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St. Augustin School
4320 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, Iowa 50312
(515)279-5947
August 2008
Dear Parents and Students:
Welcome to the 2008-2009 school year at St. Augustin Catholic School! I am looking forward to working with you and the students again this year. I hope that this year will be an exciting and challenging year-academically, spiritually, and socially.
This handbook explains “everything you ever needed to know” about St. Augustin Catholic School. I hope that it will be a source of reference for you throughout the year, and answer questions you may have regarding school procedures and policies.
The faculty and I thank you for choosing St. Augustin. We enjoy working with your children and are committed to offering them an excellent Catholic education.
Although we are invested in improving the curriculum and updating methods and approaches to education, we do more! We are dedicated to developing religious values and practices. Moreover, we have the opportunity to bring God into the picture during our classes, co-curriculars, and athletics. Here at St. Augustin Catholic School, young people can test out values in a supportive Christian environment.
We ask that St. Augustin families support the policies of the school, both in principle and in practice. Students need to grow in self-discipline and become mature and responsible boys and girls. This will take place if we- parents, students, and faculty- have clear communications and on-going interactions.
We appreciate the support you have continued to give the school. Your presence and your dedication have fostered the community and family spirit that exists here. May God continue to bless our families, our children, and our efforts at St. Augustin Catholic School.
Sincerely,
Dr. Nancy O’Neill Dowdle, Principal
NOD/dkd
St. Augustin Catholic School
Student Handbook – 2008-09
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of St. Augustin Catholic School is to provide meaningful, educational experiences for children/adolescents in an environment integrated by Gospel values, which nurtures faith, community, prayer, and service
.
Therefore, we believe that:
• Catholic schools exist to teach the traditions and doctrines
of the Catholic Church and to live the Gospel message of
Jesus Christ
.
• Parents are the primary educators, and Catholic schools
are partners with parents in the education of their children/
adolescents
.
• Each child/adolescent in a Catholic school, regardless of race,
cultural heritage, or gender, grows in self-esteem through the
development of her/his talents, skills, and interests
.
• Catholic schools will provide a warm, caring environment where
children/adolescents will be challenged to learn the essential
curriculum, regardless of learning rate or style
.
• All children/adolescents in Catholic schools learn the value of
human dignity and the concepts of peace and justice to enable
them to be involved participants in a global society
.
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STUDENT EXIT OUTCOMES
Students in our schools will be challenged, as the result of their Catholic education, to integrate Gospel values into their daily lives as they:
Academic Outcomes
• Access and use information effectively
• Apply technology competently
• Solve problems independently and cooperatively
• Reason scientifically, mathematically, and historically
Spiritual/Social Outcomes
• Accept church, civic, and personal responsibility
• Anticipate and constructively react to change
• Communicate ideas and feelings effectively in various ways
• Demonstrate global awareness, cross-cultural understanding, and social justice principles
• Demonstrate personal wellness practices
• Cultivate an understanding of, and appreciation for, the arts
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PHILOSOPHY
The end product of Catholic education at St. Augustin Catholic School is the child who is to be educated:
Spiritually – Socially – Emotionally – Intellectually – Physically
In order to educate the child in all of these areas, the staff will work toward providing:
1. a warm and caring environment that provides the opportunity to meet the expectations of “daily living” that will help them:
• Recognize that they are unique in their talents
.
• Develop their talents at all levels and in many areas
.
• Grow in self-esteem as their talents and gifts grow and become part of their personhood
.
• Recognize that, in addition to their talents, they must also be educated to meet the expectations of the competitive world
.
• To look at their educational progress in relation to others in their class
.
2. Cooperation and communication with their parents, who are recognized as the primary educators
.
In all of these educational endeavors, respect for one another, based on
the love of God as our Father will be the permeating religious spirit
.
By enrolling your child in St. Augustin Catholic School, you have chosen us to be your partner in the education of your child. With you, we share the responsibility of guiding your child’s growth in all areas: spiritual, moral, emotional, physical, and social. The success of this partnership relies on the cooperation of all involved in living up to their responsibilities.
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ORGANIZATION
The organizational structure for St. Augustin Catholic School includes the Diocesan Board of Education, the Diocesan Superintendent of Schools, St. Augustin Board Of Education and pastor, principal, teachers, parents, and students.
School Administration
St. Augustin Catholic School employs an accredited, professional full-time Principal and Assistant Principal licensed by the State of Iowa. The major responsibilities include: faith leader of the school, personnel director, educational leader, management/administration, public relations, and planning and development. The Principals are employed by the parish and have direct accountability to the Pastor and St. Augustin Board of Education. A classroom teacher is designated to handle emergencies if/when the principals are out of the building
.
School Faculty
The faculty of St. Augustin Catholic School is comprised of fully accredited, professional teachers. All the teachers hold current licensure in the State of Iowa and are qualified to teach in the subject areas to which they are assigned. Faculty members in grades kindergarten through fifth grade are hired primarily in content areas. Additional specialists are employed in the areas of General and Instrumental Music, Visual Arts, Physical Education, Guidance and Counseling, Enrichment Education, Media Education, Technology, and Reading Resource. The faculty is regularly observed and evaluated by the school Principals in accordance with Diocesan policy
.
School Guidance Counselor
St. Augustin Catholic School has a guidance counselor who is available to consult with all students, parents, and teachers. Our counselor is licensed by the Iowa Department of Education. The guidance program encompasses individual sessions, group sessions, and classroom units of study. Any student may request to see the counselor by asking a teacher to set up a time, or they may write a note to put in the counselor’s mailbox. A parent or teacher may also request that the counselor visit with a student. The guidance counselor, as the child’s advocate, can help supply creative ways to deal with students experiencing difficulty in and out of the classroom.
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We believe that each child is a unique human being capable of accepting responsibility for his or her own self. Therefore, St. Agustin Catholic School has established a developmental guidance program to provide each student the opportunity to attain his or her maximum potential. The goal of a guidance program, as it relates with the school’s goals, is to assist children in learning acceptable behavior and to develop a responsible attitude toward one’s self, school, home, and social environments. Those students with social, emotional, and psychological problems should receive guidance at school on a one-to-one basis. If extended guidance is needed, then we will refer the child to an agency, in consultation with the parents, when appropriate. Counseling sessions with students should also have some follow-up activities at home. We have a responsibility to carry through with a coordinated guidance program
.
Reading Resource
St. Augustin Catholic School employs the services of a full-time reading resource teacher. Students must be reading below grade level to receive ongoing services in this program.
Religious Education
We believe that religious education begins in the home, and the Catholic school’s role is to assist and reinforce the parents in the religious education of their children; to teach, in cooperation with the parents and parish staff, Catholic doctrine, tradition, Church history, Scripture, and ongoing Church teachings; that parental and pastoral involvement in sacramental preparation is essential; that, as a result of religious education, students apply Christian values in their daily living as a member of a school, parish, family, and civic community; that religious education should be the responsibility of every teacher in every discipline; and, that students should plan for and participate in religious celebrations with staff supervision
.
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Substitute Teachers
When a teacher is out of school because of illness, professional meetings, or personal business, a qualified, licensed substitute teacher will be hired to take that teacher’s place. Occasionally, it may be necessary for the Principal to hire a long-term substitute. Whenever possible, a substitute who is familiar to the students will be engaged. The substitute will work closely with the classroom teacher and the Principal to ensure a smooth and consistent transition. Substitute teachers are to be accorded the same respect as regular classroom teachers. Any student failing to give a substitute teacher proper respect will be sent to the Principal for disciplinary action. Substitute teachers have permission to follow every part of the St. Augustin discipline policy.
Sacramental Programs for Religious Education
Realizing the importance of the reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation, to prepare adequately a student ordinarily must be enrolled and have completed a recognized program the year prior to receiving the sacrament. If a student enrolls at St. Augustin Catholic School or St. Augustin Religious Education without such preparation, a course of study will be implemented by the Director of Religious Education to ensure the student’s readiness for receiving the sacrament. Exceptions from the foregoing may be granted at the discretion of the Pastor
.
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STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Ultimately, it is the student who must be responsible for his/her actions and who must be motivated to set high goals for himself or herself to be successful. To do this, the student should:
1. Realize responsibility for his or her actions
.
2. Approach studies with a seriousness of purpose and a realization that learning is work
.
3. Develop good study habits making a sincere effort to do his or her best in all studies by having assignments and homework
completed on time
.
4. Be well prepared for classes each day, both mentally and physically
.
5. Develop a basic attitude of consideration and thoughtfulness for the rights, the welfare, and the happiness of other people
.
6. Respect the authority of teachers and other members of the school staff
.
7. Be regular in attendance and punctual in arriving at school and at class
8. Dress according to uniform code, and practice habits of personal cleanliness
.
9. Choose friends and companions carefully
.
10. Act in a manner reflecting credit on him or her during extra-curricular activities
.
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TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES
The teacher tries, to the best of his/her ability, to encourage, to motivate, to guide, and to instruct the student. To do this, the teacher should:
1. Respect each student as a distinct individual, recognize the difference in learning rates, and try to provide for these differences
.
2. Prepare materials, and plan lessons well in advance
.
3. Develop strategies for motivating students to do their best at all times
.
4. Have an attractive physical arrangement and displays in the classroom that will be inviting and interesting to the student
.
5. Be available for parent e-mails, telephone calls and visits
.
6. Inform parents immediately if students are not working up to their ability
.
7. Establish and maintain a teaching atmosphere in the classroom
.
8. Respect the parent and their role in the education of their child
.
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PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Parents should realize that the more they assume their responsibilities, the more the student will be inclined to take an interest in his/her responsibilities. Actions speak much louder than words. To do this, the parents should:
1. Provide opportunity at home for the child to assume responsibility for his actions; in other words, teach the child to be a responsible person
.
2. Provide a learning atmosphere at home, realizing that they are the primary educators of their child
.
3. See to it that the child is mentally and physically prepared for school. This includes nutritional meals, guidance of T.V., and sensible bedtimes for growing children
.
4. Teach thoughtfulness and consideration for the rights of others, teaching children to compromise and settle differences by talking and not fighting
.
5. Make every effort to see that the child is at school on time
.
6. Try to see that the child does not have unnecessary absences from school
.
7. Guide their child’s choice of companions
.
8. Understand that communication with teachers is recommended and welcomed
.
9. Stand behind the teacher when the teacher is fulfilling all of his/her responsibilities toward the student, even if the student is not happy about this
.
10. Make every effort to attend the parent/teacher conferences each year, and show that education is a high priority in your family
.
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ADMISSION POLICY
Since St. Augustin Catholic School is the most important educational extension of the St. Augustin parish community, participation in the parish itself is de facto support of the school. Active participation in St. Augustin parish includes: formal registration, regular tithing, and worship with the parish community, and involvement in a parish ministry, program, organization, or event. Such involvement demonstrates a desire for Catholic education as a compliment to living out a family’s Catholic faith in the larger context of a parish community of faith
.
St. Augustin Catholic Church and the Board of Education endeavors to offer the opportunity for a Catholic education to all that desire it. Due to space and personnel limitations, admission shall be considered in the following order and priority:
Three-Year-Old Preschool Program
Admission of up to twelve (12) students per session who are three (3) years old by October 1 shall be considered in the following order:
1. Students of Catholic parents who already have children enrolled in St. Augustin Catholic School and who are fulfilling their financial obligations through tuition and tithing
.
2. Additional students shall be accepted in the following order: St. Augustin parishioners, parishioners of other Catholic parishes, non-Catholic students who have siblings in St. Augustin, and other non-Catholics
.
Admission to the three-year-old program does not guarantee admission to St. Augustin Catholic School kindergarten through 8th grade. All children admitted into the three-year-old preschool program must be toilet trained prior to the start of school
.
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Four-Year-Old Preschool Program
Admission of up to twenty (20) students per session who are age four (4) by November 1 shall be considered in the following order:
1. Students currently enrolled in the three-year-old preschool program.
2. Students of Catholic parents who have other children enrolled in St. Augustin Catholic School who are fulfilling their financial obligations through tuition and tithing
.
3. Additional students shall be accepted in the following order: Parishioners of St. Augustin, parishioners of other Catholic parishes, non-Catholic students who have siblings in St. Augustin, and other non-Catholics
.
Admission to the four-year-old program does not guarantee admission to St Augustin Catholic School kindergarten through 8th grade.
Developmental Kindergarten Program
Admission of up to sixteen (16) students, who are age five (5) by December 1, but not developmentally ready for the regular kindergarten program, shall be considered in the following order:
1. Students currently enrolled in the four-year-old preschool program.
2. Students of Catholic parents who already have children enrolled in St. Augustin Catholic School and who are meeting their financial obligations through tuition and tithing
.
3. Additional students shall be accepted in the following order: St. Augustin parishioners, parishioners from other Catholic parishes, non-Catholic students who have siblings in St. Augustin, and other non-Catholics.
Admission to the developmental kindergarten program does not guarantee admission to St. Augustin Catholic School kindergarten through 8th grade.
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Kindergarten through 8th Grade
Admission of students will be considered in the following order:
1. Students enrolled in Kindergarten through 7th grade during the previous school year
.
2. New students from families with other students already enrolled in Kindergarten through 8th grade
.
3. Students enrolled in St. Augustin preschool programs: three-year-old, four-year-old, or developmental kindergarten, and are also St. Augustin parishioners
.
4. St. Augustin Religious Education students in first through seventh grade
.
5. Students from families participating in the St. Augustin parish community who are not included in the groups described in items one (1) through four (4) above
.
6. Children of professional staff members employed at St. Augustin parish
.
7. Students from Catholic families who are not active members of St. Augustin Church
.
8. Non-Catholic students
.
Additional Criteria
Within each of the above priority rankings, the following criteria shall be considered in admitting students to St. Augustin Catholic School:
• An indication of parental commitment to Catholic education and active involvement in the St. Augustin community
.
• The ability and willingness to pay tuition and costs, or make arrangements for assistance with the Principal and/or Pastor.
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Decisions relating to admission shall be the responsibility of the Principal. In the event of dispute, or in the event there are several applicants for a given opening, the final determination concerning admission shall be made by the Board of Education.
Screening of New Students
A screening process shall be undertaken with each new student and the enrollment of a student shall not be considered final until such screening is completed.
The screening process shall include receipt and review the student’s records from his/her previous school, and such testing as may be determined necessary by the administrator. Conditional enrollment may be granted where circumstances warrant; however, enrollment shall not be considered final until all screening is completed
.
Registration Procedures
Parents who wish to enroll their child in St. Augustin Catholic School for the forthcoming school year must:
• Register their child at the prescribed registration time typically in February during parent/teacher conferences
.
• Pay a non-refundable registration fee in the amount established annually by the Board of Education, which is applied to the book fee for the fall. This fee is non-refundable, except in the event the family moves outside the Des Moines metropolitan area, defined to include Polk, Dallas, Warren, and Madison counties
.
• Verify parish registration and tithing status
.
• If the family is a member of another parish, which does not maintain a parochial school which is paying tuition support to St. Augustin’s, the parent must pay the registration fee and submit a statement, signed by their Pastor, assuring that their tuition will be paid by that parish for the fall.
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• Non-parishioners who are not receiving support from another parish shall pay the registration fee, plus one month’s advance tuition
.
• All fees must be paid before an application for enrollment can be considered
.
• If the above requirements are not timely satisfied, the child’s place in the school shall be forfeited for the fall
.
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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
Arrival
Students may be dropped off in front of the school building beginning at 8:05 AM. Students are to remain by the school at all times. Students are not permitted to wait on the playground or hill, either before or after school. The first bell rings at 8:15 AM. School begins promptly at 8:25 AM. All students must be in their seats, ready to begin class at this time, or they will be considered tardy. Any student arriving before 8:05 AM will be sent to Before Care and parents will be billed
.
Dismissal
Students are dismissed at 3:15 PM. Students are to remain by the school at all times. Students are not permitted to wait on the playground or hill. A teacher will remain with the students until the carline is over. Any student not picked up by 3:20 PM will be sent to aftercare and parents will be billed
.
Early Dismissals
Early dismissals are allowed if the parent/guardian has written a note to the classroom teacher stating the reason. The teacher okays the note and gives the child an early dismissal Slip. When the time arrives, the child will proceed to the office to wait until their parent/guardian picks them up. If they return to school later that same day, the student should report to the office where they get a slip to readmit them to their class. Students absent from school with early dismissal permission for two hours or more are counted one-half day absent. Please sign your child(ren) out in the office.
In case of an illness during the day, the student must go home from school accompanied by an authorized adult. Students may not go home alone during the day
.
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Bicycles
Students may ride bicycles to school with parental permission. The school is not responsible for the care of their bicycles. All bicycles must be parked in the bike rack. For the safety of all, students are to walk the bikes to and from the street. All bikes must be parked in the bike rack. Helmets are encouraged for all bicyclists
.
Car Line
Children may be dropped off as long as they are able to exit to a sidewalk. If your child needs assistance exiting your vehicle, drop off only in front of the school or on the east sidewalk
.
Developmental Kindergarten dismisses at 3:00 p.m. Please keep the space directly in front of the school open until these students have been picked up. After that time, move the car line to the front of the school
.
When dropping off or picking up, drive single file along the west side of the driveway. Do not pass cars unless you have already dropped off or picked up your child(ren). Children may be picked up in front of the school, continuing around to the east sidewalk. Please load your children quickly, and continue with the car line. If your child is not outside as you approach the front of the school, continue with the car line, and park in a space in the upper (north) parking lot to wait for your child. Children should never be allowed or encouraged to move between cars or across traffic.
The right to park in the first space nearest the school, along the right (west) sidewalk, was sold at a school fund-raiser. This space is to be held open for the person who has purchased it. If you have purchased this privilege, you may wait in this space until your child arrives, load quickly, and rejoin the car line carefully. When school dismisses, the car directly behind the reserved space will need to lead the car line around the vehicle to keep the car line moving
.
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Students who are not picked up via the car line must walk on the sidewalks and cross Grand Avenue at the intersection with the crossing guard.
If you park in the lot to wait for your child, be sure to park in a parking space. Do not park along the entrance to the parking lot. Please do not park in the driveway. It is a fire lane. The only parking allowed is in the upper parking lot next to Grand Avenue. Be considerate of those exiting the parking lot. Allow drivers to exit, and join the car line one at a time to ease the parking lot congestion, yet maintain the momentum of the car line
.
If you are on Grand Avenue coming from the east, and the stoplight is red, do not turn on red into the driveway. It is illegal. If you are on Grand Avenue coming from the east, and the car line extends onto Grand Avenue, do NOT attempt a left turn into the driveway. Continue down Grand Avenue, turn around, and join the car line on the south side of Grand Avenue
.
The owners of property adjacent and close to the school request that cars do NOT use driveways for drop-off or pick-up. Also, students should honor the right of private property owners by using their sidewalks rather than property as crosswalks
.
NO PARKING in the Red Areas, this is considered a FIRE LANE
.
Above all, please remember, we are a Christian school. Please drive with caution, and be considerate of other drivers
.
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ATTENDANCE POLICY
In order to develop habits of self-discipline and responsibility, students are expected to attend classes regularly. While it is possible for an absent student to make up most of the schoolwork missed, it is impossible to completely compensate for absences from the classroom. Students who must be absent but fail to make up work may not understand what the teacher is currently presenting, and may also become discouraged with the double burden of keeping current and making up work missed.
Tardy students not only affect their own studies, but also interfere with the progress of those students who are prompt. Tardiness to class creates an obvious interruption and confusion for all class members. It is unfair that students who are unprepared because of irregular attendance and/or tardiness may interrupt an entire class
.
It is the parents’ responsibility to cause the child to attend school, as required by the compulsory attendance statute of the State of Iowa. Regular attendance and punctuality is expected of all students. This is necessary for the student to receive the maximum benefits from the instructional program and to develop firm habits of punctuality, self-discipline, and responsibility
.
Procedure for Absence from School
All absences shall be reported to the school office between 7:45-9:00 a.m. If no call is received, a school representative will call the parent/guardian at home or work by 10:00 AM. A telephone call to the office on each day of an illness will be sufficient contact
.
If a child is to be excused from school during the school day, he/she is asked to bring a written note from home and then should be picked up in the school office. Students must sign out in the office stating the time they leave and sign in noting the time, if they return the same day. Please consult the school calendar when scheduling appointments or planning a vacation so as to minimize the number of days your child needs to be absent. Parents are asked to not request students be excused from class time to go to breakfast or lunch with friends and/or family
.
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Excused/Unexcused Absences
All absences by a student from St. Augustin Catholic School will be classified as either excused or unexcused. Excused absences are those due to: (1) a personal illness of the student, (2) necessary medical/dental emergencies or appointments, (3) death or serious illness in the student’s immediate family, (4) other verified emergencies, or (5) other reasons that can be justified from an educational standpoint that are approved in advance by the Principal
.
Unexcused absences are those due to: (1) vacation trips, (2) non-St. Augustin Catholic School athletic events or practices in which the student is participating or attending, (3) non-verifiable medical/dental appointments, (4) truancy or suspension from school, or (5) other absences deemed unexcused by the Principal
.
• In the event of an excused absence, the student will be given an opportunity to make up any missed work or tests during a period of time equal to two (2) times the number of days missed, up to a total of six (6) make-up days. The Principal and/or the affected teacher, for more lengthy excused absences, may grant extensions of time
.
• Make-up work must be completed to ensure understanding of the missed lessons
.
• A school calendar is published in advance of the school year so future travel plans can be made when school is not in session. Vacations that result in student’s absence from school are unexcused for purposes of this policy. Quarterly exams are scheduled for the last week of each quarter, with third quarter exams being scheduled for the week before spring break. Due to the need to complete quarterly testing and grading during the last week of each quarter, all unexcused absences during those weeks will include no make-up work or alternative test dates, even if the student has less than two (2) unexcused absences during that semester
.
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Sixteen (16) days in one school year will be considered excessive absenteeism. Students who reach sixteen (16) days of absenteeism will place themselves in jeopardy and have certain academic consequences outlined below:
• On the fifth day of absence in one semester, the Principal will notify the family by mail. The student, along with a parent or parents and the student’s teacher, will be required to attend an administrative staffing. This staffing serves the purposes of notification and dialogue, and a proper course of action will be outlined for the future success of the student
.
• If a student reaches the eighth day of absence for the semester, the parents will be notified by the Principal that the possibility exists for loss of academic credit for the semester’s work and that summer school will be a necessity for the loss of instructional time
.
St. Augustin Catholic School families are encouraged to support high school tournament teams at games that are played outside of school hours. In the event that a local high school would be involved in state-level tournaments, students may obtain an excused absence, providing the following criteria are met:
• Advance notice is given to teachers and the office no later than 9:00 a.m. the day prior to the event
.
• Schoolwork for the day must be completed and turned in to the teacher prior to departure. Teachers must sign off on the absence slip that all work is completed and turned in for an excused absence
.
• Students will not receive make-up work time for work assigned during their absence
.
• Students are responsible for obtaining the following day’s assignments and handing these in on time
.
• Work not handed in on time will result in an unexcused absence
.
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• Students may leave the building no sooner than one (1) hour prior to game time. Special circumstances require prior Principal approval
.
• Students must return to school within one hour of game’s end when applicable
.
Truancy
If a student leaves the school without permission or cuts class, parents will be contacted. The student will be required to make up the time after school, or comply with other arrangements that fit the situation. Parents will be notified whenever a student is found to be truant from school. Continued truancy will result in additional disciplinary action.
Tardiness
The teacher, when dealing with student tardiness without an acceptable reason, may take the following action(s)
.
• Fifth Tardy – Warning by teacher, parent contact
• Tenth Tardy – Assigned detention by the teacher and/or Principal
• Fifteenth Tardy – Will be referred to the Principal and/or the Student Assistance Team
Accident or Illness
In case your child is ill or has an accident at school, the parent or guardian is notified at once. Please have an alternative place for your child to go if you are unable to pick up and take care of your ill child. No child is ever sent home until prior arrangements have been made. If a child becomes ill or hurt, he/she should report to his/her teacher or some faculty member. Any child with a rash is excluded from school until the rash is diagnosed
.
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School Closings/Bad Weather/Emergency Procedures
For school closings due to snow or other hazardous weather conditions, listen to KRNT, KIOA, KSO, or WHO radio. In the event of a National Emergency or inclement weather, which occurs during the school day, the students will remain at school in designated safety areas. Students will be permitted to leave with their parents upon their arrival. If students are dismissed early, an emergency chain to inform parents will be initiated by the secretary
.
Emergency Procedures
In order to provide for a safe exit from the building in the event of fire or tornado, regular drills are held throughout the school year. Fire drills and tornado drills are each practiced, and a record of dates and times for such drills are sent to the Superintendent’s office. This is in accordance with the Iowa Code. Students are expected to follow directions in an orderly manner
.
Crisis Procedures
In the event of an extreme crisis at St. Augustin Catholic School, emergency procedures are activated. The school maintains and frequently reviews its Crisis Intervention Manual. Student safety and well-being is at the core of all crisis procedures and decisions
.
Fire and Safety Drills
Drills at regular intervals are required by the law and are considered an important safety precaution. Safety drill instructions are posted in each classroom. Students should pay particular attention to posted regulations for fire and safety drills located in each classroom. During fire and safety drills, students are expected to be silent. School time lost, as a result of a false alarm, will be added to the end of the school day or to the next school day
.
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Non-authorized Persons
Non-authorized persons should not be in the school building or on the school premises at any time without authorization of the school building administrator. Teachers are obligated to inform the Principal of any intruders. Any intruder who interferes with school procedure may be compelled to leave the school premises, and if his/her activities or actions disrupt the orderly operation of the school, or disrupt the discipline and/or scholarly atmosphere, he/she may be subject to prosecution. Non-authorized persons are: Non-custodial parents, students from other schools or any person suspected of being on the school premises for any unauthorized purpose
.
Expectant Student Parent
In the event that a student becomes an expectant parent while attending St. Augustin Catholic School, the Board of Education recognizes the need for support and respect for the mother, father, and child. The life of the unborn and the need for the student parent to complete their education are paramount considerations
.
Several options will be offered to fulfill requirements for graduation from St. Augustin Catholic School; however, outside counseling in choosing an option is mandatory. Once the student and his/her parents are fully aware of the pregnancy, they should notify the student’s counselor and/or the Principal who will notify them of their options
.
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Before and After Care
The before and after-care program is a benefit offered at the school for parents who need child care assistance during the work week. Before-care is offered, beginning at 7:00 AM through 8:15 AM. After-care is offered, beginning immediately after school at 3:15 PM until 6:00 PM. Students may be dropped off and picked up by the cafeteria. During program hours, students are allowed to work on homework, read, do crafts, and play outside in good weather. Students participating in after-school activities in the building may leave the before and after-care program, with parental permission
.
Rates
Please submit monthly payments in a timely manner to avoid late fees. Payments should be put in an envelope with the child’s name on the outside. Make all checks payable to St. Augustin Catholic School. Payment is due on the first day of each month. A billing statement will be sent out the second Monday of each month. A late fee of $10.00 will be charged a week after the due date.
Full-Time: Mornings and Evenings:
Yearly (4% discount) Semester (2% discount) Monthly (9)
One child $1,925.00 $985.00 $225.00
Two children $3,055.00 $1,560.00 $355.00
Three or more $4,062.00 $2,135.00 $596.00
Five Mornings or Five Afternoons:
One child $160.00
Two children $295.00
Three or more $410.00
Occasional Drop-In Child Care:
$25.00 per day per child
$10.00 AM
$15.00 PM
$30.00 early dismissal
Registration Fee for 2008-09*:
Per child $25.00
*Pre-registration required of all families.
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COMMUNICATIONS
Calendar
The school calendar is published and distributed in May for the forthcoming school year. It is also included on our website and inserted in this handbook. Notification of changes will be made via the Friday folders, our monthly newsletter or on our website.
Change of Address or Phone Numbers
Please notify the school office promptly concerning any change of address, telephone number, or emergency information. This courtesy will help us keep our records in order
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Contacting Teachers
The school office is open from 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. during the school year. Teachers may be contacted during the school day by leaving a message in the school office to have the call returned when the teacher is free from classroom duties. Teachers may be contacted via email at any time.
Requests for parent conferences may be made by a parent through the office or by the office to discuss a student problem, or concerning a student’s attitude toward his/her school environment. This does not replace the scheduled parent/teacher conference, but is an additional conference
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Teachers are available to meet with parents by appointment. Any parent or visitor may visit the classrooms after appointments are cleared, and arrangements are made through the office. Please do not call teachers at home unless it is an emergency
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Deliveries
There will be no deliveries to students from third party vendors
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Edline
Parents with students in the middle school are able to check on their child’s academic progress through the use of Edline. Each family and student is provided a password, which allows them to find out their grade, check for missing assignments, and read any special notes a teacher may have included for their class. Parents and students alike are encouraged to check Edline often
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Emergency File
A special file is kept in the school office, which includes the names of persons to be notified if parents or guardians cannot be reached in case of an emergency. Please notify the office if there is a change in your family's emergency number
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Friday Folders
Each Friday, information is sent home with the youngest or only child in each family. Parents are to review the information and return the empty folder the following Monday. The folders are an important communication tool for our school. Information to be sent home in the Friday folders should be delivered to the school office no later than 9:00 AM Wednesday mornings. Much of the Family Folder information will be on the St. Augustin website
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Grievance Procedure for Parents
If a parent has a concern, they may resolve the concern by utilizing the grievance procedure as outlined below:
1. Contact the teacher involved with the problem
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2. If the problem is not resolved, contact the principal
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3. If parents are not satisfied following the meeting with the Principal, they may contact the President of the Board of Education to request a meeting with the Executive Committee of the Board of Education. Consisting of the President, Vice President, Secretary, and the Treasurer, this committee offers an intermediate step to resolving the problem. The meeting will be conducted in a manner allowing the parents, the teacher, and Principal to each present their respective positions concerning the matter.
4. If, for some reason, agreement cannot be reached at the Executive Committee level, the parents, teacher, and/or Principal may request a meeting with the full Board of Education. The Board meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM in the Parish library. The person who desires to speak at a Board meeting, should contact the Board President or the Principal five (5) days prior to the meeting date to be placed on the agenda
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Mass
Opportunities for liturgies planned for and by the children are offered
bi-weekly and published in the Church bulletin and school newsletter. Guests are welcome. There is a daily Mass at the Church at 8:00 a.m. for those who wish to attend. Students are not considered tardy if they have attended 8:00 Mass
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Newsletters
The Principal sends newsletters to parent's homes once a month. As a rule, other notices will be sent home with the oldest child in each family, or mailed to the home.
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Non-Custodial Parents
The law holds that parents do not cease to be parents when they no longer have custody of their children. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding the child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order. We ask that all divorced parents furnish our school with a copy of the custodial section of the divorce decree. This information will help us in determining when, if ever, the child can be released to the non-custodial parent
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Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled twice per year, after the first and midterm third academic quarters. Of course, parents or teachers may request other times in addition to these
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Reporting Allegations of Abuse
St. Augustin Catholic School employees are prohibited from using physical abuse on students. Students who wish to allege abuse from a St. Augustin employee can report the alleged abuse to any one of the following individuals: Dr. Nancy Dowdle, Principal of St. Augustin Catholic School, Mrs. Pat Hogan, Assistant Principal of St. Augustin Catholic School, or Mrs. Ellen Stemler, Principal of St. Theresa School.
Telephone and Messages
Please make arrangements for after-school activities with your child before he/she comes to school. Students will not be permitted to use the telephone during school hours, except in emergency situations. If it is necessary to contact a student, please leave phone messages for teachers or students BEFORE 2:30 PM, when possible
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Website
St. Augustin Catholic School maintains a website at www.staugustinschool.org. The website is an excellent source for school information. 29
DISCIPLINE POLICY
Discipline is defined as the training that develops self-control, character, and orderly conduct, as well as acceptance of, or submission to, authority and control. The home and school must work in such a way that children learn to help each person to live the truth of Christ, that he/she may be trained to conduct his/her personal life in the sanctity of truth, and to develop capacity to transform the world, and that he/she may be equipped and inspired to promote Christian transformation of the world
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The Documents of Vatican II tell us that respect for law and order should be instilled in the minds of children and be expected from the behavior of all youth. The ultimate goal is a responsible person capable of self-control and capable of the initiative to creatively attain the goals for Catholic education. Good training in character traits originates in the home because the parent is the first teacher of the child. It is the parents' obligation, by teaching and by example, to develop in the child good habits of behavior, as well as proper attitudes toward the school.
The students at St. Augustin Catholic School are entitled to learn and develop in a setting which promotes respect for self, others, and property. The school environment should encourage academic and social maturation and should promote the dignity and worth of each student in preparation for the responsibilities of adulthood. Learning should occur in a setting that affirms and fosters the total well being of each person - physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual. School administration, staff members, parents, and students are charged with cooperating to develop mature, healthy, and responsible individuals capable of self-control.
Definition
School discipline is the guidance of the conduct of students in a way that permits the orderly and efficient operation of the school, i.e. the maintenance of a scholarly, disciplined atmosphere to achieve maximum educational benefits for all students. The students at are entitled to learn and develop in a setting which promotes respect of self, others, and property
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Breach of Discipline
A breach of discipline is any conduct of students that interferes with the maintenance of school discipline. Acts of behavior which tend to conflict with the educational program or which are antagonistic to the welfare of other students cannot be tolerated. Insubordination and gross misbehavior are incompatible with good citizenship and good government. Examples of different classifications of breach of discipline are:
Temper tantrums that disrupt a class.
* Bully-type of behavior
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* Open defiance involving refusal to conform to the rules and regulations, profane and obscene language, obscene gestures, loud and boisterous conduct that disturbs the orderly, efficient, and disciplined atmosphere and operation of the school, refusal to comply with the request or direction of teachers, administrators, or other school personnel
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* Willful disobedience
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* Continuous breaking of school rules
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* Physical attack on others or threats of physical attack, physical violence, or other threats (see Addendum)
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* The use, possession, purchase, or sale of alcoholic beverages, drugs, or drug paraphernalia
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* Possession of weapons, such as guns, knives, fireworks, or other dangerous objects (see Addendum)
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* Personal misbehavior, such as extortion or intimidation
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* Display of racial bigotry or intolerance
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* Violations of the Criminal Code of Iowa
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* Documented cases of incorrigible conduct within the classroom or on school premises
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* Willful destruction of parish/school property, or personal property of teachers and/or students.
* Setting fires or false alarms
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* Possession and/or use of tobacco products
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* Violating the dress code
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* Swearing
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* Stealing
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* Public displays of affection
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* Sexual harassment (see Addendum)
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* Weapons (see Addendum)
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* Knives of any kind – Boy Scout, etc
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* Use of elevator without permission
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* Use of science shower/eye wash without permission.
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Repercussions for Breach of Discipline Policy
The following possible actions are authorized in all cases of breach of school discipline regulation:
• DETENTION will be during non-academic time (recess, lunch, before or after school). One after-school detention missed equals two (2) detentions. Two (2) missed detentions equal a Saturday detention. Students have two (2) opportunities to serve the Saturday. If they are unable to be at either, the student will serve an in-school suspension. Students who are sent out of class and to the office by a teacher because of disruptive behavior will receive an automatic Saturday detention. In addition, students who are listed as behavior problems by a substitute teacher and those who are disruptive at the Art Center will also receive a Saturday detention
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• EXCLUSION FROM CLASS ACTIVITIES, with the approval of the Principal (or designee), for a short period of time
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• FINES may be collected for infractions of some rules: gum, vandalism, lost books (text and/or library books), dress code, etc. Fines are to be paid in the office
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• CONFERENCING may be required involving parent(s), teacher(s), student, and/or administrator/designee
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• IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION may be assigned by the Principal or designee. Parents will be notified in a timely manner. In some instances, the student may have to remain at home until the Student Assistance Team has time to meet. First offense – No homework/test penalty. Second offense – Fifty percent (50%) will be the highest grade possible for the missed homework/tests. Third offense – The student will be referred to the Student Assistance Team.
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• SUSPENSION OF THE STUDENT TO HIS HOME, with the approval of the Principal (or designee), for a period of time not to exceed five (5) school days. The Pastor and Board of Education President will be notified in a timely manner. Suspension of the student to his/her home is intended to acquaint the parents with the
• seriousness of the disciplinary problems and to secure their cooperation in solving them. The suspended student will not be readmitted to school unless a parent confers with the Principal.
• AUTOMATIC SUSPENSION will be given to any student exhibiting any of the following behaviors: Smoking or drinking alcohol, possession of any illegal substance, possession of a dangerous weapon, pushing, shoving, hitting, spitting, or intimidation of a teacher or student, use of shower/eye wash in the science room, or verbal or written threats to another student, teacher, or school. The suspension may be served in and out of school, as the situation dictates. This list of behaviors is not all-inclusive, and, in some instances, further punishment may be warranted. Repeated offences may result in expulsion. In any case of violent behavior, the proper authorities will be notified, and expulsion may result
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• EXPULSION shall be made only by the majority vote of the Board of Education, upon the recommendation of the Principal. A student may be expelled from school for breach of discipline, violation of the regulations and rules established by the Board, or when the presence of the student is detrimental to the best interests of the school. In addition, the Board may expel any incorrigible child or any student whose presence in school would be injurious to the health or morals of other students or to the welfare of the school
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At the time of expulsion, the Board may determine whether the student should have access to programs or whether the student should be excluded from all programs of the school
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Every consideration will be made in order to avoid expulsion of a student from St. Augustin Catholic School. This may include referring the student and his or her family to a local community resource for counseling. Readmission after expulsion may not take place for one semester, and only with the explicit permission of the Board of Education.
Enforcement
Discipline control of students will be exercised: while on parish/school premises, While on school-owned and operated school buses or on chartered buses, and while engaged in related school activities and functions, such as approved field trips, tours, and extra-curricular activities, such as sports, band, and chorus. Conduct of students away from the school grounds is subject to school discipline if it directly affects the good order, efficiency, management, and welfare of the school. The discipline policy applies to children using the before and after-care program and religious education programs.
It is the policy of St. Augustin Catholic School to administer a discipline that is respectful, related, and reasonable. All efforts will be made to ensure that the discipline is consistent with the goals and objectives described above, and also consistently applied to all who commit the same or comparable offense. Repeated offenses by the same student may warrant a more significant sanction
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The selection of an appropriate sanction will be made by the teacher witnessing the violation or occasionally after consulting with another teacher or the Principal. The before and after-care director and religious education coordinator are in charge of administering the policy during their respective programs. All students are expected to comply with the discipline imposed, and parents are expected to do the same
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On occasion the Principal, or designee, may convene the Student Assistance Team consisting of four (4) faculty members and the Principal to hear the facts involved in a student's infraction of a St. Augustin policy. The Assistance Team will make recommendations to the Principal for consequences to be applied to the student. When a student is going to be brought before the Assistance Team for an alleged breach of policy, he/she will be notified by the Principal, or designee, of the alleged violation. After
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the Assistance Team meets, and the recommendations to the Principal have been made, the student will be notified, in writing, of the consequences and the rule violations that necessitated them.
Parents who question the policy of imposing a particular sanction under specific factual circumstances should utilize the grievance procedures.
Restraint and Physical Force- Teacher to Student
Restraint is the act of physically controlling or directing the actions of a student. The teachers and Principal are free to use reasonable and appropriate means of restraint, as may be necessary, to prevent a student from harming himself/herself or another, or to prevent a breach of discipline to compel compliance with the Discipline Policy. Restraint should not cause serious or permanent harm. Deliberately striking a student is specifically prohibited. Factors determining reasonable and appropriate actions are: Age, physical stature and strength of the student, previous history, maturity of the student, seriousness of the infraction, apparent motive and state of mind, the nature of the danger to the student or the nature of the danger to another. Whenever physical contact, reasonable force in self defense, or physical restraint is used, it shall be reported immediately to the Principal (or designee), and parent(s) shall be notified
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Restraint and Physical Force -Student to Student
If there is any physical contact, the student will be given an in-school suspension. This includes students who state they were defending themselves. At some point, the student had a choice to walk away from the situation. They chose not to. The student who chooses to walk away, depending on the severity of the situation, could file assault charges
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Searches
The law as to private schools and search and seizure is clear. A private school, while respecting a student's and employee's property, may, nonetheless, with or without probable cause, search a person’s locker, books, bags, and other possessions, since the search is not conducted by "public" authorities as opposed to "private" authorities. That is to say that search and seizure may happen at a private institution without Constitutional
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safeguards. It is the policy of St. Augustin Catholic School to respect peoples' Constitutional rights and to balance those rights against the responsibility of the school to insure a drug-free environment
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With respect to due process, the due process clause of the state and United States Constitutions does not impact on the private school setting. St. Augustin Catholic School may suspend or terminate a student's attendance with or without due process. As used here in due process, it contemplates a hearing and notice prior to a student being deprived of any significant right. It is the policy of St. Augustin Catholic School that due process does not limit in any way the ability of St. Augustin Catholic School to suspend or expel any student it deems undesirable. Hearing and notice are gratuitous and are not mandatory under St. Augustin policy
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These policies are intended to acknowledge that the school and parish are ultimately responsible for the environment and atmosphere at the school and are not subject to public authorities.
Student Search
In the interest of maintaining the health, safety, and good order of the school environment, students shall not have items of contraband in their possession or control on school grounds, in school vehicles, or while attending school activities or events. Items of contraband are: Controlled substances which have not been validly prescribed, apparatus used for the administration of controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, weapons, explosive poisons, stolen property, or other devices or material which are intended to interfere with school order. Certified school employees may, without a warrant, search a student, a student's belongings, student's locker, desk, work area, or vehicle under the circumstances outlined below in order to maintain the safety, health, discipline, and order of the school environment
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Searches of students, their clothing, pocketbooks, briefcases, book bags, duffel bags, or other personal containers in the immediate proximity of the student, and searches of lockers, desks, and other work stations which a student may lock (except for periodic inspections) will be conducted if there is a reasonable suspicion that a criminal offense or a school rule (including
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the rule prohibiting possession of contraband) has been violated by the student(s) being searched, and that the search will produce
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