2019-2020 mater dei high school handbook ps handbook_xc_clean...president’s letter august 2019...
TRANSCRIPT
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“Be the Light” 2019-2020 Mater Dei High School Handbook
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2019 - 2020
STUDENT’S BANNED SUBSTANCES AND ALCOHOL TESTING PROGRAM
GENERAL AUTHORIZATION AND CONSENT
I understand that as a condition of my enrollment at Mater Dei High School, I agree to be tested pursuant to the Mater Dei High School
Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program. I agree to accept and abide by the standards, rules, and regulations set forth by
Mater Dei High School.
I specifically consent to provide a sample for the purposes of analysis for the presence of substances considered illegal for use by
minors and those controlled by the State of California or the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and to permit any other
tests ordinarily used to determine my use of drugs, nicotine and/or alcohol.
I specifically authorize the testing laboratory to release the results of all tests used to determine my use of drugs, nicotine, and/or
alcohol to the Medical Review Officer. I specifically authorize the testing laboratory to release all results to my parents/guardians and to
the Principal of Mater Dei High School and to the Assistant Principal.
I specifically authorize the Medical Review Officer to release the results of his/her determination of my use of drugs, nicotine, and/or
alcohol to my parents/guardians and to the Principal of Mater Dei High School and such persons as he/she might designate.
If I am found to have used an illegal drug, banned substance such as nicotine, and/or alcohol, fail to promptly report for testing, refuse
to be tested or re-tested as requested, falsify or contaminate a sample, attempt to falsify or contaminate a sample, or otherwise violate
a provision of these policies and procedures, I agree to the application of sanctions outlined in the Mater Dei High School Banned
Substances and Alcohol Testing Program.
Furthermore, I hereby fully and forever release and discharge the Medical Review Officer, Mater Dei High School, and the Diocese of
Orange, including their staff, agents, and volunteers, from any claims, demands, damages, rights, and causes of action, present, or
future, anticipated or not anticipated, that may arise through my participation or failure to participate in the Mater Dei High School
Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program.
Prior to signing the handbook, I have had the opportunity to review the applicable policies and procedures, to have them reviewed by
legal counsel, and to have my questions about the Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program answered to my satisfaction by an
official of Mater Dei High School.
By signing the Handbook Acknowledgement Form, the student and parent(s) or legal guardian(s) agree to the foregoing.
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The Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange
13280 Chapman Ave.
Garden Grove, CA 92840
(714) 282-3000
Most Reverend Kevin Most Reverend Most Reverend MSGR. Stephen Doktorczyk
Vann, J.C.D., D.D. Timothy Freyer Thanh Thai Nguyen Vicar General and
Bishop of Orange Auxiliary Bishop Auxiliary Bishop Moderator of the Curia
Erin C.O Barisano, Ed. D Dr. Denise Valadez Mr. Mike Schabert Debbie Loughran
Superintendent Associate Superintendent Associate Superintendent Associate Superintendent
of Catholic Schools of Curriculum, Spirituality of Catholic Schools of Development Orange
and Accreditation Marketing and Enrollment Catholic Foundation
MATER DEI HIGH SCHOOL 1202 West Edinger Avenue • Santa Ana, California 92707-2191 (714) 754-7711
Alma Mater
Alma Mater, Mater Dei, let us join to sing thy praise
And blending song in joyous chorus, hearts and voices raise.
Fair thy name, wide thy fame, Patroness who reigns above,
To Mater Dei, Alma Mater: Honor - Glory - Love
Mater Dei, Alma Mater, for God’s Mother proudly named,
O through the years may we thy children, as her own be claimed.
Fair thy name, wide thy fame, Patroness who reigns above,
To Mater Dei, Alma Mater: Honor - Glory – Love
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Table of Contents President’s Letter .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Principal’s Letter ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Administrative Board ................................................................................................................................................... 10
What to Do, Where to Go, If You ................................................................................................................................. 11
Mater Dei Lines of Communication .............................................................................................................................. 11
AERIES ...................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Teacher Voice Mail ..................................................................................................................................................... 12
Helpful Information ...................................................................................................................................................... 12
Mater Dei High School Phone Directory ....................................................................................................................... 13
100 Mission Statement / Philosophy ............................................................................................................................ 14
101 Philosophy...................................................................................................................................................................14
102 Integral Student Outcomes (ISO’s) ...............................................................................................................................14
200 School History ...................................................................................................................................................... 15
300 School Hours ....................................................................................................................................................... 16
301 Media Release.............................................................................................................................................................16
400 Attendance ........................................................................................................................................................... 16
401 Excused Absences ......................................................................................................................................................16
402 Consequences for Excessive Absences .......................................................................................................................17
403 Truancy / Unexcused Absence .....................................................................................................................................17
404 Re-admittance after an Absence ..................................................................................................................................17
405 Extra Curricular Attendance Policy ...............................................................................................................................18
406 Tardiness ....................................................................................................................................................................18
407a Trip Request Policy ....................................................................................................................................................18
407b School-sanctioned Travel ...........................................................................................................................................19
408 Parental Responsibility When Parent/Guardians Are Out of Town .................................................................................19
500 Student Regulations ............................................................................................................................................. 19
501 General Information .....................................................................................................................................................19
502 Assemblies ..................................................................................................................................................................19
503 Campus Trash Policy ...................................................................................................................................................20
504 Classroom ...................................................................................................................................................................20
505 Closed Campus ...........................................................................................................................................................20
506 Conduct Off Campus ...................................................................................................................................................20
507 Earthquake ..................................................................................................................................................................21
508 Emergency Protocols ...................................................................................................................................................21
509 General Courtesy.........................................................................................................................................................22
510 Lockers .......................................................................................................................................................................22
511 Eating on Campus .......................................................................................................................................................22
512 Parking Lot/Parking Structure .......................................................................................................................................22
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513 Posters & Flyers ..........................................................................................................................................................23
514 Pregnancy Policy .........................................................................................................................................................23
515 Prescription Medication ................................................................................................................................................23
516 School Dances ............................................................................................................................................................23
517 School Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program ............................................................................................25
518 Searches .....................................................................................................................................................................26
519 Breathalyzer ................................................................................................................................................................26
520 Cell Phone Policies / Smart Watch Policies...................................................................................................................26
521 DMV Compliance and Permission Slips ........................................................................................................................27
600 General Dress & Grooming Code.......................................................................................................................... 27
601 Philosophy of the Dress Code ......................................................................................................................................27
602 Dress Code Enforcement Policy ...................................................................................................................................28
603 Unacceptable Dress at Any Mater Dei Event or Mater Dei Function ...............................................................................28
604 Uniform Dress Code for Both Boys and Girls: ...............................................................................................................28
605 Girls Uniform Dress Code at School .............................................................................................................................29
606 Boys Uniform Dress Code at School .............................................................................................................................29
607 Dress for Extracurricular Events ...................................................................................................................................30
608 Spirit Dress ..................................................................................................................................................................30
609 Dress Up Dress ...........................................................................................................................................................30
610 Semi-Formal Dress (Homecoming Dance Only. See permission form)...........................................................................31
NOTE: Guests must also conform to these dress codes ...............................................................................................31
611 Formal Dress (Winter Formal and Prom. See permission form). ....................................................................................31
NOTE: Guests must also conform to these dress codes ...............................................................................................31
612 Game Day Team Dress ...............................................................................................................................................31
613 Monarch Professional Dress ........................................................................................................................................31
700 Discipline Code .................................................................................................................................................... 32
701 Philosophy of Discipline ...............................................................................................................................................32
702 Parental Attitude and Cooperation ................................................................................................................................32
703 Sexual Harassment .....................................................................................................................................................32
704 Level I Infractions (minor) .............................................................................................................................................33
705 Level II Infractions (major) ............................................................................................................................................33
706 Level III Infractions (serious) ........................................................................................................................................34
707 Detention .....................................................................................................................................................................36
708 Suspension .................................................................................................................................................................36
709 Demerit System ...........................................................................................................................................................37
710 Disciplinary Probation ..................................................................................................................................................37
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711 Disciplinary Review Council (DRC) ...............................................................................................................................37
712 Academic Integrity .......................................................................................................................................................38
713 Consequences for Academic Dishonesty ......................................................................................................................38
800 School Information ............................................................................................................................................... 39
801 Admission Procedures .................................................................................................................................................39
802 Academic Review Council ............................................................................................................................................40
803 Alumni Relations ..........................................................................................................................................................40
804 Campus Store .............................................................................................................................................................41
805 How to Find a Carpool .................................................................................................................................................41
806 Chapel ........................................................................................................................................................................42
807 Counseling Services ....................................................................................................................................................42
808 Muth Center for Learning .............................................................................................................................................42
809 Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations................................................................................................................42
810 Eighteen-Year-Old Students.........................................................................................................................................43
811 Health Committee ........................................................................................................................................................43
812 Library .........................................................................................................................................................................43
813 Internet, Technology and iPad Use Policies ..................................................................................................................43
814 Monarch Television ......................................................................................................................................................46
815 Health Services Office..................................................................................................................................................47
816 Personnel Council........................................................................................................................................................47
817 Scarlet & Gray .............................................................................................................................................................48
818 School Facilities ...........................................................................................................................................................48
819 Smog Alerts .................................................................................................................................................................48
820 Student Identification Card ...........................................................................................................................................48
821 Spiritual Formation Committee .....................................................................................................................................48
822 Tuition – FACTS Tuition Management ..........................................................................................................................49
823 Work Permits and Employment ....................................................................................................................................50
824 Lost & Found ...............................................................................................................................................................50
900 Student Organizations & Mater Dei Clubs ............................................................................................................. 50
901 Associated Student Body .............................................................................................................................................50
901(a) ASB Monarch Professional Dress & Jean Dress .......................................................................................................53
901(b) ASB Officer Monarch Professional Dress .................................................................................................................53
902 Academic Decathlon ....................................................................................................................................................53
903 Instrumental Music .......................................................................................................................................................53
904 Campus Ministry Program ............................................................................................................................................54
905 Choral Music ...............................................................................................................................................................54
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906 Color Guard .................................................................................................................................................................54
907 The Crown...................................................................................................................................................................54
908 Dance Team ................................................................................................................................................................54
909 Speech and Debate .....................................................................................................................................................54
910 Junior States of America ..............................................................................................................................................54
911 Mock Trial....................................................................................................................................................................55
912 Model United Nations ...................................................................................................................................................55
913 National Art Honor Society ...........................................................................................................................................55
914 Pep Squad ..................................................................................................................................................................55
915 Renaissance................................................................................................................................................................55
916 Robotics ......................................................................................................................................................................55
917 Scarlet Scroll ...............................................................................................................................................................56
918 Theater Arts.................................................................................................................................................................56
919 Student Clubs ..............................................................................................................................................................56
1000 Parent Organizations .......................................................................................................................................... 56
1001 Consultative School Board .........................................................................................................................................56
1002 Parent Association Council.........................................................................................................................................56
1003 Parent Volunteer Program ..........................................................................................................................................56
1100 Guidance & Counseling Department: School Counselors ..................................................................................... 56
1101 The Gateway Center ..................................................................................................................................................58
1200 Academic Information ......................................................................................................................................... 58
1201 Graduation/Enrollment Requirements .........................................................................................................................59
1202 Community Service Graduation Requirements ............................................................................................................60
1203 Report Cards .............................................................................................................................................................60
1204 Semester Exams .......................................................................................................................................................60
1205 Mater Dei Semester Grading Policy ............................................................................................................................60
1206 Requests to Reschedule Semester Exams .................................................................................................................61
1207 Transcripts.................................................................................................................................................................61
1208 Class Schedule Changes ...........................................................................................................................................61
1209 School Grades ...........................................................................................................................................................61
1210 Computation of G.P.A. ...............................................................................................................................................62
1211 Homework .................................................................................................................................................................62
1212 Office Hour ................................................................................................................................................................62
1213 Honors Diploma .........................................................................................................................................................63
1214 Recognition of 4.0 Students at Graduation ..................................................................................................................63
1215 Valedictorian and Salutatorian ....................................................................................................................................63
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1216 Advanced Placement Program ...................................................................................................................................63
1217 California Scholarship Federation ...............................................................................................................................63
1218 National Honor Society ..............................................................................................................................................64
1219 www.TurnItIn.com ......................................................................................................................................................64
1220 National Signing Day .................................................................................................................................................64
1221 Letters of Recommendation .......................................................................................................................................65
1300 Wellness Counseling .......................................................................................................................................... 65
1301 Outreach Concern, Inc. ..............................................................................................................................................65
1302 Disclosure of College Acceptance Information ............................................................................................................65
1400 University of California Freshman Admission Requirements................................................................................. 66
1500 California State Universities Undergraduate Admission Requirements ................................................................. 68
1600 MDHS Academic Services for Students With Learning and/or Attention Differences (fee-based and per qualification)
................................................................................................................................................................................... 69
1700 NCAA DIVISION-I INITIAL – ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS ..................................................................................... 69
1800 California Student Aid Commission Grants .......................................................................................................... 70
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President’s Letter August 2019
Dear Students and Parents,
Welcome to the 2019-2020 school year at Mater Dei High School. Our school theme this year is “Be the Light.” During the 2019-2020
school year, our MDHS Administration, faculty, staff and student leadership will be working cooperatively together to be the light of integrity
and respect in all that we do at MDHS, working to share the Holy Spirit in order to help lead all of our Mater Dei students to wonderful
tomorrows through a solid foundation created today.
The information you will find in this Parent-Student Handbook serves as a guideline for you in dealing with the policies and procedures of
Mater Dei High School. For the parents, this book gives you helpful information regarding Attendance, Academics, Discipline, Parent
Organizations and Guidance and Counseling. For the students, this handbook outlines important guidelines in the areas of Academics,
Attendance, Dress Code and Discipline, Student Regulations, Student Organizations and Guidance Counseling.
Please take the time to read and review the 2019-2020 Mater Dei Parent-Student Handbook. We believe that the information provided
in this handbook will give us all the opportunity to work together cooperatively on a daily basis as we all strive to provide the best in an
excellent, holistic, Catholic education for you, our MDHS students and parents.
At Mater Dei High School we are extremely excited about our future growth and development and justifiably proud of our past traditions
and successes. We sincerely hope and pray that the goals and dreams of our students and parents are fulfilled during this school year
as we strive to be the light of integrity and respect in all that we do so that our students will strive for many exciting tomorrows while
enjoying successful todays in all aspects of their lives.
Sincerely in Mater Dei,
Patrick Murphy
President
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Principal’s Letter August 2019
Dear Students and Parents,
Welcome to the 2019-2020 school year. Our school theme “Be the Light” challenges us to move forward in our mission as a Diocesan
Catholic High School to provide a rigorous and superior education for our students in the chapel and in the classrooms, on the athletic
fields and courts, in the concert halls and art studios and in all other areas of school life. In fulfilling this mission, MDHS is proud to have
outstanding educators who are dedicated and committed to instructing and assisting the students in the pursuit of their goals in a college
preparatory environment.
The students of today are equipped in all areas of education established during over 60 years of MDHS history. I am confident that under
the outstanding leadership of ASB President, Kody Rymer, Vice-President, Allison Barry, Secretary, Sam Neglia, and Treasurer, Abbie
Frank, the students will continue to have many opportunities to excel and enjoy their Mater Dei High School experience.
The policies and procedures contained in this Parent-Student Handbook provide guidelines and directives, which enable parents and
students to pursue the course of excellence for which Mater Dei is noted, in a positive and responsible manner. Both parents and students
will find appropriate information related to all areas of the school, including the random, mandatory banned substances and alcohol testing
program, contained in this Handbook. Please take time to read the 2019-2020 Handbook, since there may be some changes in key areas
of the school’s programs.
You will also find the school’s Integrated Student Outcomes (ISO’s) contained in this handbook. These are the goals and expectations,
which we have for the students upon graduation from Mater Dei.
As the school year begins, I wish the students every success in all areas of school life. I encourage parents to be involved continuously
in your students’ lives by ensuring that they are well equipped to continue their education by availing of the many resources available to
them at MDHS.
Sincerely,
Frances Clare
Principal
Administrative Board The Administrative Board is composed of the President, the Principal, the Assistant Principals, and the Vice Presidents. The Board
meets weekly in order to discuss all issues pertaining to school life.
Mrs. Audrey Ganey Mrs. Geri Campeau Mr. Lee Gaeta Mr. Dave Taylor Mrs. Erica Adams
Assistant Principal Assistant Principal Assistant Principal Vice President Vice President
Faculty Services Academic Services Student Services Business Services Advancement
Class of ‘87
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What to Do, Where to Go, If You Have Been Absent, or are Tardy to Class Go to the Attendance Office Have an
Accident Go To the Deans’ Office Need
Athletic Physical Forms, Emergency Cards See the Athletic Trainer Need to buy
Athletic Tickets Go to the Athletic Office Need Club
Information Go to the Activities Office
Need College or Career Information Go to the College and Career Center
Need Information About Your Schedule See Your Counselor
Become Ill Go to the Health Services Office Need to
Leave Campus Go to the Attendance Office Need
Information about Insurance Go to the Main Office
Have Locker Trouble Go to the Deans' Office
Have Lost a Book or other Item Go to the Campus Store
Move or Have a New Phone Number Go to the Registrar's Office
Need to Buy Books or Supplies Go to the Campus Store
Need to Buy a Uniform Vicki Marsha Uniform (895-6371) Need
Transcripts Sent Go to the Registrar's Office
Need to Pay Tuition/Fees Go to the Business Office Need to
Replace Your Mater Dei ID Go to the Deans’ Office
Need an OCTA Bus Pass Go to the Campus Store
Need a "Shadow Card" Go to the Advancement Office
Need a Guest/Visitors Pass Go to the Security Office Need a
Work Permit Go to the Counseling Office Need a
Parking Permit Go to the Security Office Need to Talk about Personal Problems See Counselor or Campus Ministry
Mater Dei Lines of Communication Students need to be accountable for their academic choices; therefore it is the responsibility of the student to communicate with teachers and advocate for themselves. The role of the parent is to support the academic journey of their student, and should only get involved when the student is unable to resolve the issue(s) on his or her own. Parents who have questions or concerns regarding classroom situations, academic progress, extra or co-curricular activities or behavior problems are to follow these procedures: 1. Contact the individual Teacher, Coach, Moderator or Dean. 2. If there are further questions speak with the Department Chair or Director. 3. If there are further academic questions, please contact the Academic Services Office. 4. If there are further questions regarding extra or co-curricular activities or disciplinary issues, speak with the
Assistant Principal/Student Services. 5. If there are further questions regarding teacher related issues, speak with the Asst. Principal/Faculty Services. 6. Parents/Students then have the option to appeal to the Principal, whose decision, in consultation with the
President, is final at the school site.
Any calls or inquiries made directly to Administrators will be referred back through this MDHS communication system, unless issues of legality or morality are involved.
AERIES All parents and students are given access to AERIES, the school online communication tool. Through AERIES, students and parents can access a calendar of upcoming assignments and tests, support materials for classes, and regularly updated grade reports. AERIES also provides attendance information, progress report grades, and unofficial transcripts. Parents may also contact teachers by email from the AERIES site.
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Teacher Voice Mail Parents and students also have access to teacher voice mail though the school phone system. Parents should leave a brief message, clearly stating their name and a phone number where they may be contacted. Teachers will make every attempt to return parents' calls within forty-eight (48) hours. Voice mail numbers are available at Back to School Night. Teachers will also supply their voice mail numbers to students.
Helpful Information For your convenience, many members of the school staff handle particular areas of school life are listed below:
Subject Academic Eligibility/Probation
Activities & ASB Admissions
Athletics, Boys & Girls Athletic Tickets Campus Store Campus Ministry
Campus Tours Change of Address, etc
CIF Forms Clubs Detention Boy’s
Detention Girl’s Guest/Visitor Pass
Immunization/Testing Requirements Insurance Forms (Athletics)
Insurance Forms (School) Lockers
Lost Student ID Cards Lost & Found
NCAA Eligibility OCTA Bus Passes Parking Permits Personnel
Plant Management Public Relations Retreats
Schedule Change Form School Auction
Security
Name Academic Services Office
Mrs. Diana Neustadt Mrs. Lisa Rosales Mrs. Tia Meza Mrs. Tia Meza
Mrs. Joanne Kim Ms. Helen Steves
Mrs. Allison Bergeron Mrs. Kathy Steinbaugh
Mrs. Jane Park Ms. Jeanette Costa
Mr. Tim O’Hara Ms. Kathy Immel Mr. Dan Worrell
Mrs. Linda Paliska Mrs. Tia Meza
Mrs. Linda Paliska Student’s Dean
Dept. Secretary/Deans & Attend. Mrs. Julie Gathers Mrs. Mary McElroy Mrs. Joanne Kim
Mr. Dan Worrell Ms. Audrey Ganey
Mr. Steve Ritter Mrs. Erica Adams
Mrs. Kendra Hart Counselors Mrs. Jennifer Hornbuckle
Mr. Dan Worrell
Office Administration Office
Activities/ASB Office Administration Office Athletic Office Athletic Office Campus Store Campus Ministry Office
Advancement Office Registrar's Office Administration Office Activities Office
Deans' Office
Deans' Office Security Office
Health Services Office Athletic Office
Health Office Deans' Office Deans’ Office
Dean’s Office Campus Store
Guidance & Counseling Office Campus Store Security Office Administration Office Administration Advancement Office Campus Ministry Office Guidance Office Advancement Office
Security Service Projects Shadow Program Transcripts
Tuition Work Permits
Mrs. Stephanie Hopkins Mrs. Melinda Craft Mrs. Kathy Steinbaugh
Ms. Karen Teti Mrs. Kathy Steinbaugh
Campus Ministry Office Advancement Office Registrar's Office Business Office Registrar’s Office
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Mater Dei High School Phone Directory
Title/Department Number
Academic Services (714)850-9501 Accounts Payable (714)850-9507/509
Accounts Receivable (714)850-9504 Admissions (714)850-9501
Advancement Office (714)850-9534 Alumni Relations (714)850-9536
Aquatics (714)850-9574 Athletic Director (714)850-9573
Athletic Equipment Room (714)957-3782 Athletic Office (714)850-9573
Athletic Trainer (714)957-3781 Attendance (714)850-9517
Attendance, Boy’s (714)850-9516 Attendance, Girl’s (714)850-9515
Band Office (714)957-3784 Baseball Office (714)850-9580
Basketball Office – Boys (714)850-9578 Basketball Office - Girls (714)850-9574
Business Office (714)850-9504 Campus Store (714)850-9572
Campus Ministry (714)850-9556 Campus Tour Info (714)850-9534
Choir Room (714)850-9559 Christian Service Program (714)850-9558
College & Career Center (714)850-9561 Color Guard (714)957-3798
Computer Services (714)850-9569 Cross Country (714)850-9576
Dance Department (714)957-3783 Dean, Boys - Mr. O’Hara (714)850-9516
Dean, Girls - Ms. Immel (714)850-9515 Detentions - Mr. Gutierrez (714)850-9513
English Department (714)850-9606 Faculty Services (714)957-3799
Facilities Director (714)850-6704 Football (714)850-9582
Girls’ Coaches Offices (714)850-9576/586 Golf (714)957-3780
Guidance, Mrs. Angela Young (714)850-9566 Guidance, Mrs. Bauer (714)850-9567
Guidance, Ms. Ringo (714)850-9563 Guidance, Mr. Arthur Aragon (714)850-9562 Guidance, Mrs. Heather Greene (714)850-6727
Guidance, Ms. Vanessa Pena (714)850-9564 Guidance/Counseling Secretary (714)850-9565
Health Services Office (714)850-9520 Learning Lab (714)641-3694
Library (714)850-9542 Lost & Found (714)850-9572
Title/Department Number
Maintenance (714)850-9588 Mathematics Department (714)957-3795
MDTV (714)957-3797 Media/Public Relations (714)850-9526
Modern Language Department (714)957-3788 Pageantry Corp (714)957-3784
Pastoral Services Coordinator (714)641-3693 Performing Arts Department (714)957-3784
Wellness Counseling (714)850-9567/568 Physical Education Department (714)850-9575
President’s Office (714)850-9522 Principal’s Office (714)850-9500
Publications (714)850-9527 Receptionist/Switchboard (714)957-3771
Registrar’s Office (714)850-9570 Religion Department (714)850-9548
Scarlet Scroll Newspaper (714)850-9552 School Auction (714)754-1175
Science Department (714)850-9529 Security (714)850-9545
Shadows (714)950-9535 Soccer - Boys (714)850-9573
Soccer - Girls (714)850-9586 Social Studies Department (714)957-3789
Special Events (714)850-9527 Activities (714)850-9553
Student Records (714)850-9571 Student Services (714)850-9502
Swimming & Water Polo (714)850-9586 Technology & Business (714)850-9539
Tennis - Boys (714)850-9574 Tennis - Girls (714)850-9586
Tours (714)850-9534 Track & Field (714)850-9576
Transcripts (714)850-9571 Tuition Office (714)850-9504
Visual Arts (714)444-9588 Volleyball - Boys & Girls (714)850-9586
Wrestling (714)850-9578 Yearbook (Crown) (714)850-9552
Fax - Athletic Office (714)662-1404 Fax - Band/Bingo (714)957-6128
Fax - Advancement Office (714)540-8570 Fax - Football Office (714)850-9643
Fax - Guidance/Counseling (714)557-5885 Fax - Main Office (714)754-1880
Fax - President’s Office (714)850-9590
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100 Mission Statement / Philosophy Mater Dei High School, as a diocesan Catholic high school, recognizes each student as a gift from God. Working with the parents, who
are the primary educators of their children, the school is dedicated to the development of the whole person (spiritual, intellectual,
physical, emotional and aesthetic). Each student is challenged by a college preparatory curriculum and encouraged to reach his/her
full potential through extensive co-curricular and extra- curricular programs. It is the hope of Mater Dei High School to graduate students
who become leaders, committed to serving God and society through a profound sense of social justice, founded in love.
101 Philosophy Mater Dei High School is a co-educational diocesan Catholic high school dedicated to the mission of Catholic education as envisioned
in church documents and teachings. In particular, the school is committed to the guidelines established for Catholic education in the
document To Teach as Jesus Did. The school, therefore, recognizes parents as primary educators of their children in the pursuit of
educational excellence. Furthermore, as a Catholic community, we strive toward the development of faithful, socially conscious
citizens grounded in gospel values who will become productive members of church and society in the years ahead.
The highly qualified and dedicated faculty and staff support the students as they strive for excellence in a college preparatory curriculum
which incorporates faith related values, academic competencies and skills necessary for life long learning. These concepts are the
embodiment of the schoolwide learning expectations, which students should know, understand and possess by the time they graduate
from the school.
Mater Dei’s mission and purpose is the development of the whole person: spiritually, intellectually, morally, psychologically, socially
and physically while at the same time recognizing the rich diversity of students’ cultural and social backgrounds. The school supports
and challenges the students to develop their full potential within a Catholic educational community. Through outreach ministries and
extensive co-curricular and extra-curricular programs, we celebrate the God-given talents of students who attend Mater Dei High
School.
102 Integral Student Outcomes (ISO’s) Mater Dei High School provides a holistic Catholic educational program, which emphasizes spiritual, academic, social, aesthetic, and
athletic endeavors, and promotes enthusiasm for lifelong learning.
1. The Mater Dei High School graduate is a person EDUCATED IN GOSPEL VALUES AND VIRTUES who
• exhibits an understanding of and respect for Catholic faith and Tradition.
• recognizes and affirms the God-given dignity of each human person.
• demonstrates compassion toward others through care and service.
• participates in liturgical opportunities, prayer celebrations and Christian service.
• embraces faith, hope, and love as a way of life.
• uses his/her Catholic education to guide him/her in future endeavors.
2. The Mater Dei High School graduate is an EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR who
• expresses thoughts clearly and correctly in speaking and writing.
• articulates ideas effectively both in presentations and interactions with others.
• listens attentively and critically.
• processes diverse concepts.
• understands and employs the arts as a means of expression.
• engages in constructive discussion and debate while respecting differing viewpoints.
3. The Mater Dei High School graduate is a RESPONSIBLE DECISION MAKER who
• considers a variety of perspectives when drawing conclusions.
• uses creative and critical thinking skills to solve problems.
• weighs consequences and takes responsibility for his/her actions.
• is able to make objective and informed decisions.
• applies Catholic moral teaching and prayer to life decisions.
4. The Mater Dei High School graduate is a person LITERATE IN INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY who
• exhibits a broad understanding of technology and its relevance in our changing world.
• utilizes a variety of programs, platforms and applications.
• reads and comprehends complex literary and informational texts independently and proficiently.
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• is responsible for the legal and ethical use of technology and social media.
• integrates knowledge of information and technology into higher education and the workplace.
• identifies, locates, evaluates, and applies information effectively.
5. The Mater Dei High School graduate is a SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN who
• takes responsibility for his/her own actions.
• promotes the common good through positive involvement in the larger community.
• respects diversity while learning and working collaboratively and cross-culturally.
• examines world situations in a critical and logical manner through acts of Christian charity, compassion, and
justice.
• demonstrates pride and civic responsibility.
• understands and applies Catholic social teaching in response to injustice.
200 School History Mater Dei High School opened in 1950 with 145 students in the ninth and tenth grades. Over 25,000 students have met the graduation
requirements of Mater Dei and have gone onto higher education and vocations of service to their human family. Mater Dei is accredited
by the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the official
accrediting commission for schools. It is also a member of the College Board and National Association for College Admission
Counseling. 99% of each year's graduating class go on to college.
Mater Dei High School owes a debt of gratitude to its dedicated Presidents, Rectors and Principals, for their dedication and leadership.
PRESIDENTS
1990-1992..............…………..Reverend John B. Weling
2002-Present...........…........…Mr. Patrick Murphy
PRINCIPALS
1950-1952.…………………....Rev. Joseph Eyraud (deceased)
1952-1960……….. …………..Rev.Msgr.Michael Hanlon(deceased)
1960-1964…………………….Bishop Donald Montrose (deceased)
1964-1974..............................Rev. Msgr. John Reilly(deceased)
1974-1976.............................Rev. Kenneth Krause (deceased)
1976-1978……………..……. Bro.Eugene Ward, F.S.C.(deceased)
1978-1987.............................Rev. Msgr. Michael A. Harris
1987-1990.............................Rev. John B. Weling
1990-1994.............................Mr. Lyle V. Porter
1994-2002.............................Mr. Patrick Murphy
2002 - Present.......................Ms. Frances Clare
RECTORS
1992-2002..............................Rev. Steve Sallot
2014-Present…………………Fr. Kiet Ta
The religious communities that have staffed Mater Dei since its inception, listed according to the time of their arrival and departure as
faculty members, are the following:
The Sisters of Charity, B.V.M. 1950-1974; The Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, C.S.J. 1951 to the present; The Sisters of St. Louis,
S.S.L. 1952-present; Brothers of St. Patrick, F.S.P. 1953-1986 - 1988 to the present; The Norbertine Fathers, O. Praem 1957 to 2008;
The Sisters of the Holy Cross, C.S.C. 1960 to 1992; The Franciscan Missionary Sisters, O.S.F. 1962-1975; Trinitarian Fathers, S.T.
1962-1976; The Sisters of the Company of Mary, O.D.N. 1964-1984; The Augustinian Fathers, O.S.A. 1966-1969; The Felician Sisters,
C.S.S.F. 1969-1970; The Poor Clare Missionary Sisters, M.C. 1969-1978; The Capuchin Fathers, O.F.M. Cap 1970-1982: The Sisters
of Mercy, S.M. 1970-1972-1986 to 1990: The Conventional Franciscans, O.F.M. 1971 to the present; The Fathers of Sacred Hearts,
S.S.C.C. 1978-1979; The Religious Sisters of Charity, R.S.C. 1980-1988-1990 to 2015; The Dominican Fathers & Brothers, O.P. 1981-
1988; The Dominican Sisters, O.P. San Jose 1983-1986; The Sisters of St. Francis, O.S.F. 1988 to 1992.
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300 School Hours 1. Students may not leave the campus during school hours without special permission. ALL OFF-CAMPUS PERMIT
MUST BE OBTAINED FROM THE DEANS’ OFFICE. No student will be permitted to leave campus without a
written request signed by a parent.
2. Students should be off the campus each day by 5:00 p.m., unless detained on authorized business or involved in
organized school activities. All student gatherings on school premises must be arranged in advance through the
Director of Activities. A faculty moderator must be present.
2019-2020 Class Schedules
Please CLICK HERE
301 Media Release Mater Dei High School and its approved partners regularly take photographs, film footage, and other electronic media of various school
activities for use in, among other things, educational, community outreach, website, athletic, artistic, advancement, and advertising
efforts and promotion. This media may be captured on campus or off and will not always be pre-announced to students. Some of the
media, including but not limited to Monarch Television, contains the name, image, likeness and/or voice of MDHS students. By enrolling
at Mater Dei High School, all students and their parents (or legal guardians) grant MDHS and its approved partners permission to use
this media, agree that they will not be financially remunerated for this media usage, and release Mater Dei High School and its
approved partners from any claims or liability arising from the use of this media.
400 Attendance Attendance Lines:
BOYS: (714) 850-9516 GIRLS: (714) 850-9515
Student attendance is governed by the rules and regulations of the CALIFORNIA STATE EDUCATION CODE and by the following
information:
The primary purpose of the Attendance Policy is to keep the parent/guardian informed as to the number of student absences in any
particular class. The intent of this policy is to improve student attendance and not to impose sanctions. However, sanctions may be
imposed should this policy be abused, according to the provisions of this Parent-Student Handbook.
Class attendance has been proven to directly relate to positive class performance. Earning full credit for a class is dependent upon a
student's attendance in that class. Excessive absences may result in loss of academic credit.
In case of student absence, parents/guardians must contact the Attendance Office prior to 11:00 a.m. and explain the cause of
the absence.
Mater Dei accepts phone calls and hand-written communication; we do not accept email communication from
parents/guardians in regards to their student absences. Please note that all calls and written communication are subject to
follow-up confirmation.
401 Excused Absences An excused absence is defined as an absence from school with the knowledge and consent of the parent/guardian or the proper school
authority. Excused absences may be planned or unplanned and include:
A. Illness/Accident/Other Physical Disablement
B. Medical Appointments (provide Attendance Office with original documentation from medical office)
C. Funerals/Religious Observances
D. Participation in School-Related Activities
E. School Approved Family Trip/Obligation
F. School Approved College Visit
G. Personal Family Situations
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Excused absences are counted as part of the total number of class absences allowed each semester unless proper, original
documentation is on file. Students who have 5 or more absences in a semester will lose one unit of academic credit for that specific
class. An additional unit of academic credit will be lost for every additional five absences. (See Section 402)
Arrangements for planned absences (other than trip requests) should be made 24 hours in advance. To obtain an off-campus permit or
make arrangements to miss classes, a student must present a signed parent/guardian note to the Attendance Office and obtain
approval. Please note: Documentation for excused absences must be submitted to the Deans/Attendance Office in order to avoid loss
of credit. (Funerals and religious observances are exempt and will not be counted toward total semester absences). Students are
allotted FIVE absences per school year for school approved family trips/college visits/obligations with prior approval only.
Please note: Documentation for Exempt absences must be submitted to the Deans/Attendance Office
402 Consequences for Excessive Absences If the total number of class absences (non-exempt and unexcused) reaches 5 in a semester, a student will lose one unit of academic
credit for that specific class. An additional unit of academic credit will be lost for every additional 5 absences. Lost credits will then have
to be made up through summer school classes, community college courses, night classes, etc. in order to fulfill MDHS graduation
requirements. Long term absence due to verified medical illness or trauma is exempt from this policy.
403 Truancy / Unexcused Absence 1. Truancy is defined as an "unexcused absence" from school without the knowledge and consent of the
parent/guardian or the proper school authority, either for a whole day or any part of a day.
2. Cutting any class constitutes truancy and results in disciplinary action.
3. If a student has been truant the student will not be allowed to make up missed work during the period of truancy.
4. Truancy is a Level II offense (see section 705 for consequences).
MATER DEI POLICY DOES NOT SANCTION A SENIOR DITCH DAY!
404 Re-admittance after an Absence A note written by the parent/guardian or a parent phone call must be received before the student can be readmitted into classes. A
written note by the parent/guardian or a parent phone call does not excuse a Tardy. When a student has a medical or dental
appointment he/she needs to bring an original note on Doctor’s or Dentist’s stationery to verify the appointment. The note should
include:
a. The name and grade of the student.
b. A reason for the absence.
c. A clear statement of the dates of absence.
d. The signature of one of the parents/guardians.
Absence and Make-Up Policy
Absences fall into two categories: Excused (Planned and Unplanned) and Unexcused. In the case of an unplanned excused absence,
students are required to meet with the teacher upon their return to discuss any missed work and due dates. A reasonable amount of
time will be given to the student to make up missed assignments and take missed quizzes and tests. The classroom teacher will
determine this time frame on accordance with their classroom policies.
Planned absences are absences due to an athletic event, performance, school trip college visit or vacation. In the case of planned
absences, students are required to turn in all assignments on the originally scheduled due date. For planned absences where the
assignment cannot be completed or turned in on the due date, students are required to meet with the teacher before the planned
absence to establish expectations and due dates. Work missed because of a planned absence must be made up in accordance with
the teacher’s classroom policies. Failure to do so may negatively impact the student’s grade.
Students with a Medical/Psychiatric Condition: If a student has a significant medical condition causing an extended absence,
parents must notify the school nurse, Attendance Office, and their student’s academic counselor regarding the condition, and how it
impacts the student academically, in a detailed physician letter. If a student has a condition (e.g., seizures, diabetes, etc.) that may
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present during the school day, please include a list of warning signs/symptoms for our teachers. In the case of an extended absence,
the student’s counselor who will arrange with teachers to have class and homework assignments available from the Guidance Office.
Please note: parents requesting accommodations for their student must contact the Guidance Office or Center for Learning to
determine if the request can be accommodated.
Mater Dei High School does not provide independent study programs for students on a regular basis. However, in certain special
circumstances, such as an extended absence, parents may request, in writing, to have a student placed on independent study (in cases
of illness this request must be supported with a physician’s note). If the Administration allows a student to go on independent study,
parents and the student will be required to sign an Independent Study Contract. Please note, Independent Study is allowed in special
circumstances only.
405 Extra Curricular Attendance Policy Attendance at school on the day of an extra or co-curricular event is mandatory if a student wishes to attend or participate in
an activity held the same day. In order to participate in or attend an extra or co-curricular event a student must attend at least half of
their classes on the day of the event. This applies to practices and/or games for athletes. It also applies to rehearsals and performances
for students in the Performing Arts. Absences sanctioned by the school administration (funerals, medical appointments, school related
activities, etc.) are exempt from this regulation.
406 Tardiness 1. A student who is not in her/his assigned place when the class bell rings, is considered tardy.
2. Any student that is Tardy within the first 10 minutes will report to their classes to be marked tardy by their teacher.
3. Any student that is 10 minutes late to his/her first class of the day (i.e. late to school by more than 10 minutes) MUST
report directly to the Attendance Office to receive an authorized Admittance Slip.
4. Detention slips will not be issued for students detained on official school business (e.g. counseling passes or detained
slips from faculty, administration or Deans’ office).
5. It is a reasonable expectation to require students to arrive to class on time. However, since Mater Dei is a commuter
school, students will be allowed 6 tardy warnings per semester. After the 6 warnings have been exhausted students will
receive a level I infraction for each additional offense. Students who continually do not meet this expectation are
considered to be in defiance of authority and will receive escalated consequences.
6. A written note by the parent/guardian or a parent phone call does not excuse a Tardy.
7. A tardy student may be excused at the discretion of the Deans in Extreme circumstances. (Oversleeping, traffic, etc. are
not considered extreme circumstances)
8. Students are placed on a contract when they have an excessive number of tardies. Parents will be notified by the
student's Dean in writing and a parent conference may be requested. The contract will stipulate consequences that
may involve disciplinary action. Violation of this contract may result in a student being asked to withdraw from Mater Dei
High School.
9. It is the policy of Mater Dei High School that more than 15 tardies to school in the morning, or to a particular class in a
semester, may result in the student being asked to withdraw from MDHS.
407a Trip Request Policy For students to obtain the most out of their educational experience, it is imperative that absences be held to a minimum. Therefore, we
encourage all families to plan their vacations during the vacation time on the school calendar. We strongly discourage families from
taking recreational trips during the school year.
Any family trip/college visit/obligation (which includes outside club tournaments or extra-curricular activities) are planned absences and
must receive prior approval from the Attendance Office. If approval is not given, the trip may result in an unexcused absence. It is the
responsibility of the student to make-up all in-class work, assignments and tests/quizzes that were missed during the trip according to
each teacher’s academic guidelines. Please Note: Students are allotted FIVE absences for school approved family trips/college
visits/obligations only. After five, each absence will count toward their total number of absences.
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407b School-sanctioned Travel In order for students to be eligible to participate in school-sanctioned domestic and/or international travel, they must be approved by the
Business Office, Guidance and Counseling, as well as the Deans’ Office. Any student whose tuition is not up-to-date, is on a DRC
contract and/or not approved by Guidance and Counseling may become ineligible to participate in such trips. Registration in such travel
opportunities does not guarantee participation.
408 Parental Responsibility When Parent/Guardians Are Out of Town If a student's parent(s)/guardian(s) will be unavailable (i.e. out of town or on vacation) a signed written parental notice must be provided,
in advance, to the Attendance Office. This notice will indicate the adult(s) who is responsible for the student while the
parent(s)/guardian(s) is unavailable. This information is needed for attendance purposes and for any emergency situations that may
arise.
500 Student Regulations The purpose of a student code of regulations is to provide the student body with a safe and orderly academic and social setting. These
regulations should also enable our students to grow in their respect for each other, for the MDHS faculty, staff and administration and
for the campus environment. Violation of these regulations will result in disciplinary action.
501 General Information 1. To cross Bristol Street or Edinger Avenue, students must use the crosswalks and follow directions of the Security
Staff.
2. Students who choose to park in the neighborhood do so at their own risk.
3. Students must follow directions given by the Security Staff.
4. Security cameras monitor much of the school for the safety of students and others. Students must still report any
suspicious or dangerous activities to the Security Staff.
5. No in-line skates, roller blades of any kind or skateboards are permitted on campus.
6. Students must be wearing their Student I.D. Card and the Mater Dei issued lanyard around their neck during
school hours. Students must also bring their Student I.D. Card to all Mater Dei functions that are held after school
hours.
7. Students are NEVER permitted to enter any construction zone on campus and must obey all signage or security
guard directions pertaining to traffic patterns around construction zones at Mater Dei.
8. Gum chewing is not permitted anywhere on the Mater Dei campus.
502 Assemblies 1. All students are required to attend All Assemblies, Rallies, and Mass or Prayer Services.
2. Students are to proceed to the assembly in an orderly fashion accompanied by their teacher.
3. No food, drink, gum or laser pointers of any kind are permitted inside the gymnasium or assembly area.
At Mass or Prayer Services:
1. SILENCE as well as appropriate posture and decorum is to be observed as a sign of respect.
2. Students are encouraged to participate fully in the liturgy or service.
3. No eating, drinking or gum chewing is allowed.
At Assembly:
1. Maintain quiet at all formal assemblies.
2. Stand on arrival and departure of guests.
3. Give complete attention to the speaker.
4. When students are to sit in the bleachers, they should follow the directions of the Deans and Security Staff.
5. Sitting on the bleachers is allowed only when the bleachers are fully extended.
6. Whistling and shouting are not an acceptable means of applause.
At Rallies:
1. School pride and spirit is generated from the MDHS student body. Students should give enthusiastic cooperation and
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courteous attention to those who are conducting the rally.
2. Slamming and/or pushing are not permitted at MDHS rallies or at any MDHS function or event.
503 Campus Trash Policy 1. It is expected that students assist in keeping the campus and classrooms neat and clean at all time, especially the
lunch area.
2. Disregard for this policy will result in student offenders being required to clean the lunch area for a length of time or
number of days determined by the Deans. Multiple violations will be elevated to a Level II offense.
3. Gum chewing is not permitted anywhere on the Mater Dei campus.
504 Classroom 1. Students must be in the classroom and seated when the second bell rings. A bell signifies the end of the class.
Dismissal is given by the teacher.
2. All classes will begin or end with prayer. All students are to observe appropriate decorum during prayer and/or the
Pledge of Allegiance.
3. Students are responsible for the good condition of desks and of the classroom.
4. Any collections of money (for any purpose) must be approved in writing by the schools’ Administrative Board.
5. Students are not to handle classroom equipment, e.g. thermostat, blinds, windows, maps without the teacher's
permission.
6. Eating or drinking is not allowed in the classroom without permission. Gum chewing is not permitted anywhere
on the Mater Dei campus.
7. Each student must have a Hall Pass when out of class. An office summons is considered a Hall Pass. Passes
must be returned to the teacher who issued the pass. Students are allowed to use the restroom during class;
however, they must return to class within a reasonable amount of time. If a student is feeling ill, they must first
report to the nurse. Failure to do so may result in a truancy.
8. Students who, as a result of food or water fights or because of rain, arrive at a class with wet or soiled clothing may
not be permitted to enter that class by the classroom teacher. These students will be sent to the Deans’ Office.
9. Although electronic devices and headphones are permitted on campus, they may not be used in the classrooms,
the library, or other study area unless a teacher gives permission.
10. Laser pointers are not allowed at any time.
505 Closed Campus MATER DEI IS A CLOSED CAMPUS. Once students arrive on campus in the morning, they may not leave the campus without special
permission. An Off-Campus Permit must be obtained from the Attendance Office.
If students become ill and need to go home, they must 1) go through the Health Office; 2) parents must be contacted; and 3)
the student signed out through the Attendance Office.
All visitors (including student visitors) must sign in to be on campus by Campus Security.
1. Adult visitors must report to the Security Guard to sign in and be directed to the appropriate location. A visitor's pass
will be issued from the Security Office.
2. In-class Visitors/Shadow Program for Prospective Students. Student visitors (prospective students) who wish to visit
classes in session must be sponsored by a Mater Dei Student. The sponsor is responsible for the actions of his/her
visitor while on campus. The "shadow program" is reserved for prospective students visiting the school prior to
enrollment.
a. The sponsor must receive permission from the Advancement Office 3 days in advance of the visit.
b. Male visitors must wear a collared shirt and nice slacks. Female visitors must wear a nice shirt and skirt or slacks.
c. Visitors must be accompanied by his/her sponsor at all times.
d. On the day of the visit, visitors must go to the Advancement Office prior to the start of the school day.
e. Sponsors are not permitted to switch visitor without prior permission from the Advancement Office at any time.
506 Conduct Off Campus At Athletic Events:
1. Mater Dei student spectators, as well as our student athletes, are to conduct themselves in a spirit of Christian
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decency and courtesy as representatives of Mater Dei High School.
2. Members of the opposing team and school as well as the game officials are to be treated with respect and are not
to be subjected to any verbal or physical harassment.
3. Stand with respect during the National Anthem and the singing of Mater Dei's Alma Mater and the opposing
school's Alma Mater, if they are sung after the game.
4. Any vulgar language, disruptive behavior or throwing of objects will not be tolerated. Any behavior of this kind will
result in expulsion from the game site and further disciplinary action from the Deans’ office.
5. Mater Dei students are responsible for communicating acceptable student behavior regulations to any friends that
they (the Mater Dei students) invite as guests to any Mater Dei athletic event.
6. Students are to stay in the MD rooting section area during the game. Mater Dei students are not permitted to visit
the opposing school's rooting section in order to prevent any possible provocative activity.
7. Stay off the playing area before, during and after the athletic contest. Follow the direction of security and staff
event personnel.
8. All posters (must receive prior approval by the Deans’ Office) and crowd cheers must positively support Mater Dei.
They must never put down or distract the opponent (e.g. no noise during an opponent's free throws at basketball
games).
9. Noisemakers, bells, horns, etc. are prohibited at all contests.
Loitering:
Students are not to loiter before or after school on neighboring streets, parking lots, parking structure, or shopping centers.
Littering:
Students are encouraged to take pride in their campus and in the community. Deposit all trash in proper containers.
Bus Regulations:
Students are subject to the authority of the bus driver whenever being transported to and from school. School policies
regarding behavior, profanity, obscenity, damaging property, fighting, etc. are in effect on the buses at all times. REFUSAL
TO OBEY THESE RULES AT THE REQUEST OF THE DRIVERS WILL RESULT IN THE LOSS OF RIDING PRIVILEGES,
CONFISCATION OF BUS PASS AND DISCIPLINARY ACTION FROM SCHOOL AND LEGAL OFFICIALS.
Eating lunches on buses is not permissible at any time. Throwing any object from the bus windows and leaving trash or litter
of any kind in the bus is not permitted.
OCTA Bus passes will be available in the Book Store. Cost is $40.00.
507 Earthquake 1. Mater Dei has developed an Emergency Preparedness Plan in case of an earthquake. Administrators, teachers, and
staff have been assigned to one of the following teams: Emergency Operation Center, First Aid, Sweep and Response,
Security, Accounting, Parental Communication/Reunion Gate, Student Support, and Nutrition.
2. Emergency Preparedness drills are held at least once a semester. In a drill or an emergency, students are to be silent
and maintain a DUCK-COVER-HOLD position under a desk/table, away from windows, and near an inside wall until the
tremors have ceased and the teacher has directed evacuation to the field.
3. Students are to remain on campus until everyone is accounted for and an administrative decision has been made
concerning the safety in releasing students. Students will be released through the Parental Communication/Reunion
Gate Team on Baker Street to those adults authorized on the student's Emergency Release Form.
4. The Assistant Principal Student Services will continually revise and update the school's Emergency
Preparedness Plan to promote the safety and care of all students and staff.
5. All students with a chronic health condition requiring daily medication/treatment should provide the Health Office with an
individualized health maintenance kit to be used in the case of an emergency (3-5 day supply).
508 Emergency Protocols Evacuation Drill Students should move quickly and quietly to the designated area on campus, posted in all classrooms. Students are to remain under
the supervision of their teacher until dismissed back to class by the Administrator in charge. A student initiating a false fire alarm will be
subject to disciplinary consequences, at Level III.
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Active Shooter Protocols Mater Dei has implemented the ALICE (Alert. Lockdown. Inform. Counter. Evacuate.) active shooter protocols and has worked diligently
to train all faculty and staff members to respond in the unlikely event of such a scenario. Mater Dei has partnered with Santa Ana P.D.
in creating a video to educate our students on how to respond to such a scenario. In an effort to continually educate our students and
enable the faculty to keep their training relevant, this video will air on Monarch Television once a month. Mater Dei has also partnered
with Santa Ana P.D. in coordinating the MDHS video cameras in the event of an emergency on campus.
509 General Courtesy 1. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful manner reflecting positively on themselves, their parents,
and their school. Courtesy is basically Christian charity requiring self-discipline. Respect marks Monarch behavior.
2. Students should address the faculty/staff politely and in general with a spirit of helpfulness, courtesy and respect toward
them. When addressing a faculty/staff member, use of the adult's first name is not appropriate. (The faculty/staff
person's last name should be preceded by Mr., Miss, Mrs. Ms.)
3. Students should respect the privacy of the faculty lounge, mailroom, and dining room. Teachers must be allowed
privacy during their lunch or free period.
4. Vulgar language on campus is inappropriate.
5. Once enrolled at Mater Dei, a student is expected to continue to display positive Christian conduct at all times, on and
off campus, whether inside or outside of school. Conduct that is detrimental to the reputation of Mater Dei High School
may result in disciplinary consequences.
510 Lockers 1. Lockers are assigned by the Attendance/Deans’ Office by request only.
2. Lockers are to be kept locked at all times. They must also be kept CLEAN AND NEAT.
3. Under no circumstances should a student reveal his/her locker combination to any other student, nor is a student
to open another student's locker or remove another student's lock.
4. Lockers in need of repair should be reported to the Deans’ Office.
5. No decals or pasted items are allowed inside or outside the lockers.
6. Lockers are subject to search by the Deans’ Office, Security, or Administration at any time with or without cause.
Students have no expectation of privacy in their lockers.
7. ONLY School issued Master Locks (purchased from the Mater Dei Campus Store) are to be placed and locked on
student lockers. School personnel will remove ALL other (non-school issued) locks.
511 Eating on Campus 1. Eating on campus is restricted to the lunch area that is located inside and outside the LeVecke Center. In order to
leave the lunch area, a student must have an authorized pass, and must have that pass checked by a faculty
member, Lunch Monitor, Dean or Security Staff member.
2. Orderly conduct is expected in the lunch area as well as in other areas of the school.
3. All business to be transacted in the Administration Wing during the lunch period should be handled during the first
15 minutes only.
4. Throwing or smearing food or drink on another student violates the respect one should have for another student.
5. Such activity is a Level II infraction.
6. Food is not permitted in the new Mater Dei Athletics Complex. Bottled water is permitted.
7. Food deliveries by outside parties are not allowed.
512 Parking Lot/Parking Structure 1. Parking in either the Mater Dei parking lot or parking structure is at the student’s own risk. Students who wish to take advantage of this
privilege are to obtain a parking permit from the Security Office. Preferred Senior parking will be in the Monarch Way lot with all other students
parking in the parking structure. No car will be allowed in the parking lot or parking structure without its parking pass hanging from the
vehicle's inside rear view mirror. The parking pass must remain hanging from the rear view mirror while the vehicle is parked in the parking lot
or parking structure. If the parking pass is not visible, the vehicle will not be allowed to park in any lot or in the structure - no exceptions.
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Students who use fraudulent parking passes will lose the privilege of parking in the Monarch student parking lot and may receive additional
disciplinary consequences.
2. Senior students may purchase a Preferred Senior parking spot in the Monarch Way lot through the Activities Office. This privi lege allows them
to decorate their assigned parking spot. All decorations are subject to approval and must be within the realm of Christian decency. All supplies
used to decorate Preferred Senior spots must also be approved by the Facilities Department.
3. The parking lot and parking structure will be closed to all students during school hours. Students may not go to any car (their own or
faculty's) during the school day. Permission from a Dean, Director of Security or an Administrator is necessary for anyone wishing to go to
the parking lot or structure during school hours.
4. There shall be no stickers or decals attached on any vehicle's windows or exterior depicting any signs of violence, vulgar language or
disrespect in reference to the Mater Dei community or society's best interest.
5. A speed limit of five (5) M.P.H. will be enforced in the parking lot and parking structure at all times. Disregard of the speed limit or unsafe
driving may result in loss of parking privileges and additional disciplinary consequences.
6. Cars may not be left overnight in either the parking lot or parking structure without permission from the Security Office. Disregard of this may
result in loss of parking privileges and/or car being towed.
7. Students being dropped off or picked up before and after school should exit or enter their cars on Monarch Way. No drop-offs will be
allowed in the Bristol Street parking lot.
8. All unauthorized parking or failure to follow directions by the Security Staff or parking lot violations will result in disciplinary action.
9. Students are required to obey any and all signage and security staff directions in the parking lot and parking structure.
10. Students are not to park in the Edinger Lot located across the street from campus. With the addition of the new parking structure, the Edinger
Lot will not be staffed by Mater Dei Security personnel.
513 Posters & Flyers All posters and flyers must be approved and stamped by the Activities Office prior to being hung on the Mater Dei campus. Posters and
flyers can only be hung in designated areas on campus.
514 Pregnancy Policy As a diocesan Catholic high school, Mater Dei affirms the sacredness of all human life. This teaching is expressed throughout our
curriculum particularly in religious studies classes and Campus Ministry. If a student becomes pregnant out of marriage, we realize the
situation is a very sensitive one. We will work with the student and her family so that the student will be able to remain at Mater Dei.
This will be done through the Office of the Director of Campus Ministry as well as through the office of the Health Services Coordinator
and Counseling Office.
Expectations are as follows: The student and the family will meet with the Director of Campus Ministry. Based on the individual situation, the student will be
encouraged to remain at the school. The school encourages continuing medical care as well as counseling for both the family and the
student. If the father is a current student at Mater Dei, the school would expect the same for the father.
At some point, based on a doctor's decision, the student may need to remain at home for a prolonged period of time. While the school
will continue to be supportive, the student will need to home study through their local public school during the time of this prolonged
absence.
Abortion: Mater Dei High School supports the teaching of the Catholic Church that abortion is the taking of an innocent human life. If the school
learns that a student has had an abortion, that student may be asked to leave the school. If another student has assisted in that
decision, that student may be asked to leave the school as well.
515 Prescription Medication Students are not allowed to take any medication unless supervised by the school nurse. All prescription medicine must be turned into
the Health Services Coordinator with a Parent Request for Administration of Medication Form. Refer to Section 705 Level II Infractions
(major). Failure to do so will be considered a Level II discipline infraction.
516 School Dances 1. STUDENTS MUST SHOW THEIR STUDENT ID CARDS FOR ENTRANCE AT ALL SCHOOL DANCES. In the event
that a student arrives at a school dance without their STUDENT ID CARD, he/she will receive a consequence.
2. Loitering outside the dance area is not permitted. Enter the dance upon arrival and vacate dance site immediately upon
leaving dance.
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3. Arrive within the first hour of the published time at which the dance is scheduled to begin or bring a signed parental note
granting permission to enter the dance late.
4. Students will not be allowed to leave the dance early unless the parent is physically present to pick up the student.
Parent will be asked to show photo ID and to sign the permission slip in order for the student to be released
5. Students should be picked up in the Monarch Way Lot within 30 minutes of the end of the dance (for on-campus
dances).
6. Dance tickets may be purchased for individuals or mixed couples only.
7. On-campus dances, except Homecoming, are closed to off-campus guests. On-campus dances are held from
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., except the Homecoming Dance, which is from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Students are not allowed
to leave the Homecoming Dance before 10:00 p.m. and other campus dances before 9:30 p.m.
8. Student dancing must fall within the standards of good taste and Christian decency. Dancing that is overly suggestive
in nature or deemed violent or inappropriate based on school standards is not allowed.
9. Attendance at school dances is a privilege, not a right. Mater Dei has the sole discretion to refuse admission to, and
remove any student or guest from, any school dance. Students who have been asked to withdraw from Mater Dei for
disciplinary reasons are not eligible to attend Mater Dei school dances.
10. The Mater Dei High School Breathalyzer Policy set out in Section 519 applies additionally to all school dances.
11. HOMECOMING DANCE: The Homecoming Dance is an on-campus dance, which is held in the Meruelo Athletic Center
from 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. All students are permitted to attend this dance. Students attending this dance must turn
in proof of online payment for their ticket. Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors are permitted to bring outside guests to this
dance. Students bringing a guest who is not a current Mater Dei student must have a signed Guest Permission Form to
attend the dance. Mater Dei students are not required to turn in a permission slip for on-site dances. The dress for this
dance will be “semi-formal” (see section 607 of the handbook). Students are not allowed to leave until 10 p.m.
• All outside guests need to complete the “Guest Permission Form” (located on the Mater Dei website) and submit
with a current picture ID.
• If guest is a high school student the permission form must be signed by their school administrator and a business
card must be attached.
• Guests must be 20 years old or younger.
• GUESTS MUST CONFORM TO ALL MATER DEI STUDENT CONDUCT, GRADE, AND DRESS REGULATIONS.
12. WINTER FORMAL: The Winter Formal dance is held off campus and is open to Sophomore, Junior, and Senior
students. Formal off-campus dances are held from 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. All students and guests must arrive by
8:00p.m. Students are not permitted to leave before 10:00 p.m. The dress for this dance is formal (see section 607 of
the handbook). Each student must turn in proof of payment and a signed parent permission form. Students may bring
outside guests under the following guidelines:
• All outside guests need to complete the “Guest Permission Form” (located on the Mater Dei website), and submit
with a current picture ID. If guest is a high school student, the ID card must be from their school.
• If guest is a high school student the permission form must be signed by their school administrator and a business
card must be attached.
• High school guests must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors
• Guests must be 20 years old or younger.
• GUESTS MUST CONFORM TO ALL MATER DEI STUDENT CONDUCT, GRADE, AND DRESS REGULATIONS.
13. PROM: Prom is held off campus and is open to Juniors and Seniors*. Formal off-campus dances are held from 7:00
p.m. – 11:00 p.m. All students must arrive by 8:00 p.m. Students are not permitted to leave before 10:30 p.m. The dress
for this dance is formal (see section 611 of the handbook). Each student must turn in proof of payment and a signed
parent permission form. Students may bring outside guests under the following guidelines:
• All outside guests need to complete the “Guest Permission Form” (located on the Mater Dei website), and submit
with a current picture ID. If guest is a high school student, the ID card must be from their school.
• If guest is a high school student the permission form must be signed by their school administrator and a business
card must be attached.
• High school guests must be juniors or seniors
• Guests must be 20 years old or younger.
• GUESTS MUST CONFORM TO ALL MATER DEI STUDENT CONDUCT, GRADE, AND DRESS REGULATIONS.
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*Seniors may contact the Principal’s Office via email to request permission to bring a Sophomore to Prom (Freshman
are not permitted to attend Prom).
517 School Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program Mater Dei High School has instituted a school-wide banned substances and alcohol testing program. The banned substances include
but are not limited to all illegal drugs, marijuana and THC products, tobacco, nicotine and alcohol. The program is intended as a pro-
active approach to a truly drug and alcohol- free school. Students using illegal drugs, marijuana and THC products, tobacco, nicotine
and alcohol, as well as e-cigarettes, and vaporizers pose a threat to their own health and safety, as well as to that of other students,
staff and community. The purpose of this program is threefold:
1. To provide for the health and safety of all students.
2. To reduce the effects of peer pressure by providing a legitimate reason for students to refuse to use banned substances
and alcohol.
3. To encourage students who use banned substances or alcohol to participate in drug and alcohol treatment programs.
The program is designed to create a safe, substance abuse free environment for students and to assist them in getting help when
needed. The full policy may be reviewed at the school in the Library, Main Office, Counseling Offices, Deans' Offices or by contacting
the Assistant Principal/Student Services.
Mater Dei High School understands that a testing program is not a final solution for the risks and dangers inherent with drug and alcohol
abuse. Rather, Mater Dei High School desires to establish a program to protect students through education, observation, testing,
rehabilitation, and where appropriate and necessary, sanctions for repeated violations of this policy.
Mater Dei High School tests students in three ways. In the first, Mater Dei High School conducts mandatory random drug, marijuana,
nicotine, tobacco, and alcohol tests of all students. In the second, Mater Dei High School tests selected students whenever it has
reasonable suspicion of drug, marijuana, nicotine, tobacco or alcohol use by those students. In the third, Mater Dei High School tests
students, with or without reasonable suspicion, in cases of an accident or possible criminal conduct.
Reasonable suspicion is defined as sufficient reason for basis in fact to give rise to a reasonable belief that a student has banned
substances and/or alcohol in his/her blood system. Reasonable suspicion can be based on some of, but not limited to, the following
circumstances:
1. Behavioral conduct that causes reasonable suspicion to believe that there is the presence of banned substances and/or
alcohol in an individual's body fluids based upon specific personal observations concerning behavior, speech, actions,
and/or bodily odors.
2. Other reasonable circumstances and information, which would indicate that an individual is utilizing banned substances
and/or alcohol.
The Mater Dei High School Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program is a year-round program. Students participating
in summer activities (including but not limited to: summer school, athletics, camps, etc.) can be selected to participate in the
testing program. Any student in possession of an e-cigarette or electronic vaporizer will have this item confiscated. The item
will then be tested to determine the substance within it.
Student Selection for Random Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program Each month on days determined by the Principal or his/her designee, individual students will be randomly selected from the student
body at large to provide samples for the Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program. The Principal or the designated individual
shall take all reasonable steps to assure the integrity, confidentiality, and random nature of the selection process, including, but not
necessarily limited to, assuring that the person drawing names has no way of knowingly choosing or failing to choose particular
students for the testing, assuring that the identity of students drawn for testing is not known to those involved in the selection process.
Sample Collection Samples will be collected at an appropriate time on the same day the student is selected for random testing, or possibly on subsequent
days in case of specific student testing, or if the student is absent on that day, on the day of the student's return to school. Samples will
be collected by a certified outside collection agency who will maintain a confidential chain of custody for each specimen.
When the laboratory analyzes a specimen as positive for one or more of the selected banned substance and/or alcohol, the results will
be forwarded to the Medical Review Officer for a final determination. For those students with a documented medical history
demonstrating the need for regular use of a prescription drug or over-the-counter medication, a verification signed by a licensed medical
practitioner will be required. Students who refuse to provide verification and test positive will be subject to the actions specified below
for "positive tests".
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Students who are found to have used a banned substance including marijuana, THC products, nicotine, tobacco and/or alcohol, refuse
to be promptly tested or re-tested as requested, fail to arrive for testing, falsify or contaminate a sample, or otherwise violate a provision
of the Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program will be dealt with according to the sanctions of the Mater Dei High School
Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program and the Mater Dei High School Parent/Student Handbook.
Alteration or attempted alteration of drug testing samples or sabotage or attempted sabotage to the integrity of the Banned Substances
and Alcohol Testing Program will be considered a Level III offense under the Mater Dei Parent/Student Handbook.
Positive determinations by the Medical Review Officer will be reported to the Principal or his/her designee and the student's
parent/guardian. All test results are considered confidential information and will be handled accordingly by these individuals, but may in
certain cases be disclosed to law enforcement authorities.
Students who attempt to falsify or adulterate samples/results will receive disciplinary
consequences at level III and it will be considered a positive test
First Positive Test When a student is identified with a positive determination, the student must:
1. Participate in a substance abuse counseling program, at least 5 visits, consisting of one-on-one wellness
counseling. This counseling must be provided by a licensed therapist or a counselor with a marriage, family and
child certification (MFCC).
2. The student will be tested a minimum of two times a month. These additional tests will be at the expense of the
parent/guardian. The progress of these students will be reviewed each semester.
3. At the conclusion of the wellness counseling, written documentation by a therapist, counselor or psychologist will
be needed and turned in to the Assistant Principal /Student Services Office.
Second Positive Test Should a student be identified with a second positive determination, the student will be referred to the Disciplinary
Review Council where the appropriateness of his/her continued enrollment in Mater Dei High School will be determined. The second
positive test consequence applies over a four-year period or as long as the student is enrolled in Mater Dei High School.
Third Positive Test Should a student be identified with a third positive determination, the student will be asked to withdraw from Mater Dei High School.
These procedures will be followed as long as a student is enrolled in Mater Dei High School. The three positive test consequences
apply over a four-year period or as long as a student is enrolled in Mater Dei High School.
As with all other policies pertaining to requested withdrawal, the parent/guardian may appeal the decision to the
Principal whose decision, in consultation with the President, is final.
518 Searches Mater Dei representatives may search a student's car, person, personal items (e.g., backpacks, purses, etc.), electronic devices,
lockers, and other belongings: 1) when there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will turn up evidence that the
student has violated or is in violation of either the law or the rules of the School; 2) in the course of an investigation; or 3) when the
safety of the student or others is at issue in the sole discretion of Mater Dei High School.
519 Breathalyzer In addition to the searches provided for in Section 518, the Deans, Security Staff or Administrators reserve the right to breathalyze
students where it is deemed that there is reasonable suspicion that a student may be under the influence of alcohol. Separately, for the
safety of all in attendance, all students may be breathalyzed, without reasonable suspicion, at school dances, athletic activities, and
other school events.
520 Cell Phone Policies / Smart Watch Policies Students may have cell phones in their possession during the school day. However, students are required to keep their phones
powered off during the school day including during the lunch period. In the classroom, a teacher may invite students to use cell phones
in a directed and appropriate manner while working on a specific lesson or project. Once the project is completed, cell phones are
again to be powered off.
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Students are welcome to use their cell phones before their first class and after school in the Shamrock Plaza, as long as their use does
not interfere with the educational process.
Expanding on Section 518, above, Mater Dei representatives, under certain circumstances, have the right to immediately and without
notice to the students, inspect and review students’ cell phones and all information contained on the cell phones. Based on such a
search, Mater Dei representatives may confiscate the cell phones. Any student’s refusal to immediately turn over a cell phone when
requested to do so by a Mater Dei representative and to provide all applicable log-in and password information for any content on the
cell phone is a Level III offense.
In addition, the following discipline relates to violation of these cell phone policies.
Level I. Any unauthorized use of a cell phone or smart watch during school hours. Any unauthorized use of a cell phone or smart watch
after school hours in the library, chapel or other areas of the school where such use is not authorized. If the student has a personal
emergency they may come to the Deans to use their phone. Please do not call or text your student during the school day. Rather,
you may call the attendance office to leave a message for your student.
Level II. Any unauthorized use of a cell phone or smart watch while in the classroom or during Mass.
Level III. Any use of a cell phone at any time to send messages which the administration considers to be of a harassing, threatening or
inappropriate type manner.
If observed with a cell phone out during an exam, it is considered a Level 2 or 3
offense and the student will receive Discipline and Academic Consequences
521 DMV Compliance and Permission Slips 1. Mater Dei students must abide by all California Vehicle Code and Department of Motor Vehicle regulations.
2. These regulations include restrictions on students who have a provisional driver’s license. Among other things, such
students may not transport passengers under 20 years old during the first twelve months of having their license unless
accompanied by a guardian or licensed driver of at least 25 years of age.
3. As allowed by California law, Mater Dei may issue permission slips allowing provisional drivers to transport immediate
family members to or from school or a school-related activity. Mater Dei students must not use the permission slips for
any non-school purpose or to transport anyone who is not an immediate family member.
600 General Dress & Grooming Code
601 Philosophy of the Dress Code Mater Dei High School believes that a student's appearance has an impact on his or her attitude and behavior at school. Respect for the school community, for the students themselves and for what the school is giving the students is manifested by an attitude of "dressing up" rather than "dressing down" for school. The dress code is also designed to help students develop a sense of modesty and decorum. It should educate them in what is appropriate dress for the proper time and place. It is the responsibility of the Administration, the Deans and the Faculty of Mater Dei to regulate against and prevent the adoption of exaggerated or faddish hairstyles, clothing, jewelry or any accessories that tend to draw attention to the wearer. The school does NOT see this as an infringement on personal fashion desires, for the student has many off-campus hours to dress as he or she wishes. However, attending Mater Dei is a privilege, and the school expects its students to conform to a consistent and acceptable dress code. As a sign of mutual respect, as one way of creating an environment of excellence, and of providing an opportunity for the individual student to make a personal commitment to what the school is about, the following dress code has been developed and updated.
PLEASE NOTE In all instances, the school reserves the right of regulating against unbecoming fads or fashions that reflect negatively on the school, the
person or do not reflect standards of Christian decency.
The Administration and Deans have discretion and final judgment regarding the appropriateness of any clothing or grooming
•ALL UNIFORM/GROOMING QUESTIONS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE DEANS’ OFFICE, PRIOR TO ANY UNIFORM/GROOMING DECISION
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602 Dress Code Enforcement Policy Violations of the Mater Dei Dress Code are considered Level 1 offenses. Multiple Violations will be elevated to a Level II offense. See Section 704 for Consequences. Any violation of the dress code for athletic, extracurricular, and social events may result in exclusion from the activity, in addition to disciplinary action. Please contact the Deans' Office regarding dress code regulations at 850-9515 (Girls), 850-9516 (Boys). Also, please note:
• Students can be suspended for non-uniform pants until the correct pants are worn. • Students with hair that is inappropriate may be suspended from classes until the style/color is
corrected. • Girls who receive three short skirt detentions will lose the privilege of wearing a skirt for 90 school days and
will be required to wear long pants during that time. • Students who receive three detentions for altered or rolled shorts will lose the privilege of wearing shorts and
will be required to wear long pants for 90 school days.
603 Unacceptable Dress at Any Mater Dei Event or Mater Dei Function The following are never permitted:
• Writing and images on clothing not in accordance with Christian decency • Any hemline more than 3 inches above the knee • Clothes not tailored in accordance to Christian decency (i.e. pants/skirts/shorts not worn at the natural waist, oversized
clothing, baggy clothing, tight fitting, tank, halter, mini dress/skirt, low cut, exposed or bare midriff or back, revealing neckline, backless or spaghetti top)
• Clothing that is not clean, neat and free from damage (i.e. no frayed edges, cut-off sleeves, holes, ripped/torn etc.) • Jeans not in accordance with Christian decency (i.e. hip huggers, jeggings or denim leggings, cut-off jeans) • Jean/denim skirts of any kind • Any kind of pant worn under a skirt • Short shorts, cut-offs, P.E. shorts or beach type shorts • Over the knee socks, fishnet stockings, leg warmers • Wallet chains • Gang/tag crew related clothing • Excessive, extreme or faddish jewelry • Body piercing/facial piercings and tattoos are not to be visible • Hat or bandana of any kind, including hoods (Mater Dei hats may be worn at athletic events only; hats must be worn
correctly and not facing backwards) • Earrings (for boys) and tongue rings (boys or girls)
Attention Students and Parents:
ALL SKIRTS, BLOUSES, SHIRTS, SWEATERS, SLACKS AND SHORTS MUST BE PURCHASED THROUGH VICKI MARSHA UNIFORMS - 5292 Production Drive, Huntington Beach, CA 92649 (714)
895-6371 www.vickimarsha.com School code: MDH7711
SWEATSHIRTS and Mater Dei JACKETS can be purchased at the Mater Dei Campus Store or at
www.materdei.org
Articles of Clothing Not Listed Are Not Permitted
604 Uniform Dress Code for Both Boys and Girls: Polo Shirts
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• Only Vicki Marsha Polo Shirts or Polo shirts bearing the Mater Dei name or logo and issued by a team, club or group, may be worn • May be untucked if the hem is a straight edge hem with no tail. • Red, white, maroon and gray only
Vicki Marsha Shorts • Only Vicki Marsha Shorts can be worn • Navy, khaki, or gray walking shorts with Mater Dei embroidered logo • Length may not be altered or rolled. Shorts must not be more than 3” above knees
Vicki Marsha Slacks • Only slacks from Vicki Marsha may be worn (can be pleated or flat) • Navy, khaki, or gray with Mater Dei embroidered logo
Sweaters • Blouse/shirt collar must always be visible • Only Vicki Marsha solid cardigan, v-neck, vest, crew neck pullover sweaters with Mater Dei logo may be worn in red or gray
Sweatshirts • Sweatshirts and zipper-front sweatshirts with a Mater Dei logo in Red, Gray or White only. Sweatshirts and zipper-front
sweatshirts with a college name/logo and/or mascot in any color • Collared Mater Dei uniform shirts or blouses must be worn and be visible under the sweatshirt • Hoods on sweatshirts may only be worn outdoors during periods of inclement weather
Underclothing • Solid white t-shirts only which must be tucked in. • T-shirts with logos are NOT permitted
Jackets • Only Mater Dei logo, Mater Dei team jackets, and/or college jackets may be worn. No other jackets may be worn.
Shoe Code • ONLY loafer style, tie shoes or Van’s slip on tennis shoes may be worn. Shoes outfitted for laces must be tied • High top leather shoes are not permitted. • Please CLICK HERE for example pictures.
Socks • Must be worn at all times • Socks must be in accordance with Christian decency.
605 Girls Uniform Dress Code at School
Vicki Marsha Skirts • Only Vicki Marsha skirts can be worn and may not be rolled. • Must be no shorter than 3 inches above the knee. Please CLICK HERE for example pictures. • Permitted Colors: Red Plaid, Gray, and Mater Dei plaid. The red pinstriped skirt is no longer allowed. • Tights/nylons/knee/crew socks may be worn in accordance with Christian decency. Tights must be from the waist to the toe
and must be in gray, black or white Vicki Marsha Oxford Shirts
• Only White Vicki Marsha Oxford Shirts can be worn in long-sleeve, short-sleeve, or the ¾ sleeve blouse. • Must be buttoned and tucked in at all times
Grooming • Earrings may be worn in the earlobe only; No facial piercings; i.e. lip, nose, etc • Make-up, if worn, must be in good taste and not so heavy as to be easily noticeable • Hair: Bangs may not touch the eyebrow. • Extreme changes in hair color or 2-toned color is never permitted
606 Boys Uniform Dress Code at School Vicki Marsha Oxford Shirt
• Only White Vicki Marsha Oxford Shirts can be worn in long-sleeve or short-sleeve. • Must be buttoned and tucked in at all times
Hair • Hair cannot touch the eyes, ears, or top of the collar
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• May not be more than 3 inches in length • If hair is worn spiked or worn straight up, it may not be more than 1.5 inches in length • Step haircuts and bald shaved heads are not permitted • Hair must be neat and evenly tapered so as to blend into the short side • Shaved lines or designs are never permitted in hair • Extreme or faddish hairstyles are never permitted • Extreme changes in hair color or 2-toned color is never permitted
Grooming • All male students must be clean-shaven at all times. • Unshaven students will be given ONE WARNING per year. After the initial warning, unshaven students will be required to
purchase a razor from the Deans' office at a minimal fee and will shave before attending classes. • Sideburns may not extend below the ear or be flared • Male students are not allowed to wear make-up and/or nail polish at any time.
607 Dress for Extracurricular Events
Athletic events Casual or Spirit Dress – Girls’ may wear yoga pants made of thick material. Spandex or see through pants are not permitted at any time.
On Campus Dances Casual Dress or Specially Approved Attire Banquets and Choir Productions Dress-Up (see section 609) Homecoming Dance Semi-Formal (See section 610) Winter Formal Formal (See section 611) Prom Formal (See section 611) Game Day Team Dress (unless Monarch Professional Dress Day) Information/Orientation Nights Uniform or Monarch Professional Dress NHS/CSF Meetings Monarch Professional Dress Call to Leadership Monarch Professional Dress Field Trips School Uniform Masses Monarch Professional Dress 7th & 8th Grade Visit Day Monarch Professional Dress 4.0 Celebration of Academic Excellence Dress-Up (see section 609) Senior Awards Dress-Up (see section 609) Baccalaureate Mass Dress-Up (see section 609)
National Signing Day Dress-Up (see section 609)
Graduation Graduation Gowns
608 Spirit Dress FOR ALL STUDENTS BOTH GIRLS AND BOYS
• Students may wear school uniform pants, skirts (girls only), long blue or black denim jeans in good condition • Jean Capri pants (girls only) • Any shirts or sweatshirts worn by students in spirit dress must be in the school colors of Red, White or Gray and include the
Mater Dei name or logo. Vicki Marsha uniform shirts may be worn on spirit dress days. • Only Mater Dei sweatshirts/gear may be worn on Mater Dei Spirit Dress days.
609 Dress Up Dress
BOYS: • Dress slacks, dress shirt, and tie, dress shoes/dress socks. No tennis shoes may be worn. Jacket or blazer is optional.
GIRLS:
• Dresses, dress pants or pant suits, or skirts with blouses or sweaters and dress shoes. The length of dresses and skirts must conform to Mater Dei dress code. Bare shoulders must be covered.
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610 Semi-Formal Dress (Homecoming Dance Only. See permission form)
NOTE: Guests must also conform to these dress codes BOYS:
• Dress pants, dress shirt and tie (jacket optional) • Dress shoes or tennis shoes in good repair
GIRLS: • Dresses at or below the knee are acceptable. • Dressy long pantsuits are permitted • Dresses must be conservative, modest and non-revealing (further info. and examples of appropriate dresses provided on
Mater Dei website) • Dress shoes or tennis shoes in good repair
611 Formal Dress (Winter Formal and Prom. See permission form).
NOTE: Guests must also conform to these dress codes BOYS:
• Full tuxedo or matching suits and tie • Dress shoes only • Shoes must be worn at all times – no student is allowed to go barefoot
GIRLS: • Floor length dresses ONLY. Above the knee and knee length dresses are not acceptable. • All dresses must be conservative, modest and non-revealing (further info. and examples of appropriate dresses provided on
Mater Dei website) • Dresses may not have a slit that exceeds knee length • No two-piece dresses are allowed • Dress shoes only • Shoes must be worn at all times – no student is allowed to go barefoot
612 Game Day Team Dress
On game days student-athletes in season may wear the following: GIRLS AND BOYS
• MDHS school uniform shorts, pants or skirts (girls only) with a team polo shirt may be worn • Sweatshirts and jackets may be worn under normal uniform rules • Monarch Professional Dress • NO TEAM SWEATPANTS MAY BE WORN DURING THE SCHOOL DAY
To minimize class time lost due to early games, student-athletes may change into game uniform at lunchtime and attend class thus dressed. When that apparel includes trunks, shorts, tank tops, etc. that outfit must be covered by team warm-ups. Sweatshirts and
jackets may be worn under normal uniform rules.
613 Monarch Professional Dress
Dress for Mass and special days, as announced. BOYS:
• Khaki pants or shorts only • Dress shirt – white long sleeved or white short sleeved oxford shirt • Tie • Should the student choose to wear a Sweater (vest, Cardigan. or V-neck) it must be in red or gray with the Mater Dei Logo.
Available from Vicki Marsha or the MD bookstore
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• Students must remain in Monarch Professional Dress for the entirety of the school day, meaning no sweatshirts or jackets. • Socks (solid white, navy, black or gray only • Dress shoes or tennis shoes in good repair
GIRLS: • Uniform skirt OR khaki pants with the Mater Dei logo. • White 3/4 sleeve shirt or white short sleeved/long sleeved oxford shirt • Should the student choose to wear a Sweater (vest, Cardigan. or V-neck) it must be in red or gray with the Mater Dei Logo.
Available from Vicki Marsha or the MD bookstore • Students must remain in Monarch Professional Dress for the entirety of the school day, meaning no sweatshirts or jackets. • Socks (solid white, navy, black or gray only) • Dress flat shoes or tennis shoes in good repair
700 Discipline Code
701 Philosophy of Discipline When a student manifests difficulty in living within the guidelines of the Mater Dei community, the school deals with these issues
constructively through its policies, Administration, Deans, Counseling, Faculty, Disciplinary Council, and other dynamics within the
school. We address the good of the student and his/her family as well as the good of the entire community.
The disciplinary procedures that follow are an attempt to address issues which sometimes occur both on campus and off campus which
disrupt the educational process or are otherwise incompatible with the values and mission of Mater Dei. Mater Dei students are to
conduct themselves in a spirit of Christian decency and courtesy as representatives of Mater Dei High School. As such, Mater Dei
students who attend off campus functions as representatives of Mater Dei High School (this includes, but is not limited to, another
school’s dance, athletic event, etc.) will also be subject to the disciplinary procedures that follow.
We have selected the more relevant disciplinary issues that may present themselves and have ranked them into three categories: Level
I, II and III infractions including their potential consequences. These disciplinary issues and measures, however, are not exhaustive. For
example, notwithstanding anything else stated in these disciplinary sections, the school may, at times and at its sole discretion, judge
that a student can no longer remain at Mater Dei High School because his/her presence is detrimental to the good of the student, of the
school, and/or of the Mater Dei community. In such cases, the Principal may ask the parent to withdraw the student, may directly
disenroll the student, or expel the student, all without a disciplinary hearing. Additionally, the school may prescribe additional measures
for encouraging the student to grow in maturity, integrity and responsibility such as asking the student to enter into counseling, requiring
the student to work for the community he/she has offended, or suspending him/her from school and thereby remove the student from
the community.
In order for the Deans’ Office to obtain all proper documentation when dealing with student discipline issues, students may be required
to complete a Student Incident Report.
702 Parental Attitude and Cooperation Mater Dei stresses civility, respect, and courtesy in every aspect of its students’ interactions with others. The same is expected of the
parents of those students when interacting with school staff, personnel, or at school activities. Under normal circumstances a child is
not to be deprived of a Catholic education on grounds relating to the attitude of the parent. Nevertheless, it is recognized that a situation
could arise in which the uncooperative, unprofessional, or destructive attitude of a parent might so diminish the effectiveness of the
school in acting in loco parentis that continuation of the student or enrollment of a student in the school may be impossible.
Parents/guardians may respectfully express their concerns about the school operation, the school’s various academic, co- and extra-
curricular programs, and the school’s staff and personnel. However, they may not do so in a manner that is discourteous, uncivil,
abusive, rumor-driven, disruptive, threatening, harassing, or hostile. This applies equally to all school settings and interactions including
all communications with the school and at all school activities. In case this policy is violated, the decision of the Principal regarding the
suitability for a student’s continued enrollment or acceptance into the school will be final. Additionally, Mater Dei reserves the right, at its
sole discretion, to end communication with, and restrict access to Mater Dei facilities to, a particular parent/guardian and communicate
only with the other parent/guardian, or none at all. (REFER TO DIOCESAN HANDBOOK REFERENCE 4180A)
703 Sexual Harassment Diocesan Policy Against Harassment
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The Diocese of Orange and Mater Dei High School confirm the dignity of each person. It is our policy to provide an educational
environment in which everyone is treated with respect. It is the responsibility of the student, administrator, teacher, parent, staff, aides,
or volunteer to conduct himself/herself in a manner, which contributes to a positive school environment. Therefore, any form of
harassment whether sexual, verbal, written, physical, visual or environmental is strictly forbidden.
Any person who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination or expulsion.
Definition of Harassment:
Harassment occurs when an individual is subjected to treatment that is hostile, offensive or intimidating because of the
individual's race, creed, color, national origin, ethnicity, physical ability, health condition, disability, gender or religion.
Confidentiality:
Every effort shall be made to protect the privacy of parties involved in any complaint. Files pertaining to complaints are
confidential and will be discussed only when necessary for the investigation and/or resolution of the matter.
Retaliation:
The Diocese and Mater Dei forbid retaliation against anyone who reports harassment or who participates in the investigation
of such a report.
704 Level I Infractions (minor) Level I infractions will result in a combination of Level I consequences. 1 demerit is assigned for each infraction.
Level I infractions include:
1. Dress/Grooming Code Violations
2. Tardies
3. Littering
4. Chewing gum
5. Not wearing a Student I.D. Card and the Mater Dei issued lanyard around their neck.
6. Minor disregard of student regulations or school policies.
7. Failed Consequences
8. Unauthorized use of cellular phones, or any electronic audio/visual device during school hours
9. Unauthorized use or downloading of unauthorized apps on iPad
10. Dishonest behavior that includes cheating on any homework assignment or minor project
705 Level II Infractions (major) Level II infractions result in a combination of Level II consequences. 2 demerits are assigned for each infraction.
Level II infractions include:
1. Multiple or flagrant Level I infractions.
2. Classroom disruption
3. Dishonest behavior that includes falsified excuses/signatures/phone messages, plagiarism (Copying another's
work), cheating on any quiz or test.
4. Failure to turn in prescription medication to the Health Services Coordinator.
5. Truancy (class or school).
6. Defiance or disrespect for authority and/or school code.
7. Possession of pornographic materials.
8. Language, gestures or behavior that is immoral, vulgar, profane or obscene.
9. Gambling on or near school property or at any school function.
10. Intimidation, harassment, hostile action, verbal altercation, hazing or any willful act that may cause injury (mental
or physical) to another person.
11. Chronic failure to serve a failed consequence, detention or complete assigned consequences for Level I or II
infractions. Students may be suspended from Extra-Curricular Activities until disciplinary responsibilities have been
fulfilled.
12. Theft, invasion of privacy, possession of stolen property or destruction of another's property.
13. Throwing food or drink or smearing another's uniform or person.
14. Possession of hate literature, use of hate language including that, which is racial, ethnic, or religious in nature.
15. Construction and use of web sites that defame students, school personnel or other entities as deemed
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inappropriate by the Mater Dei School Administration.
16. Inappropriate use of the Internet.
17. Inappropriate use of social media (See section 813)
18. Violation of Internet, Technology and/or iPad Use Policy.
19. Major disregard of student regulations.
20. Conspiracy in any of the above infractions.
706 Level III Infractions (serious) Level III infractions will result in a combination of Level III consequences. 3 demerits are assigned for each.
Any level III infraction may result in the appearance of the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) before the Disciplinary Review Council.
Level III infractions include:
1. Multiple, flagrant or serious Level II infractions.
2. Immoral or scandalous conduct (any speech, writing, or action contrary to Christian decency) on or near school
property or at any school function, or off-campus at any time. Defiance of authority and/or school code of a serious
nature.
3. Theft or destruction of another's property of a serious nature.
4. The throwing of food and/or drink of a serious nature (for example, but not limited to, the throwing of food and/or
drink which results in a “food fight”).
5. Possession/use of any weapon including but not limited to knives and firearms, (real/imitation) or pepper spray.
6. Use or possession of tobacco or tobacco products on or near school property or at any school function.
7. Possessing, furnishing, using, distributing, selling, purchasing, transporting or being under the influence of any
banned substance (as defined in Section 517) (without prescription) or intoxicant (including alcohol or drug
paraphernalia) on or near school property or at any school function.
8. Possessing, furnishing, using, distributing, selling, purchasing drug paraphernalia on or near school property or at
any school function.
9. Use or possession of e-cigarettes, electronic vaporizers or similar paraphernalia (whether or not capable of being
used for nicotine, water, or other substances) on or near the school property or at any school function.
10. Fighting on or near school property or at any school function.
11. Selling, distributing, or giving one's prescription medication to another student.
12. Lighting fires, and/or possessing, using or threatening to use any incendiary or explosive devices such as, flares,
firecrackers, M-80's and Cherry Bombs and Smoke Bombs, or Stink Devices.
13. Direct involvement as principal or accessory in any malicious mischief.
14. Direct involvement as principal or accessory in any crime, including a non-violent felony, a misdemeanor, or
multiple misdemeanors, or where a student arrest or arraignment takes place.
15. Any sexual or aggravated assault on or near school property, at any school function or off-campus at any time.
16. The use of any extreme hate language or the distribution of any hate literature including that, which is racial, ethnic
or religious in nature.
17. Serious disregard of student regulations.
18. Serious harassment, hazing or any willful act that may cause injury (mental or physical) to another person.
19. Conspiracy or the act of a serious dishonest behavior that includes falsified documents and serious cheating on a
major project, term paper, or semester exam.
20. Construction and use of web sites that defame students, school personnel or other entities as deemed
inappropriate by the Mater Dei School Administration.
21. Inappropriate use of the Internet or cell phone of a serious nature. (Includes, but not limited to, Sexting and cyber-
bullying).
22. Inappropriate use of social media of a serious nature (See section 813).
23. Violation of the Internet, Technology or IPad Use Policies of a SERIOUS NATURE.
24. Tagging or destruction of school property
25. Alteration or attempted alteration of drug testing samples or sabotage or attempt to sabotage the integrity of
the Mater Dei Banned Substances and Alcohol Testing Program.
26. Threats of any kind, whether implied or hypothetical.
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27. Conspiracy in any of the above infractions.
Level I, II or III Consequences
• Detention
• Trash Pick-up
• Written Assignment(s)
• Loss of privileges
• Confiscation of personal items or material used
• Parent Conference
• Lunch work Detail
• Saturday Detention
• Counseling
• Drug/Alcohol Testing
• Liability for damages
• Regarding all Academic Integrity violations, a grade of “0” for each infraction
• Dean’s Contract
• AP Contract
• DRC Contract
• Academic Integrity Contract
• Extra or co-curricular attendance/participation ineligibility (including, but not limited to school dances, athletic events,
performing arts events, etc.)
• Students with Failed Consequences may be suspended from Extra-Curricular Activities until disciplinary responsibilities
have been fulfilled.
• Suspension from school for an extended period of time.
• Withdrawal or expulsion from Mater Dei High School.
Consequences for Vaping/E-Cigarette-related Infractions
In order to combat the current vaping/e-cigarette epidemic present in high schools around the country, Mater Dei High School has
implemented the following protocols for instances when it has been determined that a student is in possession of or using e-cigarettes
on campus or school property, regardless of the substance contained within the device.
• Students will receive an automatic suspension pending investigation and determination of the substance
within the vape/e-cigarette device.
• Students may be placed on an A.P. Contract or go before a Disciplinary Review Council (DRC), as
determined by the circumstances of the incident, determination of the substance, and the decision of the
school’s Administration.
• Students may be required to complete an educational curriculum on the dangers of vaping/e-cigarettes.
Progressive Consequences for Repeat Level I Offenses
• First Violation – 1 Hour Detention/work details
• Second Violation – 2 Hour Detention
• Third Violation – 4 Hour Saturday Detention – Student placed on a Dean’s Contract
• Fourth Violation – Suspension from School – Student placed on an AP Contract
• Fifth Violation – Suspension from School – Student sent to the Disciplinary Review Council
Contracts
1. Dean’s Contract: Student is placed on a behavior contract which could include but is not limited to: Saturday
Detentions, Work Details, Loss of Privileges, Ineligible to attend Dances/Events/Sports Games. Students who earn a
Deans’ Contract have incurred multiple infractions of one kind (i.e. excessive tardies, dress infractions, class
disruptions) and high demerits. The primary purpose of a Deans’ Contract is to initiate a dialogue with and engage the
student’s parents/guardians in an effort to prevent the student from going on disciplinary probation.
2. Assistant Principal’s Contract: Student is placed on Discipline Probation which could include but is not limited to:
Saturday Detentions, Work Details, Loss of Privileges, Ineligible to attend Dances/Events/Sports Games, Counseling,
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Drug/Alcohol Testing, Removal from ASB. Students who are placed on an AP Contract are usually suspended from
school because of a Level II infraction but may not have gone before a DRC.
3. DRC Contract: Student is placed on Strict Discipline Probation which could include but is not limited to:
Saturday Detentions, Work Details, Loss of Privileges, Ineligible to attend Dances/Events/Sports Games, Counseling,
Drug/Alcohol Testing, Removal from ASB. Students on a DRC contract may become ineligible to participate in school-
sanctioned travel. See Section 407b for further information.
4. Academic Integrity Contract: Students that have violated the Academic Integrity Policy will be placed on an Academic
Integrity Contract, which could include but is not limited to: Saturday Detentions, Work Details, Loss of Privileges,
Ineligible to attend Dances/Events/Sports Games, Counseling, Zero on the assignment, quiz, test, project, paper, or
semester exam, etc.
Zero Tolerance Policy
Mater Dei High School has adopted a zero tolerance policy for certain behaviors
deemed a danger to the Mater Dei community. Any student directly involved in,
associated with, or conspiring in any of the following will be expelled from Mater Dei
High School: 1. Gang affiliation 2. Bringing a firearm or weapon onto or near the
Mater Dei campus or to any Mater Dei function or activity 3. Selling or providing
drugs on or near the Mater Dei campus or at any Mater Dei function or activity or to
any Mater Dei student(s) at any location 4. Serious threat of physical violence.
The Principal in consultation with the President makes final determination on the use
of the Zero Tolerance policy at Mater Dei High School.
707 Detention 1. Detention
Detention will be held most every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday after school. Detention will also be held
every Gray day morning. The morning Detention period begins at 7:30 a.m. The other detention periods begin 10
minutes after the last class period. A student must report to detention within 3 detention days after the detention is
issued. Detention hours may change.
If a student misses a detention, he/she will accrue additional consequences. When a student misses subsequent
detentions, consequences will be increased.
2. Lunch Work Detail
Lunch work detail involves cleaning up the lunch area. Students assigned to lunch work detail must report to a Dean 15
minutes before the end of their lunch period.
3. Saturday Detention
On an as needed basis, Saturday detention will be assigned. The Saturday detention is either 2 or 4 hours. Students
attending Saturday Detention are required to wear their school uniforms and student ID.
708 Suspension Students who, because of their behavior and attitude, have forfeited the privilege of being part of the community are suspended from
school.
At-Home Suspension
For the duration of their suspension, students are under the jurisdiction of their parents and may not come on the school grounds or
attend or participate in any school activities or functions.
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Suspended students are responsible to make up all schoolwork or activities and assignments missed while on suspension. This work
must be made up within a maximum of 5 days from the end of their suspension.
709 Demerit System Demerits are assigned to students when they commit infractions of the Discipline Code, and they are cumulative for the full school year.
Students start each school year with no demerits. Periodic reviews are made of student discipline files. Those with high numbers are
warned that misconduct must be corrected. Students who continue to misbehave after being warned are placed on Contract (see
consequences)
710 Disciplinary Probation Students are placed on Disciplinary Probation or Strict Disciplinary Probation when they have committed a serious infraction or have an
excessive number of demerits. This probation status means a student is placed on a AP Contract or DRC Contract. Parents will be
notified (by the student's Dean) and a parent conference requested. Students’ discipline probation status will be reviewed each
semester. In addition, the student and his/her parents may be required to appear before the Disciplinary Review Council. Violation of
this contract may result in withdrawal or expulsion. While a student is on Disciplinary Probation or Strict Disciplinary Probation,
he or she may not run for a school office. If a student who holds a school office is placed on Disciplinary Probation or Strict
Disciplinary Probation, the student may lose his or her office.
711 Disciplinary Review Council (DRC) The Disciplinary Review Council is a private process designed for the Deans, students and their families to address serious disciplinary
matters. The ordinary day-to-day discipline of the school is under the supervision of the Deans of Students. It is the purpose of the
Council to provide the student and their family an opportunity to discuss disciplinary matters while obtaining the proper result for each
student.
Disciplinary Review Council Membership
The Disciplinary Review Council will consist of the following members:
1. The Assistant Principal/Student Services
2. Administrators
3. Faculty Members
The members will sit on the Council on a randomly selected rotational basis throughout the year. There are four administrators and ten
faculty members eligible to sit on the committee. The Principal appoints five eligible faculty members and the Mater Dei Faculty/Staff
elects the remaining five faculty members. A Disciplinary Review Council member must have been at the school for at least one year. In
order to maintain the integrity of the DRC Hearing and protect the privacy of the panel members, family members and/or
students are not allowed to record or film the DRC hearing by any means. Further, the notes and other writings of the Council
are private and will not be shared with the students or their families.
Function
The Disciplinary Review Council will:
1. Provide the student and family an opportunity to discuss the disciplinary issues and surrounding circumstances
2. Advise the Principal
3. Review students considered for withdrawal or expulsion.
4. Review the conduct of students with a high number of demerits and those on Disciplinary Probation each
semester.
Procedures
1. The Council provides students and their families with the opportunity to discuss disciplinary issues when there is a
possibility of expulsion.
2. The student, his/her parents and a Dean are the only people allowed to sit in at hearings. The Council will excuse
these people during the period of deliberation. Any notes or transcripts from the hearings or deliberations will not
be shared with students or parents.
3. After the hearing, the Council votes at the conclusion of the deliberation phase. Its recommendation is passed onto
the Principal through the Assistant Principal/Student Services.
4. The Principal, in consultation with the President, makes the final school site decision, which is communicated to
the parents in writing.
5. If a student is asked to withdraw, parents/guardians may appeal the Council’s decision but must do so in writing to
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the Principal within 5 business days.
6. At the end of each semester, the Council will consider all those students who have a high number of demerits and
those on Disciplinary Probation. The Council will recommend to the Principal those students who may not
be permitted to return and those who may be accepted back under Disciplinary Probation on a Contract. In such
cases, the parents/guardians may request a final review of his/her case. The Principal's decision, in consultation
with the President, is final.
712 Academic Integrity Students of Mater Dei High School are expected to complete all assignments with honesty and integrity. Classwork should be a true
reflection of the student’s ability and effort. Any academic dishonesty will result in both academic and disciplinary penalties. Forms of
Academic Dishonesty include, but are not limited to:
• Plagiarism: use of another’s words or ideas without proper citation, whether it be improper copying from academic sources
or copying the work of another.
• Cheating: use of improper or unauthorized materials or study aids including “cheat sheets” or electronic devices to
supplement academic performance. At no time are cell phones or smart watches allowed out during an exam.
• Facilitating Dishonesty: knowingly allowing one’s work to be copied by another or doing the work of another
• Inappropriate Collaboration: working together on a project or assignment without the instructor’s knowledge or permission
• Academic Misconduct: tampering with grades, tests, or other class materials; stealing or tampering with the work of another
student.
713 Consequences for Academic Dishonesty In order to preserve the academic integrity of educational technology platforms, including, but not limited to Membean, ALEKS, Canvas,
or Aeries, students are prohibited from sharing their log-in credentials with other students. Sharing such information may result in
disciplinary consequences as outlined in section 704 or 705.
Homework Assignments or Minor Assignments
Violations of the Academic Integrity Policy as it pertains to homework and/or minor assignments will be handled by the
individual teacher and documented by the deans. In addition, such violations may result in the following consequences.
1. First offense of academic dishonesty on homework in any class, the following consequences include, but are not limited
to:
a. Zero on the assignment
b. Parent notification by the teacher
c. Reported to the Deans’ Office
2. Second offense of academic dishonesty on homework in any class, the following consequences include, but are not
limited to:
a. Zero on the assignment
b. Parent notification by the teacher
c. Reported to the Deans’ Office
d. 4-hour Saturday detention
e. Parent conference with the Deans and student placed on an Academic Integrity Contract
3. Third offense of academic dishonesty on homework, the following consequences include, but are not limited to:
a. Zero on the assignment
b. Parent notification by the teacher
c. Reported to the Deans’ Office
d. Suspension from school
e. Disciplinary meeting with the Assistant Principal or hearing with the Disciplinary Review Council to decide if the
student will be asked to withdraw from Mater Dei High School
f. Consequences TBD if student is permitted to return to Mater Dei High School
Academic Integrity on Exams
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Quizzes, tests and semester exams require an especially high level of attention to integrity. Actions that in non-testing environments
would not normally be considered cheating are considered a violation in testing situations. All violations will result in a student receiving
a zero on the quiz, test or semester exam and the student may also receive disciplinary consequences.
Academic dishonesty on quizzes, tests, and/or semester exams includes, but is not limited to:
• Communication (without teacher permission) to any student for any reason during the testing period. Borrowing a pen or
asking about time, etc. are not acceptable explanations and will be considered violations.
• Accessing/viewing a cell phone, smart watch, or similar device during the testing period. To check time or view a test
message, etc. are not acceptable explanations and will be considered violations.
• Using a calculator or other electronic device that has stored information, even if pertinent information is not accessed.
• Taking a picture of a quiz, test, or semester exam, even if the picture was not sent to anyone.
Quizzes or Tests
1. First offense of academic dishonesty on a quiz or test in any class, the following consequences include, but are not
limited to:
a. Zero on the quiz or test
b. Parent notification by the teacher
c. Reported to the Deans’ Office
d. 4-hour Saturday detention
e. Parent conference with the Deans and student placed on an Academic Integrity Contract
2. Second offense of academic dishonesty on a quiz or test, the following consequences include, but are not limited to:
a. Zero on the quiz or test
b. Parent notification by the teacher
c. Reported to the Deans’ Office
d. Suspension from school
e. Disciplinary meeting with the Assistant Principal or hearing with the Disciplinary Review Council to decide if the
student will be asked to withdraw from Mater Dei High School
f. Consequences TBD if student is permitted to return to Mater Dei High School
Semester Exams, Major Projects, or Term Papers
1. First offense of academic dishonesty on a semester exam, major project, or term paper, the following consequences
include, but are not limited to:
a. Zero on the exam, project, or paper
b. Parent notification by the teacher
c. Reported to the Deans’ Office
d. Suspension from school
e. Disciplinary meeting with the Assistant Principal or hearing with the Disciplinary Review Council to decide if the
student will be asked to withdraw from Mater Dei High School
f. Consequences TBD if student is permitted to return to Mater Dei High School
800 School Information
801 Admission Procedures Admission policies and procedures have been developed with input from the immediate school community, parishes, elementary and
junior high schools, families, the Bishop, Superintendent and Diocesan Office. The policies and procedures are evaluated annually in
light of our philosophy, goals and objectives.
Students who are "accepted with distinction" do not necessarily qualify for honors classes.
Mater Dei High School has established enrollment policies in concert with the California Interscholastic Federation with the following
conditions:
1. MDHS is a Catholic co-educational Diocesan high school that in its mission and philosophy serves to fulfill the
instruction of the Declaration of Christian Education given by the Fathers of Vatican Council II.
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2. MDHS accepts students on a space available basis.
3. MDHS charges tuition for its educational services. Students may not be eligible for admission to Mater Dei
High School if there have been past delinquent tuition collection issues with their families.
4. MDHS has admissions requirements pertaining to academic standards and behavioral performance.
Mater Dei High School in the Diocese of Orange, mindful of its mission to be witness to the love of Christ for all, admits
students of any race, color, and national origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or
made available to students at the school. Mater Dei High School in the Diocese of Orange does not discriminate on the bases
of race, handicap, color, and national origin in administration of educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and
loan programs, and athletic and other school- administered programs.
Catholic students are given precedence over those who are not Catholic. Criteria for admission include: Catholicity, minimum G.P.A.
2.0, parish and school recommendations, entrance test scores, other available standardized test scores, academic performance,
another family member in the school, student's personal essay, student conduct, appropriate immunizations, interviews (if considered
necessary). The Committee attempts to be as fair and consistent as possible in evaluating applications.
Any student athlete who transfers to Mater Dei High School from any member school in the CIF Southern Section, having represented
the former school at the varsity level in a particular sport during that school year, will be ineligible to participate at the varsity level in that
particular sport during the same season at Mater Dei High School.
INTERNATIONAL ADMISSIONS APPLICANTS
Mater Dei High School accepts applications from international applicants applying for grades 9, 10 or 11. We do not consider
international applicants applying for grade 12.
International students must take an English proficiency exam in order to be considered for admission to Mater Dei High School.
- For students from the People’s Republic of China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, or Brazil please contact our partner’s admissions
office (www.threew.us/contact-us) to obtain an admissions packet and be advised of accepted English proficiency tests and
minimum score requirements.
- For students from other countries, please visit the Mater Dei website to complete an interest form and to request an
international admissions packet.
802 Academic Review Council The Academic Review Council will consist of
1. Assistant Principals/Student Services and Academic Services
2. Director of Guidance and Counseling
3. Registrar
4. Guidance Counselors
5. Learning Specialist
Function of the Council:
1. To review all students who are struggling academically.
2. To review all rules and regulations related to academics in the school.
3. To sit as a hearing body for academic challenges and violations of academic probations.
4. To act as an advisory body to the faculty as a whole regarding academic procedures.
The Council is responsible to the Principal and shall meet immediately after report cards are issued for the first and second semesters.
The Council may also meet for any serious infraction of academic probation.
803 Alumni Relations The Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations coordinates all aspects of the Mater Dei Alumni program. Over
28,000 Mater Dei graduates are invited annually to become members of the Alumni Association and its advisory council. Alumni leaders
and council members serve as liaisons between the Alumni Office and their classmates. Annual activities include Homecoming,
fundraisers, scholarship awards and reunions. For further information, please call the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations.
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804 Campus Store MD Campus Store The Campus Store supplies and sells required textbooks for student classes. Snacks, Mater Dei apparel, and school supplies are also
available for sale. The Campus Store is open during the school year when student classes are in session.
• Backpacks, bags, textbooks, notebooks and supplies are NOT permitted inside of the Campus Store. All students must leave
these items at the door or inside of their locker.
• Students are permitted to shop in the Campus Store before school, during passing period, at lunch, and after school.
Parents, staff, and alumni are welcome to shop any time during business hours with a visitor’s badge.
• The Campus Store accepts Visa, MasterCard, debit cards with the Visa or MasterCard logo and cash. For Mater Dei families
who have accounts in good standing, we also accept personal checks. STUDENT CAMPUS CARDS ARE CURRENTLY
NOT ACCEPTED FOR PAYMENT IN THE CAMPUS STORE.
• A fee of $30.00 is charged for each returned check. Checks returned for whatever reason will not be re- deposited. Payment
for returned checks and fees must be made by cashier’s check, money order or cash. Retuned checks are the financial
responsibility of the parent. If a check is returned and not paid within 14 days, the balance will be applied to the student’s
FACTS account and withdrawn through the account holder’s bank.
MD CAMPUS STORE RETURN POLICY The MD Campus Store offers all customers the opportunity to return purchases for a refund. A refund will be issued to the original form
of payment if the item(s) are returned within 30 days and are accompanied by the original receipt. Items must be returned in their
original condition (new, unopened, and unused with all tags attached). This policy applies to all purchases and all circumstances,
including textbook returns due to class change.
All sale, clearance, final sale, or special order merchandise may not be returned or exchanged.
CAMPUS STORE BOOK BUY-BACK Textbooks no longer eligible for a return may qualify as a Buy-Back at the end of the year. The Campus Store will buy back approved
textbooks that are listed in the curriculum for the following school year. Books on the Buy-Back list can be sold back to the Campus
Store in exchange for store credit. The Book Buy-Back takes place on the last two days of school each year.
MATER DEI ONLINE SIDELINE STORE https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/california/santaana/mater-dei-high-school
The Sideline Store is our official online store. Shoppers can personalize their Mater Dei gear - pick the piece, choose the art, add
personalization.
PARENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES The MD Campus Store is operated with the help of parent volunteers. This is a great way to stay involved on campus and raise funds
for the school. All volunteers must be fingerprinted and must have completed the Safe Environment Training Class prior to their shift.
Shift sign-ups are flexible and available throughout the year. As a small token of gratitude, volunteers with 18+ hours at the MD Campus
Store will receive a Discount Pass - good for 10% off purchases for the school year. Please contact the Campus Store Manager for
more details.
805 How to Find a Carpool Students attending Mater Dei High School live in every city in Orange County and some travel from parts of Los
Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego Counties.
Mater Dei High School DOES NOT arrange for carpooling. However, to help families find carpools, the School has set up the MDHS
Carpool Bulletin Board on the Mater Dei website. The bulletin board is exclusive to current Mater Dei families only for the purpose of
finding a carpool.
The MDHS Carpool Bulletin Board is for PARENTS driving other students ONLY. Mater Dei High School abides by the laws of the State
of California regarding provisional licenses for underage drivers.
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NOTE: By offering this courtesy service, Mater Dei High School in no way assumes any responsibility related to anyone’s carpool
arrangements. By using or participating in the service, you expressly agree to release, indemnify, defend and hold harmless Mater Dei
High School, the Diocese of Orange, and each of their respective employees, directors, officers, agents, and representatives from any
and all liability arising from any use or participation in the service, including but not limited to any lawsuits, claims, or causes of actions
brought by you or any third party alleging any injuries or damages of any kind, whether relating to personal injury, damage to property,
remedies in equity, attorneys’ fees, or court costs.
806 Chapel 1. The Mater Dei Chapel is at the center of our campus. This sacred space provides the community a place for prayer and
reflection. Honoring Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament is observed by entering the Chapel quietly and
reverently.
2. Mass is celebrated throughout the week in the Chapel.
3. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is held on the first Friday of every month.
4. The Chaplain is available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
807 Counseling Services Mater Dei endeavors to provide the students with as much supportive help as possible. Students experiencing problems with
academics, behavior, or personal and family conflicts have counseling opportunities available on campus. We also provide a staff of
spiritual directors through our Campus Ministry team to help students in their growth in Christ. In the process of developing through their
adolescent years, most young people find the need for advice and support. Whether it is college and career counseling or just someone
to talk to about the conflicts of life, it is our hope that they will make use of our extensive program of support groups.
1. Guidance and Counseling
a. Academic Counseling
b. Career and vocational counseling
c. College counseling
d. Academic testing (SAT/ACT/AP)
e. College financial aid counseling, college scholarships, and student athlete counseling
f. Personal and Family counseling
g. Special needs counseling for students on academic and/or athletic probation.
2. Campus Ministry
a. Pastoral/Spiritual Counseling
b. Retreats
808 Muth Center for Learning
Mater Dei High School has developed several options for students who need extra academic assistance:
1) The Learning Center (LC) is located in the library, staffed by qualified learning specialists, and open to all students
before and after school, and during Office Hour. It provides a quiet, monitored place to study and/or extra
assistance, as available. Assistance with academic interventions and psychoeducational testing for the diagnosis
of learning and attention difference is also available.
2) The Academic Assistance Program (AAP) is drop-in, after school tutoring program for all students provided by
MDHS teachers. Schedules are available on-line, through counselors, and also through the LC.
3) The Monarch Academic Program for Success (MAPS) is a fee-based program that provides accommodations
and/or an optional graded elective course for students with documented learning and attention differences.
Individualized Learning Plans (ILP’s) are created for each MAPS student, which assists with intervention, planning,
and communication with teachers and parents.
809 Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations The Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations exists to plan, support and promote school-wide fundraising efforts through the
coordination of alumni giving & activities, special events, the Annual Fund, long range strategic planning, endowment, grants, and the
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current MD Vision 2020 Capital Campaign. The advancement program promotes Mater Dei in the community through an extensive
marketing/public relations plan, and through various business partnerships.
810 Eighteen-Year-Old Students Students who have reached eighteen years of age must abide by the rules under which they were accepted; namely that they live under
the supervision of parents or legal guardians.
SELECTIVE SERVICE: A reminder to all male citizens, or aliens residing in the U.S.: You must register with the Selective Service within
30 days of your 18th birthday. You may register in our Counseling Office, or at any U.S. Post Office or on the Internet (www.sss.gov.)
you must register in order to receive Federal Financial Aid for college.
811 Health Committee This committee was organized to assess our present programs and services and to recommend to the Principal and the Administration
new methods of dealing with health problems, including substance abuse.
The committee meets monthly on campus. The membership of the Health Committee will consist of:
1. Assistant Principal/Student Services
2. Health Services Coordinator (Chair)
3. Faculty, Parents, Students, Outside professional consultants
812 Library 1. The Library is open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday
2. The loan period for library materials is 3 weeks. The charge for overdue materials is 25¢ per day. The replacement
cost and a processing fee of $6.00 is charged for each lost book. Failure to respond to overdue reminders will
result in detention and possible revocation of library privileges.
3. Students are encouraged to ask for help from the Library Staff at any time. During final exams the library will be
totally quiet.
4. The Library is open during lunch periods for focused and intentional work.
5. Students must have a Hall Pass from their subject teachers to use the Library during class time.
6. Students are expected to refrain from any behavior that disturbs others’ ability to concentrate and study.
7. No food is allowed in the Library at any time. Detention will be given immediately.
8. 30 computers are available for student use.
9. Students may print from designated computers. Students are allowed to print 10 black and white pages a day
(black and white pages after 10 will be $0.10 each). Students are allowed 1 color print per day (color prints after 1
will be $0.25 each).
10. Students are allowed to make copies: 10 black and white copies a day (black and white copies after 10 will be
$0.10 each).
813 Internet, Technology and iPad Use Policies
Internet Use Policy: Mater Dei believes that the benefits to educators and students from Internet access, in the form of information resources and
opportunities for collaboration, far exceed any disadvantages. Ultimately, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting
and conveying the standards that their child or ward should follow. To that end, Mater Dei High School supports and respects each
family's right to decide whether or not their child may have access to this resource. The Internet use policy is understood and approved
including, without limitation, the sanctions for improper use.
Students will be provided access to the Internet under the following policies established herein, effective immediately. This policy is
subject to change to meet this rapidly changing area of education.
Primary Policy of Use: All use of the Internet must be in support of education and research consistent with the mission of Mater Dei High School. All users of
this service are expected to act in a responsible, ethical, moral and legal manner. A user cannot expect privacy rights in the educational
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environment and the school reserves all rights to review, monitor, prohibit and regulate use in its sole discretion. Students may be
required to provide their student ID card to access school computers. Email is limited to academic uses only.
Social Media Passwords and Login Information Students must provide their usernames, passwords and all other login information for all social media to Mater Dei High School if
requested to do so as part of any Mater Dei High School investigation. This applies whether or not the student accesses the social
media through the student’s private electronic devices, through those provided to student
by Mater Dei High School, or from another source. Mater Dei High School has the right to review students’ social media content as part
of any investigation.
Prohibited Activities Include Without Limitation: • Using the network for non-educational activities without school consent.
• Using the network for commercial advertising or financial gain. Using the network to lobby for votes.
• Using the network to access a file that contains inappropriate material including materials deemed to be pornographic or
obscene.
• Sending or receiving messages that are hurtful, racist, offensive, inflammatory, sexist or which contain obscenities.
• Planting a computer virus on any school device or otherwise attempting to disrupt the school network/internet
connectivity
• Sending a message with someone else's name on it.
• Sending or receiving a message that is inconsistent with the school's behavior expectations, including messages that
taunt or defame other schools.
• Any use of the network to facilitate illegal activity.
• Construction and use of websites/electronic services that defame students, school personnel or other entities deemed
inappropriate by the Administration (such infractions will be handled as a level II or level III infraction).
• Intentionally seeking information on, obtaining copies of or modifying files, other data or passwords belonging to other
users and misrepresenting other users on the network.
• Invading the privacy of others.
• Wastefully using finite resources.
• Activity not in keeping with the philosophy of Mater Dei High School and the Primary Policy of Use. Inappropriate use of
the Internet will be handled as a disciplinary consequence at levels II or III.
Web Page:
Mater Dei High School's web page URL: www.materdei.org. The Director of Admissions Marketing through the Office of Advancement
maintains the web page. Faculty, Staff, and administration may be contacted via e-mail through Mater Dei's web page. Current school
news, sports schedules and results, a campus store and school calendar are among the many features offered.
Technology Use Policy As an innovative school, we recognize the importance of open exchange and learning between the School and its many constituents
and we recognize the phenomenon of user-generated digital content—blogging, social media and networking—as an important arena
for interaction and collaboration.
As our activities continue to reinforce the School’s mission and philosophy to the “development of the whole person - spiritual,
intellectual, physical, emotional and aesthetic”, it becomes increasingly important for us to share with the world the exciting things we
are learning and doing, and to learn from and connect with others utilizing these new communications tools.
Mater Dei’s Technology Use Policy offers information about how to do so effectively, safely and within School guidelines.
Social Media Do's & Don'ts
Do… Use Social Media to stay in touch with friends and make new ones.
1. Use Social Media to create your best image. Google yourself every once in a while to check on your public image.
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2. Use Social Media to get involved with the community and learn what’s happening.
3. Use Social Media privacy settings on your account to monitor who can look at your profile.
4. Use Social Media customer support page since it contains valuable information about privacy controls and other
important safety information.
5. Use good judgment with your Social Media account and postings! What do you want future employers,
administrators, faculty, and maybe even your parents to see?
6. Use good judgment about content and respect privacy laws. Do not include confidential information about the
School, its staff, or its students.
7. Remember that you represent Mater Dei at all times, even in your social media usage. Your social media content
is not private and can be viewed by Mater Dei administrators, with repercussions for violations of school rules or
policies.
Don’t… 1. Post overly personal information like cell phone numbers, address, class schedule, etc. Uninvited viewers of their
Social Media pages have stalked students when they post overly personal information.
2. Post pictures of your friends without their permission. It may be considered a legitimate invasion of their privacy, or
may jeopardize their chances for a job, or their scholarships.
3. Post information or conduct activities that may violate local, state, or federal laws, and regulations.
4. Think that you are safe from any harm or consequences for the content of your page.
5. Forget that once you post something, it may live forever, even if you take it down.
6. Think that Facebook is the only website of concern. These same principles apply to Twitter, SnapChat, Instagram,
etc. and any other Social Media sites.
7. Be afraid to get creative with your profile. Have fun and express yourself legally and responsibly. There are plenty
of ways you can create a positive self-image. You can impress your peers and community members and abide by
all School policies, and laws!
iPad Authorized Use Policy General Purpose and Intent of the iPad Authorized Use Policy Technological resources, including iPads, at Mater Dei are provided for the purpose of supporting the holistic educational experience
and mission of the school. Mater Dei's goal in providing these resources is to promote educational excellence by facilitating creative
thinking, resource sharing, scholarship, research, and communication. Use of these technologies is a privilege that carries
responsibilities and behavioral expectations consistent with all school rules and policies, including but not limited to those stated in the
Parent Student Handbook. Members of the Mater Dei community will use all iPads, along with all other electronic communication and
computing devices, in a responsible, ethical, and legal manner at all times.
Specific iPad Authorized Use Policy
1. Any viewing, sharing or transmission of material from an iPad containing inappropriate content, offensive language,
derogatory rumors/gossip, or other content not in keeping with Mater Dei’s mission or philosophy is strictly prohibited except
as expressly authorized by Mater Dei in connection with approved curricula and course materials.
2. Any iPad use, whether or not utilizing the Mater Dei network, which could pose a risk of physical or mental harm to anyone is
prohibited. Any iPad use, whether or not utilizing the Mater Dei network, which could pose a risk of property loss is also
prohibited.
3. Any attempt to connect through an iPad to external an internet network, hotspot or VPN while on Mater Dei's campus is
prohibited.
4. Students will not share their passwords, addresses, or other personal information on the Internet without the authorization of
a parent or Mater Dei representative. Students will not share their usernames or passwords with anyone without the
authorization of a parent or Mater Dei representative.
5. Students have no privacy rights in the use of their iPads. All iPad activity, including communications, internet history, or other
uses, are subject to monitoring by Mater Dei. Mater Dei representatives may inspect and, if they deem necessary confiscate,
any student’s iPad at any time without prior notice.
6. Students may store their own photographs and music on their iPads only if they conform to standards of good taste and
Christian decency as solely determined by Mater Dei.
7. Certain internet materials may not be copied or reproduced without the permission of the author or other right- holder. It is the
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student’s responsibility to respect and adhere to all copyright, trademark, and other intellectual rights and trade secrets laws.
8. The Mater Dei network may not be accessed without authorization. This includes, but is not limited to, accessing the network
using any account other than a student’s own. Doing so will be considered a Level II or Level III infraction.
9. Before using their iPads, Mater Dei strongly encourages students to consider whether their electronic communications and
other iPad uses may be regarded as offensive, hurtful, or otherwise inappropriate by others.
10. Students are responsible for the care and safekeeping of their iPads. iPads MUST be kept in approved cover purchased from
Mater Dei. No other cover is acceptable. Any loss or damage to iPads (outside reasonable wear and tear), regardless of the
cause, will be the strict financial responsibility of the students and parents. iPads that are lost, stolen or damaged beyond
repair incur a replacement fee in addition to the *Non-refundable iPad Technology Use Fee already paid for the current year.
Students must immediately report damage or loss, including theft, to Mater Dei. When reporting major damage or loss,
students must provide a statement describing the circumstances under which the iPad was damaged or lost. In cases of
theft, a police report must be filed and a copy must be provided to Mater Dei.
11. If an iPad is lost or damaged through no fault of the student (determined solely by Mater Dei), the iPad will be replaced or
repaired at no cost to the student for the first incident only. Thereafter, a $50 repair fee or the full cost of replacement is
charged. Loss or damage due to negligence is not covered and Mater Dei will not replace or repair it without full pre-payment
from the student.
12. Students are not permitted to repair, alter, modify or replace iPads without express authorization from Mater Dei
(this includes the addition of new apps and/or other software).
13. Proper use, care and safekeeping of iPads includes, but is not limited to, the following:
• Activating and maintaining ‘Find my iPhone/iPad’ function at all times
• Bringing the iPad and necessary accessories to school each day
• Charging the iPad battery on a daily basis
• Securing the iPad (i.e., do not leave iPad unattended or in unlocked locker/car or any other unsupervised area)
• Maintaining the iPad in protective carrying case when not in use
• Using soft cloth to clean screen, do not use cleansers of any type
• Keeping your iPad functioning properly by installing updates as they become available
14. iPads are the property of Mater Dei High School and are not available for purchase.
15. This iPad Authorized Use Policy applies to Mater Dei students at all times, whether or not the students are on campus, as
Mater Dei students are school representatives at all times.
16. Violations of any portion of this iPad Authorized Use Policy may result in a hearing before the Disciplinary
Review Board, which may impose any disciplinary measure against the student up to and including expulsion. Additionally,
Mater Dei may refuse to issue grades or transcripts to, and may withhold graduation privileges from, any student who violates
any portion of this iPad Authorized Use Policy including but not limited to failing to return an iPad to Mater Dei at the
conclusion of enrollment at the school or when requested by the school, and failing to reimburse the school for an iPad’s or
iPad charger’s damage or loss (including theft).
17. In consideration for receiving the iPad from Mater Dei, each student and his or her parent or legal guardian agrees not to sue
and hereby releases, waives, discharges, holds harmless, indemnifies, and defends Mater Dei High School and the Catholic
Diocese of Orange, as well as their respective employees, personnel, staff, volunteers, agents, directors, affiliates, and
representatives, from any and all liability, losses, damages, claims, actions, and causes of action of every nature for any and
all known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen, bodily or personal injuries, property damage, or other loss, whether claimed
by the student, parent, legal representative, or any third party, relating in any way to the use of the iPad furnished by Mater
Dei to the student.
*For information on the Non-Refundable iPad Technology Use Fee, please refer to Section 823 Tuition – FACTS Tuition
Management
814 Monarch Television Mater Dei Television is a futuristic program designed to fill the communication needs of the high school. It provides state of the art
videotaping of activities such as: Athletics, Plays, Musicals, Graduation, Eucharistic Celebrations and much more.
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MDTV offers students the unique opportunity of learning all levels of television production, including scripting, shooting, editing,
directing and producing. Student programs are seen on local cable companies such as: Comcast Cable of Santa Ana, Paragon Cable
of Garden Grove and Multivision of Anaheim. MDTV also provides the student body with a daily news show televised directly to their
classrooms.
815 Health Services Office 1. Except in an emergency, students are not admitted to the Health Office without a pass which indicates that they
reported to class and are absent from the classroom with the teacher's permission. The school nurse will provide
student with a “detained” pass which documents the time of departure from the Health Office. The student will take
the “detained” pass to the Attendance Office prior to returning to class.
2. Any student who must take medication (prescription and/or non-prescription) during school hours is required to
contact the school nurse. All medications must be kept in the Health Office. The school does not furnish
medication to the students per (Diocesan school regulation #6013). The school nurse will contact the parents of
those students who are not taking required medications.
3. Sun protection cream will be available for students in the Health Services Office.
4. School personnel shall not furnish medications to a student. This applies to both OTC drugs, such as Tylenol,
Aspirin, Advil, Midol, etc. Students may carry OTC drugs, such as Tylenol or Advil, etc. as long as it remains in the
container it was purchased in. The student must bring the medication and a note from the parent allowing its use
to the health office when they need to take it. Medications will be stored in the Health Office for the school year. At
completion of the school year, students will need to pick up any remaining medications or they will be discarded..
5. In order to meet the specific health needs of students, it is very important that the Health Office be informed in
writing of medical conditions/problems which may affect the student's school performance.
6. In order to prevent the spread of contagious diseases, students should not come to school with a fever and/or rash
of unknown origin. In case of student illness at school, the parents are to provide transportation home. Students
are not allowed to utilize a ride-share service when leaving school due to illness or injury.
7. All students must meet California State Immunization requirements before admission to Mater Dei. Students who
have not met these requirements will not be allowed to attend classes.
8. All students with a chronic health condition requiring daily medication/treatment should provide the Health office
with an individualized health maintenance kit to be used in the case of a disaster (3-day supply).
9. All students must be enrolled in Appryse, the school’s electronic medical record system. Parents are responsible
for keeping Appryse updated and current.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES - PRECAUTIONS
In school settings, knowing who carries an infectious disease and what germ may be present is not possible. Persons with infections do
not always have outward signs and often are not aware of being infected. However, precautions can be taken that will protect people
from infectious diseases.
Mater Dei has policies for all staff members outlining those precautions. It is found in the Diocesan Personnel Handbook and covers,
among other areas, ordinary hygienic practices, CPR, the handling of body fluids, wastes, blood, and events of illness or injury.
816 Personnel Council The purpose of the Personnel Council is to provide a broad base for school selection of new Faculty and Staff and to conduct the
annual review and evaluation of present personnel.
The Council will consist of:
1. The President
2. The Principal (Chair)
3. Assistant Principals
4. Vice Presidents as needed
5. Department Chairs and Directors as it pertains to their departments.
The procedure for personnel selection is as follows:
1. Applications are reviewed by Administration and then referred to Department Chairs and/or Directors for review.
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2. Department Chair and/or Director interviews applicant and refers potential Faculty members to the Personnel
Council.
3. Council members interview final applicants and provide the Principal with their evaluation and recommendations.
4. Taking into consideration the evaluations and recommendations of the Council members, the Principal, in
consultation with the President, makes the final decision in regard to selection of all school personnel.
The procedure for personnel reviews is as follows:
1. The Department Chair, Director and/or appropriate Administrator conduct observations and Performance Reviews
throughout the year.
2. Department reviews are presented to the Personnel Council in the spring of each school year.
3. The Department Chair/Director makes recommendations regarding future employment to the Council.
4. The Personnel Council then makes final recommendations to the Principal regarding future employment of
faculty/staff.
5. The final decision with regard to the employment of all school personnel resides with the Principal, in consultation
with the President.
817 Scarlet & Gray The Scarlet & Gray is an electronic magazine distributed to alumni, parents, parishes, schools, and other friends of
Mater Dei. Areas of interest include campus life, alumni, parent, academic, spiritual, and athletic department news.
818 School Facilities No part of the campus or any of its facilities, including classrooms, gymnasium, halls or outlying buildings may be used by any member
of the staff, student body, or independent agencies outside of school time without the EXPLICIT permission from the school’s
Administrative Board.
819 Smog Alerts Mater Dei High School provides for the health and safety of all students during periods of air pollution according to state and local
legislation, regulations of the California Air Resources Board and School Board policy.
Air pollution forecasts and health alerts require different actions for abatement and health protection. The school nurse will notify the
Athletic Directors, Director of Activities and the Administration of air pollution episodes.
Both abatement procedures and reduced physical activity will be implemented according to the California Air
Resources Board regulations and the South Coast Air Quality Management District.
820 Student Identification Card 1. Mater Dei students are required to wear their Student Identification Card and the Mater Dei issued lanyard around their
neck during school hours.
a. Students must also bring their Student I.D. Card to all Mater Dei functions that are held after school hours (All
games, dances, and other Mater Dei extracurricular activities, etc.)
2. Included in the registration fee is the Student Identification Card, which identifies the student as part of the Mater Dei
Community and entitles him/her to the following benefits:
a. Graduation Tickets (Seniors Only)
b. Admission-required league games, pre-season home games (playoff games are not included).
3. Student I.D. Card Replacement: Students must replace lost cards. A fee of $5.00 must be paid in the Dean’s Office for
immediate card replacement. An additional $2.00 must be paid for a lanyard.
821 Spiritual Formation Committee The purpose of the Spiritual Formation Committee is to plan, coordinate and evaluate the various spiritual programs and activities for
growth of the students and the entire Mater Dei Community.
The Committee will consist of:
1. President (Chair)
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2. Principal
3. Religious Studies Department Chair and selected Religious Studies Department faculty members
4. Campus Ministry Staff
5. Director of Student Activities
822 Tuition – FACTS Tuition Management Mater Dei High School has partnered with FACTS, a third party tuition management company, to process and collect tuition payments.
FACTS allow families to make tuition payments on an annual, semi-annual or monthly basis through the use of automatic transfer of
funds from their bank to Mater Dei High School. These automatic payments help our school achieve a more reliable cash flow and also
help our families maintain an emphasis on their financial commitment to Catholic education.
Families must select one of the following tuition payment options offered by Mater Dei High School.
1. Annual Plan: One annual tuition payment paid in full by April 30 will receive a discount of $175. If the annual tuition
payment is paid by June 30 then the discount is $150.
2. Semi-Annual Plan: Two tuition payments made by June 30 and December 20 to receive a $75.00 discount.
3. Ten Month Plan: Ten monthly installments beginning July through April. The ten-month payment plan is HIGHLY
RECOMMENDED for Senior students, as tuition, graduation, grad nite and all other school fees are to be paid by May
1, 2020. Monthly tuition payments are to be received on the day of the month for which the payment is due. A late fee of
$20.00 will be charged if payments are rescheduled and or received after the calendar day of the month for which the
payment is due. A $30 fee will also be charged for a payment returned by your bank.
4. Twelve Month Plan: Twelve monthly installments beginning in July through June or June through May.
Monthly tuition payments are to be received on the day of the month for which the payment is due. A late fee of
$20.00 will be charged if payments are rescheduled and or received after the calendar day of the month for which the
payment is due. A $30 fee will also be charged for a payment returned by your bank.
Incidental fees such as Graduation, Grad Nite, Parking, Program, Credit Recovery, AP, etc. are paid through FACTS. If a family fails to
pay these school fees by the required deadline, Mater Dei reserves the right to charge the family’s bank account for the non-payment of
these incidental fees.
Mater Dei High School shall have the right to legal action for the non-payment of tuition, registration, technology use fee and all other
school fees. Parents/guardians will be responsible for all costs of collection, including court expenses and reasonable attorney’s fees.
Pro-rated Tuition Withdrawals: Tuition (not Technology Use) will be pro-rated on a monthly basis for those students withdrawing during the school year
from August 2019 through May 2020. If after the proration the student’s account is overpaid, a refund will be issued. If, however, after
the proration, the student’s account is underpaid, that underpaid balance must be paid immediately. When a student terminates his/her
attendance at Mater Dei, all unpaid tuition, fees and other school charges become immediately due and payable before the student’s
records shall be forwarded to the new school.
Entrance Mid-year: Tuition (not Technology Use) will be pro-rated accordingly for those students entering mid-year. Tuition and fees will
begin the month of enrollment for students entering during the year.
Medical Leaves: Tuition will not be pro-rated.
Non-Refundable iPad Technology Use Fee Each Mater Dei student will be charged a $650 iPad Technology Use Fee that will be taken out of the first tuition payment.
Subsequently, if a student withdraws from Mater Dei at any time the iPad Technology Use Fee will not be refunded.
Financial Review Committee (FRC) The Financial Review Committee will consist of:
1. President
2. Vice President/Business (Chair)
3. Vice President/Advancement
4. Assistant Principal/Student Services
Function of the Committee:
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The Financial Review Committee meets at the end of each quarter. Tuition accounts must be current by the end of each month. The
FRC reviews all delinquent tuition accounts and makes one or more of the following recommendations to the Principal:
1. Delinquency in tuition constitutes cause for withdrawal of the student at the school's discretion.
2. Re-admission for the next school year may not be permitted until the student's tuition account is made current.
3. Semester and mid-term grades may be withheld.
4. Students may not be allowed to take semester exams unless their tuition account is current.
5. Senior students may not be allowed to participate in the Graduation Ceremony or other graduation activities.
6. Student's diploma will be withheld.
7. Students may not be allowed to attend school sponsored trips unless tuition account is current.
8. Students may not be allowed to participate in extra-curricular summer programs, athletic / performing arts
programs, ASB, camps, school sponsored trips or activities unless their prior year tuition balance is current.
9. Access to online grades may be restricted.
Tuition, Graduation and Grad Nite fees are due by May 1, 2020. Payments after that date must be made by a cashier's check, credit
card, money order or cash. With families that have multiple children at Mater Dei and fall behind with their tuition obligations, the school
reserves the right to apply tuition payments to the oldest student’s tuition balance until that balance is paid in full. Seniors may not be
permitted to take final exams or participate in Graduation and Grad Nite unless their account is paid in full.
If a Mater Dei family files personal bankruptcy and names Mater Dei High School as a creditor, then Mater Dei will have absolute
discretion to immediately withdraw the student regardless of the student’s year in school.
Bishop Vann’s Financial Aid Fund and additional Benefactor Endowments provide a generous but limited amount of financial aid to
those families who can demonstrate financial need.
Applications for FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment are available on the school’s website or in the Business Office for families to complete
and submit to FACTS. FACTS financial aid recommendations are subject to review and approval by the Financial Review Committee.
The amount of financial aid granted is based on the following criteria:
1. The total amount of financial aid funds available
2. FACTS recommendation - demonstration of families’ financial need
3. The total number of families that meet the criteria for financial aid
It is school policy that financial aid will not be granted unless the prior year’s tuition balance is paid in full. All financial information is
strictly confidential. Once a payment plan is set, each family must strictly follow the plan or face student withdrawal from Mater Dei.
823 Work Permits and Employment 1. State law requires that students who are under 18 years of age and who plan to work obtain a Work Permit.
2. California State Labor Law prohibits students under 18 from working more than four hours on a school day.
They cannot work between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. on school days, and from 12:30 a.m. to 5:00
a.m. on weekends. The school has noticed a problem with students working long and unusual hours. Parents are
urged to safeguard the physical, emotional and intellectual health of their children by attention to this matter.
3. All permits expire at the end of the summer and must be renewed in September of each school year.
4. Students must maintain a 2.0 G.P.A. to receive a work permit.
824 Lost & Found The school is not responsible for lost or stolen articles. When items are turned in, they are placed in Lost and Found located in the
Deans’ Office and every effort is made to return items to their owner. It is important that all textbooks are clearly labeled with the
student’s name and year of use. In the event that a book or item is labeled, a call slip is sent to the student informing him/her that
their item is in the Deans’ Office for pick-up.
900 Student Organizations & Mater Dei Clubs
901 Associated Student Body Other ASB Offices and Commissions
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ASB Officers: President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Students must be Seniors to hold an ASB Officer position. These
positions are elected by general school election once per year, normally at the beginning of the second semester.
Class Officers: President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer at each class level. Class Officers are elected by class elections
each year, generally after the ASB Offices elections have concluded.
Class Senators: Additional class representatives for Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors are selected by the Class Advisor and Class
Officers at the beginning of each school year. Freshman senators are selected during the incoming Freshman Class interview process
in May. Class Senators work with the Class Officers and Class Advisor to plan and execute events for their specific class. Students
interested in being part of ASB as a Class Senator are required to submit an and complete an interview. Applications are available
online in September and selections are made in early October.
Commissioners: There are several commissions who serve the school in different capacities. Students interested in being part of ASB
as a commissioner are required to submit an application for a specific commission and complete an interview process. Applications are
available online in February or March and selections are made for the upcoming school year in April. Commissions for the 2019-2020
school are:
Alumni & Advancement Athletics Campus Ministry Clubs
Go-Green Learning to Lead Monarch Cubs (9th Grade Only)
Monarch Life
Publicity & Marketing Rally Renaissance Scarlet Ambassadors
Social Awareness Special Events Technology & Digital Media
MATER DEI ASSOCIATED STUDENT BODY ELIGIBILITY:
To be eligible for student body offices (A.S.B. Officers, Class Officers, Commissioners, and Class Senators), a candidate must meet the
following requirements:
1. To be eligible to run for an ASB Officer or Class Officer position, candidates must have served on ASB (student
government) for a minimum of one year while in grades 9, 10, or 11 as a Class Officer, Commissioner, or Class
Senator.
2. Only seniors may hold an ASB Officer position.
3. To be eligible for the office of Class Officer or Class Senator, a student must currently be a member of that class.
4. To be eligible to be a member of ASB in any position (ASB Officer, Class Officer, Commissioner, or Class Senator)
Students must have proven her/his loyalty to the school and have shown positive leadership skills, in the judgment of
the faculty and administration.
5. It is important for all student leaders to be current in their Service Hour requirement. In the event there are too many
applicants for one position, priority will be given to students who are current in their service hour requirement. ASB
applicants should have a “P” or passing grade in regards to their Christian Service component on the most recent
semester grade report. To receive a passing grade, hours must be submitted by the deadlines listed in the Mater Dei
Parent/Student handbook. Service hours will be verified by the Campus Ministry Service Director. For additional
information, please see Section 1202 - Community Service Requirements.
6. Applicants must have at least a 2.0 cumulative G.P.A. verified by the signature of the academic counselor.
7. Applicants for any ASB position may not be on Disciplinary or Academic contract. This must be verified by signature of
the Deans or Assistant Principal of Student Services. If any student is placed on Disciplinary Contract during the school
year in which they serve, the student may be required to resign their commission or office immediately. Any student who
has had any level 3 infractions as per the Parent Student Handbook during the current school year, may not be eligible
to run for ASB office or any other office at MDHS.
8. To be eligible to apply as an ASB Officer, Class Officer or Commissioner the applicant must be able to attend both ASB
Camp and CADA Leadership Camp over the summer, all school dances, assigned school events, and
Den games.
9. ASB Officers are required to attend all school events as assigned by the Activities Director. This includes dances,
athletic and performing arts events, awards ceremonies, etc.
10. No student is permitted to hold more than one school office at any given time.
ASB Leadership Contract
All members of ASB are considered leaders of the school. The following contract is signed by all members.
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Mater Dei High School student leaders are expected to hold themselves to a higher standard of personal behavior. Character matters
as student leaders, and you are expected to be trustworthy, hardworking, determined, honest, responsible, confident and loyal. These
traits need to be seen in every aspect of your life because as leaders, you must be an example of positive behavior at all times. This
means your behavior and attitude at school, at home and in the community must reflect true leadership and character. You are a
representative of Mater Dei High School and our leadership program everywhere you go. As such, you lead by both words and
example. There should be NO DOUBT about your character as you represent your school.
As a member of the Monarch Student Leadership Team of Mater Dei High School, I understand I must follow the following rules:
1. Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA (every semester) – a student who does not have a 2.0 GPA at the end of the
semester grading period will be ineligible to continue participation in Student Leadership. Once the student
improves his/her semester grades to a 2.0, he or she will be eligible to re-apply for the Student Leadership
program.
2. I understand that my required Community Service Hours requirement must be met each semester. Service hours
will be checked at the end of the first semester. If my required service hours are not completed and turned in by
the required due date as stated in the Mater Dei Parent-Student Handbook, I will be removed from my Student
Leadership position. I understand that it is my responsibility to have my service hours recorded.
3. As a member of the Mater Dei Student Leadership team, I understand that I represent Mater Dei High School in
everything that I do. I understand that if I am found to have a presence on negative social media websites or sites
that are defamatory towards Mater Dei or its members, I will be asked to leave the Mater Dei Student Leadership
Team.
4. I am able to receive no more than three (3) dress code violations in a school year. On the 4th dress code violation
during an academic year or being placed on a Dean’s Contract for dress code violations, I may be removed from
the Student Leadership program for the remainder of the school year and will not be eligible to re-apply for one
calendar year (365 days).
5. I understand that as a member of the Monarch Leadership Team I am given the privilege of wearing ASB jean
dress once a month and ASB professional dress as required by the Activities Director. I will follow the dress code
as outlined.
6. ASB Student Leaders are not permitted to be on disciplinary contract or academic contract for infractions that are
found in the Parent/Student Handbook. These infractions include but are not limited to academic dishonesty,
classroom disruptions, etc. Disciplinary referrals will result in the removal of a student leader from the program for
one year.
7. I understand that my Monarch Leadership Team position will require a commitment of additional time beyond
normal school hours. This can include hours before school, at lunch, and after school. I understand that my
commitment to ASB and my ASB duties and attendance at functions comes second after my faith life and school
work. I understand that if I miss a mandatory ASB function for any reason, I will receive negative points which I
must make up to meet my point requirement.
8. I am required to notify the Activities Director in advance if not attending a mandatory event. If I fail to do so, I will
receive a detention.
9. The point system is in place to help each ASB member be a supportive, productive member of the school. Any
student who does not meet his/her minimum required points, may be removed from the Monarch Leadership Team
and will not be eligible to re-apply for one calendar year (365 days).
10. I will never leave or miss classes for official ASB business without prior authorization from the Activities Director. I
will NEVER tell a teacher that I need to leave class unless I have received a pass ahead of time. I understand that
I will be a student first and that leadership begins with being a good example to others. Consistent, on-time
attendance in class is the first step to being a good student leader and is the expectation as a member of the
Monarch Leadership Team. Students who use ASB as an excuse to miss class without a pass from the Activities
Director will be considered truant and will be removed from Student Leadership.
11. Treat all adults with respect. There are no reasons or excuses for disrespect or talking back to adults.
12. As a member of the Monarch Leadership Team, I will have a positive, collaborative relationship with the other
members of the team. I will show respect to the team members with both my words and actions. When problems
arise with another leadership team member, I will work to find a solution to the problem, rather than talking behind
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that person’s back. As a leader, I will always find ways to solve problems and work together with others. If
problems arise in this area, the first corrective step will be a meeting with the Activities Director about my behavior.
When a second problem arises, I will receive a written warning. On the third offense, I will be removed from
Student Leadership and will not be eligible to re-apply for one calendar year (365 days).
I agree that by accepting my leadership role, I will be holding myself to a “higher standard” of behavior. I am requiring myself to abide by
the statements listed above so I can become a leader of Mater Dei and in our community. I also understand that I will receive a
detention for missing required ASB events or not completing my ASB assigned duties. Students will be given a list of required dates at
the beginning of the school year.
901(a) ASB Monarch Professional Dress & Jean Dress STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM SWEATER UNIFORM DRESS
When you are asked to wear ASB Monarch Professional dress, you must comply with the following dress code. If you are out of
uniform, you will receive a detention.
GIRLS:
• ASB Sweater
• White oxford shirt (no polo shirts or t-shirts)
• Red plaid skirt (no other skirt is permitted)
• Khaki pants or shorts with the Mater Dei logo
BOYS:
• ASB Sweater
• White collared shirt (no polo shirts)
• Tie (Red is preferred)
• Khaki pants or shorts with Mater Dei logo
STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM JEAN DRESS DAYS
ASB has been given the privilege of having one ASB Jean dress day per month. On these dress days, current year.
ASB students are permitted to wear blue, gray, or black jeans (no yoga pant or lycra pants) with one of the following:
• Current year 2019-2020 ASB t-shirt
• Current year 2019-2020 ASB sweatshirt
No other t-shirts or sweatshirts can be worn on these days.
901(b) ASB Officer Monarch Professional Dress ASB Officers are permitted to wear the following on Special Dress occasions as determined by the Principal or Director of Activities.
GIRLS:
•ASB sweater
•White Oxford shirt
•Black dress skirt
BOYS:
•ASB sweater
•White Oxford shirt
•Black dress slacks
902 Academic Decathlon The purpose of the Academic Decathlon is to train and prepare a school team to compete in academic competition in February that will
test student knowledge in ten subjects. These subjects are literature, language, fine arts, social science, mathematics, economics,
speech, interview, essay, and super quiz.
903 Instrumental Music The Instrumental Music program provides dynamic course offerings including Concert Band and Symphonic Band, Percussion, Strings,
Marching and Pep Bands, Jazz Band and Guitar/Commercial Music. Whether you are new to playing an instrument or you have been
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playing for years, there is a place in the Instrumental Music Program for you. Please contact the Instrumental Music Program for
information on how to get involved.
904 Campus Ministry Program Campus Ministry fosters the personal and spiritual growth of the entire Mater Dei community (students, parents, faculty, staff and
alumni) by empowering God's people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today. This is experienced through daily prayer,
Eucharistic services, the Sacrament of Reconciliation and pastoral counseling.
Freshman Day of Welcome and one day Freshman and Sophomore Retreats give those students and introduction into God's love
through interaction with their peers. The two-day, one-night Junior Retreats and Senior Retreats give those students an opportunity to
focus on their relationships with family, friends and with God. Juniors and Seniors searching for a deeper faith experience may also
choose to apply for the Walk In Faith Retreat held three different times during the year.
For outreach opportunities, students may choose to participate in various aspects of Campus Ministry. Students may visit the Campus
Ministry website for frequently updated opportunities for involvement, prayer and service.
905 Choral Music The Mater Dei High School Choral Program is one of the most active choral programs in Southern California, boasting over 300
students in a wide array of vocal and handbell classes. Each individual ensemble travels annually throughout the United States bringing
home with them nothing but superior ratings from competitions and festivals. The choir performs a broad range of music, focusing on a
cappella literature and large choral works, and has toured extensively in the United States and Europe and will travel to Rome in Spring
2020. From the Metropolitan Opera stage to Broadway, alumni are continuing the tradition of artistic excellence taught to them at Mater
Dei. Most importantly, however, the Mater Dei Choirs pride themselves in the spiritual growth of each and every singer and ringer. The
choirs have performed for numerous ordinations and special celebrations including the National Catholic Educators’ National
Convention. To find more information on joining, please contact the Choral Music Office or the Office of Performing Arts.
906 Color Guard The Color Guard Team performs for the student body at various events including all the home football games. They participate in
parades and competitions with the Pageantry Corps. The members must learn a basic routine, using their equipment, and try-out in the
late spring.
907 The Crown The Crown staff is responsible for publishing the school yearbook. It illustrates all aspects of student life - religious, scholastic, athletic,
and social. Membership is mainly limited to senior and junior students.
908 Dance Team This audition-only course prepares advanced dancers for the technical and artistic demands of collegiate and professional dance.
Students apply training methodologies and performance techniques in both competitive and concert dance settings. The course is
supplemented with dance-specific anatomy, nutrition, psychology of dance, and overall well-being as it relates to the mind-body-spirit
connection.
909 Speech and Debate This group is made up of students interested in developing speech skills. Outstanding members of the group are chosen to represent
the school in city or state speech contests.
910 Junior States of America Around the world, a group of high school students is learning that you can make a difference. These students care about the direction
their country is headed and about daily worldwide events that shape their lives. Soon, these students will lead the nation and they are
getting a head start in making their voices heard. Since Professor E. A.
Rogers founded the Junior State in 1934, 500,000 students have gained an appreciation of the American system of law and democratic
government and have gained hands-on experience by running their own organization.
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911 Mock Trial The award-winning Mater Dei Mock Trial team combines law-related education with an intense tournament-style competition in a
varsity-level school program. Using a criminal court case, students explore current legal and constitutional issues. Each year, student
teams from over 40 Orange County high schools compete against each other through enactments of every role in a trial with the
guidance of practicing attorney and teacher coaches. The Mater Dei Mock Trial team, after a highly-competitive try-out stage, practices
two to three times a week and meets at the Santa Ana Central Courthouse for up to eight rounds of competition with actual judges
presiding at the trials and real attorneys and other legal professionals acting as scorers for the competition. Mock Trial develops each
team member’s ability and confidence to present arguments and assertive positions in a public setting. These skills benefit participants
not only in a possible legal career, but also in every facet of their development as strong and successful individuals.
912 Model United Nations The purpose of the club is to simulate the actions of the United Nations, create a better understanding of the world around us, and to
teach the students public speaking abilities. The MUN Club will participate in MUN conferences at different times and locations
throughout the school year.
913 National Art Honor Society The purpose of the NAHS is to:
1. Ensure and recognize those students who have shown outstanding ability in art.
2. Foster excellence and a dedicated spirit to the pursuit of art.
3. Further creative abilities of the Society's members, as well as the school's entire student art enrollment.
4. Aid members in working toward the attainment of the highest potential in an art area.
5. Bring art to the attention of the school and community.
6. Increase an awareness of art in relation to other areas of the school curriculum.
7. Further aesthetic awareness in all aspects of the school's total program.
914 Pep Squad The Mater Dei Pep Squad consists of the coed Varsity Cheerleaders; the Songleaders, girls from the ninth through twelfth grades;
Junior Varsity Cheerleaders and Songleaders, girls from the tenth and ninth grades. The squad’s cheer at football and basketball
games, and other selected athletic and school events. During the year, they will also enter competitions held in various locales. During
the past twenty years, the Mater Dei Pep Squad has been recognized as one of the premier groups not only in California, but also in the
nation.
915 Renaissance The Mater Dei Renaissance Program was conceptualized by Josten's Corporation. The program was implemented during the 1995-96
school year at Mater Dei. A team of students, faculty, and staff has set a goal to create a visible academic image in the school
community where academic excellence, continuous improvement, citizenship and attitude are promoted and recognized. The mission is
not merely a "program" which has an ending, but rather a process that continues and modifies itself to meet the needs of our school.
Membership drives take place twice a year. Any student with no F's or U's on the semester report card is eligible to become a
Renaissance member.
916 Robotics The Robotics Team, known as the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team for Mater Dei High School, is "The Varsity Sport for the
Mind," FRC combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules, limited resources, and time
limits, teams of 25 students or more are challenged to raise funds, design a team "brand," hone teamwork skills, and build and program
robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. It’s as close to "real-world engineering" as a student can get.
Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team.
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917 Scarlet Scroll The Scarlet Scroll staff is a class that is responsible for publishing the student school newspaper. It covers all school news, as well as
editorial issues. Membership is limited mainly to juniors and seniors by application with the journalism advisor.
918 Theater Arts Theatre is a celebration of the human experience through storytelling. The elements of Theatre include playwriting, acting, directing,
design, and criticism. In Theatre, we work together as an ensemble to unify all of these theatrical elements through productions, scene
work, improvisation, devised theatre, educational tours to local schools, and more.
919 Student Clubs Clubs are organized around areas of student interest and community service. All clubs must have a faculty moderator and a club
constitution that has been approved by the school Administrative Board. Students interested in forming new clubs should see the
Associate Director of Activities. A list of current, active clubs is available on the Mater Dei Website.
1000 Parent Organizations
1001 Consultative School Board The purpose of the Consultative School Board is to serve in an advisory capacity to the Mater Dei Administration in the areas of policy
development and future program planning for Mater Dei High School. The MDHS Consultative School Board consists of 14 members
plus the Principal and President of Mater Dei. This Consultative School Board structure provides the Mater Dei Administration with
expertise from parents, alumni and/or friends of Mater Dei.
1002 Parent Association Council The Parent Association Council consists of three (3) Council officers (Past President, President, and Vice-President) and six (6)
Committees with various Chairpersons. Any parents wishing to share ideas or suggestions regarding Mater Dei activities may contact
the Council Officers, any of the Committee Chairs on the Council or the Director of Activities at MDHS.
1003 Parent Volunteer Program Mater Dei Parent Volunteer Program began in 1979. All parents who have children at Mater Dei should consider volunteering the skills
of their proficiency and their time to aid administration, faculty and staff, and thus provide added opportunities for their children. To
promote the safety of our students, all parent volunteers must be fingerprinted and complete a Safe Environment Training prior to their
work on-campus.
1100 Guidance & Counseling Department: School Counselors
9th Grade Students:
Incoming 9th grade students are assigned to a counselor by alphabetical order. Counselors for 9th grade students will be listed on the
students’ schedule cards. At the end of the 9th grade year, students are assigned their permanent counselors by the above alpha split.
Students and parents should regularly visit the Guidance and Counseling website at www.materdei.org/guidance. The
Guidance Office emails monthly important reminders to students and parents that are posted on the website. MDHS partners
with local test prep experts and offers test prep classes and full-length practice test opportunities throughout the school year
and during the summer months. Additionally, the Guidance Office hosts numerous high school and college and career
planning events during the school year that are listed on the Guidance Important Dates webpage.
Counseling by Grade Level
9th Grade Counseling
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In the fall, freshmen can register for a Naviance account to research colleges and careers. In October, all 9th grade students participate
in our All School Testing Day and take the Practice PSAT 8/9, which provides early feedback on students’ PSAT skills and
knowledge. For more information on test prep, please visit our SAT/ACT page. In the fall, freshmen are also welcome to attend our
College Night, where students and parents can attend workshops and meet college representatives.
The counselors meet with all students through Freshmen Classroom Visits to discuss:
• How to be involved (sports, clubs, service) and utilize school supports (AAP)
• Naviance, powerful college and career research tool
• Graduation requirements
• Mater Dei Course Catalog
• Introduction to college admissions requirements
• Course selection for 10th grade
10th Grade Counseling
In the fall, sophomores take the Practice ACT test as part of our All School Testing Day, an opportunity to get familiar with the exam
structure/content and find student strengths and areas of improvement. Students and parents are welcome to come to the fall College
Night, which features informative workshops and a college fair. In November, the counselors host the Sophomore Parent/Student
Night. At this event, counselors and speakers address pertinent topics and families are encouraged to bring their technology to join an
interactive demo on exploring colleges and careers through Naviance.
In the spring, counselors return Practice ACT results to students through classroom visits. Counselors also meet with each student
individually in their Sophomore Visits to cover the following: course selection, transcript review, college admission requirements,
service hours, testing plans, summer enrichment, extracurricular activities, and potential college and career goals. Counselors review
student progress and recommend summer school for students in need of credit recovery.
11th Grade Counseling
Throughout the school year, junior students can take advantage of the College Admission Representative Visits during Upper Lunch.
Representatives from colleges across the nation visit Mater Dei and are available to meet with students in the Shamrock Plaza during
lunch.
In the fall, students are encouraged to attend College Night, which features workshops and a college fair. In October, 11th grade
students take the PSAT/NMSQT as part of the All School Testing Day. For more information on admissions exams, please refer to our
SAT/ACT test page.
Counselors also schedule individual appointments with every junior family for their Junior Counseling Visit. The Junior Counseling
Visit is a 45-minute visit with the counselor, and parents are encouraged to join with their student. The topics covered include:
transcripts and grades, senior year classes and graduation, SAT/ACT test planning and preparation, post-high school options/college
admissions process, and major/career interest exploration. Additionally, instructions for the Counselor Letter of Recommendation and
Teacher Recommendation Questionnaires are provided so students can work on their responses over the summer.
12th Grade Counseling
In the fall, seniors complete the Counselor Letter of Recommendation Questionnaire (due Friday August 23, 2019), which is
required for requesting Counselor Letters of Recommendation. Please see the Letters of Recommendation page for instructions
on the Counselor Letter of Recommendation Questionnaire and Teacher Recommendation Questionnaire. Counselor and teacher
letters of recommendation can only be sent directly to the college or program and will not be given to the student or parent.
In the beginning of the school year, counselors visit senior English classes for a One to Two-Session College Classroom Curriculum
and work closely with senior English teachers to assist students in completing their college applications and essays. Counselors review
with students screen-by-screen through the Common Application, UC Application, and CSU Application. Please see this College
Application and Essay Handout on the Counseling website that details the college application process for students and parents.
Throughout the fall, counselors also meet with each senior student individually in Senior Counseling Visits to further assist with their
college applications. As a reminder, students must request for letters of recommendation at least 3 weeks in advance of their first
application due date and must check whether they need to send official transcripts, which is done through Parchment
(www.parchment.com).
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Seniors have the opportunity to attend our fall College Night, which features informative workshops and a college fair, and they are
able to meet college representatives through College Admission Representative Visits during Upper Lunch throughout the year.
Students are encouraged to visit the Gateway Center in the Counseling Office for careers, internship, and scholarship opportunities.
January through March, counselors complete Mid Year Reports for private colleges, and students must check whether they need to
order and send their official mid year transcripts. In May, all seniors are invited to Senior Awards Night, which recognizes students for
their efforts and accomplishments in academics, arts, athletics, service and more.
1101 The Gateway Center The Gateway Center is located in the Guidance and Counseling Office and serves as a bridge between our educational resources, the
community and the growing interest on how students spend their time in preparation for college.
The Gateway Center is available to all students and parents and offers numerous resources, including:
Mr. Don Nguyen, School Counselor, Coordinator of the Gateway Center Resources. He is available Monday
through Friday, from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and can be reached at (714) 641-5452 or by email,
[email protected]. Students and parents are welcome to schedule an appointment.
Apple computers with internet access and counseling software to assist students in the college and career
selection process.
College planning and admission workshops
California Community College Placement Testing
Peer-to-peer tutoring
Interview Day
College Night (featuring informative workshops and representatives from over 100 colleges)
Career Day
Naviance Workshops
Professional guest speaker visits during office hours (i.e. engineer, firefighter, nurse, etc.)
SAT test prep courses offered by leading companies (i.e. Catalyst, Tried & True Tutoring )
College Admission Rep visits throughout the year during upper lunch
Scholarship, Internship and Summer Program opportunities that are emailed to students and parents each
week.
1200 Academic Information Mater Dei places great emphasis on education. Learning not only develops God-given talents, but also helps to make Faith more living,
conscious and active. Faith and religious values are integrated into all that is taught in our community. Students here at Mater Dei are
directed to the pursuit of further education after graduation. Therefore, emphasis is placed upon subjects and skills that will render a
student capable of college and university study.
It will sometimes happen that a student may not be able to handle this intellectual challenge. Lack of ability, a decline in motivation,
desire to leave the school, personal problems, and other reasons have emerged as obstacles to doing well. If an issue reaches the
point where the school decides it is no longer in the best interest of the student to continue education at Mater Dei, this will be brought
to the attention of the parents.
The purpose of these procedures is to encourage the best education possible for our students, either here at Mater Dei or in that
environment where the learning of the student will flourish.
Repeating "D" and "F" Grades
If a student earns a "D" or "F" semester grade, the student must make up the "F" in order to meet graduation requirements; "D" grades
should be repeated in order to improve the student's grade point average and may be required in order to qualify for the next course
level as outlined in the Mater Dei Course Catalog. Colleges usually do not accept “D” grades. The better grade is always used when
computing the GPA. Students should repeat the class(es) during summer school following the "D" or "F" grade(s). Students are
encouraged to enroll in Mater Dei's Summer School or MD Connect Credit Recovery Program, which is available during the school year
in several subjects. However, students may attend their local public high school after consulting with their guidance counselor.
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Athletes must check all courses offered at any high school in order to be sure that the courses meet NCAA core- course legislation. For
a list of courses that meet NCAA Core Course legislation at Mater Dei High School visit the student athlete web page at
www.materdei.org/studentathlete.
Grade Petitioning
If a student wishes to petition a grade, he or she may do so by initiating contact with the appropriate teacher. The teacher will meet with
the student to discuss his or her concerns and review any specific assignments. The teacher will exercise his or her professional
judgement to grant or deny the student’s petition on an assignment. If the petition is in regard to a course grade, the teacher may confer
with the department chair and/or the Assistant Principal of Academic Services to make a final decision. Requests to petition a grade on
an individual assignment must be made within two weeks of the assignment’s grade being posted to Aeries. Petition requests beyond
these two weeks will not be considered.
1201 Graduation/Enrollment Requirements Graduation Requirements
To receive a diploma from Mater Dei High School, students who attend Mater Dei grades 9-12, must successfully complete the
following requirements at Mater Dei High School:
1. A record of good character and citizenship.
2. A passing grade in all subjects taken. All "F" grades on a transcript must be made up before a diploma will be issued.
3. 80 hours of Community Service, of which 40 hours must be considered “Direct” hours, and Reflection Assignment.
Religious Studies - 4 years/40 credits
English - 4 years/40 credits
Mathematics - 3 years/30 credits
Science - 2 years/20 credits
(1 year of Earth Science or Biology during Freshman year, and 1 year of additional science)
Social Studies - 3 years/30 credits including 1 year of World History or AP European History, 1 year of US History or
AP U.S. History, one year of US Government/Economic Geography or AP U.S. Government.
World Language - 2 years of same language/20 credits
Visual or Performing Art-1 year/10 credits
Additional Credits/Elective Courses-Varies by Class (Class of 2018-260 credits; Class of 2019 and beyond-270
credits)
4. Students who have not completed their Christian Service Graduation Requirement (min. of 80 hours of community
service- with 40 of those hours being “direct” service hours – and the successful completion of their essay or oral
presentation) will not be permitted to participation in the Graduation Exercises of that year’s graduating class.
Any student who begins his/her Senior Year at Mater Dei High School must be eligible for graduation. This means that he/she must
have made up or be in the process of making up any "F" grades that he/she may have received. Any student who enters the second
semester with three or more "F" grades on his/her transcript or who earns "F" grades during the second semester that bring the total to
three (3) or more "F" grades on the transcript, will not be allowed to walk in the Commencement Exercises held in late May.
Simply stated: Any student who has three (3) or more "F" grades on his/her transcript that have not been made up will not walk in the
Commencement Exercises. He/she will receive a diploma only when the "F" grades are made up. Incompletes must be made up no
later than the following semester. If they are not made up, incompletes become “F” grades. If your student plans to make up “D” or “F”
grades in the summer at a school other than Mater Dei, your student must obtain an off-campus permission form from the Counseling
Office. Upon the completion of the course(s) a report card or official transcript must be submitted directly to the Registrar’s Office. All
religion courses must be made up at Mater Dei’s summer school.
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment at Mater Dei High School requires
9th Grade: Seven courses per semester
10th Grade: Seven or Eight courses per semester
11th Grade: Seven or Eight courses per semester
12th Grade: A minimum of six courses per semester
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Early Graduation
Students seeking early graduation must put their request in writing to the principal. Students who transfer after their sophomore year
may not be eligible for early graduation.
To be considered for early graduation, all students must be on track to meet the Mater Dei graduation requirements. If the student plays
a sport and plans to play in college, he or she must also demonstrate they are NCAA eligible.
1202 Community Service Graduation Requirements Each four-year student at Mater Dei High School, as part of his/her graduation requirements, must complete a minimum of 80 volunteer
service hours. All students must record a minimum of 10 hours per semester. Transfer students are required to record 10 hours for
each semester enrolled at Mater Dei. A minimum of half of the required hours must be considered “direct”. Through this requirement,
students are provided a structured program in which they can potentially experience Christianity in a dynamic way by actively
participating in a wide variety of outreach opportunities.
All four-year students at Mater Dei must adhere to the following minimum requirements:
• A minimum of 10 service hours submitted by December 1, 2019 during the Freshman year.
• A minimum of 20 service hours submitted by March 30, 2020 during the Freshman year.
• A minimum of 30 service hours submitted by December 1, 2019 during the Sophomore year.
• A minimum of 40 service hours submitted by March 30, 2020 during the Sophomore year.
• A minimum of 50 service hours submitted by December 1, 2019 during the Junior year.
• A minimum of 60 service hours submitted by March 30, 2020 during the Junior year.
• A minimum of 70 service hours submitted by December 1, 2019 during the Senior year.
• A minimum of 80 service hours and the Reflection Assignment submitted by March 30, 2020 during the Senior year.
Classification of Service Hours
Service must be performed at Organizations/Agencies that fall under the following placement categories: Animal Care, Civic, Cultural,
Disability, Educational, Elderly, Environmental, Fundraising, Mater Dei-related, Medical, Political, Poverty, Religious, and Youth. “Direct”
service hours are given when the student’s volunteer work exclusively involves personal interaction in some way with the elderly,
disabled, sick, poor, or youth (with youth, the Mater Dei student must serve as a tutor, coach, mentor, or counselor). Of the 80 hours
needed to satisfy the graduation requirement, at least 40 must be categorized as “Direct”. Once hours are submitted and recorded in
Campus Ministry, the hour totals will be accessible through the students’ AERIES account under “student info” and
“activities and awards”.
Students who have not completed their Christian Service Graduation Requirement (min. of 80 hours of
community service- with 40 of those hours being “direct” service hours – and the successful completion of
their essay or oral presentation) will not be permitted to participation in the Graduation Exercises of that
year’s graduating class.
To find out more about the specifics related to this graduation requirement, please visit the Mater Dei website, using the following steps:
1. Log onto www.materdei.org
2. From the “Campus Life” link, click on “Campus Ministry”, then click on “Christian Service Program”.
3. To view recorded service hours, log onto Aeries.
1203 Report Cards Progress Reports are available to students and parents through the Aeries Parent or Student Portals at the midterm of each semester.
Report Cards are available through the Aeries Parent or Student Portals at the end of the 1st and 2nd semesters. Report Cards are not
mailed home unless a request is made in writing to the Registrar.
1204 Semester Exams Exams will be given in all subjects at the end of each semester (see school calendar for each subject and date of exam). All students
are required to be present for semester exams. Semester final worth may vary by department.
1205 Mater Dei Semester Grading Policy Student's semester work is worth 80% of the semester grade. The semester final is worth 20% of the semester grade. Parents will
receive progress as follows:
Approximately nine weeks into the semester mid-term progress reports will be available to all parents.
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Approximately fifteen weeks into each semester progress checks are available to parents of students who fall
below a C grade level.
Approximately eighteen weeks into the semester students take final exams. Semester grades are available to
parents after exams.
Parents are encouraged to access their student’s current grades via the web-based gradebook access program. Information on this
program will be provided to parents at the beginning of the school year.
1206 Requests to Reschedule Semester Exams On occasion there may be a student who needs to take an examination earlier than scheduled. When this need arises, the following is
required:
1. Parent/Guardian must submit request, in writing, to the Attendance Office.
2. Once the student receives approval, a $50 fee (per exam) is submitted to the Attendance Office.
3. Attendance office issues “Excused Absence Make-Up Work Request” form, which the student brings to each teacher for
signature.
4. Student and Teacher reschedule the exam.
1207 Transcripts Student transcript requests are processed through Parchment.com, a third-party company. Parchment allows students, parents and
alumni to request transcripts through Secure Transcript. Transcripts requested online are sent securely to the colleges, universities, or
scholarship funds selected. Requests are tracked online and an email notification is sent when the request is approved, and again when
the transcript is mailed (or delivered electronically, based on the delivery preference selected).
1208 Class Schedule Changes 1. Course Requests are viewable in the Student Aeries Portal the last week of school. Students are recommended for
courses based on meeting course prerequisites as outlined in the MDHS Course Catalog.
2. For schedule changes, contact the student’s assigned School Counselor. Schedule changes may require approval by
the following: Parents, Department Chairs, Assistant Principal of Academic Services. All teachers are qualified to teach
in their subject area, therefore, no teacher or block changes can be accommodated.
3. Any student who is allowed to drop a yearlong class after the third week of school and before the first progress report
will receive a "W" on his/her transcript.
4. Any student who drops a yearlong class after the first or third progress report will receive a "WF" on his/her transcript.
1209 School Grades A= Excellent; B=Good; C=Average; D=Poor; F=Failure
Grading Scale
A..............................100-95 C................................76-74
A-............................…94-90 C-.............................. 73-70
B.+.............................89-87 D+............................ 69-67
B................................86-84 D................................66-64
B-...............................83-80 D-..............................63-60
C+.............................79-77 F ......................... below 60
1. Classroom grades are based on teachers’ evaluations, and grades may be affected by student absences.
2. Academic Probation: If a student receives a failure at the semester grading period or receives below a 2.0
average, he or she will be placed automatically on Academic Probation. A student on Academic Probation must
show improvement the following semester grading period or he/she will become ineligible to participate in athletic
or non-athletic activities. Such students may also be subject to dismissal.
3. Failures: If a student fails a semester period of work, he/she must make up that course or a comparable class in
the summer school that directly follows the completion of the year in which he/she receives the failure. No student
is allowed to return to Mater Dei unless he/she has made up the failure in the required time. Two failures at the
semester are cause for dismissal from Mater Dei. Two failures in Religion may result in a student's dismissal.
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Students at Mater Dei may not repeat failed classes during the school year. Summer School and MD Connect
Credit Recovery is available.
4. Student transcripts do not reflect + or – grades.
Semester Grading Scale
A…………………………90 -100
B…………………………80 – 89
C…………………………..70 – 79
D…………………………..60 – 69
F…………………………..Below 60
1210 Computation of G.P.A. In computing the Grade Point Average (G.P.A.)
4 points are given for each A. 3 points are given for each B. 2 points are given for each C.
1 point is given for each D. 0 points are given for each F.
(Physical Education and related courses receive no points for Academic G.P.A.)
The total points are then divided by the number of subjects taken.
Honors and Advanced Placement classes receive one extra point for grades of A, B, or C.
1211 Homework Homework is an integral part of a student's success at Mater Dei High School. Students will be assigned homework on a daily
basis. They are required to complete the homework in a quality manner and to submit it to their teachers by the assigned
deadlines; not doing so may dramatically affect their grade.
To help students with time management, we encourage students to use an Academic Planner, available in the Mater Dei Campus Store
or on the iPad. Students are required to keep a record of assignments, and we recommend that parents check their student's Planner
to ensure that assignments are recorded and completed.
1212 Office Hour Mater Dei is a college preparatory high school. As such, it is our responsibility to prepare students to meet with success once they
graduate and attend a college or university, where they will be encouraged to meet with their professors during their office hours. Thus,
Mater Dei has implemented a 40-minute Office Hour period into Red (Odd Block) school days. Office Hour is an academic period during
which students are expected, encouraged, and allowed to:
Make up tests or quizzes due to absences
Seek additional academic assistance from teachers
Study independently
Collaborate with classmates on group projects
Pray, meditate, or reflect
Complete and/or work ahead on homework assignments
In order for students to effectively utilize Office Hour, various areas around the Mater Dei campus have been designated as “Approved”
and “Restricted.” Please note that Approved Areas are designated by grade level.
Freshmen & Sophomores Juniors Seniors
Approved Areas: o Classroom o Library
Approved Areas: o Classroom o Library o LeVecke Center o Shamrock Plaza
Approved Areas o Classroom o Library o LeVecke Center o Shamrock Plaza o Grotto (designated “quiet area”)
Restricted Areas for ALL Students
Athletic Locker Rooms
Meruelo Athletic Center
Monarch Television
Weight Room
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Heisman Lane ASB Room
Misuse of Office Hour and Consequences: In order to ensure the safety of our students and that Office Hour is used for its intended
purposes, Mater Dei faculty and staff monitors the Approved and Restricted Areas indicated above. Any student found in a Restricted
Area and/or violating “quiet area” designations will receive a “Misuse of Office Hour” warning. Students under normal circumstances are
allowed three warnings before the following progression of consequences will be enforced:
First 3: Warning
Next 3 (4-6): 1-hour weekday detention
Next 3 (7-9): 2-hour weekday detention
Next 1 (10): 4-hour Saturday detention and student is placed on a Deans’ Contract.
NOTE: this policy does not prevent the additional assessment of sanctions at any time pursuant to the School’s Discipline
Code (See Section 700)
1213 Honors Diploma Seniors with a weighted or unweighted cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 and above will receive honors at graduation.
1214 Recognition of 4.0 Students at Graduation All senior students who have a weighted or unweighted G.P.A. of 4.0 or higher will be recognized at Graduation. Student's G.P.A. is
computed and based on seven (7) semesters of work. The eighth semester of grades is not computed toward this student recognition.
Mater Dei High School does not provide class rank for students.
1215 Valedictorian and Salutatorian At the graduation ceremony all 4.0 students will be asked to stand and be recognized as our top honor students. All
4.0 students will be given the opportunity to prepare a valedictory or salutatory speech and to try out for valedictorian and salutatorian.
An Administrative Committee will judge the speech on the basis of content and delivery. The Committee also will consider such factors
as students' attitude, behavior and involvement in school, parish, and community activities. This policy reflects our holistic philosophy of
education. Academic achievement should be the primary, but not sole criterion for the selection of the two top students who best
represent the graduating class.
If no one of the 4.0 students prepares an acceptable valedictory speech, the Administrative Board will choose, on the basis of merit
(e.g. leadership and involvement) one of the 4.0 students to be named Valedictorian, and no valedictory speech will be given.
1216 Advanced Placement Program Mater Dei offers Advanced Placement courses. Students enrolled in AP classes are required to take the AP exams in May. There is a
fee for taking each AP exam.
Any student may take any AP exam by registering with the AP Coordinator by the end of the fall semester.
1217 California Scholarship Federation The purpose of the CSF is to recognize and encourage high scholastic achievement. Students who consistently earn membership in
CSF increase their chances of college acceptance, and become eligible for scholarship opportunities. Membership is based on
semester grades. To be eligible, a student must earn 10 points:
3 points are given for each A
4 points are given for each Honors/AP A
1 point is given for each semester B
2 points are given for each Honors/AP B
A maximum of 2 “extra” points are given per semester
No points are given for a "C"
A "D" or lower in any subject or an Unsatisfactory grade in Citizenship disqualifies students from participation
for that semester.
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The following courses do not count toward CSF calculations: All sports, PE, Dance Team, Color Guard, Marching
Band, Pep Squad, and Office Aide.
Students who earn CSF membership for four semesters, including at least one semester based upon grades earned during the first
semester of the senior year, are designated as Sealbearers at graduation. These students are recognized at the CSF Senior Awards
Ceremony and at Commencement.
Students eligible for CSF must sign up during the sign-up weeks designated each February and October. Qualifying students are
encouraged to apply.
1218 National Honor Society National Honor Society membership is recognized throughout the United States. Students in grades 10 through 12 apply for
membership in October. Members are selected on the basis of their completed application. Requirements include a minimum GPA of
3.3, involvement in at least 2 co-curricular activities, verified Mater Dei community service hours
(25hrs.sophomores/50hrs,juniors/75hrs.seniors), and evidence of leadership ability and of personal integrity. Meeting the minimum
requirements does not guarantee NHS membership. Once selected, students are required to participate in all community service
projects.
1219 www.TurnItIn.com In order to improve the academic program of Mater Dei High School, teachers will use Turn-It-In.com, a plagiarism detection service, on
certain student papers. The use of this software addresses growing concern throughout all of the educational community that some
students are using electronic resources incorrectly and in some cases unethically. The great blessings of the immense resources of
information and communication access have been coupled with greater responsibility on the part of students and educators to verify
that these resources are used correctly. The TurnItIn.com site provides a comparison service. Students upload required papers directly
to the Internet site by an assigned date. Students who do not have Internet access at home can access the site through one of our
many on-campus computer stations. The service compares texts with different types of searches throughout the Internet. Papers are
also compared to those in the site database. A report is prepared for each paper, recognizing similarities and providing direct links to
quoted sources. The teacher reads this report and can directly examine the links. With this information the teacher can better recognize
whether a student has followed
proper citation rules, has mistakenly included sources incorrectly, or has directly plagiarized all or sections of a paper. The teacher can
also directly show a student where problems have occurred. The purpose of Mater Dei High
School's use of the Turn-It-In.com site is not to "catch" cheaters (though we cannot condone or allow deliberate plagiarism). It is to
provide an active deterrent for students who are tempted to take the easy way out and an educational opportunity for all students.
1220 National Signing Day To recognize student achievement in all aspects of student life, Mater Dei High School will host a National Signing Day event for
student-athletes who are signing National Letters of Intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level.
Eligibility for participation:
Mater Dei student-athletes who wish to participate in Mater Dei’s National Signing Day event must meet the following requirements:
The student-athlete must be a senior;
The student-athlete must have received a letter of intent financial agreement from an officially recognized
National Letter of Intent member institution;
The student-athlete must express the desire to sign the letter of intent financial agreement whereby he/she will continue
his/her athletic career at the college or university which tendered it.
A Mater Dei student-athlete who signs a similar, non-financial agreement with an Ivy League institution or military academy is also
eligible to participate in Mater Dei’s National Signing Day event.
A Mater Dei student-athlete who signs a preferred walk-on agreement must obtain a college acceptance letter from their college coach
indicating their involvement with that college or university’s athletic program.
Mater Dei retains sole discretion in determining student-athlete eligibility for participation in Mater Dei’s National Signing Day event. All
eligibility determinations are final. Mater Dei also reserves discretion in contacting any and all colleges, universities or military
academies to verify student-athlete eligibility for participation in Mater Dei’s National Signing Day event.
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1221 Letters of Recommendation Students are encouraged to reach out to Mater Dei High School’s staff and administrators to request letters of recommendation to
educational institutions such as colleges, universities, and other programs. It is the responsibility of the students to make such requests
as early as possible to allow the recommenders ample time to respond. Whether or not to prepare the letters of recommendation, and
the letters’ contents, are in the sole discretion of the recommenders. Further, such letters remain confidential between recommenders
and educational institutions; recommenders may decline to provide letters to students who do not agree to waive any rights to review or
access the letters.
1300 Wellness Counseling
1301 Outreach Concern, Inc. Outreach Concern, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency providing a complete program of psychological counseling services to school
children and their families. It is part of the curriculum of Mater Dei High School.
Mater Dei High School strives to provide its students, families and faculty members with as much supportive help as possible, and is
aware that today's stressful lifestyles make that support more and more necessary. By enlisting Outreach Concern's services, students
at Mater Dei experiencing problems with academics, behavior or personal problems have access to trained counselors on campus,
where and when they might need them.
Outreach Concern counselors enter the program with a wide variety of experience including graduate, post- graduate, doctoral and
professional backgrounds. Because the counselors are "intern-counselors" every counselor works under the supervision of a licensed
clinician with whom they meet weekly to discuss their cases, in addition to on-going supervision from Outreach Concern and their
university programs. All counselors practice in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church, upholding the same values as the
school and family.
All counseling provided by Outreach Concern is confidential. Records are retained by Outreach Concern and do not become part of the
student's school file. Although it is essential to protect each student's confidentiality, please be assured that our goal as counselors is
not to shield important information from the parents. It is always our goal to involve the parents and to help bring the student to an
understanding of the importance of that involvement in a confidential setting that makes them feel safe and understood. Please note: in
the case of danger to self or others, or the reasonable suspicion of child abuse, counselors are mandated by law and by the
ethics of the counseling profession to take all reasonable steps necessary to protect the student, including informing the
appropriate authorities.
By signing the Parent-Student Handbook agreement form, you agree to allow your child to use the Outreach Concern counseling
services available at Mater Dei High School. Please note: students are not solicited for counseling. Your consent is only to assure that
your student may use the counseling services if you, your student, or the school administration deems it necessary. When deemed
necessary by a Mater Dei Administrator, a student may be referred to his/her psychologist or an Outreach Concern psychologist for an
appropriate assessment related to his/her mental well-being.
In the event that this happens, the parent is required to present a letter to the school’s administration stating that the student’s
psychological/mental health assessment shows that s/he is healthy and able to resume his/her studies at MDHS.
Students are referred for counseling in three ways: 1) by a school faculty member or official, 2) by the parents, 3) by the student. It is a
mark of the effectiveness of the program that over 60% of students are self-referred, seeking out the counselors on their own. To make
a referral to have your student seen, contact Mrs. Bauer, Director of Guidance and Counseling at [email protected] or (714) 850-
9567 or your student’s School Counselor.
Outreach Concern also provides students with a 24-hour Crisis Hotline, 1-800-4 CONCERN, allowing students to contact a trained
counselor when they need one most. The Crisis Line handles about 300 calls per month, and operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
including summers and weekends.
1302 Disclosure of College Acceptance Information Disclosure
Mater Dei High School is proud of its graduates’ long and distinguished tradition of moving on to top colleges throughout the nation.
Accordingly, MDHS makes public its graduating students’ choices for college through, as only two examples, the school’s College Map
in the Guidance Office, and through responses to elementary schools’ requests for this information.
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Opt-Out Procedure
Should any student or parent prefer that Mater Dei High School not disclose this information to the public, a written request, signed by
the parent and student (or only the student if aged eighteen or over), must be sent to the MDHS Guidance Department.
1400 University of California Freshman Admission Requirements The University considers you a freshman applicant if you have graduated from high school and have not enrolled in a regular session at
any college or university. If you attend a summer session at a college while a student at Mater Dei you are still a freshman applicant.
California Residents
To be eligible for admission to the University, you must meet the Subject, Scholarship, and Examination
Requirements described below.
Subject Requirement
To satisfy this requirement, you must complete the high school courses listed below with a grade point average defined by
the Scholarship Requirement. This sequence of courses is also known as the "a-g" requirements.
a. History/Social Science: 2 years required
Two years of history/social science, including one year of U.S. history or one-half year of U.S. history
and one-half year of civics or American government; and one year of world history, cultures, and
geography.
b. English: 4 years required
Four years of college preparatory English-composition and literature. Four years of college-preparatory
English that include frequent writing, from brainstorming to final paper, as well as reading of classic and
modern literature. No more than one year of ESL-type courses can be used to meet this requirement
c. Mathematics: 3 years required, 4 recommended
Three years of college preparatory mathematics which include the topics in elementary and advanced
algebra and two and three-dimensional geometry. Geometry cannot be validated; demonstration of
completion is required.
d. Laboratory Science: 2 years required, 3 recommended
Two years of laboratory science providing basic knowledge in at least two of the fundamental disciplines
of biology, chemistry, and physics. One yearlong interdisciplinary science or integrated science or earth
and space sciences course can meet one year of this requirement — and combined with one year of
biology or chemistry or physics, fulfills the full requirement.
e. Languages other than English: 2 years required, 3 recommended
Two years of the same language other than English. American Sign Language and classical languages,
such as Latin and Greek, are acceptable.
f. Visual and Performing Arts (VPA): 1 year required in the same subject
g. College Preparatory Elective: 1 year required
One year (Two semesters), in addition to those required in "a-f" above, chosen from the following areas: visual and
performing arts, history, social science, English, advanced mathematics, laboratory science, and languages other than
English.
Scholarship Requirement
The Scholarship Requirement defines the grade point average (GPA) students must attain in the required "a-g" subjects to be eligible
for admission to the University.
If the student's GPA is 3.0 or higher, he or she has met the minimum GPA requirement for admission if he or she achieves the college
entrance test score indicated on the Eligibility Index .
The University calculates the GPA in the "a-g" subjects completed in grades 10 and 11 including summer sessions by assigning point
values to the grades a student earns, totaling the points, and dividing the total by the number of "a-g" course units. Points are assigned
as follows: A=4 points, B=3 points, C=2 points, D=1 point, and F=0 points.
The University assigns extra points for honors and advanced placement courses taken in grades 10, 11 and 12: A=5 points, B=4 points,
and C=3 points.
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Only grades the student earns in "a-g" subjects in the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grades are used to calculate the GPA to determine
minimum eligibility for admission. Courses taken in the ninth grade can be used to meet the Subject Requirement if the student earns a
grade of C or better, but they will not be used to calculate the GPA.
D and F grades in the a-g courses must be repeated or validated.
Grades for repeated courses in which you initially earned a grade of C or better will not be used.
Examination Requirement
Freshman applicants must submit the following test scores:
• The ACT Test with Writing, or
• SAT Test
Students applying for admission for the fall term must take these tests no later than December of their senior year, and preferably
earlier, to ensure that their application receives prompt and full consideration.
The verbal, mathematics and writing scores on the SAT must be from the same sitting. If you take the ACT, you must report each test
score and your composite score.
• The SAT Subject Tests are not required for admission. Students may submit scores if they wish to showcase academic
mastery, just as scores on Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate
tests show ability and subject mastery. Competitive majors on some campuses may recommend particular
SAT Subject Tests to demonstrate subject proficiency. Additionally, Subject Tests may be used to fulfill "a- g" requirements.
If the number of applicants exceeds the spaces available for a particular campus or major, as is often the case, the campus uses a
criterion that exceeds the minimum requirements to select students.
Meeting the minimum requirements, therefore, is not enough to gain admission to many UC campuses and programs.
The University makes every effort to provide a place on one of its campuses for all California resident applicants who meet the
minimum admission requirements and file an application by November 30.
In recent years, the number of applicants for some campuses and for some majors has far exceeded the number of spaces available.
When a campus cannot accept all eligible applicants, it uses standards that are more demanding than the minimum requirements to
select students. These standards, which the University calls selection criteria, identify those students who have demonstrated the
capacity for high academic achievement and who have a variety of other qualities that can contribute to the strength and diversity of the
campus community.
The campuses use indicators of academic and personal qualifications to evaluate applicants. The specific evaluation process and
weight of factors differ from campus to campus depending upon enrollment targets and the number and qualifications of applicants. At
all campuses, faculty members are involved in establishing the selection criteria and often participate in the selection process.
ADMISSION GUIDELINES
To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the University's undergraduate admission requirements. The following guidelines
provide the framework within which the campuses establish procedures for selecting applicants when the number of eligible applicants
exceeds the spaces available. Each campus, in consultation with the Office of the President, develops enrollment targets that specify
the number of new freshmen and advanced standing students expected to enroll. Campuses that receive more applications than the
number required to meet their enrollment
target admit students using the criteria described below.
Academic Criteria
• Academic grade point average (GPA) is calculated for all academic courses completed in the "a-g" subject areas in grades
10-12 as specified by the University's minimum admission requirements, including additional points for completing honors
courses.
• Test scores on the following standardized tests: SAT Reasoning Test or the The ACT Test with writing.
• The number and content of courses completed in academic subjects beyond the minimum specified by the
University's eligibility requirements.
• The number of University-approved accelerated, advanced placement, and honors courses completed or in progress.
Supplemental Criteria
• Special talents, interests, or experiences-beyond those indicated by the academic criteria- that demonstrate unusual promise
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of leadership, achievement, and service in a particular field such as civic life or the arts.
• Special circumstances that have adversely affected the applicant's life experiences. These circumstances may include, for
example, disabilities, personal difficulties, low family income, refugee status, or veteran status.
• For up to date information on all UC campuses please visit the website: www.ucop.edu.
1500 California State Universities Undergraduate Admission Requirements FRESHMAN REQUIREMENTS- You will qualify for regular admission as a first-time freshman if you:
1. are a high school graduate
2. have completed with a grade of C or better each of the courses in the comprehensive pattern of college
preparatory subject requirements, and have a qualifiable eligibility index.
Subject Requirements- The CSU requires a minimum 15-unit pattern of courses for admission as a first-time freshman.
Each unit is equal to a year of study in a subject area. A grade of C or better is required for each course you use to meet any
subject requirement.
• English, 4 years of college preparatory English composition and literature
• Mathematics, 3 years: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra II, or higher mathematics (take one each year)
• History and Social Studies, 2 years including 1 year of U.S. History or 1 semester of U.S. History and 1 semester of
Civics or American Government and 1 year of Social Science
• Laboratory Science, 2 years with laboratory (including 1 biological science and 1 physical science): biology, chemistry,
physics, or earth science
• Foreign Language, Other Than English , 2 of years in the same language (subject to waiver for applicants
demonstrating equivalent competence).
• Visual and Performing Arts, 1 year: art, dance, drama/theater, or music.
• College Preparatory Electives, 1 year: selected from English, advanced mathematics, social science, history, laboratory
science, foreign language, visual and performing arts. Eligibility Index - The eligibility index is the combination of your high school grade point average and your test score on
either the ACT or the SAT Reasoning Test. Your grade point average is based on grades earned during your final three years
of high school from the courses listed on university-approved course list on page 4 of the Mater Dei Course Catalog.
Refer to the eligibility Index Table on the www.csumentor.edu website to determine whether your grade point average and
test scores meet the required eligibility index.
Up to eight semesters of honors courses taken in the last three years of high school can be accepted. Each unit of A
in an honors and AP course will receive 5 points; B; 4 points, C, 3 points; and D, 1 point. Below 2.00 does not qualify for
regular admission.
You also will be required to meet supplementary criteria if applying to an impacted college and/or major. Please refer to
CSU's website for information on impacted campuses and majors (www.csumentor.edu).
Waiver of Foreign Language Subject Requirement - The foreign language subject requirement may be waived if you
demonstrate competence in a language other than English equivalent to or higher than expected of students who complete
two years of foreign language study. Consult any CSU campus admissions or relations with schools office for further
information.
Subject Requirement Substitution for Students with Disabilities - Disabled student applicants are encouraged to
complete college preparatory course requirements if at all possible. If you are judged unable to fulfill a specific
course requirement because of your disability, alternative college preparatory courses may be substituted for specific subject
requirements. Students who are deaf and hearing impaired, blind and visually impaired, or have learning disabilities, may in
certain circumstances qualify for substitutions for the foreign language, laboratory science and mathematics subject
requirements. Substitutions may be authorized on an individual basis after review and recommendation by your academic
advisor or guidance counselor in consultation with the director of a CSU disabled
student services program. Although the distribution may be slightly different from the course pattern required of other
students, students qualifying for substitutions will still be held to 15 units of college preparatory study. You should be
aware that course substitutions may limit later enrollment in certain majors, particularly those involving mathematics. For
further information and substitution forms, please call the director of disabled student services at your nearest CSU campus.
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1600 MDHS Academic Services for Students with Learning and/or
Attention Differences (fee-based and per qualification) Accommodations
Mater Dei High School provides reasonable accommodations within its current classroom organization to accommodate the learning
styles of all students accepted to the school (the school reserves the right to define "reasonable accommodations" based upon
available resources and personnel). Please note that Mater Dei does not modify curriculum, due dates, or grading. Qualification for
MAPS via documentation and accommodations are per review and the discretion of the Executive Director of Learning Services.
Accommodations are per diagnosis, and may include:
• Extended test time (50%) in a distraction-free setting
• Learning Ally, an audio/textbook program
• Assistance applying for accommodations on the ACT and College Board exams
• Note takers, scribing services, preferential seating, and oral testing
• Preferential seating in classes
• Assistance with technology resources and 1:1/small group work with learning specialists
• One-on-one work with learning specialists
• An optional, graded elective course with a low student to teacher ratio that focuses on organization, time management, and
completion of work
Documentation Requirements
Documentation for accommodations and the MAPS program must follow specific requirements available on the Mater Dei website or
through the Center for Learning. IEP’s, 504 Plans, and doctor’s notes are not used as supporting documentation in the absence of a
current (within three years), comprehensive psychoeducational report. Testing must be current within three years, and be renewed
every three years to qualify for the MAPS program.
1700 NCAA DIVISION-I INITIAL – ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS All students must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center @ www.eligibilitycenter.org.
The NCAA Division I initial-eligibility rules
For Division I -- 16 core courses
• 4 years of English
• 3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher)
• 2 years of natural/physical science (one must be a lab science)
• 1 year of additional English, math or science
• 2 years of social studies
• 4 years of additional core courses (from any above, foreign language, or comparative religion/philosophy)
• 10 core courses need to be completed prior to the start of the seventh semester. 7 of the 10 must be a combination of
English, math, or natural or physical science. These 10 courses become “locked in” at the 7th semester and cannot be
retaken for grade improvement.
• Minimum GPA and test scores needed to be eligible for competition is a 2.3 GPA and 1080 (SAT) or 93 (ACT)
*PLEASE NOTE: students may not use any computer science or visual or performing arts courses in meeting the core
course requirements.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
For more information regarding high school student-athletes, please visit www.materdei.org/studentathlete.
If you have questions about NCAA eligibility, please call the NCAA Eligibility Center toll-free at 877/262-1492 or refer to the NCAA
Website at www.ncaa.org or www.eligibilitycenter.org. Information about the NCAA Eligibility Center is also available in the Course
Catalog.
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1800 California Student Aid Commission Grants The California Student Aid Commission awards Cal Grant “A” to seniors who plan to attend a California university, who have an
academic grade-point average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher unweighted in Grades 10 and 11, and whose parents have some financial need.
The Commission also awards Cal Grants “B”, “C” and “T”. For full explanation of these awards, go to: www.csac.ca.gov. Students must
fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) between October 1st and March 2nd to qualify for any Cal Grants.
The Commission requires the student’s Social Security Number and GPA. We send this information electronically for all seniors. This
precludes the senior and you, the parent, from completing an additional form, the GPA Verification Form. We are happy to perform this
service for our seniors and their parents.
What is Plagiarism?
Many people think of plagiarism as copying another’s work or borrowing someone else’s original ideas. But terms like “copying” and
“borrowing” can disguise the seriousness of the offense:
According to the Merriam-Webster OnLine Dictionary, to “plagiarize” means
1) to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own
2) to use (another's production) without crediting the source
3) to commit literary theft
4) to present as new and original an idea or product derived from an existing source.
In other words, plagiarism is an act of fraud. It involves both stealing someone else’s work and lying about it afterward.
But can words and ideas really be stolen?
According to U.S. law, the answer is yes. In the United States and many other countries, the expression of original ideas is considered
intellectual property, and is protected by copyright laws, just like original inventions. Almost all forms of expression fall under copyright
protection as long as they are recorded in some media (such as a book or a computer file).
All of the following are considered plagiarism:
• turning in someone else’s work as your own
• copying words or ideas from someone else without giving credit
• failing to put a quotation in quotation marks
• giving incorrect information about the source of a quotation
• changing words but copying the sentence structure of a source without giving credit
• copying so many words or ideas from a source that it makes up the majority of your work, whether you give credit or not
(see our section on “fair use” rules)
Attention! Changing the words of an original source is not sufficient to prevent plagiarism. If you have retained the essential idea of an
original source, and have not cited it, then no matter how drastically you may have altered its context or presentation, you have still
plagiarized
Most cases of plagiarism can be avoided, however, by citing sources. Simply acknowledging that certain material has been borrowed
and providing your audience with the information necessary to find that source is usually enough to prevent plagiarism.
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