ring, one simple necklace, one pair of

earrings and/or one bracelet. Earrings must be located on the ear lobe with only one earring per lobe. No dangle rings, dangle or hoop earrings or cloth or string necklaces are permitted. Any additional jewelry is inappropriate and can be dangerous during times of physical activity.

No student may wear or bring make-up to school. 8th grade girls may earn the privilege of wearing make-up during the 2nd semester.

No nail polish, acrylic nails/tips/dips of any kind are allowed. H.S.A purchased sweatshirts may be worn in or outside the building with a uniform shirt

underneath. (Hooded sweatshirts may not be worn during the school day in the classrooms.)

Sweatshirts are not allowed as part of the Prayer Service/Mass day uniform. Non-uniform sweatshirts are never worn in the classroom. Sweatshirts/jackets may not be tied around the waist.

Crusader Fridays: Plain blue denim (no other colors or decorations are permitted) walking shorts or pants

(full-length, Capri, cropped, etc.) may be worn with the official HTCS t-shirt on designated t-shirt days and some field trips. (No robotics, sports, music t-shirts, etc.)

Plain blue denim shorts and skorts must not be shorter than 2 inches above the knee. Skirts must reach the top of the knee. Modesty shorts must be worn under all skirts.

All uniform requirements must be observed on t-shirt days (socks, shoes, cosmetics, length of shorts and skirts, etc.)

If a student chooses not to wear the HTCS t-shirt, then the regular uniform must be worn.

VISITOR/CAMPUS CHECK-IN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Holy Trinity Catholic School encourages and welcomes parents and other visitors to

work as educational partners in our school. As part of our commitment to the safety and security of all students, staff, and visitors in our schools and other district facilities, all visitors are required to enter through the main/front door of the building and report to the front office to sign in and receive a visitor badge to wear in a visible place, above the waist and on the front part of the body, while on campus.

Visitors will be asked to submit their driver’s license or other valid form of government-issued identification containing a photograph and a bar code to obtain a visitor pass.

Upon leaving the campus, all visitors must stop by the front office to sign out and return their visitor badge. This process helps school administrators know who may still be on campus in case the school has to be evacuated for any reason.

Visitors without a valid form of identification will only be allowed access to the office area. Valid forms of ID include a current driver’s license or state-issued identification

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card from any of the 50 states, U.S. passport card, Active Military ID, or other government-issued identification containing a photograph and bar code.

Due to the potential for distraction, younger and/or school age siblings are not allowed to attend student presentations in the classroom.

Occasionally, requests are received for graduates, former students, siblings and/or friends to visit the school. All such visits must be approved by the Principal prior to the day of the visit and require that a parent must accompany the child while on campus. All lunchroom rules apply.

In accord with diocesan policy, Holy Trinity Catholic School is a drug free, tobacco free, and weapon free campus. (Toy weapons are not allowed.) Violation of these policies constitutes grounds for immediate removal. Threats against the school or any member of the community will be taken seriously.

See Appendix O for additional information regarding visits on school property.

WITHDRAWAL OF STUDENTS The School Office should be informed in writing as early as possible of plans to move from the

area or to transfer a child to another school. The administration may request an exit interview or survey before records are sent to another school.

In the event of a student requesting admission to another Catholic school within the diocese, the parent(s) must contact the Principal for a completed transfer or withdrawal.

School permanent records are never released directly to the parent. The new school must request the student’s records in writing and school records will be sent

from Holy Trinity to another school only after all books and school property are returned and all fees and tuition have been paid.

When a family transfers out of the area, tuition will be refunded ONLY if a student’s transfer is due to his/her family’s relocation. The school will retain 10% of the total tuition and the refund will be pro-rated based on the enrollment period.

Tuition will not be refunded if a student’s transfer is due to any reason other than relocation or at the administration’s request.

VIOLENCE AND WEAPONSThe School is concerned with providing students and employees with a safe and productive environment. As such, the School expressly prohibits any and all acts or threats of violence by or against any student, employee, family member or a student, vendor, or other visitors to the School facilities. This policy applies to all students and employees, whether or not they are engaged in business on behalf of the School, and whether or not they are on School premises.In addition, the School strictly prohibits the possession of, exhibiting or threatening to exhibit or to use, or use of any and all weapons, including handguns, on School premises by any student or employee, family member of student, vendor, or other visitor, whether licensed or unlicensed and whether concealed or visible. School premises include not only the main facilities, but also the parking lots, entrances and exits, break areas, etc. Students and employees are further prohibited from the possession of, exhibiting or threatening to exhibit or to use, or the use of any and all weapons while conducting business on behalf of the School off of School premises.

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APPENDIX A – RELIGION STANDARDS

1. Profession of Faitha. Church – The students will understand that the Church is “the people of God” on

earth and the sign of God’s presence in the world today.b. Doctrine – The students will acquire knowledge of the doctrines of the Church in

an age appropriate manner2. Celebration of the Christian Mystery

a. Liturgy/Sacraments – The students will develop an appreciation of and participation in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church.

3. Life in Christa. Scripture – The students will develop an appreciation of the Scriptures as God’s

inspired word.b. Morality/Family Life – The students will form their conscience according to the

teachings of Scripture, Jesus, and the Church, so that they can make correct moral decisions. The students will cultivate a reverence for “all” life and develop understanding and respect for the physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects of sexuality.

c. Catholic Social teachings – The students will become aware that they are members of a global community and share a responsibility for each other’s welfare.

d. Service/Christian Witness – The students will realize an understanding that as Catholic Christians, students have a responsibility to become actively involved in the mission of the Church as servants to the world.

4. Christian Prayera. Prayer – The students will cultivate a prayer life; learn various forms of praying;

be provided with experience for various forms of prayer.

APPENDIX B – LANGUAGE ARTS STANDARDS

1. Students read a wide range of print and non-print texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world; to acquire new information; to respond to the needs and demands of society and the workplace; and for personal fulfillment. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, classic and contemporary works.

2. Students read a wide range of literature from many periods in many genres to build an understanding of the many dimensions of human experience.

3. Students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, and appreciate texts. They draw on their prior experience, their interactions with other readers and writers, their knowledge of word meaning and of other texts, their word identification strategies and their understanding of textual features.

4. Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language to communicate effectively with a variety of audience and for different purposes.

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5. Students employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process elements appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of reasons.

6. Students apply knowledge of language structure, language conventions, media techniques, figurative language, and genre to create, critique and discuss print and non-print texts.

7. Students conduct research on issues and interest by generating ideas and questions, and by posing problems. They gather, evaluate, and synthesize data from a variety of sources to communicate their discoveries in ways that suit their purpose and audience.

8. Students use a variety of technological and information resources to gather and synthesize information and to create and communicate knowledge.

9. Students develop and understanding of and respect for diversity in language use, patterns, and dialects across cultures, ethnic groups, geographic regions, and social roles.

10. Students participate as knowledgeable, reflective, creative and critical members of a variety of literacy communities.

11. Students use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes.12. Students read, write and listen to learn about God’s world and to participate fully in

parish and school community life.13. Students use a variety of mediums and methods to communicate and celebrate God’s

word and to pray.14. Students demonstrate an understanding of the personal choices and moral consequences

in literature and apply these to their own lives.

APPENDIX C – MATHEMATICS STANDARDS

1. Students understand numbers, ways of representing numbers, relationships among numbers, and number systems.

2. Students understand meanings of operations and how they relate to one another.3. Students compute fluently and make reasonable estimates.4. Students understand patterns, relations, and functions.5. Students represent and analyze mathematical situations and structures using algebraic

symbols.6. Students use mathematical models to represent and understand quantitative

relationships.7. Students analyze change in various contexts.8. Students analyze characteristics and properties of two- and three-dimensional

geometric shapes and develop mathematical arguments about geometric relationships.9. Students specify locations and describe spatial relationships using coordinate

geometry and other representational systems.10. Students apply transformations and use symmetry to analyze mathematical situations.11. Students use visualization, spatial reasoning, and geometric modeling to solve

problems.12. Students understand measurable attributes of objects and the units, systems, and

processes of measurement.

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13. Students apply appropriate techniques, tools, and formulas to determine measurements.

14. Students formulate questions that can be addressed with data and collect, organize, and display relevant data to answer them.

15. Students select and use appropriate statistical methods to analyze data.16. Students will use their study of math to make data-driven moral decisions and to

promote justice in the world.

APPENDIX D – SCIENCE STANDARDS

1. Students will demonstrate an awareness of the universality of science.2. Students will solve problems.3. Students will exhibit behaviors that show respect for life.4. Students will discriminate between moral and immoral use of science in society and the

world.5. Students will design and conduct experiments using eh scientific method technique.6. Students will evaluate information for accuracy and logical consistency and applicability.7. Students will design and construct physical, theoretical and mathematical models of

natural phenomena.8. Students will critically evaluate the applicability of a particular model to reality.9. Students will demonstrate knowledge of fundamental concepts of life sciences and

physical science.10. Students will recognize patterns and cycles in the natural world.11. Students will identify the roles of energy in biological, chemical and physical interaction.12. Students will construct and communicate4 a well-organized synthesis of facts and

concepts to form and support a valid conclusion.13. Students will use scientific tools and technology properly and accurately.14. Students will describe the interdependence of organisms with each other and their

environment.15. Students will demonstrate self-directed learning through questioning and independent

research.

APPENDIX E – SOCIAL STUDIES STANDARDS

1. Multicultural literacy is the ability to understand and appreciate the similarities and differences in the customs, values, and beliefs of one’s own culture and the cultures of others.

a. Students who are Multi-culturally Literate:i. Value diversity

ii. Exhibit an informed sensitivityiii. Actively engage with/in other cultures

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2. Global awareness is the recognition and understanding of inter-relationships among international organizations, nation-states, public and private economic entities, socio-cultural groups and individuals across the globe.

a. Students who are Globally Aware:i. Are knowledgeable about the connectedness of the nations of the world.

ii. Understand these interconnections.iii. Understand the role of the United States in international policies and

relations.iv. Are able to recognize, analyze and evaluate major trends in global

relations and the interconnections of these trends with both their local and national communities.

v. Understand how national cultural differences impact the interpretation of events at the global level.

vi. Understand the impact of ideology and culture on national decisions regarding access and the use of technology.

vii. Participate in the global society by staying current with international news and by participating in the democratic process.

APPENDIX F – TECHNOLOGY STANDARDS

1. Creativity and Innovation – demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes.

2. Communication and Collaboration – Students use digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a distance, to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others.

3. Research and Information Fluency – Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information.

4. Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making – Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources.

5. Digital Citizenship – Students understand human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology and practice legal and ethical behavior.

6. Technology Operations and Concepts – Students demonstrate a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations.

APPENDIX G – SPANISH STANDARDS

1. Communicationa. Students will engage in conversation, provide and obtain information, express

feelings and exchange opinions.b. Students will understand and interpret spoken and written language on a

variety of topics.c. Students will present information, concepts and ideas to listeners or readers on

a variety of topics.2. Cultures

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a. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the traditions, products and perspectives of the cultures studied.

3. Connectionsa. Students will reinforce and expand their knowledge of other areas of study

through Spanish.b. Students will acquire and use information from a variety of sources only

available in Spanish using technology, print, audiovisual, media, data and human resources.

4. Comparisons Among Languagesa. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the nature of language, through

comparisons of Spanish and English.b. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the concept of culture through

comparisons of the cultures studied and their own.5. Communities

a. Students will use Spanish both within and beyond the school setting for personal enjoyment, enrichment and active participation.

APPENDIX H – MUSIC STANDARDS

1. Vocal - Students will sing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of songs.2. Instrumental – Students will play, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of

instrumental music.3. Improvisation – Students will improvise melodies, variations and accompaniments.4. Composition – Students will compose and arrange music.5. Notation – Students will read and notate music.6. Analysis – Students will listen to, describe and analyze music.7. Evaluation – Students will evaluate music and music performances.8. Connections – Students will make connections between music, other disciplines and daily

life.9. History and Cultures – Students will understand music in relation to history and culture.

APPENDIX I – ART STANDARDS

1. Media – Students will understand, select and apply media, techniques and processes.2. Elements and Principles – Students will understand and apply elements and

organizational principles of art..3. Content – Students will consider, select and apply a range of subject matter, symbols and

ideas.4. History and Cultures - Students will understand the visual arts in relation to history and

cultures.5. Analysis, Interpretation, and Evaluation – Students will reflect upon, describe, analyze,

interpret and evaluate their own and others’ work.6. Connections – Students will make connections between the visual arts, other disciplines

and daily life.

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“On the threshold of the Third Millennium, my hope for all of you who are artists is that you will have an especially intense experience of creative inspiration. May the beauty which you will pass

on to generations to come be such that it will stir them to wonder!”Pope John Paul, II

APPENDIX J – PHYSICAL EDUCATION STANDARDS

1) Students will demonstrate competency in motor skills and movement patterns needed to perform a variety of physical activities.

2) Students will demonstrate understanding of movement concepts, principles, strategies, and tactics as they apply to the learning and performance of physical activities.

3) Students will participate regularly in physical activity.4) Students will achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical fitness.5) Students will exhibit responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and

others in physical activity settings.6) Students will value physical activity for health, enjoyment, challenge, self-expression,

and/or social interaction.

APPENDIX K – DIOCESAN USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICY

Access to the technology resources in the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fort Worth, including the Internet, shall be made available primarily for instructional and administrative purposes. Access to the school's computers, network, and Internet resources is a privilege, not a right. All users shall have the responsibility to use the equipment and software with care and to comply with the Diocese’s Acceptable Use Policy. Teachers may grant students access to the school’s technology as deemed appropriate by the teacher. Users of the school’s technology shall not purposefully access materials that are considered an Unacceptable Use as defined hereinafter. Individuals making an Unacceptable Use of the school’s technology will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include, but not be limited to, termination of employment or expulsion from the school.

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICYINTERNET TERMS, CONDITIONS, AND REGULATIONSIt is the policy of the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fort Worth to require the Acceptable Use of the Internet and related technologies by all employees, volunteers, patrons, guests, and students as set forth below. Access privileges may be revoked; disciplinary action may be taken, and/or appropriate legal action taken for any Unacceptable Use of the school’s technology. 1. Acceptable Use—The use of the Internet and related technologies must be in support of education and research and consistent with the educational objectives of the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fort Worth. Use of other organizations' networks or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate for the networks.2. Unacceptable Use — The term “Unacceptable Use” as used herein shall include, but not be

limited to, the following prohibited acts: A. transmission or the receipt of any material in violation of any U. S. or state regulation

including, but is not limited to, copyright material, threatening, violent, or obscene

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material, or material protected by trade secret; B. use for commercial activities, product advertisement, political lobbying, game playing,

unauthorized "chat," or chain letter communication;C. pornography, information on bombs, inappropriate language and communications, and

flame letters; D. acts of vandalism, any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data or another user or to

damage hardware or software, the uploading or creation of computer viruses, and E. unauthorized Use of another's computer, access accounts, and/or files.

3. Privileges—The use of the Internet and related technologies is a privilege, not a right, and Unacceptable Use may result in cancellation of the privilege and may subject the individual to disciplinary action, which may include, but not be limited to termination of employment or, expulsion from the school. Each user who is provided access to Internet and related technologies will participate in a training session with assigned staff person(s) concerning the proper use of the network. The faculty, staff, or parent/guardian may request the administrator or designee to deny, revoke, or suspend a specific user's access to the Internet and related technologies.

4. Copyright—It is the policy of the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fort Worth that all employees, volunteers, patrons, guests, and students will abide by the federal copyright laws. Employees, volunteers, patrons, guests, and students may, with the school's permission, copy print or non-print acceptable use materials allowed by:

* Copyright law * Fair use guidelines* Specific licenses or contractual agreements* Other types of permission

Employees, volunteers, patrons, guests, and students who willfully disregard copyright law are in violation of the policy of the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fort Worth; they do so at their own risk and assume all liability.5. Other

** Network accounts are to be used only by the authorized owner of the account for the authorized purpose.

** Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data or passwords belonging to other users, or misrepresent other users on the network.

** Malicious use of the network to develop programs that harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computing system and/or damage the software or hardware components of a computer or computing system is prohibited.

** Prior approval is required from the school for List serves use by or for Employees, volunteers, patrons, guests, and students.

ELECTRONIC AND/OR DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS POLICYElectronic and/or digital communications with students, and staff members should be conducted for educationally appropriate purposes using school sanctioned communications methods. The school sanctioned communications methods are: teacher school web pages such as the school website, Moodle, or School Notes, teacher school email, teacher school phone and educationally focused networking sites such as Churchwerks. The term “Staff member” as used herein shall mean all employees of a school,

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Staff members in their normal responsibilities and duties may be required to contact parents outside of the school day. A staff member is free to contact parents using e-mail, a home phone, personal cell phone or other appropriate electronic or digital devices. Staff members are to contact parents, not students, when they need to disseminate information for the student’s benefit. Staff members should not purposely distribute a home phone number or a personal cell phone number to students.Staff members are not to contact students directly by electronic and/or digital communications. If a staff member contacts a student, other than by a school sanctioned communications methods, using electronic devices, including, but not limited to, personal phone or cell phone, email, texting or networking sites, the student shall immediately notify the student’s parents about the contact and the student’s parents shall immediately reported the contact to the principal or to other proper school authorities. Students are not to contact a staff member, other than by school sanctioned communications methods. If a student contacts a staff member, other than by school sanctioned communications methods, using electronic devices, including, but not limited to, personal phone or cell phone, email, texting or networking sites, the staff member shall immediately report the contact to the principal or to other proper school authority who shall immediately notify the parents of the student concerning the communication by the student to the Staff member.

APPENDIX L – CAR SEATS

Background and purposeEach year nearly 1,600 children die in motor vehicle accidents. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 14 and younger. Unrestrained children are more likely to be injured, to suffer more severe injuries, and to die in motor vehicles crashes than children who are restrained. Effective September 1, 2009 the legislation aims to strengthen current child passenger safety protections by providing that children younger than eight years old, unless they are four feet, nine inches in height, are to be properly secured while riding in an operating vehicle in a child passenger safety seat system in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer of the safety seat system. Amends Sections 545.412(a) and (b), Transportation Code, as follows:

(a) Provides that a person commits an offense if the person operates a passenger vehicle, transports a child who is younger than eight, rather than five, years of age, unless the child is taller than four feet, nine inches, rather than less than 36 inches in height, and does not keep the child secured during the operation of the vehicle in a child passenger safety seat system according to the instructions of the manufacturer of the safety seat system.

(b) Provides that an offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $25, rather than not less than $100 or more than $200. Requires a municipality or county, notwithstanding any other law, to remit each fine collected under this section to the comptroller of public accounts for deposits in a separate account in the general revenue fund that is authorized to be appropriated only to the Texas Department of Transportation and used to purchase child passenger safety seat systems and distribute them to low-income families.

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Provides that Chapter 133 (Criminal and Civil Fees Payable to the Comptroller), Local Government Code, applies to a fine collected under this section.

APPENDIX M – IMMUNIZATIONS

Immunization PolicyEvery student enrolled in a Catholic School in the State of Texas shall be immunized against vaccine preventable diseases caused by infectious agents in accordance with the immunization schedule adopted by the Texas Department of State Health Services. A student who fails to present the required evidence shall not be accepted for enrollment. The only exception to the foregoing requirement is a medical exemption signed by a licensed physician (M.D. or D.O.) authorized to practice in the State of Texas.This policy was adopted by Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department, December 2008 and voted on April 3, 2017 to keep as written with no changes.For current immunization information and minimum requirements, changes and explanations after this manual was printed, contact the Immunization Division, Texas Department of State Health Services.Online: www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/default.shtm OR http://www.immunizetexas.comPhone: 512.458.7284 ext. 2316 OR 1.800.252.9152Regional Texas Department of State Health Services: The Texas Department of State Health Services maintains regional offices for the 11 Public Health Regions. Regional offices can assist with minimum immunization requirement information and literature and in some cases may provide immunization clinics in your school. To determine your region:Online: www.dshs.state.tx.us/regions/default.shtmPhone: 1.888.963.7111 (toll free) or 512.458.7111

Provisional enrollmentAll immunizations should be completed by the first date of attendance. The law requires that students by fully vaccinated against the specified diseases. A student may be enrolled provisionally if the student has an immunization record that indicates the student has received at least one dose of each specified age-appropriate vaccine required by this rule. TO remain enrolled, the student must complete the required subsequent does in each vaccine series on schedule and as rapidly as is medically feasible and provide acceptable evidence of vaccination to the school.A school nurse or school administrator shall review the immunization status of provisionally enrolled student every 30 days to ensure continued compliance in completing the required doses of vaccination. If, at the end of the 30-day period, a student has not received a subsequent dose of vaccine, the student is not in compliance and the school exclude shall the student from school attendance until the required dose is administered.

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APPENDIX N – PARKING & CARLINE MAP Lane #1 and #2 follow through the North parking lot and continue closest to the sidewalk.

A staff member will direct the start of the Lane #2. Lane #3 allows parents to park in the North Visitor Parking lots, enter the building, and

leave without interrupting the flow of the car line. Do not enter the car line procession if you have parked to pick up children.

Do not leave a car unattended in either lane at any time. Park only in designated parking spots. Cross at designated crosswalks. Do not park in the Staff Parking Lots

o Designated area in North Parking Lot o Reserved spaces in North & South Parking Lot

Observe all posted signage. See the Map on page 83.

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APPENDIX O

5212 REQUIREMENTS FOR INDIVIDUALS WISHING TO COME ON SCHOOL PROPERTY OR ATTEND SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Parents and other individuals are welcome to visit the schools of the Diocese and to attend school sponsored activities.  During school hours, all parents and visitors entering the school property, other than to deliver or to pick up the child, must first go to the school office, sign in and obtain a visitor’s badge. Obtaining a school badge does not allow an individual to disrupt a teacher during class time or visit the class room during class. In order to visit the classroom during class, written permission from the principal stating the reason for the visit must be obtained in advance. Generally, two (2) days’ advance notice is required, but if circumstances permit and the reasons are warranted, principals may establish either a longer or shorter period. The principal will respond to the request either approving the request with possible restrictions or denying the request. Teachers are to refer any parent visiting the classroom without the approval of the Principal to the school office and the parent will be asked to leave the school immediately. 

An individual who (1) has been convicted of sex related crimes or a crime involving a minor and (2) does not have a child or grandchild attending the school is not welcome on the school property or to attend school sponsored activities. A parent or grandparent of a child attending the school and who (1) has been previously convicted of a sex related crime or a crime involving a minor and (2) wants to visit the school or to attend a school sponsored activity must submit a written request to the principal prior to the anticipated visit. Generally, at least five (5) school-days’ advance notice is required and the request must provide the school with written documentation concerning each such conviction, including but not limited to all details concerning probationary status or restrictions. The principal will respond to the request either approving the request with restrictions or denying the request. If the individual is allowed to come on to the school property or to attend a school sponsored activity, the school will provide the individual with the written conditions for the visit, which may include supervision by school personnel during the time of the visit.  If the individual fails to comply with the written conditions established by the school, then the individual will be denied permission to be on school property and/or to attend school sponsored activities.

Companies who provide contracted services to the school are required to give letters of recommendation on behalf of each contracted employee as well as provide appropriate documentation that each employee has completed a criminal background check.  Under no circumstances will a company send the school a contracted employee who has been previously convicted of a crime involving a minor.  Failure by companies providing contracted services to comply with these procedures and the safe environment policy as established by the Diocese of Fort Worth may be considered breach of contract and result in termination of the contract. More detail regarding this issue can be obtained in the Diocese of Fort Worth Safe Environment Policy and Code of Conduct.

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APPENDIX P

6205 ONLINE SOCIAL MEDIAAlthough this policy closely mirrors the Diocesan policy on social media, due to the special, privileged and powerful relationship between a Catholic school and its parents and students, sections of this policy are more restrictive. The first legal duty of a Catholic school is to keep those entrusted to them safe.The Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fort Worth acknowledge the right of employees to use personal websites, social networks, wikis, weblogs and other emerging technologies not only as a form of self-expression, and, in their individual capacity, as a means to further the work of the Church. Additionally, the same rules that apply to school employee’s messaging and communications in traditional media apply in the online social media space. This specifically means that teachers and all school staff, including substitutes and volunteers, are never to use social media to directly communicate, interact or respond directly to students unless that social media is operated, controlled and directed by the school itself. Simply because the development and implementation of an online social media program can be fast, easy, and inexpensive does not mean that different rules apply. School employees should bear in mind that posting of certain comments, photos, links or references to third party websites and information on websites, social networks, wikis and weblogs may have a harmful effect on the Church and its schools, their reputation, and their employees.

In light of this possibility, school employees are required to adhere to the following policy regarding the use of personal and professional websites, social networks, wikis, weblogs and other emerging technologies. This policy supports other related Diocesan and school policies, including Acceptable Technology Use and the Code of Conduct & Behavior Standards for All Clergy, Religious and Lay Ministers.

School employees may only access websites, weblogs, wikis and social networks for legitimate professional job-related purposes during the workday with the approval of their direct supervisor. School employees are not to create, post or otherwise access weblogs, personal social networks, wikis or personal websites for personal use during normal school working hours. Employees should exercise sound judgment and common sense to prevent online social media sites from becoming a distraction at work.

If you identify yourself as an employee of a Catholic school on a personal website, weblog or social network, you must make it clear to your readers that the views you express are yours alone and that your views do not necessarily reflect the views of the Diocese or its schools. In the event that you identify yourself as an employee of a Catholic school on a personal website, weblog, wiki or social network, to help reduce the potential for confusion, you are required to put the following notice in a reasonable prominent place on your site (e.g., at the bottom of your personal profile page) in at least a size 12 font bolded:

“The views expressed on this website/weblog/social network are mine alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.”

School employees are prohibited from disclosing on personal or professional websites, weblogs, wikis or social networks, any information that is confidential or proprietary to the Diocese, its schools or to any third party that has disclosed information to the Diocese or its schools.

The school has exclusive ownership rights with respect to certain concepts and developments you produce that are related to school business. Employees may not use school trademarks on their site or reproduce any school materials or logos. Please consult with your principal if you have questions about appropriateness of publishing anything that may be related to the school on your site.

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School employees may not use the copyrights, trademarks, rights of publicity, and other third-party rights in the online social media space, including with regard to user-generated content (UGC), without the necessary permissions of the rightsholder(s).

School employees are prohibited from providing a link or otherwise referring to the school website on their personal website, social networks, wikis or weblogs without consulting with and obtaining the approval of the principal of the specific school.

School employees shall not allow any obscene, harassing, offensive, derogatory or defamatory comments and images which reflects/discredits or causes embarrassment to the Diocese and its schools, their employees, patrons, vendors, partners, affiliates, agencies, students, and others on personal, the school’s and professional websites, any other social networks, wikis or weblogs.

All social media being used by Catholic entities must be clearly branded in order provide institutional authority as well as avoid confusion. Unless you have been officially authorized in writing to speak or act on behalf of a Catholic entity, employees are prohibited to use such brandings or create secondary social media sites that give the illusion of being authoritative.

All social media used by Catholic entities must comply with the Minimum Social Media Requirements contained in Policy 6210.

The school reserves the right to regularly monitor any and all schools based computers. In addition, it is the policy of the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fort Worth that every portable information/data storage device used by a school staff member or student may be examined at any time because it may contain something dangerous.

The school reserves the right to monitor professional websites, social networks, wikis or weblogs created on school computers during the course of a normal workday, or on school computers on personal time.

Once information is published online, it is essentially part of a permanent record, even if you "remove/delete" it later or attempt to make it anonymous. If your complete thought, along with its context, cannot be squeezed into a character-restricted space (such as Twitter), provide a link to an online space where the message can be expressed completely and accurately.

The school requires that you confine your personal website, social network or weblog commentary to topics unrelated to the Diocese or its schools (or in certain cases, that you temporarily suspend your website or weblog activity altogether) if it believes this is necessary or advisable to ensure compliance with this policy or federal and state laws.

School employees will comply with all aspects of the Children’s Online Private Protection Act (COPPA). Employees are forbidden to post or distribute personal identifiable information including pictures on any child under the age of eighteen without parental consent. Personal identifiable information includes name, home address, email address, telephone number or any information that would allow someone to identify or contact a child. If written verifiable consent is obtained from a parent, it is important that the parent has approved the information that is to be provided and has full knowledge of its use, purpose and how the information is going to be provided. Likewise, parents should be made aware that the school is making use of only school controlled websites, social networks, weblogs and other emerging technologies to communicate with students.

School employees will model safe and effective use of technology for students including developmentally appropriate instructions on responsibility associated with the use of technology and the possible dangers associated with technology.

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School employees who violate this Online Social Media policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination. If you have questions about this policy or any matter related to your site that this policy does not address, please consult with the principal of your school.

6210 THE MINIMUM SOCIAL MEDIA REQUIREMENTSThe following guidelines are required for schools wishing to establish social media. These requirements apply to all current and future social media, including but not limited to websites, wikis, Facebook, Twitter, blogs and other emerging technologies.

Site administrators must be adults and/or approved employees of the school

There must be at least two site administrators for each site to allow for rapid response and continuous monitoring and updating of the site.

All social media must be reviewed by the principal or the pastor before implementation to ensure it is not in conflict with current standards, policies and Catholic teachings.

Personal sites shall not be used in connection with school programs or to communicate with students. Students are defined as any and all students enrolled in a Catholic school in the Diocese of Fort Worth.

Passwords, names of the sites and the site addresses or site location information shall be registered in a central location in the school and at least two (2) adults must have access to this information.

In establishing a school site, know and abide by these key “Rules of the Road”:

o Abide by all diocesan, parish and/or school guidelines

o All communication by school employees reflect on the Church and the school

o Do not claim or in any way give the impression or the appearance representing the official position of the school or the teachings of the Church, unless you have written authorized to do so.

o All school social media sites shall be clearly branded and identified to provide institutional authority and to avoid confusion.

o Abide by all copyright, fair use and financial disclosure laws.

o Never divulge confidential information.

o Do not cite others, post photographs or videos of other individuals or link to their material without express written approval. Media involving minors must have written parental approval.

o Practice Christian charity.

APPENDIX Q - Firearms and Weapons PolicyThe Diocese of Fort Worth is concerned with providing parishioners, volunteers, visitors and employees with a safe place to worship and a productive environment. As such, the Diocese of Fort Worth expressly prohibits any and all acts or threats of violence by or against anyone on Parish, School or other Diocesan (“Diocesan”) facilities.

In addition, the Diocese of Fort Worth strictly prohibits the possession of, exhibiting or threatening to exhibit or to use, or use of any and all weapons, including firearms, on Diocesan

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premises by anyone whether licensed or unlicensed and whether concealed or visible. Parishioners, volunteers, students and employees are further prohibited from the possession of, exhibiting or threatening to exhibit or to use, or the use of any and all weapons while conducting business on behalf of the Parish/School/Diocese off of Diocesan premises.

All Diocesan locations are required to provide the statutory notice prohibiting bringing concealed weapons and openly carried weapons onto the Diocesan property. The notice must be posted at each building entrance, on Diocesan locations’ websites (including homepages of parishes and schools), and annually in published literature (i.e. parish bulletin, school newsletter).

Rationale:

In 1996, the Texas Legislature approved the carrying of concealed handguns, but the law prohibited them from being carried on Church and School premises. In 2016, the law was amended to allow the open carry of handguns and the statute left the prohibitions in place. However, for the law to take effect on Diocesan property effective notice must be given.

Specific InformationEffective Notice

All Diocesan locations must post a minimum of two signs at every entrance.

All Diocesan locations must post a notice on the homepage of their website Annually, all Diocesan locations must publish a notice in their literature

(i.e. bulletin, school newsletter)Sign Requirements

Signs must contain the required language in both English and Spanish. Signs must appear in contrasting colors (black and white recommended). Signs must be printed with block letters that are at least one inch in height. Signs must be displayed in a conspicuous manner clearly visible to the

public at each entrance to the buildings. A minimum of two signs must be posted at each entrance.

o The first sign must read “PURSUANT TO SECTION 30.06, PENAL CODE (TRESPASS BY LICENSE HOLDERWITH A CONCEALED HANDGUN) A PERSON LICENSED UNDER SUBCHAPTER H, CHAPTER 411, GOVERNMENT CODE (HANDGUN LICENSING LAW), MAY NOT ENTER THIS PROPERTY WITH A CONCEALED HANDGUN.

CONFORME A LA SECCIÓN 30.06 DEL CÓDIGO PENAL (TRASPASAR PORTANDO ARMAS DE FUEGO) PERSONAS CON LICENCIA BAJO DEL SUBCAPITULO H, CAPITULO 411, CODIGO DE GOBIERNO (LEY DE PORTAR ARMAS), NO DEBEN ENTRAR A ESTA PROPIEDAD PORTANDO UN ARMA DE FUEGO.

o The second sign must read “PURSUANT TO SECTION 30.07, PENAL CODE (TRESPASS BY LICENSE HOLDER WITH AN OPENLY CARRIED HANDGUN), A PERSON LICENSED UNDER SUBCHAPTER H, CHAPTER 411, GOVERNMENT CODE (HANDGUN LICENSING LAW), MAY NOT ENTER THIS PROPERTY WITH A HANDGUN THAT IS CARRIED OPENLY.

DE CONFORMIDAD CON LA SECCIÓN 30.07, DEL CÓDIGO PENAL (TRASPASO DE UNA PERSONA CON LICENCIA CON

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UNA ARMA DE FUEGO VISIBLE), UNA PERSONA CON LICENCIA BAJO EL SUBCAPÍTULO H, CAPÍTULO 411, DEL CÓDIGO DE GOBIERNO (LEY DE LICENCIAS DE ARMAS DE FUEGO), NO PODRÁ ENTRAR A ESTA PROPIEDAD CON UNA ARMA DE FUEGO QUE SEA LLEVADA VISIBLEMENTE.

Website publication

All Diocesan locations are required to have the statutory language, as detailed above, in both English and Spanish, posted on the homepage of their website.

Bulletin Announcements

At least annually, each location must publish in its bulletin, newsletter, or other publication that firearms and weapons are prohibited from Diocesan locations. The publication must include, in English and Spanish, the language required to be posted on the signs, as detailed above.

Incident Procedure

Should someone discover an individual carrying a gun while on Diocesan premises, someone should inform the nearest employee, usher, security guard, or priest.

The employee, priest, or usher should (calmly and kindly) inform the individual that carrying a firearm, even if they are a license holder, is forbidden on the property. The individual must leave the premises immediately and may return without the firearm or weapon. The individual may leave it in their car in the parking lot.

Should the offending individual refuse to follow the request, the priest, employee, or usher should step away and immediately call the police. Under no circumstances should a priest, employee, or usher try to enforce the prohibition beyond informing the offending individual that the weapons are forbidden. Leave the enforcement to the police or security guard.

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