STUDENT / PARENT HANDBOOK

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1

ABOUT ST. JOHN SCHOOL

MISSION STATEMENT 
SHORT HISTORY OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST SCHOOL 
PHILOSOPHY OF ST. JOHN SCHOOL 
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 
PATRON SAINT 
SCHOOL COLORS 

SCHOOL ADMISSION

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION 
AGE REQUIREMENTS 
ADMISSION PRIORITIES AND POLICIES 
WAITING LIST 
REGISTRATION POLICIES / PROBATION 

ATTENDANCE

SCHOOL HOURS 
STUDENT ATTENDANCE 
ABSENCES
TRIPS
TARDINESS

ACADEMICS

CURRICULUM 
HOMEWORK 
REPORT CARDS 
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES 
TESTING 
COMPUTER/LIBRARY CENTERS 
PHYSICAL EDUCATION 
PROMOTION 
RETENTION 
SUMMER SCHOOL 
BOOKS 

BEHAVIOR

SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS 
DISCIPLINE 

DRESS

UNIFORMS K - 8 

HEALTH & SAFETY

STUDENT INSURANCE 
HEALTH RECORDS 
ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS AT SCHOOL 
MEDICATION AT SCHOOL 
HEALTH ISSUES/ DRUGS AND WEAPONS 
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
YARD DUTY 

FINANCES

TUITION PAYMENT POLICIES 
PARISH TUITION AID 
POLICY ON DELINQUENT TUITION AND FEES 
POLICY OF TUITION AND FEES 

MISCELLANEOUS

VISITORS 
TRANSPORTATION 
LUNCH PROGRAM 
FIELD TRIPS 
SPECIAL OCCASION 
GRADUATION 
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES/SCOUTS 
NOTICES 

RELATED ORGANIZATIONS

HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION 
SCHOOL BOARD 

ABOUT ST. JOHN SCHOOL

MISSION STATEMENT

St. John School is a Catholic School in Valdosta, Georgia, 
seeking the unity between spiritual and educational fulfillment.

Our mission is to provide the highest quality education for our 
children in a Christian atmosphere guided by the fundamentals 
of the Catholic Faith.

Our students are well prepared for higher education. Christian 
values play a positive role in our students' future endeavors 
and provide solid foundations for the remainder of their lives. 

SHORT HISTORY OF ST. JOHN SCHOOL

St. John the Evangelist School was established as a parish 
school in 1941 in a large frame building on Adair Street, 
opening with 24 students. In 1953 thirteen acres of land were 
purchased on Gornto Rd. The following year the first building 
was erected on the new property - a new St. John School.

The school is administered by the Sisters of St. Joseph of 
Carondelet from the St. Louis Province, under the auspices of 
the parish pastor. In addition to the sisters, full- and 
part-time lay teachers are retained. Volunteers assist in art, 
music, and lunch programs.

The school has five preschool classes, two kindergardens, 
twelve classrooms, a library/media center, a computer lab, 
administrative offices, an art and music room, a science lab, 
a math room, a cafeteria/hall, a work/counseling room, and a 
faculty lounge. The program encompasses pre-school through 
eighth grade. K - 8 class size is limited to 25 students. 
Preschool classes are limited to 15 students in each class.

PHILOSOPHY OF ST. JOHN SCHOOL

The Catholic philosophy of education guiding St. John School 
is that the school is delegated by the parents to participate 
in the quality education of their children. The school, then, 
as an extension of the home, attempts to provide a Catholic 
atmosphere of love and concern. The school accepts the 
responsibility to assist each child in developing his/her 
potential: spiritually, intellectually, physically,and morally.
St. John School is dedicated to preparing Catholic leaders for 
the Christian community. In the context of the present economic, 
social, intellectual, and religious background of our specific 
school community, preparation for higher education is the broad 
objective of our school. The entire curriculum of the school 
focuses upon the charism of the founders, the Sisters of St. 
Joseph of Carondelet, by developing in each student a spirit of 
profound love of God along with the unity and reconciliation of 
neighbor with neighbor, and neighbor with God, always in a spirit 
of gentleness,peace, and joy.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:

Goal I: DEVELOPMENT OF CATHOLIC TRADITIONS AND BELIEFS

Objectives:

A. Sacramental preparation

B. Frequent celebrations of liturgy

C. Family prayer

D. Familiarity with Scripture

Goal II: DEVELOPMENT OF CATHOLIC ATTITUDES AND VALUES

Objectives:

A. Respect and consideration of others

B. Attitude of openness through discussion and sharing

C. Awareness of "the other" through Service Programs: a
    willing spirit to respond to emergency needs

D. Classroom activities such as value games, projects, etc.

E. A spirit of thoughtfulness shown through acknowledgement
    of other students' work and projects, not confined to school
    but in the larger community

Goal III. DEVELOPMENT OF HOME-SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

Objectives:

A. Parents' strong endorsement of the values of our Catholic 
    School and its tradition by work and example

B. Parents' participation in parent-teacher conferences,
    lectures and presentations

C. A generous spirit of service by parents in school-related 
    activities: library, learning center, computer center, 
    lunchroom, field trips, etc.

D. The leadership and service exercised by the Advisory Board 
    and Parish Council

Goal IV. DEVELOPMENT OF AN ACADEMIC ENVIRONMENT

Objectives:

A. Review of the curriculum and scheduling yearly

B. Teachers' attendance workshops and meetings

C. Exchange and sharing of ideas by teachers and students

F. Involvement in extra-curricular activities

D. Challenge of students' abilities through projects, displays, 
    oral and written work

E. Effective evaluation through testing, grading, reporting 
    - oral and written

PATRON SAINT

St. John School is dedicated to Saint John the Evangelist.

SCHOOL COLORS

St. John School colors are blue and white. The logo is the 
eagle.

SCHOOL ADMISSION

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION ( revised 1/97)

St. John School admits students of any race, religion, 
gender or national origin.

AGE REQUIREMENTS:

K-3 Must be 3 on or before September 1

K-4 Must be 4 on or before September 1

K-5 Must be 5 on or before September 1

Grade 1 Must be 6 on or before September 1

ADMISSION PRIORITIES AND POLICIES

1. present students at St. John School 
  
2. new students from St. John Parish families 
    (registered and contributing)

3. students of currently employed faculty and staff of 
    St. John School

4. non-Catholic students

St. John Parish families shall be defined as those registered 
at St. John Church who actively contribute by way of time, talent, 
and treasure to St. John Church. Verification of these contributions 
may be obtained by the school through the church offices at any time. 
Non-compliance will result in loss of student's classification as a 
Catholic parishioner. This will effect tuition rates (non-Catholic 
rate will be charged). Families moving from another Catholic parish 
to St. John may qualify by providing documentation of their active 
contributing status from their former parish.

Those parents who wish to register a new student for one of the upper 
grades are asked to submit the previous year's report card from the 
former school. Further testing may be required.

State law requires parents to submit a certificate of immunization 
against polio, MMR (measles, mumps , rubella), and DPT. Sixth graders 
may need an MMR booster. The Hepatitis B Series will be required for 
all students ( born after January 1, 1992) entering school or day care.

Beginning in the school year 2000, all children entering school 
will be required to receive the varicella vaccine. Students who 
can provide physician documentation of past chickenpox illness will 
not be required to receive the vaccine.

Under highly unusual circumstances, by executive decision, the 
aforementioned admission priorities may be waived on a case-by-case 
basis.

WAITING LIST 

During times of high enrollment demand, a waiting list will be in effect.
All students desiring admission will be placed on the list in order of 
initial application dates. The previously described PRIORITIES OF 
ADMISSION will take precedence and vacancies in individual classes will 
be filled by drawing on names from the waiting list.

1. No child may register more than two years in advance of the 
    anticipated first day of school.

2. A non-refundable $50.00 fee shall be collected (per child) when a 
    name is placed on the list.

3. If a child is placed into a class opening, the waiting list fee shall 
    be applied towards the registration fee.

4. Children of Catholic parishioners may leave their names on the 
    waiting list indefinitely, until they request removal of the name 
    or placement occurs. The paid fee shall carry over to following 
    years. If a child of Catholic parishioners is offered a class 
    placement, but declines, that child's name shall be placed at 
    the bottom of the waiting list.

5. Following notification by the school office during the first week of 
    November each year, non-Catholics on the waiting list may select to 
    either remain on the list for the following year, or request removal 
    from the list. For those opting to remain on the list, the paid fee 
    shall carry over to the following year. Non-Catholics who decline an 
    offered class placement shall be removed from the waiting list. 

6. Under highly unusual circumstances, by executive decision, the 
    aforementioned Waiting List Policies may be waived on a 
    case-by-case basis.

REGISTRATION POLICIES

1. In February, pre-registration forms will be sent home with students 
    presently attending St. John School. A non-refundable registration 
    fee per child will be charged.

2. All new students (K-3 - 8) may begin registering in March. A 
    non-refundable fee will be charged.

PROBATION

In accordance with the stated mission, St. John School seeks to provide 
and environment suitable for promoting the highest quality education 
for children. To ensure this goal, and in keeping with the philosophy 
of St. John School, the school requires of its students reasonable 
academic and social progress. Continued enrollment of students who 
repeatedly demonstrate lack of progress or industry, or discipinary 
problems, would be inconsistent with the mission and philosophy of 
the school. Therefore, students newly admitted to St. John School 
shall be placed on general probation for their first year at St. John. 
General probation consists of two components: Academic  
(see handbook under Academics / Homework / Promotion) and Discipline
(see handbook under Academics / Tardiness / Discipline / Uniforms / 
Books). At the conclusion of the first year in attendance at St. 
John School, those new students who are unable or unwilling to live 
up to academic and/or disciplinary policies, as determined by faculty 
and principal, may not be eligible to register for the following year 
(see handbook under Discipline: disciplinary action / suspension 
/ expulsion). The general probation policy may also be instituted, 
by faculty and principal, at any time for existing students who fail 
to abide by aforementioned policies.

ATTENDANCE

SCHOOL HOURS

8:10 a.m. First bell

8:15 a.m. Tardy bell

11:30-1:10 Lunch and play

2:55 First dismissal - van and bicycles

3:00 p.m. Dismissal

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Excuses from class attendance must be in writing from a parent or 
guardian. Excused absences from school include medical and dental 
reasons or death in the immediate family. All other absences are 
con-sidered unexcused. Written requests must be made by the parent 
in advance for these types of absences. A dated and signed note from 
the parent or guardian must be given to the student's homeroom teacher
explaining the reason for the absence.The student is responsible for 
making up homework, tests, and assignments missed due to absences. This 
make-up work is done within a specific period. (see p.15) The student may contact the teacher if he/she needs tutorial help due to absence or if he/she fails to understand fully the given assignment. If a student is absent the day before a test
or assignment is due and if the test or assignment was announced before
the student's absence, then the student must take the test or meet the 
assignment as scheduled.

A student leaving school before 1:30 p.m. is marked 1/2 day absent and 
will not receive a perfect attendance certificate.

During school hours, parents coming for their children must pick them 
up from the school office, not the classroom or outside on the 
playground. The adult must sign the check-out book in the school office.

TRIPS

Trips during school sessions are discouraged. These trips are considered 
unexcused absences. Students will be permitted to make up work when 
absences are excused.

TARDINESS

It is the parents' responsibility to see that students report to school 
on time.

The school day begins at 8:10 A.M. and ends at 3:00 P.M. Students who 
arrive after the 8:15 A.M. bell are considered late and may not enter 
the classroom without a late slip. A note explaining the tardiness is 
required from the parent. If a student is tardy he/she will not receive 
a perfect attendance certificate. Continuous tardiness will result in 
a conference with the parents.

Parents/guardians are urged to get their children to school on time. 
Late arrivals disrupt classes and cause a loss of instruction time. 
For students in grades K-8, five (5) unexcused tardies and/or early 
checkouts will be counted as one unexcused absence. Suspensions from 
school are unexcused absences. If tardiness continues, the students 
will not be allowed to enter the class-room until the first class 
changes. Continuous abuse could result in a more serious course of 
action.

ACADEMICS

CURRICULUM

All children are expected to participate in all classes and activities 
during school hours. Exceptions may be approved by the principal for 
reasons of health or special cases.

K-3/K-4 meet five days a week. Hours are from 8:10-11:30. Children

are to be picked up no later than 11:30 a.m. The early childhood program 
is designed to lead a child from wonder to discovery, developing and 
perfecting a wide range of skills with which to meet future educational 
challenges; and most importantly to associate pleasure with learning. 
This program also strives to provide the basis of all Christian goals 
developed within the entire school.

The kindergarten meets five days a week. The kindergarten seeks to 
achieve the following four ends:

1. individuality

2. socialization

3. self-discipline

4. learning skills.

Grades K - 5 are self-contained with freedom to place a child for 
instruction in the grade which best suits his/her needs.

Grades 6-8 are departmentalized according to subject areas.

Required curriculum includes:

Religion *
Mathematics
Language Arts: Reading/English Spelling/Phonics/Vocabulary
Handwriting
Social Studies and GA History
Science
Fine Arts: Art/Violin/Band
Computer Science/Library
Physical Education including Health and Safety

* All students (Catholic and non-Catholic) are required 
to take Religion class and to participate in school religious 
services, except the sacramental programs.

HOMEWORK

Homework is to be completed by assigned time. This includes written 
and/or studied work, projects, and reading. Any student who does not 
have his/her homework done completely, properly, and on time will 
lose credit for the assignments. Parents of students in the middle 
grades will be notified of missing homework assignments on a weekly basis. 
8/99

Students who are absent are required to make up work missed in each 
class. If a student is out for only one or two days, upon return to 
school the student should find out the work missed. He/she will be 
given a day or so to complete and hand in these assignments. In case 
of prolonged absence, three or more days, parents should call the 
office for missed classroom and homework assignments. Calls should 
be made in the morning so the work can be prepared and ready for 
pick-up by dismissal time. Based on the number of days absent and 
the amount of work missed, a reasonable amount of time will be allowed 
for its completion.

It is the responsibility of the student and parent to see that the 
work is completed. It is the responsibility of the teacher to notify 
that assignments are missing. Incomplete assignments must be 
accompanied by a written excuse from parent or guardian. Homework 
must not be done during class without permission of the teacher.

Homework assignments aid students to develop the ability to work 
independently. Homework experiences will enable the slower student 
to practice the basic skills initiated in the classroom. For the 
advanced student, homework could be a means of providing challenging 
enrichment activities.

Homework counts as a percentage of the grade on the report card. 
Failure to hand in homework causes a lower grade on the report card.

Absentee Homework

Requests for absentee's homework should be directed to the school 
office. The assignments and books will be collected by the secretary 
and may be picked up in office at the end of the school day.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued four times during the school year. These cards 
are a means of informing parents of their child's progress. The cards 
are to be signed and returned the following day.

ACADEMIC RATING CONDUCT

A = 94-100     E = EXCELLENT          1 = EXCELLENT
B = 86-93      G = GOOD               2 = GOOD
C = 77-85      S = SATISFACTORY       3 = SATISFACTORY
D = 70-76      N = NEEDS IMPROVEMENT  4 = NEED IMPROVEMENT
F = BELOW 70   U = UNSATISFACTORY     5 = UNSATISFACTORY

WORK HABITS, SOCIAL GROWTH

+ = AREA OF STRENGTH
N = NEEDS IMPROVEMENT

Christian Citizenship

Specific Personality and Work Characteristics:

Progress Reports are issued four times during the school year, at the 
midpoint of each grading period.

PARENT - TEACHER CONFERENCES

Conferences are held in conjunction with the issuing of the first report 
cards. Parents and teachers may request a conference at other times. If 
a conference is necessary, all parties will be contacted. Should you 
require a conference, you may call the school office and ask that the 
teacher contact you. Please do not call teachers at their homes or try 
to meet with teachers before or after school without an appointment. All 
teachers are assigned supervisory duties at those times.

TESTING

We administer a total battery of Iowa Test of Basic Skills to all 
grades(K-8) during the year to examine the educational development 
of the pupils. The purpose of these tests is to confer with the 
students and parents about their achievement and needs. The results 
of these tests will be screened to determine which students need further 
diagnostic testing or remedial work.

COMPUTER CENTER:

The school has a computer lab and offers a programmed specific curriculum 
for grades K-5 through 8.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER:

Things students should know about the library:

Books are checked out for one or two weeks.
You may take the book home.
Write or print your name - (first name and last initial) 
    and grade for checkouts
Return books on the date due. There is a five cents charge 
    for each day a book is overdue.
Books may be renewed. Bring the book with you for renewal.
You are responsible for any book you sign out. Undue damage or
loss of a book is costly, and students must pay for replacement.
If a book is not returned in a month, it is considered lost and 
    must paid for.
If a book is eventually found and returned in good condition, 
    the money will be refunded minus the overdue book fee.
Hands are expected to be clean when handling the books.
A book is to be opened no further than the flat surface of a 
    table so the back will not break.

To make it easy for the student to find material for reports or projects, 
the library uses the Dewy Decimal System. The librarian will assist 
students in effective use of the library materials.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

A physical education program is part of the curriculum. The school PE 
uniform is required in grades 4-8. The girls in kindergarden through 
3rd grade should wear blue shorts under their skirts for P.E. classes.

All students are required to wear gym shoes during physical education 
classes. A written note from the parent or guardian is required before 
a student will be excused from participation in physical education. 
Non-participation of longer than two weeks requires a written excuse 
from a doctor.

PROMOTION

A student may be considered for promotion if the student has met the 
following standards:

Kindergarten - promotion to the first grade

1. Mastery of reading readiness skills
2. Mastery of kindergarten level math skills
3. Regular attendance - less than 10 absences per semester

Primary grades - promotion to second, third, fourth grades

Second grade students must master at least level 2/1 in the reading series.

Third grade students must master at least level 3/1 in the reading series.

3. A passing grade in reading and math
4. Regular attendance - less than 10 absences per semester

Middle and Upper grades - promotion to the next grade

1. Mastery of the grade level in the math and reading series
2. A passing grade in all but one major subject
3. Regular attendance - less than 10 absences per semester

Note: It is expected that all students have an understanding and 
knowledge of the religious content which is appropriate for the grade level.

For medical reasons an attendance waiver beyond the ten days per
semester will be reviewed by the school principal.

RETENTION

A student may be retained once in kindergarten through third grade, 
and once in fourth through eighth grade.The principal, teacher(s), 
and parent(s) may agree to retain a student for horizontal development 
and/or maturation needs.

SUMMER SCHOOL

Summer School will be recommended for students in the primary grades 
who receive a grade of "D" in English, reading, or math and for students 
in the middle and upper grades who receive a grade of "D" in a major 
subject. Successful completion of summer school and the passing of a 
grade level test may enable a student who has been retained to proceed 
to the next grade level.

Note: It is understood that work pursued during the summer is from a 
recognized/approved summer school which includes 60 hours of instruction 
per subject.

BOOKS

Students should take care of all books. Hardback books should be 
treated with particular care, since they are leased to the students 
over a period of years. All books are to be covered at all times and 
the child's name and grade are to be written in ink on the paper covers 
of the books. Any books damaged by a student through carelessness or 
negligence must be paid for by the student.

BEHAVIOR

SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS

Children have adult supervision at all times. A teacher, teacher-aide, 
or principal's representative is with the students in the classrooms, 
cafeteria, play yard, and other areas of the school when school is in 
session.

Children should be picked up promptly upon dismissal. The school is 
not responsible for children left on the grounds before 8:00 a.m. or 
after 3:30 p.m.

Children are not allowed on the school grounds or in the school building 
after school hours unless accompanied by an authorized adult and/or are 
participating in a school activity.

DISCIPLINE

In guiding the child's growth in Christian attitudes, values, and 
behavior, it is well to emphasize the positive rather than the negative.

The essence of Christian discipline is self-discipline. Respect for 
and consideration of one another is expected of every member of the 
school community. Corporal punishment is prohibited.

Each student is expected to value personal belongings, respect the 
possessions of others, and show concern for the proper use of school 
property. Any damage to school property should be reported to a teacher 
or the principal immediately.

Mindful of the rights of others, the students will move throughout the 
building in a quiet, orderly fashion. No running in the halls or 
classrooms is allowed. Out of concern for proper maintenance of school 
property, students are not permitted to chew gum on the premises at 
any time. Students are responsible for keeping books, desk areas, and 
other places they use neat and clean.

Deliberate damage to school property may result in parents/guardians 
of the responsible child having to reimburse the school for cost of 
repairs.This could also result in the child's being suspended or 
expelled, depending on the gravity of the situation .

Under no circumstance will disrespectful language to a faculty/staff 
member or to an adult participating in a school program be allowed. 
Repeated violation may result in suspension and/or expulsion.

Repeated suspension may result in permanent termination of the child's 
attendance at St. John School.

K - 4 Staying after school (parents must be notified by phone or 
    in writing by teacher)

5 - 8 Detention

Failure to adhere to school rules will result in an hour detention. 
These will be held every Wednesday from 3:00-4:00 unless otherwise 
notified. A detention notice will be sent home which should be signed 
by the parent/ guardian and returned to school. After serving three 
detentions, a parent/ student/teacher conference will be held. After 
serving five detentions the student will be suspended from school for 
a time to be determined. During this suspension, students will complete 
homework and classwork assignments, but no test can be made up. Further 
disciplinary action may be required on an individual basis.

In-house suspension (removal from class for a period of time/days)

Conference about discipline problems should follow these steps: 
(Hopefully all steps will not be necessary.)

1. Student and teacher
2. Student, parents, and teacher
3. Student, parents, teacher, and principal
4. Suspension at home
5. Student, parents, teacher, principal, and pastor (After this step it 
may be necessary to suspend the student up to three days in order to 
give the parents and student time to solve the problem or choose some 
alternatives.)
6. Expulsion - the principal notifies the pastor of the problem. A 
conference with parents by the pastor and principal is called and the 
situation is discussed in depth.

The following are among some causes for disciplinary action:

Harassing other students
Repeated disturbance of class after warning
Use of profane language
Failure to follow teacher's directives
Disrespect to a faculty/staff member or to a visitor
Cheating on tests, homework, or other dishonesty
Physical fighting in or around school grounds
Disregard for school dress code
Throwing objects that might be harmful to others or to property
Being in a restricted area
Any un-Christian behavior on school grounds or at any school function
Striking teachers or other school personnel.
Immoral conduct
Absence from school or class without a satisfactory excuse.
Stealing and receiving or possession of stolen goods
Forging the signature of any member of the school staff, parent or 
    guardian, or changing grades on report cards or tests
The possession of drugs on school premises requires the school 
    authority to inform the police.
Carrying, using, or threatening use of weapons or instruments to do 
    bodily harm to another on school premisses requires the school to 
    inform the police.

DRESS

UNIFORMS K - 8

Uniforms may be ordered at The Valdosta Health Care/Uniform Shop 
(134 N. Patterson, 244-5500) or G. Willie's Uniforms (1407 Mahan 
Dr. Tallahassee, Fl. 32308, 800-232-1027). Each student should 
take pride in his/her personal appearance. Students are expected 
o arrive at school neat and presentable. The required uniform is a
s follows:

GIRLS: GRADES K-5 - 5th 

Plaid jumper White Peter Pan collar blouse (long or short sleeves)* 
    No lace frills or decorations
Socks - navy or white crew or knee-high socks

Fifth grade may wear plaid skirt

BOYS: GRADES K-5 - 5th

Navy slacks
White knit shirt (long or short sleeves)
Socks - navy or white crew

Optional for K-5 - 5

GIRLS                                 BOYS

Khaki slacks (girls)
Khaki walking shorts
White knit shirts
St. John sweatshirt
St. John navy blue T-shirt
Forest green or white cardigan - girls
Navy blue or white V-neck pullover or cardigan- boys

PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM

GIRLS AND BOYS

School PE uniform - shorts and T-shirt purchased through the 
school office.

ALL CLOTHING SHOULD BE CLEARLY MARKED WITH STUDENT'S FULL NAME. 
PLEASE USE A SHARPIE OR LAUNDRY MARKER.

CAPS: Caps (any billed cap) are not to be worn to or at school. 
In cold weather a warm hat may be worn outside.
JEWELRY: No jewelry except a birthstone ring or other similar type
ring may be worn, one ring per hand. Girls with pierced ears may 
wear small earrings that fit close to the ear. Large dangling 
earrings are not permitted. No make-up is allowed. Clear nail polish 
may be worn.
HAIR RIBBONS, barretts, pony tail bands, or bows 
(1 - 1 2 A matching uniform) may be worn to hold the hair back and 
away from the face. However, large bows and hair accessories that 
are worn for decorative purposes are a distraction and may not be worn 
to school.

SCHOOL UNIFORMS are to be worn from the first to the last day of
the school year (except on special pre-announced days)
by all students grades K - 8. Scout uniforms may be worn
on the day of each meeting.
WALKING SHORTS may be worn the first months of school (Aug., Sept., 
Oct., Nov., Dec.) and after the spring break.

HAIR is to be neat and clean. Latest fads are NOT permitted.

A written note to the teacher from parents is required when a student 
is in violation of the uniform code. Continuous violation of the uniform 
code will result in a conference with the parents.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

STUDENT SCHOOL INSURANCE

Accident insurance is provided for all students through the school 
under the auspices of the Diocese of Savannah. The school fee covers 
this cost. Forms for claim should be obtained from the school office. 
A copy of the completed claim must be returned to the school office.

HEALTH RECORDS

All students, in accordance with the state law, will submit a Georgia 
Department of Human Resources School Certificate of Immunization 
(form 3032 or 3227); a Certificate of Ear/Eye/Dental Examination 
(may use DHR for 3399); and a record of physical examination. Sixth 
grade students must also submit an updated MMR Vaccine Certification 
form. Students participating in school athletic programs (i.e. basketball, 
cheerleading, soccer, etc.) must submit a new physical exam for each year 
they participate.

These forms will be maintained in the permanent file folders in the 
school office. These files may also contain the results of health 
screenings (hearing, vision, scoliosis, etc.) and other health-related 
student information. Out-of-state student health records must be evaluated 
by a physician or the local health department and recorded on appropriate 
Georgia Health Forms prior to their inclusion in the permanent file folders.

ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS AT SCHOOL

During school hours, any illness or accident is to be brought to the 
attention of school administrators as quickly as possible. Student 
Accident Reports will be completed and placed on file for all students 
when accidents occur on campus in an effort to identify issues 
impacting student safety. For students experiencing illnesses during 
the school day, when the condition warrants, parents/guardians/emergency 
contacts will be notified. The school will maintain up-to-date emergency 
pupil information cards for such purposes. Parents are responsible for 
assuring that these cards contain the most recent and complete 
information at all times.

MEDICATION AT SCHOOL

No medication of any kind will be dispensed at school without written 
permission from the parent or guardian. Any prescription medication 
must be sent to school in a safety bottle clearly marked and identified. 
Medication is dispensed only in the school office.

HEALTH ISSUES

1. Communicable Diseases:

In a effort to protect the health and welfare of students/faculty/
staff/community, parents are encouraged to report to school 
administration when their child has been diagnosed with an 
infectious/ communicable disease (i.e. salmonella, hepatitis A, 
meningitis, head lice, etc.). The school will adhere as necessary 
to specific illness control procedures mandated by the local 
health department (i.e. length of recommended school absence, 
school re-entry protocol, etc.). Parents will be informed in 
writing when school administrators become aware of the presence 
of communicable illnesses in the student population (i.e. 
chickenpox, head lice, etc. ).

2. Returning to School after an Illness

Based on state health department reporting mandates, following 
an illness-related school absence, parents must submit a note 
to the teacher clearly stating the nature of the child's illness 
(i.e. fever, strep throat, etc.).

3. Drug and Weapon Policy

A student may not bring to school or have in his/her possession 
on the school grounds, during or after school hours, any illegal 
drug, alcohol, or weapons of any type. Refusing to abide by this 
regulation makes the student liable for expulsion. Trafficking of 
drugs or possession of weapons on school premise requires the 
school authorities to immediately inform the police.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

To insure an orderly and safe evacuation of the school in emergency 
situations, periodic fire drills will be held. All fire drills are 
strictly business, and no immature behavior will be tolerated. After 
the emergency signal is sounded, students are to immediately leave all 
classrooms or other areas without running, shoving or talking. The 
teacher brings the class list, is the last one out of the room, and 
closes the door.

Tornado drills are held periodically to acquaint the students with 
the proper emergency procedures.

On rainy days, students are permitted to stay in a room that is 
supervised while class is not in session. No student is allowed 
in a classroom without supervision.

YARD DUTY

Parents are asked to take time on the school playground during 
the children's time on the yard after lunch. The time is 11:30 
- 1:10. WE ASK THAT EVERY FAMILY GIVE TWO DAYS PLAYYARD DUTY 
FOR EACH CHILD ENROLLED.

FINANCES

TUITION PAYMENT POLICY

This policy should not present a hardship to anyone as there is 
a clause to cover any difficulty one might have. It is the 
responsibility of the parent/guardian to call if there is a 
problem. St. John School is more than glad to accommodate anyone 
who might have difficulty meeting the deadline or payment.

Tuition payments are made in 12 monthly payments beginning

in June of the current school year and ending in May, or 10 monthly 
payments beginning in August. Tuition is paid directly to the school 
office by the 10th of each month. No child will be registered for 
the next school year if all tuition and fees are not current.

In August no child will be admitted to class if any of the preceding 
year's tuition is not paid.

No report cards or diplomas will be given nor will transcripts be 
sent to another educational institution while there is delinquent 
tuition and/or fees on account.

AS ALWAYS, IF THERE IS A REASON CAUSING THE DELAY OR NONPAYMENT, 
ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE THROUGH THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.

PARISH TUITION AID

This aid applies to active practicing Catholics who meet the following 
qualifications:

1. Regular attendance at Mass on Saturday evenings or Sunday
2.Regular financial or volunteer contributions to St. John School or Parish

POLICY ON DELINQUENT TUITION AND FEES

Where no compelling reason exists for nonpayment of tuition, the
school principal shall, within seven days after the due date of 
the month's payment, request the Finance Committee of the School 
Board to send the parent a letter stating that unless the delinquency 
is corrected in its entirety by the last day of the month, the child 
or children involved will not be allowed to return to school on the 
first day of the succeeding month or thereafter, until the tuition 
is current. The Finance Committee may take such action as may be 
necessary to collect said debt.

POLICY OF TUITION AND FEES

1. No refund on registration fee.
2. If part of a month is attended, that whole month's tuition is 
payable. 3. If a child enters the school after Christmas, the book 
fee and tuition will be prorated.

MISCELLANEOUS

STUDENT CONTACT

Uninterrupted classroom time is important to our students and teachers. 
To minimize the interruption, please follow these procedures:

Visitors

Parents are welcome and are encouraged to visit the school. 
All parents and visitors must report to the school office 
before going to a classroom, cafeteria, yard, etc. to sign in 
and receive a visitor's badge.

Messages should go through the school office and not be given to 
the teacher by a child or parent.

The school discourages the sending of flowers or balloon's at school.

Forgotten Lunches, etc.

Books that need to be delivered to a student should be left in the 
office to be distributed to the students. Forgotten lunches should 
also be left in the office. Lunches should have the student's name 
on them. This should not be a daily occasion.

Students are NOT allowed to have cell-phones or pagers at school.

The students are not to make telephone calls for any reason other 
than an emergency. The phone in the Parish Center is not to be 
used by the students. All calls made by students should be done 
from the school office.

TRANSPORTATION

No student is permitted to ride a bicycle on school grounds during 
school hours. All bicycles should be locked to the stand provided. 
Those who ride bicycles are to go directly to the bicycle area at 
the first bell (2:55) and walk their bicycles off the school grounds.

LUNCH PROGRAM

Children may bring their lunch to school or buy what is on the menu 
for the day. Milk can be bought daily (beginning the second week of 
school). The daily menu and price listing is sent home weekly. It is 
very important to return it on time.

Parents are asked not to make it a habit to eat lunch with the children. 
If it is a special occasion, you may come to the office and ask 
permission to eat lunch with your child.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are encouraged if they are educational and directly 
related to the curriculum. The following guidelines are to be followed:

1. The field trip is a definite learning experience and must be 
related to the subject matter being studied.

2. All safety precautions must be taken. When riding in any vehicle, 
all children must ride in seatbelted seats. No child will be allowed 
to ride in seats with airbags. 

3. The school must have written permission from parents for children 
to go on the field trip.

4. Drivers are to drive to their destination and back and are not 
to make unnecessary stops. A driver's information sheet must be filled 
out and given to the teacher prior to driving on any school- sponsored 
field trip.

5. The number of field trips are limited to two per semester, unless 
otherwise approved by the principal.

6. The educational value of the trip must justify the time, distance, 
and expense involved.

7. Parents who do not wish their child to go on a particular field 
trip may refuse permission. However, the student is still expected 
to attend school that day.

SPECIAL OCCASION

Traditionally, classroom parties are limited to Christmas and 
Valentine's Day. If treats (cupcakes, cookies, drinks) are brought 
for students' birthdays, arrangements must be made with your child's 
teacher. These treats should be eaten at lunch or snack time. Birthday
parties are not held in the classroom. Private party invitations are 
NOT to be distributed at school unless each child in the class is 
included. Pre-school teachers may notify classes of exceptions to t
hese rules.

GRADUATION

Students graduating from our school receive the official diploma 
issued by the Catholic School Office of the Diocese of Savannah. 
St. John School has a family Mass and reception held in celebration 
for students graduating from our eighth grade.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES/SCOUTS

Social activities appropriate to the various age groups in school 
(picnics, dances, parties, etc.) may be planned during the school 
year. However, an activity will carry the sponsorship of the school 
only when the announcement for it comes from the school authorities 
and has their endorsement. Additional activities are usually sponsored 
for the 7th and 8th grades.

Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Brownies, and Cub Scout join troops formed 
in the area. A Brownie troop and a Boy Scout troup meet in St. John 
School each week. Other activities include Band, violin D.A.R.E., 
Student Council, Beta Club, Kiwanis Bowl, choir, basketball, soccer.

NOTICES

Periodic messages and announcements concerning school activities 
are sent home to parents/guardians with the students.

A weekly newsletter is given to each student to take home on the 
first day of each week.

RELATED ORGANIZATIONS

HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

St. John Home and School Association strives to promote a close 
relationship among parents, teachers, the principal, and the parish 
priest working together to give a total Christian education to each 
child. The Home and School Association endeavors to provide opportunities, 
at its regular meetings, for enriching parents and teachers through a 
planned speaker program, and to create opportunities for free exchange 
of ideas regarding school programs.

The Association further supports the school by planning and conducting 
events to raise funds for school-related projects. Each family should 
participate in at least two of these events.

The Association sponsors a Gift Wrap sale, a Halloween Carnival, 
Golf Tournament and other fund raising activities.

The Association also sponsors the room mothers, lunch program, and 
yard duty program.

The Association meets on the third Thursday in the months of September, 
November, January, March, and May.

SCHOOL BOARD

St. John School Board is a consultative board working with the pastor 
and principal in developing a well-rounded program of religion, 
educational, and civic standards by which school policies might be 
initiated and put into effect; and to plan and strive for financial 
support of St. John School.