Holy Trinity School

ADMINISTRATION

The Pastor is ex officio the chief administrator of the school.

The specific direction of the school is delegated to the Principal.

The specific direction of the classroom is delegated to the teacher.

If a question regarding procedures should arise, consult:

1. The person concerned, e.g. teacher.

2. The Principal, if further assistance is deemed necessary.

3. The Pastor, if further assistance is deemed necessary beyond that first by the teacher and

second by the Principal.

Parents are asked to follow the above procedure with any problems or concerns.

Holy Trinity strives to educate each child entrusted to its care in an environment which has Jesus and His teachings as its center. In order to provide a quality Catholic education, we strive to teach the child as a whole person - morally, spiritually, physically, socially, aesthetically, emotionally as well as scholastically. A strong religious and instructional program is, therefore, in place.

As a Catholic school, instruction in religious truth and values is an integral part of our school program. Religion is not one more subject alongside the rest, but instead it is perceived and functions as the underlying reality in which the student's experiences of learning and living achieve their coherence and their deepest meaning. Opportunity is provided to worship as a school community to strengthen our life of faith. The Catholic school is the unique setting within which this ideal can be realized in the lives of Catholic children and young people. In order to carry out this philosophy, our goal is to deepen each student's awareness of his/her Christianity, while establishing a child-centered program in order to stimulate a growth in the intellectual, social and religious development of each child as well as through the personal example of the faculty and staff. Taking into consideration the needs and abilities of each individual, we continually strive to develop the whole child and to adjust our educational approaches and methods accordingly. We desire to give each child a sense of accomplishment in his/her everyday work and to develop his/her awareness of his/her world and his/her place in the world.

When a student leaves Holy Trinity upon his/her graduation from the eighth grade, it is our hope that he/she will have developed, to some degree his/her own vision of a better world, and the ability to translate and share with others this vision in accordance with the teachings of Christ and His Church. Also, each student will have the ability to develop and maintain one's own uniqueness and realize one's own human potential, and to be prepared for life in today's Church and society through Christian formation and quality academic instruction.

The following is a guideline stating the rights and outlining the responsibilities of the teachers, parents and students of Holy Trinity School. In order to create an enriching environment to promote both academic and personal growth, understanding these rights and responsibilities is essential.

All parties, parents, students, and teachers, have the duty to treat each person according to the golden rule; "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." In all our dealings with others, we should treat them fairly and uniformly in a consistent way in conformity with our philosophy.

Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York base not only their educational purposes, but all their activities on the Christian teaching of the essential equality of all people as rooted in the fatherhood of God, Christ's love, and humanity's supernatural destiny.

Thus, with discrimination so repugnant to their nature and mission, Catholic Schools in this Archdiocese have not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

This policy is subscribed to by all Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools in the Archdiocese of New York, whether owned or operated by the Archdiocese, the parishes of the Archdiocese or religious communities within the Archdiocese.

If parents are divorced or separated, the school presumes that both parents have access to the child/children unless legal documentation to the contrary is on file in the school office.

Registration dates for students entering Holy Trinity School are usually held during February. The dates are announced in the Parish Bulletin.

In general, Holy Trinity School does accept students from other schools. All students must meet preliminary requirements as listed in registration packet and have been approved by the Principal.

Students transferring from another school will be re-evaluated at the end of two months. If the student does not meet academic and/or behavioral standards, parents will be asked to remove the student from the school.

Preliminary Requirements:

1. Set-up interview with parent.

2. Parents must present the following records:

a. Baptismal Certificate if Catholic; Birth Certificate if non-Catholics

b. CTBS scores or standardized test scores used in present school

c. Copy of last report card (Grades K-8)

b. Immunization Record

3. The Principal from the school from which the student is transferring will be asked to write a letter of recommendation or telephone call with a recommendation.

4. The student will be given a test to determine whether or not he/she can handle the work at Holy Trinity School.

1. Students transferring from another school will be required to be interviewed by the Principal.
2. If a waiting list is present for any grade, parishioners will be considered first.

Children entering the Kindergarten must be five years of age by December 1st of the current year and are expected to be screened in order to ascertain readiness for Kindergarten. All students are accepted according to the above criteria. This screening gives the teacher an idea of the child's ability.

 

DAILY CLASS SCHEDULE:

Pre-Kindergarten

8:30 Students are admitted to building.

11:15-11:55 Lunch.

12:50-1:30 Recess.

2:30 Dismissal.

Kindergarten

8:00 Students are admitted to building.

8:10 Bell rings to go to classroom. Proceed to class.

8:20 Class begins.

11:40-12:10 Lunch.

12:50-1:30 Recess.

2:50 Dismissal.

Grades 1-4

8:00 Students are admitted to building. (No student should arrive before 8:00 a.m.)

(Any student who arrives before 8:00 a.m. should be dropped off by the Grade 4

doors to wait with Mrs. McGivney in the hall.)

8:10 Bell rings to go to classrooms. Proceed to class.

8:20 Classes begin. (After 8:20 a.m. - students are late and must sign in at the office.)

11:55-12:40 Lunch/recess.

12:45 Classes resume.

2:50 Dismissal for all grades.

Grades 5-8

8:00 Students admitted to building.

8:10 Bell rings to go to classrooms.

8:20 Classes begin.

11:55-12:40 Recess/Lunch.

12:45 Classes resume.

2:55 Dismissal for all grades.

ABSENCE:

ALL parents are required to call by 10:00 A.M. if their child will not be attending school that day.

All students are required to have notes explaining the absence when they return to school. If no note is sent in, the student will be charged with an illegal absence. *

Following a communicable disease or extended absence (more than three days) of any student, a note must be presented to the teacher, from a doctor, stating the nature of the child's illness and certifying that the student is able to return to school. All parents must call the school after three days' absence. All absence notes are to remain on file in the nurse's office for one year.

If a vacation other than that allocated by the school is taken, the child/children are marked as illegally absent. Other examples of illegal absences are babysitting and running errands.

Assignments will not be given prior to illegal vacations. Missed work for illegal absences will be the responsibility of the student.

* NEW YORK STATE ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS

When a student is absent, the school must obtain an affidavit (commonly called an "excuse") from the parent or guardian and signed by him stating: (1) the student's full name, (2) the days and dates absent from school, and (3) the reason for the absence. This excuse is a legal document, which must be kept on file for three years and can be admitted in court as documentary evidence. Failure to present a note following an absence will result in the absence being recorded as truancy.

Legal absences are as follows:

1. Personal illness

2. Critical illness or death

3. Extremely bad weather

4. Impassable roads

5. Recognized religious holidays

6. Required attendance at court

7. Quarantine

Illegal absences fall into two categories: unlawful detention and truancy.

Truancy: A student sent to school by his/her parents and expected to be in school is considered truant if he/she absents himself/herself for some unlawful reason.

Unlawful absence: An unlawful absence occurs when a pupil is absent from school with the knowledge and consent, stated or implied, of his parent for other than legal reasons, such as "visiting", "away", "vacation", "shopping", "needed at home", "caring for baby", "work", "no shoes", "overslept", "car trouble", etc.

LATENESS:

All students are considered late if they arrive after 8:20 A.M. They must have a note from their parent and they must sign in at the office. Late passes will be issued.

No student may enter late or leave the building early without a note unless the parent signs him/her in or out. A special book is at the office.

DISMISSAL:

For the safety of our children, bus students are dismissed from the classrooms by bus number. Car children are dismissed from the lower parking lot, not the bus door. Pre-K students are dismissed from the front door. Parents are asked to cooperate with this policy. No parent is to take their child home at dismissal time until the child has reported to the assigned area and the teacher on duty has been notified.

Additionally, as all of our teachers are assisting with supervision at dismissal time, parents are asked to meet with a teacher AFTER ALL children have been dismissed. We encourage you to meet with your child's teacher. However, we ask that you do not request a conference during dismissal time. This procedure avoids a great deal of confusion for our students. It also allows the teacher to give you her undivided attention. Therefore, there are no conferences during dismissal. Please make appointments after 3:10 P.M.

EARLY DISMISSAL:

Parents are requested to try to make dental and doctor appointments after school hours. It is very difficult to maintain satisfactory classroom mandates and/or assignments if frequent early dismissals are the norm. If it is absolutely necessary for a pupil to be dismissed early, a written request must be submitted stating the reason for the dismissal. Telephone requests for early dismissal will be honored only in cases of emergency. Parents or guardians must enter the building and sign the child out of school. NO STUDENT WILL EVER BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE BUILDING WITH ANYONE OTHER THAN THE PARENT/GUARDIAN UNLESS WE HAVE AUTHORIZATION IN WRITING.

HALF DAY SESSIONS:

The first Friday of every month is set aside for faculty meetings. Other half days are indicated on the calendar. Students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m. Pre-K students will be dismissed at 11:00 A.M. Please make arrangements for your child/children to have adequate supervision.

EMERGENCY DELAYS/SCHOOL CLOSURES (SNOW DAY, ETC.):

In the event of a snow day, announcement will be made over the following radio stations after 6 a. m.

We always follow the Arlington School District closing or delay. If Arlington is delayed 2 hours, we are delayed 2 hours. Other districts will bus to Holy Trinity according to the delay or closing of their districts.

If Arlington closes due to bad weather, Holy Trinity will be closed. Parents should use their best judgement as to the safety of the roads in their area.

We have an emergency telephone relay in place and will try to reach all families. This will be used for early dismissals due to bad weather and emergency situations. Class room mothers are responsible for each grade's telephone relay.

 

Holy Trinity offers a program that includes Pre-K through Grade 8. Pre-K is open to children who will be four years of age by December 1^st of that year. Kindergarten is a full academic program and students need to be five years of age by December 1^st.

Religion is taught daily in all grades. All students attending Holy Trinity must participate fully in religious classes. We follow the Archdiocesan guidelines for Religious Education.

Math, Reading, Language Arts, Science and Social Studies are taught according to the criteria found in the "Essentials of Learning" established by the Archdiocese of New York. These essentials are based on New York State Frameworks and Standards with the addition of our religious philosophy.

Art, Liturgical Singing, Music, Physical Education, Computer, Library and Spanish are also part of the curriculum offered at Holy Trinity. These programs are once a week. Spanish in grades 7-8 is taught in accordance with NYS regulations.

RELIGION:

The teaching of Religion as stated in our Philosophy is of primary importance and no subject takes precedence over Religious studies. Aside from the daily, integrated process of developing a Christian faith community among students, faculty, parents and parish, the formal teaching of the doctrines, Scripture and Traditions of the Church, the children have the opportunity to participate in seasonal Liturgical Celebrations throughout the year. PARENTS SHOULD BE DILIGENT IN ASSURING THAT THEIR CHILDREN ATTEND THE EUCHARISTIC CELEBRATIONS ON SUNDAY AND HOLY DAYS OF OBLIGATION. All students, regardless of individual religious affiliation, are required to participate in Religion classes, tests and/or liturgical celebrations.

All teachers are either certified or are working toward certification in Religious Education as directed by the Archdiocese of New York.

Sacramental Program

The sacramental programs include preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Confirmation. Parent involvement is an important part of this preparation; therefore, several meetings of parents are held in conjunction with the parents of public school children enrolled in our religious education program. The Director of Religious Education conducts these meetings.

School Liturgies

Special school liturgies are held monthly (prayer services, ashes, blessing of the throats, May Crowning) and will be attended by all students periodically throughout the school year.

GYM:

According to New York State Law, all students are to take gym classes. If there is a health problem that necessitates a child not taking gym, a note from a doctor is required. All students must wear their gym uniform to gym class. (See SCHOOL UNIFORMS for additional information.)

SPANlSH:

Students in the 8^th grade, who satisfactorily pass specific checkpoints as mandated by the State, are eligible to take the New York State Proficiency Examination in June. If this exam is passed, these students, under the recommendation of the language teacher, will qualify for Spanish II in their respective high schools. However, the high school will ultimately determine what classes the students will take. Spanish is to be viewed as a major subject.

This course is offered to select 8^th graders who meet the following requirements: maintain a three year CTBS standardized testing requirement of 90 percentile, maintain a 90 percent overall grade average and obtain specific recommendations by teachers. The fee for this course is $75.00 to be paid in January. The class will be taught during the school day and early morning classes will be held beginning in February. This is necessary to complete the course.

BOOKS:

Books are on loan to the children and must be cared for throughout the school year. All textbooks must be covered.

No writing or drawing is permitted on textbooks or covers, and books must be carried to and from school in a book bag. If a book is lost or destroyed, payment must be made before report cards will be given.

Students may not sign on to the Internet without permission from a teacher. No student is allowed to sign on using unapproved or personal account numbers. (See Rider attached.)

Parents can help by providing the right environment for concentration, time structures, and above all, encouragement. A time for study should be set aside each night, free from television. If your child reports she/he has no homework:

1. Suggest reading a book, magazine, or newspaper for enjoyment.

2. Consider reviewing class notes, spelling, and math processes.

3. Work on science, social studies, or other long-term projects that have been assigned, especially in grades 6, 7, and 8.

It is difficult to establish a fixed, rigid policy as to the amount and kind of homework children should have each night. There are days when it is very easy for a teacher to assign work to be done at home; on other days, the instruction may not lend itself to homework. If you notice that your child is consistently without homework, has too much homework, or does not understand the assignments, please check with your child's teacher.

Assignments are accepted and given full credit only on the day due unless parents provide a valid reason for the delay. Written assignments are expected to be neat and orderly with correct spelling and punctuation. The formal heading for all assignments is:

NAME DATE

HOLY TRINITY GRADE

SUBJECT

Extra-curricular activities should not take precedence over schoolwork.

ASSIGNMENTS (ABSENTEES):

Students are not permitted to interrupt classes during the day to obtain homework for absentees. All requests for homework assignments and books must be made through the office by 11:00 A.M. and picked up at the secretary's desk at the end of the day. This request may be by phone or by a note sent with a sibling.

Holy Trinity operates on an Archdiocesan directed trimester examination schedule and these examinations are given at the discretion of individual teachers for the purpose of ascertaining the student's acquisition of skills and subject content as well as for the purpose of report card grades.

Grades 4 - 8. Formal trimester testing is done.

Grades 1 - 3. While testing is done throughout each trimester, cumulative testing is not administered.

TESTING (NEW YORK STATE):

The new New York State English/Language Arts exam will be administrated in January to the 4^th Grade and in June to the 8^th Grade. The new Math assessment will be administrated to 4^th Grade and 8^th Grade in June. Grade 5 will still take the New York State Writing Test in May.

ITBS (Iowa Test of Basic Skills) is given to all grades in the spring.

REMEDIATION:

Any student scoring below the 40th percentile or failing the New York State Tests will receive remedial help.

REPORT CARDS:

The Archdiocese of New York has mandated a trimester schedule for distribution of academic and social achievement scales for Grades 1-8. Pre-K/K report cards are given two times a year.

PROGRESS REPORTS:

Progress reports are given approximately six weeks prior to report cards. Parents are asked to review them carefully and contact the teacher if an explanation is desired. You are asked to please acknowledge receiving this information by signing the envelope and having the student return it to his/her homeroom teacher.

CONFERENCES:

Parent Teacher conferences are expected at the time of the first report card. Other requests for conferences can be made by either the parent or the teacher at any time that is considered urgent. If a parent wishes to speak with a teacher by telephone, he/she is asked to send a note in with the child indicating where and when you can be reached or by leaving a message with the secretary. The Principal and Faculty are not to be called at home.

Please make an appointment to see a teacher. It is only through the closely coordinated efforts of the home and school that the goals of education can be achieved.

RETENTION AND FAILURE POLICY:

In some cases it becomes necessary to retain a child in a grade. This is necessary if the child fails two major subjects for the year; is unable to master the work of the grade; is recommended on the basis of the teacher’s solid conviction that it will be in the best interest of the child. A student who has a failing year average is considered to have failed that subject for the year. This policy is based on the Archdiocesan policy, a copy of which is on file in the office.

When the probability of retaining a particular student arises, the student’s parents are to be informed of this likelihood no later than the time of the distribution of the second trimester report card. The actual decision to retain a child should be made before the first of May.

Students recommended for retention by a teacher but promoted at the request of the parent/s will be promoted on condition. Said condition being that within the first six weeks of the new school year the student demonstrates the maturity and academic growth required for him/her to be successful in the new grade. Otherwise, the initial recommendation will become effective.

Failures in reading and mathematics

Or

Failures in reading and composition

Or

Failures in reading or mathematics or composition in addition to failure in one of the following: science, social studies, religious studies, grammar, or spelling.

A student in the 7^th or 8^th grade who fails major subjects must attend a summer school or have private tutoring by a pre-approved tutor. This must be determined before leaving school in June, and approved by the Principal.

 

The school uniform is required for all grades 1 - 8. It is worn from the first day of school.

School uniforms and gym uniforms are ordered from L’il Darling. Forms are sent home or can be obtained from the office.

Grades 1-5

Plaid jumper

Blue blouse (short or long sleeves)

Navy blue or white socks, or tights in winter.

Blue, black or brown tie, buckle or loafer shoes with flat heels.

Navy blue pants with a belt may be worn from October 13^th through April 30^th.

Grades 6-8

Uniform blue plaid skirt

Blue blouse (short or long sleeves)

Navy blue knee socks, or blue tights in winter

School issued sweater vest must be worn from October 13^th through April 30^th.

Navy blue pants with a belt may be worn from October 13^th through April 30^th.

Blue, black or brown tie, buckle or loafer shoes with flat heels.

 

Navy blue pants

Blue shirt (Oxford or plain-short or long sleeves)/tie

All boys in Grades 1-8 are to wear a belt with the uniform pants.

Uniform tie for Grades 1-5

Tie of choice for Grades 6-8

Navy blue or white socks

Blue, black or brown tie shoes or loafers with flat heels.

NO ATHLETIC SHOE EXCEPT ON GYM DAYS

NO SHOE BOOTS OR WORK BOOTS OF ANY KIND FOR ANYONE. Boots may by worn during inclement weather but boots must be changed to shoes once inside school.

ALL STUDENTS

A summer uniform consisting of a yellow golf shirt with collar, embroidered with the school logo and navy blue shorts with a belt may be worn from the first day of school through October 13^th. Plain white tee shirts may be worn under the yellow shirts. Sneakers or sandals may be worn with navy blue or white socks.

*If you do not have a summer uniform, the regular school uniform and shoes must be worn. No dress down days will be given at the beginning or end of school due to weather.

Navy blue T-shirt with Holy Trinity School logo and navy blue gym or camp shorts.

From November 1^st through April 30^th, navy blue sweatshirt and sweatpants with Holy Trinity School logo must be worn.

No make up, nail art or polish is acceptable and none is to be worn to school with the uniform or on no uniform days. No excessive jewelry is to be worn. Girls are not to wear dangling earrings for safety reasons. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings. No unbecoming haircuts are permitted. No shaved heads, fad hairstyles or pony tails for boys. No dyed hair for boys or girls. No tattoos, permanent or otherwise.

On days when students are allowed to wear clothing other than the school uniform, proper clothing must be worn, e.g., slacks, knee-length walking shorts (shorts must reach finger tips), skirts, dresses, blue jeans, blouses, and/or short sleeve sweatshirts. No offensive wording or pictures are permitted on clothing. The final interpretation of what constitutes "proper clothing" shall be left to the discretion of the principal.

 

Students are expected to live up to the philosophy and goals that are set forth in the beginning of this handbook.

For the purpose of this code, violations of school rules have been divided into three categories:

A. Minor infractions

B. Serious infractions

C. Major infractions

Any repetition of an "A" infraction will be treated as a "B" infraction in the determination of consequences. Any repetition of a "B" infraction will be treated as a "C" infraction. Just as students have constitutional rights, they have legal and educational responsibilities.

A. Minor Infractions and Disciplinary Actions include the following:

Inappropriate dress/incomplete uniform

Running in the halls

Use of profanity

Littering

Gum chewing

Use of glass containers

Teasing

Inappropriate reading material

Horseplay

Late to class

Electronic equipment such as a radio, walkman or video game

Talking after the bell

Minor disciplinary actions may include one or more of the following:

1. Teacher reprimand

2. Referral sent to home/office/teacher file

3. Principal reprimand

4. Parent conference

5. Detention - every Thursday from 3:30-4:30 P.M.

For repeated offenses:

Loss of privileges

School service project (to be done on Thursdays from 3:30-4:30 P.M.)

B. Serious Infractions and Disciplinary Actions include the following:

Insubordination

Cutting class

Verbal abuse

Partial/full day truancy/leaving the school building

Cheating/dishonesty

Throwing snowballs or other objects - in class or on playground

Interference with education process by inappropriate classroom behavior

Gambling, stealing, forgery

Possession of stolen goods

Harassment/intimidation of a student

Gross misconduct

Inappropriate display of affection

Continuous class interruption

Vulgar and abusive language

Serious disciplinary actions may include those consequences listed in "A" as well as one or more of the following:

1. In school suspension (1 to 3 days)
2. Out of school suspension (1 day)
3. Removal from class
4. Required in school parent/teacher/principal conference
5. Police investigation
6. Social probation-school sponsored functions
7. School service

C. Major Infractions and Disciplinary Actions include the following:

Physical or verbal assault of a staff member

Vandalism

Repeated full day truancy

Repeated interference with education of peers

Total disregard for safety of others

Possession of a controlled substance/drug paraphernalia/tobacco-alcohol

Smoking

Possession of matches/lighter/fireworks

Fighting

Possession of a weapon

Harassment/intimidation of a staff member

Disrespectful behavior in school, church, and school related activities

Leaving a supervised situation without permission

Major disciplinary actions may include those listed in "A" and "B" as well as the following:

1. In school suspension (up to 10 days - principal's discretion)
2. Superintendent’s hearing and extended suspension
3. Payment for damages

4. Dismissal from class

Students who are sent out of class for misbehavior, lack of preparation or any other reason, are to report to the principal’s office immediately. Failure to do so will be considered insubordination and dealt with accordingly.

SEARCH:

Since desks, lockers and computer files are the property of the parish, they are subject to search at any time.

Backpacks, book bags and pockets may also be searched.

Lower Level Lot:

Students are not allowed to climb on the cement walls or up the hillside by the gym door or stairway to the upper level lot since they could fall and be injured.

Students are not to pick up rocks or snow.

Students are not allowed behind the bushes, as they cannot be seen behind them.

Students are not permitted to shove, kick, punch each other or pick each other up.

Students are not to lie on the ground or scream (yelling is O.K.), since it is difficult from a distance to know if a child is really hurt or simply playing.

Students are asked not to bring food onto the playground as we inevitably end up with litter on the lot.

Upper Level Lot:

Students are not to play against the fences, behind the trees or in the trench by the cafeteria windows, as it is difficult to see the children from a distance and keep watch on them.

Students are not to play in the driveway until a fence or some kind of barrier can be put in place to protect the children from cars racing up the driveway.

Students are not permitted to use a hard ball on the playground, to use hockey sticks or to play tackle football.

Students should not hang, slide down or stand on the stairway railing between the upper and lower lots.

Students are to stay off the hillside where the rocks are by the side of the stairway as they might slip down the rocks and be injured.

Students are not to pick up rocks or snow.

Students are not permitted to shove, kick, punch each other or pick each other up.

Students are not allowed to pull on the trees. The trees were gifts from Adams Fairacre Farms and are there to provide some shade in the spring and fall and beauty all year long.

Students are not to play near the dumpster or the cars. There was a serious injury several years ago when a child ran into the dumpster and required stitches.

Students are not allowed to use headsets or radios on the playground.

General Rules and Guidelines:

1. Before the end of the first recess period, one of the lower level attendants should go to the door to see that the younger students are lined up and ready to proceed outside. Before they head out the door, the bell should be rung and the older students lined up so that the younger children are not trampled by the older children and vice versa.

2. When recess is over and the bell is rung, the students are to stop where they are and hold all balls. They are to pick up their coats and lunch boxes and proceed to line up by grade level, one line for boys and one line for girls. They are to go quietly into the school.

3. The students are to be advised of all of the rules of the playground but most specifically that no fighting will be allowed. If a child has a problem with another child, he/she is encouraged to speak directly to that child and work the situation out. If the child cannot resolve the problem, the child should inform an attendant and the adult will try to remedy the situation. If the problem persists, the attendant is to bring the problem to the attention of the children's teacher/s or, finally, send the children to the principal.

4. If any student acts disrespectfully in a violent or offensive manner towards an attendant, that student is to be sent immediately to the principal.

Lunch for students in Pre-Kindergarten is served from 11:15 a.m. - 11:55 a.m.; lunch for students in Kindergarten is served from 11:40 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.; lunch for students in grades 1-8 is served from 11:55 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

We have a New York-sponsored lunch program and follow its direction, supervision and inspections. Hot lunch is provided daily and is accomplished through the efforts of parent volunteers. The payment for student lunches is collected in the following manner: $17.50 for 10 meal tickets or $35.00 for 20 meal tickets. Once tickets are purchased, the lunch program holds these "tickets" and holes are punched out as lunches are used. Students are notified when they run low on tickets. Any lunch monies not used by the end of the year are returned to the school. Milk, juice, chips and ice cream may be purchased separately by students each day.

Students are expected to use good table manners, speak in normal tones, be courteous and show concern for others. All food is to be consumed in the lunchroom during lunchtime. No food, i.e. ice cream, may be taken outside to eat. No soda in cans or bottles is permitted. No glass containers may be carried in school.

During inclement weather all students will have recess time in the classrooms. Students are not allowed to run in the classrooms; they are not allowed to visit other rooms; they must be seated, talking quietly or playing quiet games.

 

The students are offered several opportunities for extra-curricular activities. These include school trips, assemblies and clubs.

Well-planned field trips are part of the learning experience at Holy Trinity School. A special form is sent home in advance to inform parents of the trip and to secure permission. Only this form will be accepted as permission for the trip. No permission slip. no trip! The school reserves the right to deny participation to any student who does not have the proper permission slip or who has been unable to cooperate with the school rules (see Discipline Code on prior page).

The Student Council is a student elected body that helps foster communication between students and faculty. The purpose of this organization is to promote good citizenship, to encourage a high standard of scholarship, to arouse a spirit of pride within our school, to demonstrate the practical application of democracy, and to contribute to the general welfare of the school and community. Holy Trinity School follows all guidelines for the Catholic Association for Student Councils. These guidelines require that all representatives must:

1. Be a person who cooperates with teachers and students

2. Follow all school rules

3. Show respect to teachers and students; and

4. Have written approval of three teachers and the principal to hold office.

 

BUS TRANSPORTATION:

Busing is provided within a 15-mile limit to students in surrounding areas. The Board of Education of the district in which you live provides this service. Requests for transportation must be in to the appropriate school district by April 1st pursuant to New York State Law.

BUS DISCIPLINE:

Students should maintain a friendly, respectful attitude toward drivers and must obey his/her directions at all-times, including transfer and actual travel time.

Students should do nothing to cause annoyance or distraction to the driver as this places the safety of all in potential danger.

Any disobedience or disrespectful attitude will be subject to disciplinary action by the school principal.

WALKMANS, ETC.:

All forms of radios, music boxes and tape recorders have been determined to be a potential disruption to the bus and school environment. Therefore, they will not be permitted on buses, on school grounds or in school buildings. In the event one is brought to school, the teacher will see that it is turned in at the main office and the parent must pick up the item.

STUDENT BUS INFRACTIONS:

LEVEL #1 INFRACTIONS (EXAMPLES):

Failure to follow loading and unloading procedures

Use of obscene language

Littering of bus

Eating/drinking on bus

Failure to remain seated

LEVEL #1: CONSEQUENCES:

Meeting with Principal

Verbal warning

Phone call and/or letter to parents at Principal's discretion

LEVEL #2: INFRACTIONS (EXAMPLES):

Repeated Level #1 infractions

Head, hands, feet, etc. hanging out of bus window

Throwing articles out of bus window

Attempting to ride bus while suspended from the bus

Meeting with Principal

Letter to parent

Up to one (1) day bus suspension

Detention

In-school suspension

Repeated Level #2 infraction

Fighting on the bus

Throwing articles at Bus Driver

Obscene language directed at Bus Driver

Refusing to obey Bus Driver directives

Exiting through or tampering with emergency exits

Destruction of seats and/or defacing the bus

Tampering with bus equipment

Smoking, lighting matches, or open flame on the bus

Possession of weapons/explosives (real or pretend) on the bus

Possession of drugs and/or alcohol on the bus

Meeting with Principal

Meeting with parents at discretion of Principal

2-5 day bus suspension

1-3 day bus suspension for repeated lower level infractions

 

Children going home by car must be picked up no later than 2:55 P.M. If your child is regularly going home by car, send a note to this effect at the beginning of the school year. If your child is occasionally going home by car, he/she will need a note on the days that you will pick them up.

Fire drills are held at least 10 times a year under the mandates of the State Education Law. Students are expected to move quickly, quietly and in an orderly fashion to an area of safety.

If a student violates the imposed code of silence and treats this serious obligation with indifference, he/she will be penalized. (See Discipline Code - Major Infractions.)

Holy Trinity School is in compliance with A.H.E.R.A. All of our asbestos is in good condition. The material is inspected twice a year.

 

 

HEALTH SERVICES:

Health Services are not provided for Pre-Kindergarten.

The Arlington School District provides us with a school nurse five days a week. The nurse records and reports all the vital health information for your child as required by law. The nurse is present between the hours of 8:00-11:00 A.M. and 12:00-1:30 P.M.

ANNUAL HEALTH EXAMINATlON:

The New York State Education Law requires that a Health Certificate be furnished for each student upon entrance to school and for each student entering kindergarten, first, third and seventh grades. An examination of any child may be required by the local school authorities at any time to promote the educational interests of the child.

Since your family physician has a more complete understanding of your child, we respectfully urge that you take your child to him/her and have the "Annual Health Examination Record" filled out and returned when the child enters school in the fall.

If you do not wish to have your family physician make this examination or if the record of examination is not received in school by the fifteenth of September, a health appraisal will be made by the school physician.

Screening for scoliosis, vision, hearing, height and weight will be given by the School Nurse during the course of the year unless a written record of this examination by a family physician is submitted yearly.

By New York State Law, the school is only responsible for the first aid care of school children who are injured or become ill while at school. The parent has the responsibility for further care. If a child must take medication during school, the following requirements must be met:

1. The School Nurse must have a written order signed by a doctor giving the name of the medicine, the reason for administering, the dosage, number of days and frequency.

2. The medication (including aspirin, cough remedies, COUGH DROPS and THROAT LOZENGES) must be brought to the health office by an adult. Under no circumstances may a child bring any medicine to school. No medication may be carried on the bus.

 

3. Medication must have a professional label - either drug store or drug company. The parent must send a written request to the Nurse asking her to give the medicine as directed. Medication with the direction to be given three times daily should not be given in school.

New York State Law requires that any person who has reasonable cause to believe that a child has been subjected to child abuse or acts of child abuse is to report same promptly to the Division of Youth and Family Services by telephone or otherwise. Failure to report suspected child abuse is punishable as a disorderly person’s offense. Under the law anyone who makes a report shall have immunity from any civil or criminal liability that he/she may have otherwise incurred.

Holy Trinity School receives the services of a counselor twice a week. Programs that increase and foster self-esteem are part of this service.

 

Every family must have a Pupil Emergency Information sheet on file in the office on the first day of classes. Information must be complete enough to enable us to act responsibly in case of an accident or other emergency. The school must be informed of any change in this emergency information.

The Education Committee was initially created as a subcommittee of the Education Committee of the Holy Trinity Parish Council. The primary goal of the Education Committee is to support the faculty and administration in their efforts to educate our children and to maintain an open line of communication with the parents to obtain that support and address their concerns. The committee is comprised of one member of the Parish Council, the Principal, a teacher, the President of the Home School Association and four parents. The committee meets every month throughout the year and these meetings are open to anyone who wishes to attend.

All parents are encouraged to be active members of this vital organization. This association has been formed to:

1. Provide a forum which will foster a greater interaction between members of the school community;

2. Strengthen our school community and ultimately the educational process through unity and communication with spiritual, social and cultural programs;

3. Raise funds for the benefit of the school;

4. Provide opportunities for school parents to get to know each other through various social activities and school projects.

There is a $5.00 membership fee per family associated with this organization.

Dates of meetings are posted in the monthly school calendars.

 

 

Monthly school calendars are published at the beginning of every month and sent home with the youngest child in each family. Please make sure you receive your copy at the beginning of the month. The Principal’s main medium for communication with our parents is the monthly Newsletter/Memo. Please ask your child for the Newsletter/Memo and read it so you may be informed of important directives, timely reminders and all activities at Holy Trinity School. This is sent home in white parent envelopes. Please sign the envelope and return it to school the next day.

Principal's coffees are held every month and are posted in the monthly school calendar. The times of these coffees will change frequently to allow all an opportunity to attend.

Parent volunteers are enlisted as room mothers, to aid in the library, assist on the playground, attend field trips, type (at home or school), to help in the classroom at a teacher’s request, or to be of assistance as needs arise. Others who are interested in helping at school are most welcome! The HSA sends out volunteer request forms at the beginning of each school year and asks for your help at the first meeting.

All students may have a "no uniform" day on their birthday, or half birthday (6th month) if the birthday falls during July or August.

Children may celebrate their birthdays with their classmates. Parents’ of these children provide a nourishing treat and the teacher on lunch duty supervises.

Parties are at the discretion of the individual teacher and are planned by the teachers and room mothers for special holiday times.

We wish to include all students in our activities. With this in mind, we ask parents who wish invitations to a party to be given out at school to include:

1. The ENTIRE class OR
2. ALL the girls or ALL the boys in the class

If the parent chooses not to include the entire group, invitations are not to be given out at school. A child wishing to distribute invitations should speak with his/her teacher PRIOR to giving out the invitations.

TUITION:

The tuition scale is subject to change and will be given to all parents at the time of registration. If clarification of the tuition scale is needed, please call the school office. A Tuition Contract explaining the payments is available at the office.

GENERAL FEES:

The school also has an established General Fee. The General Fee covers the cost of registration, book rent, some supplies, art, music, computer, library, workbooks, testing and insurance. Books are to be properly cared for and covered. A replacement fee is charged if books are lost or if usage of books and equipment result in damage greater than might normally be expected.

Other Costs:

Uniforms - (Li'l Darling) (Gym Uniforms at school)

Graduation Fees (Graduates only) - $75.00

Field Trips - individual trips

Some supplies

Insurance

Optional:

Hot Lunch - $1.75

Juice/Milk/Ice cream

Fund-raising Projects

Individual and class pictures

Yearbook - $16.00

Information about student insurance is sent home at the beginning of the school year. The parent pays for coverage.

SCHOOL STORE AND SUPPLIES:

Basic school supplies are on sale in the school office every morning from 8:20 to 8:30 A.M.

 

Please notify the office in advance if you are planning to move. Give us your new address, the name and address of the new school, and the last day your child will be attending Holy Trinity School. Records will be sent to the new school upon (a) receipt of a Release of Records Form from the new school; (b) complete payment of all fees and tuition; and (c) return of all texts and library books to school.