St. Mary of the Assumption School

Preschool through Grade 8

Handbook 2012-2013

Est. 1899

67 Harvard Street

Brookline, MA 02445

Tel. 617.566.7184

Fax 617.731.4078

www.stmarys-brookline.org

Christ is the reason for our school.

He is the unseen but ever-present teacher

In its classes.

He is the model of its faculty

And the inspiration of its students.

---anonymous

ST. MARY SCHOOL HANDBOOK

OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY

FACILITIES MAP

SCHOOL SCHEDULE AND ATTENDANCE

MEALS AND SNACKS

COMMUNICATION

STUDENT HEALTH

HOMEWORK/FIELD TRIP POLICY

BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES

SCHOOL SAFETY

DRESS CODE

STUDENT EXPENSES

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS

PARENT/GUARDIAN/STUDENT AGREEMENT

MMiissssiioonn SSttaatteemmeenntt

St. Mary of the Assumption School is a richly diverse

Catholic community serving students in grades pre-k through eight.

We are dedicated to providing each child with a strong foundation

intellectually, spiritually, and socially in a learning environment of

reverence, respect and responsibility.

St. Mary of the Assumption School BROOKLINE, MASSACHUSETTS

Dear families,

St. Mary’s builds on a rich tradition of Catholic school education for students in pre-kindergarten through

grade eight. Our culturally diverse community enriches and strengthens students who are guided by the

Commandments of Love of God and Love of Neighbor. As a faith community, children learn the values

of reverence, respect and responsibility. These qualities are an integral part of the curriculum and every

aspect of student life.

The St. Mary handbook provides a guideline for school policies and procedures for all students. It is

designed to reflect our community goal that families, staff and the administration work together to ensure

that each student experiences the joy of learning in a safe, harmonious and productive school

environment. We welcome your participation in the 2012-2013 school year.

Sincerely,

Maureen Jutras

Principal

.

OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY

Rev. Brian Clary, Pastor Mrs. Maureen Jutras, Principal

Mrs. Andrea Mulkerrin, Early Childhood Coordinator

Mrs. Huong Corsini, Extended Day Program Coordinator

Full-Time Faculty

Preschool Morning - Miss Jenny Barken

Preschool Full Day - Mrs. Annie Casey

Kindergarten 1 - Mrs. Amy Creamer

Kindergarten 2 - Miss Colleen Smith

Kindergarten 2 - Miss Sarah Crapo

Grade 1 - Miss Meghan Drielak

Grade 2 - Miss Erin Kelly

Grade 3 - Miss Kelly Gray

Grade 4 - Mrs. Renee Carchedi

Grade 5 - Miss Frances Early

Grade 6 - Miss Susanne Heidt

Grade 7 - Miss Stephanie Pietal

Grade 8 - Miss Lauren Denizard

Student Support - Mrs. Evelyn Berman

Teacher Aides/Assistants Specialists

Preschool Aides (TBA) Physical Education - Mr. Daniel Burns

K2-Grade 2 -Ms. Maureen McKenna Art - Mrs. Huong Corsini

Computer Lab - Mrs. Helen Hicks

Preschool Music - Mrs. Jean Schwartz

Music K2-8 - Mrs. Yelena Gridneva

Afterschool Chorus - Miss Frances Early

(Grades 6-8)

Support Staff

School Office -Mrs. Gloria Reyes

-Mrs. Jenevieve Price

Parish Secretary -Mrs. Susan Crapo

Door Greeter -Miss Jobechale Lujares

School Volunteer -Miss Diana Birkelund

Food Services -Mrs. Su Dong

Parish Custodians

Mr. Eddie Deocareza Mr. John Lujares

Mr. Edwin Lujares Mr. Sean Sullivan

FACILITIES MAP

PARKING LOT We appreciate your effort in following the school policy for arriving and departing from St. Mary’s during the

school day. At no time may parents drive into the parking lot; this rule is for the protection of our children. We

realize that the street behind the school may be congested in the morning during drop off and at afternoon pick up

times, but your cooperation will ensure the safety of one and all.

This is the procedure for dropping off and picking up students at the school: Only authorized vehicles (St. Mary

School and Facing History staff) are permitted to use the parking lot behind the school. Families may use the legal

parking spaces on the streets surrounding St. Mary’s School and Church. The driveways of area residents should not

be blocked. Students should enter or exit on the sidewalk side of an automobile. Parents must sign a parking lot

agreement form that acknowledges this policy.

The school doors open at 7:30 a.m. Prior to that time, there is a fee based early morning program from 7:00 a.m. –

7:30 a.m. Students who arrive on school grounds (playground, cafeteria) are expected to remain at school. For

safety reasons, we ask that children who must take a trip to a local store do so before coming to school. We hope

that parents who have give their permission for children to make unsupervised visits to a neighborhood store are

mindful of risks involved because of automobile traffic at busy intersections near the school.

Each afternoon preschool students are picked up from their classrooms at 2:15pm by an adult and exit at the front of

the building. When older students are dismissed at 2:25pm, we ask that parents wait for children outside the front

door. We appreciate your cooperation with this procedure because it helps alleviate potential traffic congestion in

the hallway!

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SCHOOL SCHEDULE AND ATTENDANCE

ARRIVAL There is a fee based program for early arrivals for Pk through grade 8 which takes place from 7:00 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. The

school cafeteria opens to all K2 - grade 8 students at 7:30 a.m. each morning. Members of the school staff are available

for supervision from 7:30- 8:00 a.m. For the safety of all, students should be dropped off at the sidewalk along Homer

Street or accompanied into the cafeteria. Once a student has reached the school grounds in the morning, he or she must

come directly into the cafeteria. A student who arrives after the start of school should arrive through the front door and

must sign in at the office before going to the classroom.

Preschool Arrival: Parents of PK students enter by the Harvard Street (front door) entrance and escort children to the

multi purpose room when there is supervision from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

TARDINESS The school day begins at 8:00am, when teachers escort their classes from the cafeteria to classrooms. Students who

arrive after that time are late. Tardiness puts a student at a disadvantage when he/she misses important organizational

and instructional time. In grades one-eight for example, the day starts with a study skill activity from 8:00 a.m. to 8:20

a.m. To the detriment of other students, late arrivals also disrupt the flow of work in the classroom.

Students (PK-grade 8) who arrive after 8:00am should go directly to the school office to sign in. Students must bring a

note signed by a parent or guardian that provides an explanation for the delay.

Students with an excessive number of unexcused tardies will be asked to make up lost time after school. Parents will be

notified in advance so travel arrangements can be made. Students with a pattern of tardiness are not eligible for the

annual perfect attendance award.

ABSENCES Parents should notify the office of absences by 8:30am. For your convenience, the office answering service is available

24 hours a day. When leaving a message, please provide your name, student name and grade, reason for absence and a

telephone number where we may reach you.

ATTENDANCE A student should be present for 80% of the class days that school is in session during the school year. If a student does

not meet this criterion, promotion to the next grade may be jeopardized.

DISMISSAL Occasionally students will be picked up prior to dismissal for medical appointments or other reasons. Parents/guardians

are asked to notify the office in advance and to come directly to the office to sign out the student. All students who

leave early must be picked up by a parent or designated adult. Students may not wait outside unsupervised; they may

not travel home or to appointments alone, unless they and their parents have completed a school dismissal permission

form. This permission is typically granted to upper grade students who take public transportation home or visit the local

library.

Once classes have been dismissed, only students who participate in the Extended Day Program (EDP) or who are

accompanied by an adult should be in the building or on school grounds.

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SCHOOL HOURS Early Arrival Program 7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m. (fee based)

School doors open 7:30 a.m. – 8 a.m.

The school day for all students begins promptly at 8:00am.

- Students in the Half Day preschool program (PSH) are dismissed at 12:00pm.

- Students in the Full Day preschool program (PSF and K1) are dismissed at 2:15pm.

- Students in K2 through grade 8 are dismissed at 2:25pm.

SCHOOL DELAYS OR CANCELLATION If there is inclement weather (snow, sleet or ice storm) and school must be cancelled or delayed, please tune to

WBZ (1030AM) or other local radio or TV stations for the Town of Brookline (MA) Public School announcement. We

will follow their lead. If there is no school or a morning delay for the public schools in Brookline, MA, then there is no

school or a delay for St. Mary’s School. Families registered on the school’s email list can also expect to receive an

electronic message. There will also be a message on the school website.

There may be times when school is not cancelled or delayed even though severe weather conditions exist. Since the

safety of our students is our main concern, we understand that parents may want to keep students at home. In this case,

we ask that the office be notified by phone. As with any absence, students will be responsible for making up missed

assignments.

EXTENDED DAY CANCELLATION In the event of severe weather conditions are forecasted in the afternoon, the Extended Day Program (EDP) may be

cancelled so that students and staff can get home safely. Parents and guardians should be alert to postings in the

cafeteria at morning drop-off. A school phone message is updated by 1pm however, all EDP families must be registered

for school email service so that they can receive an early dismissal advisory as soon as an early closing decision is

made.

MEALS AND SNACKS

SNACKS There is a brief, mid morning snack break for all students. Families are encouraged to send along a healthy snack each

day. Students who attend EDP should bring a snack to enjoy in the afternoon as well. We ask that you do not send soda

or any beverages in glass containers to school.

LUNCH St. Mary’s students in PK-8 have several options regarding lunch. Students may choose to bring lunch from home, to

participate solely in the hot lunch program, or a combination of both from home or purchasing a hot lunch.

COLD LUNCHES Students may bring lunch from home; however for safety reasons we regret that we cannot offer facilities for

microwave use. Students may purchase milk through the hot lunch program.

HOT LUNCH PROGRAM St. Mary’s School participates in a hot lunch program sponsored by the Brookline Public Schools Department of Food

Services. Two types of accounts are available. A lunch account entitles a student to purchase lunch (including milk). A

milk-only account is available to students who bring lunch from home. Prices are as follows:

Daily Lunch (including milk) costs $3.00 each

Carton of Milk costs $0.50 each

The fee to open a lunch account is $54.00 and $22.50 for a milk order account. Monies will be debited from your child’s

account as charges are incurred. Statements of your child’s account will be forwarded to you as St. Mary’s receives

them from Brookline Food Service. Families have the option of replenishing a student account by check; money order

in the office or by accessing their account at www.paypams.com

Hot lunch orders are placed no later than 9:00 am. In the event that a student not participating in the program arrives at

school without a lunch, the respective family will be notified and arrangements will be made to bring a lunch to school.

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COMMUNICATION

VIA BACKPACK In order to keep families informed of important news and events, a Weekly Update envelope is sent home with students

each Thursday. This “backpack communication” provides a vital link between school and home, so please read it

carefully! If you do not receive your Weekly Update, check with your child or contact the school office. The “backpack

envelope” for students in PK-grade 8 must be returned to the classroom teacher each Monday. One backpack envelope

is issued per student. Lost envelopes must be replaced by the student’s parent or guardian. Parents are also encouraged

to register an email address with the school office and school website so that group notices and breaking news can be

communicated speedily. The weekly update is published online at www.stmarys-brookline.org, Click on “News”.

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT This event takes place on the last Thursday in September. It is an opportunity for classroom teachers to meet with

parent/guardians and provide a brief overview of the school curriculum, classroom activities and goals for the school

year.

REPORT CARDS PROGRESS REPORTS MARKING PERIODS Report cards are issued three times a year. Progress reports are issued six weeks prior to each report card.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact teachers whenever there is a question about academic or social progress.

Signed progress reports and report cards should be returned to school within one week of being issued.

PARENT CONFERENCES Individual parent/teacher conferences are scheduled at the end of the first marking period. Interim progress reports are

sent home midway between each marking period. Parents and guardians are encouraged to contact teachers to discuss

concerns at other times as well. Please call the school office to arrange a phone conference or school visit with the

teacher.

PRINCIPAL MEETING St. Mary’s is strengthened by the partnership between home and school. You are encouraged to schedule an

appointment with the principal at anytime if you need assistance, have suggestions or concerns. Please call the school

office at 617.566.7184 to arrange an appointment or email Mrs. Jutras directly at info@stmarys-brookline.org

THE CONNECTION All parents/guardians have membership in The Connection, a parent organization dedicated to strengthening

communication and involvement between families and the school. A guide book, Catch the Spirit explains various

ways parents are invited and encouraged to participate in the life of the school.

CONNECTING THROUGH PRAYER “Prayer is faith passing into action.”

Each Tuesday morning a group of St. Mary’s parents invest their time considering the well being of our students and

faculty through prayer. They gather with a different teacher each week, listen to the prayer needs of the teacher and that

classroom, read a psalm and have guided prayer over the students’ intentions. The group meets downstairs from 8:10-

8:55 a.m. in the cafeteria. Parents, guardians and grandparents are warmly welcome to join the group in/a drop-in or

regular basis.

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SCHOOL SAFETY

CHILD SAFETY St. Mary staff members have been trained regarding their role as mandatory reporters for child abuse and neglect; in the

instance of suspected abuse or neglect, the school policy will be followed and a report filed with the Office of Children

and Families.

SCHOOL SAFETY On an ongoing basis, students are taught basic safety procedures. With assistance from the town police and fire

departments students practice procedures for a lock down and participate in fire drills. St. Mary’s uses the Be Safe

Technologies system to coordinate vital information about the school facilities with the town of Brookline’s first

responders: the police, fire and EMT department. This is an important link to the schools crisis management plan. In

the event of an emergency that necessitates students leaving the building, parents will be notified by phone or email

regarding procedures.

VISITORS During the regular school day all visitors must enter by the front door, sign the log book and proceed to the school

office. Former St. Mary students are always welcome to visit: they should follow the “visitor” regulations and by

arrangement with teachers, visit classrooms during snack or lunch time. Visits may not be made during instructional

times.

STUDENT HEALTH

EMERGENCY INFORMATION Each student is required to have a completed emergency information record on file with the school office. In the event

of illness or other serious matters, the school must be able to contact a parent, relative or other responsible adult at all

times. Individuals who are listed on the emergency information card should be known to the child, likely to live or

work in the area during the day, and be available to pick up the child when necessary. If changes occur in address or

phone number during the school year, we ask that you inform the office immediately so that your child’s information is

updated.

ILLNESS At school students are encouraged to observe hand washing and cough etiquette. Parents are asked to be alert to

symptoms of illness before children are brought to school in the morning. Making sure that students are healthy and

ready for the school day assures a happy and productive experience in the classroom and keeps St. Mary’s School a

healthy place!

The Brookline Health Department suggests the following guidelines in making a decision when to keep a child home at

home. A child should not come to school if he or she has:

1. A cold in the early contagious stage (frequent sneezing, sniffing, stuffy nose, profuse cough, child feels

ill).

2. A temperature above 99.6 degrees. The child should not return to school until the temperature has been

normal for 24 hours.

3. Vomiting or diarrhea. Students should not return to school until 24 hours after the last episode.

4. Sore throat for more than 24 hours. Consult your pediatrician, as a throat culture may be needed. If the

culture indicates “strep”, the child can return to school 24 hours after starting an antibiotic.

5. An undiagnosed rash.

6. Infections such as ringworm, scabies, conjunctivitis, impetigo and bacterial respiratory infections, until

they have been treated with antibiotics (topical or oral) for 24 hours.

In the event of an influenza outbreak, St. Marys follows the Health Department’s specific guidelines regarding the

length of time a contagious child must remain at home.

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MEDICATION POLICY A written note from the child’s doctor and a written consent from the parent must accompany any medicine.

Medication should be in the original pharmacy container with explicit instructions regarding the dosage. This policy

also applies to inhalers, Epi-pens, and daily medications as well as over-the-counter cold remedies. For the safety of

students, all medications (including over-the-counter medications) must be brought to, and remain in the school office.

The school staff may not administer any type of medication without written parental consent. Telephone permission is

not valid.

IMMUNIZATIONS All students entering St. Mary’s School must have a current health record on file in the school office. Students are

required to have had all immunizations as required by Massachusetts’s law.

HOMEWORK/FIELD TRIP POLICY

HOMEWORK POLICY Homework is an extension of the learning in the classroom. Homework helps develop organizational skills and

independence. It challenges students to explore new ideas with heightened curiosity about their world. It also offers an

opportunity to review the materials discussed during class and may include a reading, written or study assignment.

Homework that is short term helps the student prepare for the following day’s activities. Long-term assignments are

designed to practice and develop research skills. Students are expected to complete homework assignments in a timely

manner. Missed assignments must be made up following an absence.

The classroom teacher may use a home reading program as a means of developing skills and widening the students’

experience with various types of literature. Adult assistance in monitoring progress and signing the home reading log is

appreciated. The following guidelines for homework may include assignments from the home reading log:

Grade K 2 Homework assigned periodically

Grade 1 Periodic homework assignments during the week

Grade 2 20-30 minutes, 3 times a week

Grade 3 30-45 minutes, 4 times a week

Grade 4 45-50 minutes, 4 times a week

Grade 5 50-65 minutes, 4 times a week

Grade 6, 7 & 8 (Middle School Students) 20-30 minutes per subject, 5 times a week.

FIELD TRIPS Field trips are an integral part of St. Mary’s academic program. A student may participate in a field trip only if the

appropriate permission form is completed and returned to the school in the required time period. Telephone permission

is never accepted. Field trips are a privilege and students may be denied participation if they fail to meet behavioral

expectations.

STUDENT AWARDS At the end of each marking period a student may earn a certificate of achievement in recognition of:

Outstanding spirit of cooperation and friendliness

Outstanding effort and perseverance in academic work

ST. MARY’S CUP The St. Mary’s Cup is awarded each June to the student whose leadership best reflects the school’s core values of

reverence, respect and responsibility.

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BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES

INTRODUCTION The St. Mary core values of Reverence Respect and Responsibility are embedded in every aspect of school life. To

support these goals, teachers provide skills that enable students to work successfully in a safe, secure and productive

environment. A positive climate for learning exists when students treat others in a thoughtful, respectful manner, follow

the classroom, cafeteria and playground rules, care for personal and school property, and the belongings of others. The

St. Mary’s faculty is committed to recognizing and promoting positive behavior. We believe that it is essential to work

with families in providing the skills and support to guide students in the development of self-control and mutual respect.

The St. Mary code of behavior applies to students on school premises and in the outside community.

ACADEMIC RESPONSIBILITY

St Mary students are expected to take responsibility for their own work, try their best each day and make good choices.

The following conduct is not acceptable and may result in serious consequences.

Cheating: is the unauthorized use of an other’s work on quizzes, tests, homework assignments or school projects.

Plagiarism: is the use of an other's ideas or writing that is presented as one’s own. This would include materials with a

copyright and/or are taken from the Internet. These sources must be properly cited and credited by name. When students

have questions about proper attribution, they are encouraged to consult their teachers; this is an important aspect of the

learning process.

INFRACTIONS A minor incident of misconduct is dealt with directly between teacher, student and, in some cases, the principal. The

discussion that takes place involves an acknowledgement by the student of the problem, identification of the appropriate

behavioral choice, agreement about a way to make amends and a consequence. Students are asked to complete an

incident report as a part of the problem solving process.

Any inappropriate action that involves a threat to the physical or emotional safety of others, including harassment or

bullying of another student is unacceptable. Bullying includes any defamatory language, obscene gesture, intimidation

or inappropriate peer pressure. Such behavior is not to be tolerated; an instance of bullying would result in an

investigation by the principal and notification of parents. Depending on level of seriousness, consequences range from

loss of privileges to suspension or expulsion.

Other actions such as disrespectful behavior, use of profanity, encouraging violence, theft or destruction of property is

not to be tolerated. Possession of the following items is forbidden: any illegal substance, tobacco, cigarette lighters,

matches, fireworks, laser pointers, or any sharp object that can be used as a weapon, including pocket knives. If a

student brings one of these items to school, he/she is subject to a suspension or dismissal from the school. A hearing is

part of the suspension/dismissal process. This hearing involves the pastor, principal, the student and parents.

GENERAL CONDUCT ON SCHOOL PROPERTY Students are expected to:

- Observe responsible, in-line behavior.

- Walk through the hallways quietly in consideration of others working in classrooms.

- Dispose of trash in the baskets provided and make a conscious effort to contribute to the

cleanliness of common areas in the building and the schoolyard.

- Eat snacks or refreshments in designated areas only.

- Refrain from chewing gum anywhere on the premises.

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RULES FOR RECESS AND THE CAFETERIA The rules and guidelines that promote a safe, happy lunch and recess time are discussed as a community at the start of

each school year. The following reminders are posted in the lunchroom area.

AT LUNCH: - Listen to and follow instructions of the teacher and aid on duty.

- Follow all safety rules – especially “walking feet” and hand washing hygiene.

- Speak respectfully to others and include others in conversations.

- Use “please” and “thank you”

- Use an “inside voice”

- Complete all clean-up tasks.

- Wait your turn.

- Keep orderly, quiet lines when entering and leaving the lunchroom.

OUTSIDE: - Make safe choices.*

- Use the designated play area for your class.

- Respect boundaries and property of others.

- Play safely by avoiding pushing, roughhousing or play fighting.

- Avoid touch or tackle football.

- Follow the agreed upon rules for games and include others!

- Ask a teacher for help if you need to solve a problem.

- Line up quickly and quietly when the bell rings.

- Objects such as rocks, sticks, ice, or snowballs must not be handled or thrown.

*Wiffle or baseball bats, soccer, football or other hard balls are not permitted on the

playground area during recess. Soft rubber or Nerf balls may be used.

PLAYSTRUCTURES: - Students in the preschool program should use the play structure marked ages 2-5 only; older students may

use the larger play structure.

- Please be careful about hands. Pushing can cause injuries.

- Please use the parallel bars for chin-ups - sitting on the bar is dangerous.

- Remember to slide feet first. Take turns on the slide. Students who use the slides to walk up or go down

the slide headfirst will be asked to leave the play area.

- The ladders should be used to leave the playground structure – jumping off can cause an injury.

- There should be no more than one student at one time on the “Wheel Go Round.”

- Use the monkey bars properly.

- Cedar chips should not be handled – they should never be placed on the slide.

DRESS CODE

SCHOOL UNIFORM Our school uniform is a symbol of unity and school spirit. All students in grades K2-8 are required to wear the approved

St. Mary’s School uniform and the gym uniform. Students wear their gym uniform for physical education classes that

are scheduled on Mondays or Tuesdays as specified. The school dress uniform is worn daily on all other days with the

exception of occasional casual or “dress down” days.

GIRLS – GRADES K2-5 Navy plaid jumper (required)

White round collar cloth blouse – short or long sleeve (Blouse must be tucked into slacks.)

White turtleneck may be worn under blouse in cold weather

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GIRLS – GRADES K2-5 (continued)

Navy socks or tights

Navy twill slacks (Slacks may be worn in place of the jumper with blouse tucked in.)

Plaid Belt (required to be worn with slacks)

Navy cardigan sweater may be worn as an option to the school vest

Dark colored leather shoes with low heel*

*Girls are reminded to wear flat-soled shoes. Shoes with elevated heels can cause injury on stairways or on the

playground.

GIRLS – GRADES 6-8 Navy plaid skirt (required)

Light blue oxford cloth button blouse – short or long sleeve (Blouse must be tucked into skirt or slacks)

Plaid Tie (required)

White or light blue turtleneck may be worn under blouse in cold weather

Short sleeve white knit shirt with St. Mary’s School name (warm weather - may be worn

September-Columbus Day & after April vacation thru end of school year) Navy micro-fleece v-neck vest (required to be worn with skirt)

Navy hosiery – socks or tights

Navy twill pants (Slacks may be worn in place of the skirt)

Plaid Belt (required to be worn with slacks)

Navy v-neck cardigan sweater (required-cold weather)

Navy v-neck pullover sweater (may be worn with slacks only) (required-cold weather)

Dark colored leather shoes with low heel*

*Girls are reminded to wear flat-soled shoes. Shoes with elevated heels can cause injury on stairways and on the

playground.

BOYS – GRADES K2-8 Navy blue dress slacks

Wine colored knit collar shirt – long or short sleeve (grades K-5)

Blue Oxford cloth shirt (grades 6-8)

Regimental stripe tie (grades 6-8)

Short sleeve white knit shirt (grades 6-8) with St. Mary’s School name (warm weather - may be worn

September-Columbus Day & after April vacation thru end of school year) Navy cardigan sweater when necessary

Navy cotton crew socks

Navy blue or black belt

Dark colored leather shoes

GYM UNIFORM A gym uniform is required to participate in physical education class; no variations are accepted.

Navy sweatshirt imprinted with St. Mary School name

Navy short sleeve t-shirt imprinted with St. Mary School name

Plain navy sweatpants

Plain navy fleece or mesh shorts

Navy Open-Bottom Wind Pants (optional)

Navy Warm-Up Jacket (embroidered) (optional)

Navy Warm-Up Pants (optional)

Sneakers should be non-marking or scuff resistant

WINTER WEAR Students should wear boots for walking in icy, snowy weather. Indoors, students should wear uniform shoes.

When the weather is cool, please be sure that your child is dressed appropriately. Each class spends time outside as

weather permits. Hats, sweaters, warm coats or jackets and gloves are recommended. All items should be labeled.

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STUDENT DRESS CODE

EXPECTATIONS - BOYS: - shirts should be tucked in

- hair should be neat, worn off the collar, and not obscure vision

- hair coloring and excessive jewelry such as dangling or hoop earrings are not acceptable;

however, small post earrings are appropriate for school time

- belts should be worn with the uniform

- navy blue or black socks for regular uniform wear

- navy blue sweaters and cardigans in cool weather

- hats and jackets are not worn during class time

- key chains and chain necklaces are not part of the school uniform

EXPECTATIONS – GIRLS: - hair must be neatly groomed and not obscure vision

- makeup, hair coloring and excessive jewelry such as dangling or hoop earrings are not

acceptable; however, small post earrings, use of clear lip gloss and pale nail polish are

appropriate for school time

- skirts must be at least knee length

- navy blue or black knee socks or tights

- navy blue sweaters and cardigans in cool weather

- hats and jackets are not worn during class time - leggings, bandanas and scarves are not part of the school uniform

CASUAL ATTIRE: - When occasions such as a “no uniform day” or a school dance take place, students are reminded

that tank tops, shirts that do not cover the midriff or t-shirts bearing inappropriate messages, for

school or school related events. Parental guidance is appreciated in helping to make wardrobe

decisions.

OTHER REMINDERS: - key chains must be kept in book bags/back packs at all times

- under no circumstances may electronic games and devices be brought to school (i.e. CD players,

i-pods, pagers, unauthorized cellular phones, etc.)

- chewing gum is not allowed during school or on field trips

- hats are not to be worn in class. Students are to remove their hats as they enter the building.

UNIFORM INFRACTIONS: In the event of a uniform emergency (an item lost in the laundry) a

student must bring a note of explanation from a parent to school. A repeat infraction may result

in loss of privileges or other consequences.

LOST AND FOUND: All personal items of student clothing should be permanently labeled.

Identified lost and found items are stored in the hallway near the EDP room and will be displayed

periodically in the cafeteria. Unclaimed items are eventually donated to a local charity. In the

event of a uniform emergency (an item lost in the laundry) a student must bring a note of

explanation from a parent to school. A repeat infraction may result in loss of privileges or other

consequences.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM (EDP) Designed with the needs of working families in mind, an Extended Day Program (EDP) is available for all full day St.

Mary’s students. Teachers, assistants and college students staff the Extended Day Program. The program offers

appropriate educational and recreational activities that students can access independently as well as enrichment

specialists in art, ballet, chess and karate.

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EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM (EDP) (continued)

Extended Day staff members are available to provide support, guidance and resources. Extended Day students are

expected to follow the school’s behavior guidelines. Each afternoon preschool students are picked up from their

classrooms at 2:15pm by an adult and exit at the front of the building. When older students are dismissed at 2:25pm, we

ask that parents wait for children outside the front door. We appreciate your cooperation with this procedure because it

helps alleviate potential traffic congestion in the hallway. At the conclusion of the school day any student who has not

been picked up within 15 minutes of dismissal will join the Extended Day Program and the appropriate fees will be

charged.

Students attending the EDP program may not leave the school property after the close of school, or at any other time.

This includes making trips to neighboring shops or restaurants. The school cell phone policy applies during EDP hours:

student cell phones are allowed by permission only. Students approved to bring a cell phone to school may retrieve the

phone upon being signed out at the conclusion of the EDP session. Electric games, CD, or Ipods may not be used as

well during EDP hours.

Information regarding fees and registration for EDP is available in the school office. Statements are issued monthly and

must be paid in full within 10 days of the billing date.

CELL PHONE POLICY It is the school policy that students may not bring electronic equipment, games, etc., to school. However, we do

understand that there are parents who wish to provide a cell phone for safety reasons, typically because some upper

grade students travel unaccompanied to and from school. For this reason cell phones are allowed when families agree

to the following conditions:

Student and parent must have completed a cell phone agreement which requires that:

1. During school hours all phone communications between parent and child must be made through the school

office.

2. A cell phone is checked into the office during school hours and retrieved at the conclusion of school day

or following EDP.

3. A cell phone may not be used by other students.

4. A student may not bring a cell phone on field trips.

5. The school is not responsible for a misplaced, lost or stolen cell phone.

6. In the event of a violation of the cell phone policy, a student will relinquish the cell phone for a period up

to one week. The cell phone privilege is revoked if a second violation occurs.

An agreement form, which lists the student’s cell phone number, must be on file in the school office.

ALTAR SERVERS Students in grades 3 and above are invited to become altar servers at St. Mary of the Assumption Church. Students may

be asked to serve at school masses and outside of school time at funerals and weddings. Interested students must be

Roman Catholic; the parish provides an orientation and training for interested candidates.

TOWN OF BROOKLINE RECREATION PROGRAMS Students attending a Brookline public or private school are eligible to participate in activities sponsored by the

Brookline Recreation Department. Catalogs may be obtained by contacting the Brookline Recreation Department at

617.730.2069 or 617.730.2070.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Students who use the MBTA may purchase a monthly pass through the school office. This year the cost is $20.00 per

month. The deadline to purchase a pass is announced in the Weekly Update and posted on the monthly calendar that is

sent home via school communication. Students must order and pay for the pass by the 20th

of the month. The office

cannot guarantee availability after that date.

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BICYCLES AND SCOOTERS Since St. Mary’s School does not have a secure area to store student bicycles and scooters; it is recommended that these

items not be brought to school.

PLEASE NOTE:

NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS St. Mary’s abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In

the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent access to academic records

or other school-related information regarding the child. If a court order specifies that no information be given, the

custodial parent must provide the school with an official copy of the court order.

STUDENT EXPENSES St. Mary of the Assumption is a private, non-profit preschool and elementary school, which relies on tuition,

fundraising and service.

SCHOLARSHIPS St. Mary’s students benefit from tuition assistance through the Catholic Schools Foundation. The Foundation comprises

donors who strongly believe in, and support, Catholic school education. This is a needs-based program. Application is

made in the spring and awards made by July 1st. The office staff and principal are available to assist with questions

regarding procedures and information necessary to complete a request for a tuition scholarship.

TUITION Each family must complete a written, approved payment plan on file with the school office. The following payment

plans are available:

- Single payment due by August 29.

- Two payments due by August 29 and January 4.

- Monthly payments via the FACTS Management Tuition Payment Plan, an electronic deduction

arrangement. Details are available in the school office.

FUNDRAISING AND SERVICE COMMITMENTS Fundraising and service commitments are a vital source of support for our school. Efforts by families to meet, and even

exceed, the required fundraising commitment help the school keep tuition costs down overall. Announcements for

upcoming fundraising and service opportunities are announced in the Weekly Update. Fundraising and service

commitments are included in the tuition statements. As these commitments are fulfilled, credit is applied.

Families have the option of paying an annual $300 fundraising fee or participation in fundraising activities (a minimum

of $300). These events are held throughout the year and include the Halloween Party, Holiday Faire, Book Fair and the

Walk-A-Thon.

Each family is expected either to contribute a $300 service fee or to volunteer 20 service hours at clearly defined

activities at the school. These include, but are not limited to, assisting in the cafeteria or at recess, helping at the

Halloween Party or Holiday Faire, the Spring Book Fair, Field Day or chaperoning a field trip. All service activities

must be authorized by the school office in order to receive credit.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS Tuition statements are issued quarterly and include any unfulfilled fundraising and service commitments. Extended

Day Program (EDP) statements detail all charges for attendance and are issued on a monthly basis. Payments are due

within 10 days of the billing date. Failure to make timely payments for tuition or Extended Day may jeopardize a

student’s eligibility to attend the school and/or to participate in the after-school program.

SHARE THE SECRET Refer a new family and receive a year-end $200 tuition discount for the following school

year. See office for details.

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EARLY WITHDRAWAL Families withdrawing from St. Mary’s School prior to the end of the school year must provide the school with a

30 day written notice. In the absence of the 30-day notification an administrative charge of one-month tuition will be

applied. No refunds will be given for withdrawals after April 1st.

GRADUATION Graduating students are assessed a $40.00 fee for cap and gown rental and diplomas.

Revised 06/20/12

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TRADITIONS THAT CELEBRATE AND SUPPORT OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY

The Blessing of Pets

Halloween Party

Thanksgiving Liturgy

Holiday Faire

Christmas Concert

Curriculum Breakfast

Catholic Schools Week

Family Night Dinner

Spring Book Fair

School Walk-A-Thon

School Band Concert/Spring Sing

Field Day

Spring Operetta

All School Assembly