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Maria Regina School

4045 Jerusalem Ave Seaford, NY 11783

(516) 541-1229

SCHOOL HANDBOOK 2019-2020

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Maria Regina School 4045 Jerusalem Ave Seaford, NY 11783

Mrs. Leona Arpino Principal

Rev. Frank Nelson

Pastor

Mrs. Mary Wheeler Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Beth West School Secretary

Phone: (516) 541-1229

Fax: (516) 541-1235

Health Office: (516) 541-1243

Parish office: (516) 798-2415

www.mariareginaschool.org

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MARIA REGINA SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

Maria Regina School is dedicated to Mary, the Queen of Heaven. Maria Regina School, founded in 1962, provides opportunities, resources, and an

environment built on an educationally sound, faith-filled foundation. This foundation is based on the teachings of Jesus and Catholic values. Maria

Regina School offers an intellectually integrated curriculum supporting social, emotional, physical, and spiritual values that encourages each

individual to become life-long learners and responsible citizens in an ever-changing and global society.

PHILOSOPHY OF MARIA REGINA SCHOOL

The philosophy of Maria Regina School is to provide for the education and gradual growth and development of the whole child, spiritually, intellectually, socially,

emotionally, and physically, meeting the needs of the individual within a Catholic Christian atmosphere centered on Christ. A child’s beliefs, attitudes, values,

and behavior are developed by his/her parents who are the child’s first and foremost educators. Maria Regina School aims to provide the child with a climate

where faith, trust, and love for God and others are encouraged, lived, and witnessed in his/her life.

BELIEFS OF MARIA REGINA SCHOOL

We, the educators of Maria Regina School believe:

Each child has unique talents, educational needs, and diverse learning styles that will develop at individual rates in an academically challenging environment.

Parents are the child’s first and foremost educators.

In the growth and development of the whole child: spiritually, intellectually, social, emotionally, and physically.

Each child has the ability to reach his or her full potential in a safe and secure environment.

It is our goal to foster each child’s self-esteem based upon reverence, respect, and responsibility.

In Catholic values, morals, traditions, and attitudes and in modeling as a Catholic witness of Christ.

Each child should be provided with an environment in which faith, love, and trust in God and others is nurtured, lived, and witnessed in daily life.

In encouraging each student to make responsible moral decisions.

Parents and educators share the responsibility of creating an environment that will nourish and accept the gift of faith, through attendance at weekly Mass and

reception of the sacraments.

Each educator, parent, and student will be responsible digital citizens in an ever-changing and global society.

DIOCESAN STATEMENT

Maria Regina Grammar School is operated in full accord with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church (the “Church”), subject first and foremost and at all times to

the Church’s moral, ethical, canonical and religious precepts as interpreted by the parish pastor, subject to the Diocesan Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of

Rockville Centre (the “Diocesan Bishop”) and applied by the school administration. The Diocesan Bishop is the final arbiter of the interpretation and application of such

precepts to all aspects of school life. These precepts shall be the guiding principles and law upon which the entire life of the school shall be understood.

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ADMISSION POLICY Maria Regina does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, and other school-administered programs. However, siblings of children already in attendance and parish children have first access to admission. All new students entering Maria Regina School are on probation for the first year. Continued academic and/or behavioral difficulties will be cause for dismissal.

ATTENDANCE If your child will be late or absent from school, a parent or guardian MUST:

Call the School Nurse 541-1243 to report the absence and/or request homework by 8:30 am, NO EXCEPTIONS Submit an absence note upon child’s return to school - *Note must state dates and reasons for the absence or lateness

SINCE THE SCHOOL CANNOT CONDONE ILLEGAL ABSENCES, WORK WILL NOT BE PROVIDED FOR STUDENTS OUT ON VACATION. ANY STUDENT ABSENT DURING THE SCHOOL DAY MAY NOT PARTICIPATE IN AFTER SCHOOL OR EVENING ACTIVITIES. The teacher’s page on our website will have homework posted daily. It is the students/parents responsibility to check the website.

PARENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO GO TO THE CLASSROOMS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY; THIS INTERRUPTS THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS AND SAFETY OF THE CHILDREN. LATENESS: School hours for Grades K-8 are 8:00 AM – 2:35 PM. Doors open at 8:00 AM; students are considered late after 8:15 AM. Homeroom begins at 8:15 AM. ANY STUDENT WHO ARRIVES LATE WILL RECEIVE A LATE SLIP – K – GR. 8 - THREE (3) LATE SLIPS WILL RESULT IN A STUDENT DEMERIT – Grades 5-8 ARRIVAL: Nursery Drop off at door near Parish Center at 8:20 AM. They will be met by the teacher assistant.

Pre-K Drop off at back East/West door at 8:20 am. They will be met by the teacher assistant. After 8:30 students are considered late and must enter at the Main Office.

Kindergarten – 8: Walkers Drop off in front of building. Students enter the building at the flagpole door at 8:00 a.m. Bus Students Students arriving by bus will enter at the East/West doors at 8:00 a.m.

Door closes at 8:15 a.m. After 8:15 a.m. students will be considered LATE and must enter at the Main Office.

NOTE: ON SCHOOL DAYS, CARS WILL NOT HAVE ACCESS TO THE BACK PARKING LOT UNTIL AFTER 8:15 AM.

DISMISSAL: If it is necessary for your child to leave school early, a note must have parent’s signature and be sent to the teacher and authorized by the office. You must sign him/her out in the main office.

If you are late picking up your child, your child/children will be brought to After Care and a fee will be charged. CHANGES IN DISMISSAL: Parents must send a note to school in the morning if they wish to change their child’s dismissal procedure. Only students that receive the approval of the main office may change their way home. This request must only be made in an emergency situation.

At dismissal, the back gate will open at 2:20 pm. Parents must meet all walkers at the back doors of the school at 2:35. After 2:45 students will be brought to After Care. Walkers: Parent’s picking up their child as walkers must enter and exit through back gate since buses are in the

driveway and we can insure the safety of all children. Nursery: Breezeway between school and Pastoral Center. Students will be dismissed at 2:20. After 2:30 doors will be

closed and students must be picked up at After Care. Pre-K: East/West door in the back parking lot

Grades K-8: East door in the back parking lot Students may only return through the main office to get forgotten homework items.

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BUS CONDUCT: Students are to observe the following regulations: Students are accountable to policy of district for bus conduct. The district has the right to suspend students for not following bus policy.

Be courteous and cooperative with the driver and each other.

Observe the same conduct with one another as is expected on school property.

Do not use profane or vulgar language.

Do not eat or drink on the bus. Snack machines may only be used for after school activities.

Keep the bus clean.

Stay in the seat and use the seat belt.

Students may only ride on their assigned district bus.

Permission is needed from the district and the parent for a student to ride on a non-assigned home district bus.

BUS TRANSPORTATION Transportation is a school district service and is provided by home district. Please refer all questions and problems to your district.

Amityville – 631-565-6021 Freeport – 867-5220 No. Bellmore – 992-3000 x 314

Bellmore – 679-2907 Hicksville – 733-2185 Plainedge – 992-7490

Bellmore-Merrick – 992-1025 Island Trees – 520-2112 Uniondale – 560-8806

Bethpage – 644-4040 Levittown – 520-8340 X 0 Seaford – 592-4016

Copiague – 631-842-4015 X529 East Meadow – 478-5772 Massapequa – 308-5065

No. Merrick – 292-3696 Farmingdale – 434-5115 Merrick – 992-7285

Bayshore – 631-968-1118 Wantagh – 679-6324 Lindenhurst – 631-867-3050

All requests for bus transportation must be submitted to the district by April 1. Insurance regulations dictate that students from one district may not

ride the bus of another district. The school does NOT have the authority to grant this permission. Letters with this request cannot be honored.

PLEASE NOTE: A NOTE MUST BE SENT TO SCHOOL IF A CHILD IS NOT TO TAKE THE BUS HOME OR IF A CHILD IS GOING HOME WITH SOMEONE OTHER THAN HIS/HER PARENT.

TEACHERS CANNOT HONOR VERBAL REQUESTS FROM CHILDREN OR PARENTS.

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Maria Regina School Code of Christian Conduct

Goal: Maria Regina School is dedicated to providing a comprehensive education in a secure and safe environment. Students are expected to respect each other, and all school

employees, volunteers and school property to ensure an optimum learning environment. Respect for the dignity of all is an obligation for students, faculty, and administration. Maria Regina School is guided by the NYS Dignity Act for all students.

Maria Regina School has a long-standing set of expectations for conduct on school property and at school functions. These expectations are based on the principles of Christian morality

which include caring, compassion, forgiveness and virtuous behavior, as well as character development which includes courtesy, citizenship, tolerance, honesty, cooperation, self-

discipline and responsibility.

In accordance with our school goal that each child shows respect, responsibility, and reverence on a daily basis, there are positive rewards in place. The school recognizes the need to

clearly define expectations for acceptable conduct on school property, to identify the possible consequences for unacceptable conduct and to ensure that discipline, when necessary, is

administered promptly and fairly. The Code of Christian Conduct is intended to help parents inform their children of basic rights, responsibilities, and consequences attached to

misconduct.

The Code of Christian Conduct is effective during the following times and in the following places: At school or on school property.

Off school grounds at any school activity (including field trips), function, or event and while traveling to and from such events.

On vehicles provided for student transportation by various districts.

During a fire drill or emergency drills.

Students may also be disciplined for behavior off the school property which may pose a threat to the school’s learning environment or the safety of the students and employees. All students shall be governed by the policies, regulations and rules set forth in the code. All parents are encouraged to become familiar with the code and support their child’s compliance with the code. The principal is the final recourse in all disciplinary situations and may waive any disciplinary rule for just cause at the Principal’s discretion.

General Regulations which apply to all students:

Students are expected to respect each other and all school employees, volunteers, visitors, and school property.

Students are required to follow the dress code as outlined in the uniform policy.

Students will observe individual teacher’s classroom rules that may include possession of necessary supplies, completion of homework, class work and projects.

Students will comply with rules established for the cafeteria and the playground.

Students are required to arrive at school no later than 8:15 a.m.

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Disciplinary Action will be considered for the following offenses, but is not limited to:

Disrespectful conduct toward any member of the faculty, staff, parent volunteer or persons attending school related functions.

Any behavior based on a student’s race, national origin, sex or disability that is unwelcome, unwanted and /or uninvited by the recipient, including verbal taunting,

inappropriate physical contact and unwelcome sexual advances.

Fighting in class, halls, playground, and buses or on school trips.

Deliberate destruction of school property or the property of other students.

Use of profane, vulgar or obscene words or gestures.

Cheating on school assignments or tests, lying or stealing, including forgery of parents’/guardians’ signatures or changing test grades or altering any student work at

any time, in any way.

Possession or use of a weapon or dangerous instrument.

Possession, sale, or use of alcohol, drugs or any other controlled substance, before, during or after school, on school grounds, buses or in proximity of school or at

school sponsored activities.

Bullying of another with threats or display of force.

Disruptive behavior during class thereby causing a lesson to be disrupted.

Inappropriate behavior during recess affecting the safety of others.

Chewing gum within the school building or on the school grounds.

Disciplinary Procedures:

When it is necessary to impose discipline, the principal and teachers will follow a progressive discipline process according to the severity of the behavior. The following disciplinary

actions may be imposed for any violation of the Code of Christian Conduct:

Warning, reprimand by a teacher, possible separation from situation or class.

Recess detention.

Behavioral Demerit warning will be sent home to be signed and returned the next school day.

Failure to sign a demerit does not negate it. It remains a demerit.

Three demerits result in an after school detention, and it may be reflected on the personal growth area of the assessment card.

Detention will be served following the issue of the third demerit from 2:45-3:45 p.m.

Repeated detentions will require a principal’s conference in which students may lose privileges such as class trips, assemblies or other functions. This will take

place with the principal, teacher, parent, and student.

Academic demerits will be issued for the following, but not limited to, being unprepared for class, incomplete or no homework/assignments, and late for class.

Students who are missing homework or assignments will complete the assignment at recess on the day it was due. An accumulation of 3 demerits will result in an

after school detention. Parents will be given sufficient notice as to when the detention is to be served and are expected to furnish transportation after detention.

If students are not picked up immediately after detention, they will be sent to After Care and a fee will be charged and due at pick up.

Mandatory conference with student, parents, teacher, and principal with possible in-school or out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Instant detention will be served for physical bullying and/or harassment, lying, cheating, or using vulgar language.

If a student repeatedly violates school policy, he/she may be required to withdraw from the school community.

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The Principal must inform the student of the alleged misconduct and must investigate, to the extent necessary, the facts surrounding the alleged misconduct. All students will have an opportunity to present their version of the facts to the principal in connection with the imposition of the consequences (ex. suspension, expulsion). In school suspension requires that parents be notified by phone or in person at a conference. Longer suspensions involve the same notification of the time and place of the hearing. Documentation will be provided. School officials may search a student or his/her belongings if the authorized official has reasonable suspicion that a search will result in evidence that a student violated the Code of Christian Conduct. School officials also have a responsibility to notify Child Protection Services when they have reasonable cause to suspect that a student has been abused or mistreated by anyone. Disciplinary measures will only be effective if the school has the wholehearted cooperation of the parents. The parents’ attitude and respect for school authority and the parents’ appreciation for the efforts of the school will be reflected in the attitude of the students. Parents cannot rely on the school alone to build character, nor should the school expect parents to be solely responsible for character development. We must work together so that virtuous behavior becomes second nature to our children.

Termination of the Educational Relationship Due to Parent and/or Legal Guardian Behavior: The educational relationship between the school and a student is also an educational relationship with a student’s parent and/or legal guardian. Where, in the discretion of the school, the behavior, attitude or conduct of a parent and/or legal guardian is of such an uncooperative, destructive, or disruptive nature that the ability of the school to manage the relationship with the student’s parent and/or legal guardian is significantly impaired, a parent and/or legal guardian may be required to withdraw his/her child or children from the school.

CLASS ASSIGNMENT: We cannot make any guarantees as to placement with a particular classroom teacher and WILL NOT ACCEPT REQUESTS FOR PLACEMENT WITH A NAMED TEACHER. Our ultimate concern is to determine the best possible placement for each child, so as to insure the maximum educational benefit for all our students. Student placement in a class is based on many factors, such as: academic strengths and weaknesses, learning styles, social needs, group interaction dynamics, and personality styles.

CLASS PARENT: The class parents are liaisons between the teacher and parents of the students. The class parent assists the teacher in conveying messages. On occasion they will be asked to arrange class parties.

COMMITMENT OF TIME: Maria Regina depends on the many helping hands of our parent volunteers. In order to keep tuition costs and the parish subsidy as low as possible, your support and help at fundraisers and other activities is vital. In the back of this handbook is a form for each family to use to keep a record of their volunteer hours. When your family has completed its commitment of time, please copy the form at the end of this handbook and return it to the principal. Parents unable to commit to time will pay a fee of $300 ($15 per hour). Parents should contact the Parent’s Association President for ideas of how to fulfill this commitment. Please remember that the commitment of time year begins on September 1 and ends on August 31.

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CUSTODIAL ISSUES: If, in cases of divorced parents, the divorce decree states that a child may not be released to a non-custodial parent, it is the parent’s obligation to inform the administration and the teachers and furnish the school with an updated and official copy of the custody section of the divorce decree. Orders of protection should also be brought to the attention of the administration and teachers and copies should be on file.

AT THE BEGINNING OF EACH SCHOOL YEAR, THE PARENT SHOULD NOTIFY THE MAIN OFFICE THAT THESE PAPERS ARE ON FILE. It is the responsibility of the parent each year to be sure that they are updated. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, we will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school related information regarding their child. If there is a court order specifying that information is not to be shared, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order.

EMERGENCY CARDS: Please be sure that TWO Emergency Cards are submitted for each child in attendance at Maria Regina School. These cards must be accurate and up-to-date, especially cell phone numbers and employment phone numbers. If moving or changing employment, please make the necessary changes by contacting the school nurse and school office. Please be sure to include the names of people who are permitted to sign your child out of school and/or bring your child home from school. The names of these people should be updated as necessary.

Under no circumstances will a student be released without the WRITTEN authorization of a parent nor will they be released to someone without photo I.D.

EXTENDED CARE PROGRAMS:

In an effort to serve all of our families, we offer “Before” and “After” Care Programs. Please call the office at 541-1229 to register and to obtain the fee schedules. You must re-register each year to use the programs.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING: In the event that school is closed because of storms, heavy snowfalls, or any other emergency, information will be broadcast on our school website www.mariareginaschool.org. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL. Unnecessary phone calls during inclement weather impede the smooth operation of the school office. Please watch TV; CABLEVISION CHANNEL 12. You will also receive a phone call from School Messenger on the phone number you provide informing you of the school’s closing. Since Plainedge is our local public school district, listen for a Plainedge School district closing. Maria Regina School will not open if Plainedge is closed due to severe weather conditions. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE RECTORY. If the Plainedge school district announces a delayed opening, Maria Regina School will follow the delayed opening time table. The Before Care Program will not be in session that day. In the event of an emergency, when students must be sent home, please instruct your child who he/she should call if we cannot contact the people listed on the emergency cards.

FIELD TRIP POLICY: Trips are scheduled for educational and recreational purposes. They are a privilege to be earned. The student must have a permission slip signed by the parent in order to participate. No student is permitted to leave the school grounds without one.

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FOOD SERVICES: All students eat lunch in school. The lunch program offers a variety of main entrée items, as well as a selection of snacks and drinks. The cost of lunch, snacks and drinks is minimal. The children may also bring lunch from home. Glass bottles, soda, and gum may never be brought to school.

***Lunches purchased from outside sources, ex. Burger King, McDonald’s, deli’s, etc. are NOT PERMITTED.

GROWTH IN FAITH: Religious education is taught and practiced daily. Family Life is also an integral component of our religion program. Students are given the opportunity to receive the Sacraments and celebrate a monthly Mass as a school community. The staff takes our obligation to "Keep Holy the Lord's Day" very seriously. All Catholic students who attend the school are expected to attend Mass weekly on Saturday evening or on Sunday. Parents are asked to cooperate with us in the fulfillment of their child’s obligation. Please check web site for the Mass schedule: www.mariaregina.com. Prayers are recited daily and students visit the church for the Stations of the Cross during Lent. The teachers plan prayer services in the classroom.

NON-CATHOLIC STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO FULFILL THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE RELIGION CURRICULUM

HEALTH SERVICES: All children in grades K to 8 are provided health services in accordance with state requirements. Kindergarten children, new students and all students in Grades 1, 3, and 7 are required to undergo a physical examination by the school doctor or their family physician. If the child is to be examined by your family doctor, please return the medical form provided by the Health Department to the school nurse by October 5th. Eye, ear and scoliosis screenings are done throughout the school year. CHILDREN MAY NOT COME TO CLASS WITHOUT UPDATED IMMUNIZATIONS. Children should have yearly dental examinations.

HOMEWORK: In our effort to provide an education that will meet the varying needs of all students, it is the policy of the school to assign directed written and study homework beyond the regular school day. Students are expected to complete these assignments each night. Properly designated homework, carefully planned and geared to the development of the individual student meets a real need and has a definite place in the educational program. It is assigned to help the student become more self-reliant, learn to work independently, improve the skills that have been taught, and complete worthwhile books, projects or research. It is very important that the parents provide a good atmosphere for work at home. A specific place should be set-aside for the student. Parents should observe the child at work and be available to give guidance if the need arises. However, self-direction is one of the major goals of homework and parents should encourage students to become more and more independent. Please note, the times are approximations and may vary due to a child’s work pace and assignments each night. The following approximate time guidelines for written and study homework are strongly encouraged for each grade level: Kindergarten – 20 minutes daily, Grades 1 & 2 - 30 minutes daily, Grade 3 - 30 to 45 minutes daily, Grade 4 & 5 - 45 to 90 minutes daily, Grade 7 & 8 - 90 to 120 minutes daily. Teachers post their homework and projects on their class pages on our web site. Additional time is required to study for tests and to work on projects. These projects can be in the form of posters, book reports, or research projects. Time should also be set aside each evening for quiet reading. Students who fail to do their homework will spend their recess time completing it. Since the Internet is used in school for many assignments, the school Internet Use Policy will be distributed to all students as a separate contract between Maria Regina School and the student/parent. A copy will be kept on file.

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INSURANCE: The Diocese of Rockville Centre insures all students. This insurance coverage is now mandatory. The cost for this is included in the Curriculum/Supply fee for grades K to 8 and in the registration fee for Nursery and Pre-K students.

MEDICATION: The nurse under the following conditions may administer medication:

1. If a parent is unable to come to the school and has given written permission. 2. A doctor’s note describing the medication, the amount, and the time and manner of administration must be on file. 3. A note signed by the doctor and the parent giving the nurse permission to administer the medication must also be on file. In the event that a child must take a non-prescriptive drug during the school day, a note from the parent is required. Any medication brought to school should be limited in general, to the quantity to be taken during the school day. All medications must be kept in and distributed from the nurse’s office.

MESSAGES: Parents are requested to recognize our obligation to interrupt classes as little as possible. We will not interrupt classes during the school day unless there is an emergency. Students are not permitted to use the school telephone without the principal’s permission. In an effort to develop personal responsibility and independence in our students, we do not permit children to call home for forgotten items except for eyeglasses and band instruments. Once students are dismissed for the day, they may return to school for homework items only.

PARENT PORTAL: Parents are expected to view their children’s progress through the Parent Portal on PowerSchool. The log on names and passwords are available at the beginning of the school year. If a parent has a question about assignments or grades, he/she should contact his/her child’s teacher for a phone conference or for an appointment to meet to discuss these issues. PARENT – TEACHER MEETINGS: In the early part of September, parents are invited to attend “Meet the Teacher Night”. At this time we will explain this year’s program. The formal Parent/Teacher Conference is scheduled in December for all students, Nursery through grade 8. Requested conferences are scheduled for March for grades N to 8. Parents and teachers may schedule additional conferences as needed. PLEASE NOTE: PARENTS MAY NOT CONFERENCE WITH TEACHERS WHILE THEY ARE ON LUNCH OR ARRIVAL OR DISMISSAL DUTY, NOR IN THE CLASSROOM WITH THE CHILDREN PRESENT. APPOINTMENTS MUST BE MADE AT ALL TIMES. PRE-KINDERGARTEN AND NURSERY PROGRAM: We at Maria Regina believe that Early Childhood should be a time of fun, warmth, security, explorations, and discovery. Our purpose is to provide an atmosphere that encourages social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth and development of the whole child. We do this through developmentally appropriate activities, which emphasize the process and not the product. It is our hope, that through this Early Childhood experience, our children will develop a life-long love for learning. They will also be introduced to their Catholic faith and simple prayers. Nursery age requirement: 3 years old by December 1st, Pre-Kindergarten age requirement: 4 years old by December 1st. All children must be toilet trained.

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PROMOTION/RETENTION POLICY: We want every child to succeed in school. However, sometimes there are delays that necessitate additional time spent in a particular grade. Consultation with the principal, teacher, and parent, will determine retention, attendance at summer school, and reception of a diploma. The major subjects are Religion, Language Arts, Science, Math, and Social Studies.

GRADES SIX AND SEVEN:

Students receiving a Level 1 in any major subject may be required to attend summer school, private tutoring, or may be retained. Proof of the tutor’s certification and hourly documentation of hours completed must be submitted in September.

GRADE EIGHT: Students will receive the school diploma upon the successful completion of all major subjects in the final marking column of the report card.

Students failing one subject may attend the graduation ceremony and must attend summer school and pass that course in order to be awarded their diploma. Records from their high schools will not be sent from Maria Regina School until this is satisfied.

Students failing two or more subjects may not attend the graduation activities and must attend summer school and pass those courses in order to be awarded their diploma, again, no records are released.

Students failing more than 2 subjects may be retained.

REGISTRATION POLICY:

1. Each NEW student entering Maria Regina in Grades Nursery through 8th will pay a registration fee of $150.00. 2. There will be a re-registration fee of $60.00 for all students promoted to Pre-K and to the Kindergarten classes every school year. 3. There will be a non-refundable, non-transferable $200 deposit fee per family required for all children returning in grades Pre-Kindergarten to 8 for

the following year. This fee will be deducted from the first tuition payment in August. 4. Siblings of students already in the school have first priority registering as new admissions. Parishioners have second priority. Non-parishioners

and non-Catholics have third priority. 5. Physical examinations are due to the Health Office between June 1st and September 1st.

***No child will be permitted in school without up to date immunizations.

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMS: The Catechetical Leaders from the Religious Education office will announce all parent meeting dates as well as the actual dates for the reception of the Sacraments of Penance and Eucharist in Grade 2 and Confirmation in Grade 8.

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SAFETY/SECURITY: The safety of our children and staff is a genuine concern.

1. School doors must be locked at all times.

2. All visitors must enter and sign in at the main lobby door or office and get approval before going to their destination with a visitor name

tag displayed.

3. All cleaning materials used in the school building will have an EPA approval.

4. There will be no spraying of pesticides in the school building at any time.

5. All pesticides used out on the lawn and bushes will be approved by the EPA.

6. The school community will be notified in advance of the dates for outside spraying.

7. In compliance with the U.S. EPA Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, an accredited inspector conducts triennial building

inspections. An accredited management planner reviews the results and recommendations. All asbestos materials in this school are in

good condition and will continue to be managed in place. Results of the re-inspection are on file in the school office for your review.

SCHOOL RULES (CLASSROOM, RECESS, LUNCHROOM, TRIPS):

1. Students are to be respectful of all adults and each other.

2. Yelling and shouting are never permitted.

3. Students are to obey the lunchroom teachers and staff.

4. Students are never permitted to run in the classroom, hallways, or on the stairs.

5. Students may not throw food or lunch boxes, or take another’s food or damage someone’s lunch. It is the student’s responsibility to

clean their personal lunch area.

6. Gum chewing is never permitted.

7. iPads, iPods, cell phones, Apple watches and any electronic equipment are not permitted in school during the school day or on the bus.

These items should remain turned off in their backpacks during school hours. They should only be used for an emergency on the bus. In addition,

filming a video in school or at school events or on a school bus, and/or posting it to the internet is prohibited.

8. Any “novelties of the day” are not permitted in school (i.e. spinners, fidgets, etc.)

9. Hats are never worn in school except on special occasions and with the permission of the Principal.

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CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES: The administration and faculty of Maria Regina School encourage parents to have students leave ALL cell phones and electronic devices at home. If for security purposes a parent deems it necessary for a student to have a cell phone or other electronic device in school, the following rules and consequences are imposed:

Students may not turn on or use phones or electronic devices during school hours. The use of cell phones is for emergencies only on the school

bus.

Cell phones/electronic devices must be turned off and stored in a closed school bag.

Cell phones/electronic devices that are used during arrival, dismissal or during the school day will be confiscated and stored in the Principals

office.

Students may pick up the confiscated phone or device at dismissal and the parent will be called.

If there is a second offense the parent must pick up the phone and the student will lose the privilege to carry a cell phone.

Cell phones may only be used for emergencies at after school extra-curricular activities.

SCHOOLYARD RULES:

1. Students are to play in designated areas.

2. A Nerf ball is the only type of football permitted.

3. Fighting, pushing, or shoving is considered inappropriate physical contact.

4. No one may be excluded from playing a game.

5. Students must stop playing and line up when first bell rings. Students must be silent when second bell rings and upon entering the building.

6. Students should be engaged in organized games.

SCHOOL UNIFORM: All students are expected to be in a NEAT school uniform at all times. If for any reason this is impossible, a note from the parent is necessary. Students are excused from wearing their uniform on the day the photographer comes to take individual pictures, or on other specified Dress Down or Dress Up days. ONLY Uniform sweaters and sweaters vests will be worn throughout the school year. Fleece and CYO team sweatshirts are NOT to be substituted for the Maria Regina School sweater and are NOT to be worn during the school day.

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MARIA REGINA SCHOOL UNIFORM

Maria Regina School has a summer uniform and winter uniform. Summer uniforms are worn from September until October 15th. They are also worn from May 1st through the end of the school year. Students are to wear their gym uniform to school on gym days. The summer uniform and winter uniform may not be “mix matched.” Individual items of clothing from the summer and winter uniforms may not be interchanged.

Students are permitted to wear sneakers only on the day that they have Gym class. All other requests will not be honored unless it is for a medical reason. Parents are asked to anticipate the clothing needs of their child so that each student will be in the proper uniform until the last day of school in June. If you need clarification on any item please bring it to school before the child wears the item. This way if it is not acceptable the item may be returned. KINDERGARTEN - Boys and Girls

Summer Winter

Knit polo shirt (with logo) Knit polo shirt (with logo) Mesh shorts. Nylon jacket (with logo) Crew socks – (white) Nylon pants. Sneakers – (white) Crew socks (white) Sneakers – (white) GIRLS – GRADES 1 – 3

Summer Winter

Shorts – Navy twill OR Jumper – plaid - length at knee. Jumper – plaid – length at the knee. Knit polo shirt – (white with logo) Blouse – short sleeve, round collar, white. Belt with shorts, navy. long sleeve, round collar, white. White ankle socks. Tie – crossover plaid. Shoes – black, same as winter. Socks – Navy knee socks, or navy tights. Shoes – black, flat, lace-up, buckle or loafers, no open back. Sweater – (optional) Navy cardigan, embroidered logo.

GIRLS – GRADES 4 -6

Summer Winter

Skort – Navy wrap. Skort – Navy wrap. Knit polo shirt (white with logo) Blouse – short sleeve, pointed collar, white. Long sleeve, pointed collar, white. White ankle or knee socks. Sweater vest – Navy, embroidered logo. Shoes – black, same as winter. Shoes – black, flat, lace-up, buckle or loafer, no open back.

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Socks – Navy knee socks or navy tights. GIRLS – GRADES 7 – 8

Summer Winter

Kilt – Navy polyester. Kilt – Navy polyester, length at the knee. Knit polo shirt (lt. blue w/logo) Blouse – short sleeve – oxford – white. Long sleeve – oxford – white. Socks – Navy knee socks. Sweater – Navy V-Neck pullover, embroidered logo Shoes – black, same as winter. Shoes – black, flat, lace-up, buckle, loafers, no open back. BOYS – GRADES 1-6

Summer Winter

Shorts – navy twill. Slacks – navy twill. Knit polo shirt, white w/logo. Shirt – short sleeve, white. Belt – navy or black. long sleeve, white. Socks – navy or black crew. Sweater vest – navy, embroidered logo. Shoes – black, same as winter. Tie – plaid. Belt – navy or black. Socks – navy or black crew. Shoes – black oxford or loafers BOYS – GRADES 7 – 8

Summer Winter

Slacks – navy twill. Slacks – navy twill. Knit polo shirt, lt. blue w/logo. Shirt – short sleeve, oxford white/long sleeve, oxford white. Belt – navy or black. Sweater – Navy V-neck, pullover, embroidered Socks – navy or black crew. Tie – Stripe, self-made, no ready ties available. Shoes – black, same as winter. Belt – navy or black. Socks – navy or black crew. Shoes – black, oxford or loafers.

GIRLS AND BOYS – GYM REQUIREMENTS – GRADES 1 – 8

Knit polo shirt – white, grades K-6, with logo. Knit polo shirt – lt. blue, grades 7 -8, with logo. Shorts – navy blue mesh with logo. Nylon jacket – navy with embroidery. Nylon pants – navy Socks – white Sneakers – white with color, no platform

JEWELRY OF ANY KIND MAY NOT BE WORN DURING GYM CLASS. THE SCHOOL IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST JEWELRY

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HAIR AND JEWELRY REQUIREMENTS – For Nursery through Grade 8: FOR BOYS: Appropriate haircuts – hair not longer than collar length, no hair hanging in front of the eyes, no shaved sides, no Mohawk

haircuts, and no dyed or colored hair. Young men must be clean-shaven including sideburns. No earrings are permitted. A small thin chain with a cross or medal and a watch are permitted. Eighth grade students may wear their class ring.

FOR GIRLS: No dangling or large hoop earrings (more than 1¼ inches in diameter), NO MAKE-UP, NO NAIL POLISH, no fake nails, no dyed, or highlighted or colored hair. Only ONE pair of earrings, a small thin chain with a cross or medal and a watch are permitted. Eighth grade students may wear their class ring.

SCHOOL BAGS, BACK PACKS, and BINDERS: NURSERY – Grade 8: No wheeled Book Bags

The only thing to be written on the school bag, backpack, or pencil case is the student’s name and class. Graffiti type writing is not permitted on any personal belongings or on the students themselves.

DRESS DOWN DAYS: On designated days,* students may dress down according to the following guidelines:

No short shorts. Shorts must cover the thighs. Bermuda style shorts or capris may be worn. Shorts may be worn during summer uniform months; September - October 15 and May 1 – end of year.

No baggy, low cut or ripped jeans or short shorts as determined by the administration. No midriff shirts, spaghetti strap tops, low cut tops or open back tops. No clothes with inappropriate pictures, words or sayings. No platform shoes or heels more than 2 inches high. Skirt should be at fingertip length. No flip flops or open back shoes. Hair and jewelry standards are in effect. On gym days, students must be appropriately dressed and prepared to participate in class. No nail polish or make-up on dress down days. Leggings may only be worn with a shirt coming to the student’s mid-thigh.

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Any student dressing inappropriately will call home for his/her uniform and may not be allowed to participate in the next dress down day.

SPECIAL SERVICES: If a child is tested by the Plainedge School District and is found to be in need of special education, speech, occupational therapy, or behavioral counseling, services will be provided in our building.

Remediation program: Children, who score a 1 or 2 on NYS Math and ELA tests and/or the 1st and 2nd stanine on IOWA Tests of Basic Skills along with classroom teacher recommendation, will be eligible for this program.

STANDARDIZED and NYS TESTING: (Subject to change)

OCTOBER GRADES 4 & 7 COGNITIVE ABILITIES TEST

OCTOBER GRADES 2 - 8 IOWA TESTING OF BASIC SKILLS

MARCH GRADE 1 COGNITIVE ABILITIES TEST

APRIL/MAY GRADES 4 & 6 NYS MATH, ELA

MAY/JUNE GRADE 4 & 8 NYS SCIENCE AND REGENTS

STUDENT COUNCIL: Meetings are held once a week. Student Council officers are expected to set an example of good behavior and academic success, and to be a person of Catholic faith in action. Students failing to comply with these expectations and the expectations listed in the student council contract may be asked to withdraw from the council.

TEXTBOOKS AND WORKBOOKS: Textbooks and workbooks are provided by the school district in which you reside. Some districts participate in the Nassau BOCES Distribution Center. Those students will receive their books at Maria Regina on the first day of school. Their textbooks will also be collected here on the last day of school. Districts that participate in Western Suffolk BOCES will receive their books here in September. Their textbooks will also be collected and stored here during the summer. The following districts do not participate and books must be picked-up at the district textbook office: Farmingdale and Hempstead. These items are an important resource for the students and should be cared for appropriately. Textbooks should be properly covered at all times. Please DO NOT USE CONTACT PAPER to cover textbooks. There should be no writing, drawing, doodling, or cutting in the textbooks. ALL WORKBOOKS SHOULD BE COVERED. Contact paper is preferable for WORKBOOKS ONLY. A book bag MUST be used for easier carrying and to protect the books. Parents are responsible for lost and/or damaged books and, if necessary, the appropriate fee will be assessed.

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TUITION AND FEES - IN AND OUT OF PARISH: ***All Fees are Non-Refundable upon acceptance into our school*** Please refer to the Terms and Conditions on your Tuition Contract. The first tuition payment is due on August 1st. If you have not received your statement from Smart Tuition, please call them at (888) 868-8828. All tuition issues MUST be addressed with Smart Tuition. If you cannot come to a resolution, please call Mrs. Wheeler at 541-1229. TUITION POLICY – TERMS AND CONDITIONS: The school financial year is a 10-month period extending from August 1st through May 1st. All tuition payments MUST be completed by May 1st. If

your tuition is ten (10) days late, for two (2) consecutive months, your tuition will be considered in arrears, and therefore, Maria Regina School reserves the right to terminate the child’s participation in Maria Regina School from this point forth.

A student will not receive his/her end of year assessment card or be permitted to advance to the next grade if there is a tuition balance from the previous year. Prior to graduation exercises, all financial obligations must be fulfilled, e.g. tuition, lost books, graduation and other fees, and Church donations.

There will be a $55 late charge for each payment made after the 10th of the month for each month that a payment is late.

There will be a $50 fee for all returned checks.

There is a $35 Tuition Processing fee per family per year. (Added into your tuition)

VOLUNTEER/EMPLOYEE INFORMATION FORM: The Bishop and the Diocese of Rockville Centre have mandated that all employees and volunteers in each parish complete information/identification/background checks for the protection of our school children. These forms are confidential and kept on file in the rectory.

VIRTUS TRAINING AND BACKGROUND CHECK: The Bishop and the Diocese of Rockville Centre have mandated that all employees and volunteers in each Catholic School complete a background check and the Virtus three-hour training course. Failure to do so will result in the employee or volunteer being excluded from the school and/or school activities. If you do not have Virtus Training, and a background check, you will not be permitted into the school in any capacity, including but not limited to lunch duty, class activities, class trips, or any form of volunteering.

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MARIA REGINA SCHOOL BOARD:

The purpose of the School Board is advisory to the Pastor for Maria Regina School. The board promotes the implementation of policy once approved by the Pastor and evaluates its effectiveness. The implementation of policy is the responsibility of the Pastor through the Principal.

MARIA REGINA SCHOOL BOARD

2019 – 2020 School Year Mrs. Christine Austin ~ Chairperson Mrs. Margarita D’Angelo Mrs. Lizette Castillo Mrs. Mary Elena D’Ambrosio ~ Secretary Mrs. Christina Mauceri Mr. Antoine Nassour Mrs. Cathy Winter ~ Finance Representative Mrs. Maria Spagnuolo

__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________

PARENTS' ASSOCIATION:

The objective of this organization is to manage and execute activities connected with Maria Regina School. They include at a minimum the following:

1. Provide services to the students and staff of Maria Regina School by coordinating the extensive volunteer needs of the school.

2. Provide a forum for open communication between all members of the school community.

3. Strengthen our school community and the education process with spiritual, social, and cultural programs.

4. Provide opportunities for school parents to get to know each other through various social activities, both with and without their children.

5. Raise funds for the benefit of our school.

MARIA REGINA PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION MARIA REGINA MOTHER’S CLUB Maria Regina Father’s Club 2019 – 2020 School Year 2019 – 2020 School Year 2019 – 2020 School Year

Mrs. Jeanette Tiedemann Chairperson

Mrs. Carolina Castro Co-Chairperson

Mrs. Meagan Del Priore Mr. Donnie Driggers

Mrs. Kathryn Morrissey Treasurer

Mrs. Christina Pisarello Secretary

Mrs. Clare Clark

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MARIA REGINA SCHOOL

Seaford, NY

HANDBOOK POLICY AGREEMENT

Student’s Name_________________________________ Class___________________________________

Student’s Name_________________________________ Class___________________________________

Student’s Name_________________________________ Class___________________________________

Student’s Name_________________________________ Class___________________________________

Family Name_______________________________________________________________________________ We have discussed the Parent and Student Handbook of Maria Regina School. We agree to abide by the provisions included in it, including the cell phone policy. We understand that the Administration retains the right to amend the Handbook for just cause, and those parents and students will be given prompt notification of such changes. Parent’s Signature______________________________ Date____________________________________

____________________________________ Principal

THIS FORM MUST BE RETURNED TO SCHOOL BY September 10, 2019

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Maria Regina School

COMMITMENT OF TIME

PERSONAL FAMILY RECORD SHEET

EVENT

DATE

TOTAL HOURS

CHAIRPERSON

Please keep a record of the hours worked. When you have satisfied your hours, please sign below and return this sheet to the office NO LATER THAN April 30th

Hours Required: N&PK = 10 Hours K – 8 = 20 Hours

Due: $15 due for every hour not worked. Family Name_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________I have received handbook Children’s Names:______________________________________________ Grades________________________________________________ Signature_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Date_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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MARIA REGINA SCHOOL Seaford, NY

HANDBOOK POLICY AGREEMENT

Student’s Name_________________________________ Class___________________________________

Student’s Name_________________________________ Class___________________________________

Student’s Name_________________________________ Class___________________________________

Student’s Name_________________________________ Class___________________________________

Family Name_______________________________________________________________________________ We have discussed the Parent and Student Handbook of Maria Regina School. We agree to abide by the provisions included in it, including the cell phone policy. We understand that the Administration retains the right to amend the Handbook for just cause, and those parents and students will be given prompt notification of such changes. Parent’s Signature______________________________ Date____________________________________

____________________________________ Principal

THIS FORM MUST BE RETURNED TO SCHOOL BY September 10, 2018