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Lumen Christi High School

Parent/Student Handbook

2009-2010

Mission Statement

“A Catholic school must make a specific contribution to the Church, must train young men and women to assume tasks in the service of society and to bear witness to their faith before the world and must set up a real community which bears witness to a living Christianity.”

                                                Pope John Paul II, October 7, 1979

Lumen Christi High School is centered on Our Lord Jesus Christ as present in the Gospel. As a Roman Catholic school, under the auspices of the Archdiocese of Anchorage, Alaska, we seek to prepare students to interact in a global society by nurturing respect for life and an acceptance of responsibility to self and community. Lumen Christi High School strives to provide a high level of academic excellence, welcoming students of all beliefs. In our Alaskan environment, our academic curriculum is presented from a perspective that encourages the balanced development of one’s spiritual, intellectual, emotional, social and physical needs. Hence our students are challenged constantly to develop and use all their gifts and talents as they bear witness to their faith by acts of compassionate service to their neighbors.

Admissions

General

Lumen Christi High School, through the partnership of St Benedict’s Parish, the Archdiocese of Anchorage, parents, students, and teachers, strives to provide a Christ-centered learning experience, based on the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, to all students in grades 7 through 12 who seek the benefits of a Catholic education.

A student’s application for admission to the School will be evaluated on the likelihood of the student’s success in achieving these benefits. Among the possible instruments for evaluation are the student's previous academic records and behavior records, and recommendations by pastors, principals, and teachers. Applicants and parents will be interviewed. Talents, attributes, motivation, and special interests are also important because Lumen Christi seeks to accept students with well-rounded interests in life both inside and outside the classroom.

Non-Discrimination

Lumen Christi High School does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national or ethnic origin in admissions or in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, or other school-administered programs.

Religious Considerations

Although Lumen Christi High School admits both Catholic and non-Catholic students, all students are required to complete the theology curriculum and to participate in activities related to the Catholic identity of the School. Students and parents or guardians are expected to abide by the “Lumen Christi High School Statement of Faith and Understanding,” found in Appendix B.

Parental Covenant

Since parents have primary responsibility for the education of their children, parental support for the School is essential. Parents are understood to accept the contents of this Handbook, including the “Parental Covenant” found in Appendix C.

Student Commitment

Students commit themselves to learning and achieving in a Catholic academic environment. They are expected to adhere to the School’s general standards of decorum, the more particular standards of conduct and behavior outlined in this Handbook, and all classroom regulations. Students are expected to abide by the “Lumen Christi High School Student Commitment Contract,” found in Appendix D.

Tuition Payment, Tuition Assistance and Scholarship Policy

Tuition & Fees

Lumen Christi High School depends on fees, tuition, fundraising, and its own resources for management of its financial operation and viability. It does not receive funding from the State of Alaska or the Archdiocese of Anchorage. Tuition for the 2009-2010 academic year is $5,200 for students attending 7^th and 8^th grade and $5,600 for students attending 9^th through 12^th grades. In addition to the tuition, each student will pay a registration fee of $100 and book/technology fee of $250.

Tuition & Fee Summary

                                                            7^th-8^th Grade                9^th-12^th Grade

            Tuition                                     $5,200                         $5,600

            Registration Fee                      $   100                         $   100

            Book/Technology Fee             $   250                         $   250

            Total Tuition & Fees               $5,550                         $5,950

While every effort is made to keep costs stable, tuition is subject to change without notice. The tuition is due and payable on the first day of school. Families who do not pay tuition and all fees at the time of registration must formalize their financial intention by signing a Financial Agreement.

Tuition Payments - Financial Agreements

Tuition is due and payable on the first day of school. Financial Agreements may allow for payments to be made during the school year. Some payment options that will be considered for qualified families are:

Ø one half payment August and one half payment on January 1^st

Ø four payments with a payment being made August, November 1^st, February 1^st and May 1^st

Ø Monthly installments due on the first day of school in August and of each month thereafter with the last installment due in May.

Ø A fee of $75 per semester will be processed if an installment plan is utilized.

Please understand that if you don’t pay your tuition, we cannot pay our teachers or our bills in a timely manner.

A student, who leaves the school prior to the end of a semester, either voluntarily or because of a violation of school policies, will owe tuition on a pro-rated basis. After the 20^th school day of the semester, tuition is due for the full semester. A student, who has paid tuition in advance and leaves the school prior to the end of a semester, either voluntarily or because of a violation of school policies, will receive a pro-rated refund if they have paid tuition in advance of the transfer or departure. The refund will be pro-rated based on the number of school days the student is registered during the semester. After the 20^th school day of the semester the student will be considered to have committed for the entire semester and no refund of tuition will be issued since resources have been allocated for the student. In the event of withdrawal, scholarships, grants or other financial assistances will be prorated in the same manner as tuition.

Delinquent Tuition

Delinquency in tuition payments and fees has the following results:

·         No student will be permitted to start a new school year with any outstanding balance from a previous year. The only exception to this policy may be granted by the school Financial Officer, with agreement of the Pastor of St. Benedict's and the execution of a financial agreement and payment plan.

·         Students may not begin the second semester unless they have paid all tuition due for the first semester.

·         Students may be dismissed for non-payment of tuition.

·         Seniors who have not fully met their financial obligations shall not participate in graduation ceremonies and shall not be granted a diploma.

·         Transcripts shall not be released for any student who is not current in their payments.

·         PowerSchool access will be denied until payment is current.

·         If tuition remains outstanding, LCHS reserves all rights to pursue the collection of delinquent tuition.

Late Charges

If a tuition payment is not received within five days of its due date, a $25.00 per month late fee shall be charged. Pay early to avoid additional charges.

Returned Checks and/or Declined Credit Cards

A $30.00 returned check fee shall be added to the tuition account. The repayment, including the returned check fee, must be made immediately by money order or cashier’s check. Each time a credit card is declined there will be a $25.00 charge added to your account.

LCH Scholarship Fund

Any and all money raised for the purpose of funding the LCHS Scholarship Fund, gifted to the fund or solicited for purposes of providing scholarships, shall be deposited in the Scholarship Fund Account. The Scholarship Funds shall not be commingled with any other funds. Any and all withdraws from the Scholarship Fund shall be used for tuition assistance and not for any other purpose.

Tuition Assistance

Lumen Christi and the Archdiocese of Anchorage are committed to ensuring that students in financial need are not denied the benefits of a Catholic education. Tuition assistance program is available to qualified families who have students registered and are in good standing with Lumen Christi High School. The scholarship fund is currently funded by generous donations from supporters of Lumen Christi High School and Catholic education. The amount of scholarships available will depend on the level of funding in the Scholarship fund.

Tuition assistance through scholarships is available to families with a demonstrated financial need. Amounts are based on the collective need of those applying each year and the school’s resources to meet those needs. Generally, a tuition assistance scholarship shall not exceed $2,500 per academic school year, per student.

LCHS will be working with Catholic School Tuition Assistance Services(CSTAS) in Fulton, Illinois, to determine eligibility for financial aid. CSTAS uses a simple one-page application called the Lumen Christi High School Tuition Assistance Application. The information provided on the form, along with copies of the applicant’s federal income tax form and W2 forms will be used to determine the level of financial assistance for the family/student. For a family to be eligible for tuition assistance, they must complete the tuition assistance application, provide all required information and pay the CSTAS application fee. All information will be kept confidential.

All students returning to LCHS for the next academic year and wishing to seek tuition assistance must register and complete the LCHS Student Aid Application process. Please check with the school office for due dates of financial aid assistance application. The information you provide will be held in strict confidence. It will be reviewed by the LCHS Financial Officer to ensure all required information has been supplied. Applications with missing information or supporting documents will not be processed by CSTAS.

If a student is awarded a scholarship or grant, it will be allocated to the student’s account each month beginning in August and ending in May. The Parent or guardian is responsible for paying the net amount due each month to keep their tuition account current. If the student withdraws during the year, the full amount of the scholarship will not be credited to the student’s account; the amount will be prorated based on the time the student has been enrolled and as defined under the tuition refund section above.

Students on financial assistance are required to fully comply with the LCHS rules, regulations and policies. Students must maintain an excellent attendance and disciplinary record, complete all homework assignments, and maintain a satisfactory GPA of 2.5 or above. In specific incidents, the principal may authorize continuing support for a student whose GPA may fall under 2.5 but not lower than 2.0. A student who is suspended for any reason shall lose financial assistance. A student with a failing grade in any subject at the end of a semester shall automatically lose financial assistances for that semester. Financial assistance may be restored when the student improves their academic performance to above failing. Financial assistance will be prorated for the grading periods for which the student’s grades do not include a failing grade.

Multi-student scholarship program: A family or household with more than one student attending LCHS is automatically granted a scholarship of $500 per additional student. The scholarship is fixed and is not subject to the academic and behavior requirements required by other tuition assistance scholarships.

Financial aid and scholarships are not automatically renewed each year; families must reapply each year. Families who receive tuition assistance will be expected to support the school through stewardship of time and talent.

Registration Fee

Registration will occur the first two weeks of March of each year for the next academic school year. Each student registering will pay a $100 nonrefundable registration fee. Each student shall complete a registration application. The application consists of all required forms, contact information, Parent and Student Covenants and any other documents or forms required by the State of Alaska, the Federal Government or regulatory agency. A student is not considered registered until the registration application and all required forms and information are completed and all fees are paid.

Complete registration will reserve the student’s place in his class for the next academic year.

Late Registration

A student who failed to complete registration during the regular period will be considered a late registrant. The fee for late registration is the regular registration fee of $100, plus a $150 late registration fee, for a total of $250. The $250 paid for late registration is nonrefundable.

A student’s Late Registration will only be accepted if there is space available in the student’s grade level. If space is not available, the student may elect to be placed on a wait list. At such time as space becomes available, the student will be notified of the opportunity to complete the Late Registration process.

At the close of the regular registration period, LCHS reserves the right to prioritize the acceptance of enrolled students where the enrolled students for a grade level exceed the class size limit. In general, first priority consideration will be given to students with siblings or other members of the same household enrolled and attending LCHS. The second in priority will be for students transferring from other Archdioceses of Anchorage Catholic schools. Other priorities will be established based on religious beliefs and family parish affiliation, diversity of student body and behavior record.

Book / Technology Fee

Book / technology fees are $250 per student. The book fee is paid to cover the cost of text books purchased and maintained by LCHS. Throughout the course of schooling at Lumen Christi a student may be required to purchase books that pertain to specific aspects of the curriculum. Books purchased by the student are the property of the student.

Lost/Damaged Book

Students are required to pay for lost or damaged LCHS textbooks. Bills will be issued from the school office along with tuition billings.

Year Book Fees

The cost to purchase the LCHS Archangel Yearbook is optional.

Sports & Activity Fees

The following sports fees apply to any student participating in the sport:

-          $ 50          Junior High Soccer

-          $ 50          Junior High Volley Ball

-          $ 50          Junior High Basketball

-          $ 50          Any other junior high sport that may be offered

-          $100          Varsity Volley Ball

-          $100          Varsity Basketball

-          $100          Varsity Soccer

-          $ 50          Varsity Track

-          $100          Any other varsity sport that may be offered

-          $ 50          Debate, Drama and Forensics (DDF)

-          $ 50          Drama

Fees are due at the beginning of each respective season. Sports fees are non-refundable if a student does not continue with the sport for any reason including losing eligibility due to GPA or failing grades. Dates will be announced just prior to the season opening. The total sum of sports fees paid by a family is capped at $250 for an academic school year.

The fees will not cover the costs of travel, referees, uniforms, and equipment. The PVO Sports and Activity Booster Committee supports the sports budget through concessions, sporting event ticket sales and other fund raising activities. Each family with a student participating in one or more sports is expected to donate time and talent to support the PVO’s efforts to fund the program. Lumen Christi reserves the right to make additional assessments to each student participating in a sport to cover expenses for that sport should the PVO not be able to raise sufficient funds to pay all expenses.

Activity Fees & Field Trip Fees

Activity fees are collected at the time the student elects to participate in the activity or field trip.



LCHS Scholarship Fund

Any and all money raised for the purpose of funding the LCHS Scholarship Fund, gifted to the fund, or solicited for purposes of providing scholarships shall be deposited in the Scholarship Fund Account. The Scholarship Funds shall not be commingled with any other funds. Any and all withdrawals from the Scholarship Fund shall be used for tuition assistance and not for any other purpose.

All awarded scholarships will be recorded in the name of the student qualifying for the tuition assistance. No awards of scholarship may be made without identifying the student. Complete records of funding, deposits, and scholarship awards shall be kept. The award of financial assistance scholarships shall be kept confidential.

Regular reports of balances and scholarship fund status will be given to the School Board.

Tuition Assistance

Tuition assistance through scholarships is available to families with a demonstrated financial need. Amounts are based on the collective need of those applying each year and the school’s resources to meet those needs. Generally, a tuition assistance scholarship shall not exceed $2,500 per academic school year, per student.

Lumen Christi and the Archdiocese of Anchorage are committed to ensuring that students in financial need are not denied the benefits of a Catholic education. Tuition assistance program is available to all families who are members of a Parish within the Archdiocese of Anchorage. The scholarship fund is currently funded by generous donations from supporters of Lumen Christi and Catholic education. The amount of scholarships available will depend on the level of funding in the Scholarship fund.

LCHS will be working with Catholic School Tuition Assistance Services (CSTAS) in Fulton, Illinois to determine eligibility for financial aid. CSTAS uses a simple one page application called the Lumen Christi High School Tuition Assistance Application. The information provided on the form, along with copies of the applicant’s federal income tax form and W2 forms will be used to determine the level of financial assistance for the family/student. For a family to be eligible for tuition assistance, they must complete the tuition assistance application, provide all required information, and pay the $21 application fee. All information will be kept confidential.

All students returning to LCHS for the next academic year and wishing to seek tuition assistance must pre-register and complete the Student Aid Application process. Please keep these dates in mind if you are planning to apply for tuition assistance:

May 1, 2009 - Completed Student Aid Forms, 2008 Federal Tax Returns with W2 forms and a check for $21 made payable to CSTAS or Catholic School Tuition Assistance and mail to the address on the form. The information you provide will be held in strict confidence. It will be reviewed by the LCHS Finance Officer and Father Moore only to ensure all required information has been supplied.

May 15, 2009 - Applicants will be notified if tuition assistance has been awarded and the amount of that assistance.

If a student receives a scholarship or grant, it will be allocated to the student’s account each month beginning in August and ending in May. You are responsible for paying the net amount due each month to keep your tuition account current. If the student withdraws during the year, the full amount of the scholarship will not be credited to the student’s account; the amount will be prorated based on the time the student has been enrolled and as defined under the tuition refund section above.

Students on Financial assistance are required to fully comply with the LCHS rules, regulations and policies. Students must maintain an excellent attendance and disciplinary record, complete all homework assignments, and maintain a satisfactory GPA. A student that is suspended for any reason shall lose financial assistance. A student with a failing grade in any subject at the end of a semester shall automatically lose financial assistance for that semester. Financial assistance may be restored when the student improves their academic performance to above failing. Financial assistance will be prorated for the grading periods for which the student’s grades do not include a failing grade.

Multi-student scholarship Program: A family with more than one student attending LCHS is automatically granted a scholarship of $500 per additional student. The scholarship is fixed and is not subject to the academic and behavior requirements required by other tuition assistance scholarships.

Financial aid and scholarships are not automatically renewed each year; families must reapply each year. Families who receive tuition assistance will be expected to support the school through stewardship of time and talent.

Curriculum

General

The curriculum of Lumen Christi High School is based on the School’s Mission and Philosophy Statement. Central to this document is the commitment to preparing young men and women to practice and bear witness to their faith. The curriculum reflects this commitment by providing a Christ centered learning experience grounded in the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church and in respect for the unique person created in the image and likeness of God. Students learn to seek sanctification, use of their talents, and social justice in the light of Catholic values.

This commitment is the context for the School’s dedication to academic excellence. The pursuit of scholastic excellence is the means by which Lumen Christi students develop the knowledge, talents, skills, and character to support the Church’s mission on earth. The curriculum challenges students intellectually, develops their logical and critical thinking skills, and instills in them the habits of discipline and sense of responsibility they will need for success in higher education as they prepare to take up their tasks in the service of society.

The courses cover a full range of studies: theology, language arts, history/geography, advanced math and science concepts, and electives. This curriculum meets or surpasses all state requirements. LCHS is accredited with the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools, a member of the Alaska Schools Activities Association(ASAA) and the Alaska Association of Student Government (AASG).

Seventh and Eighth Grade Courses

Theology                                                        Social Studies

Language Arts                                               PE

Math                                                              Spanish (8^th grade)

Science

Ninth through Twelfth Grade Basic Required Credits

Theology                                4

Language Arts                       4

Social Studies/Economics     4
           Must have Alaska Studies and Government (.5 credit each)

Mathematics                          2.5

Science                                   3

Physical Education                1

Health                                      .5

Electives                                3.5

Total                   22.5

External courses for students in grades nine through twelve may include Charter School, Cyber School, or University courses. All external courses must be pre-approved by the Principal in order to receive credit. Students will meet or surpass Alaska State requirements for graduation. In keeping with Lumen Christi's Mission Statement, all students must perform a specified amount of community service before graduation.

Academics

Grading Standards

    90-100%    A

    80-89%      B

    70-79%      C

    60-69%      D



Progress reports can be accessed online. Each teacher maintains their assignments and individual student grades on PowerSchool to which you will have continuous access.

·         Progress reports are issued in the ninth or tenth week of each quarter. Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held midway between each semester. Please refer to the school calendar.

·         Only semester grades are recorded and become a part of the student's permanent transcript.

Quarterly grades are used to determine a student's eligibility for extra-curricular sports and activities. Weekly grades must stay at 2.0 or above with no Fs in order to participate in the sport/activity and thus may not be eligible for certain periods of time until grades are restored to acceptable levels.

Honors

The Lumen Christi Honor Roll students are recognized with certificates of achievement each semester. Highest Honors are for those students who maintain a perfect 4.0 average. The requirement for First Honors is a GPA of 3.5 or higher. For Second Honors, the requirement is a GPA between 3 and 3.49. At the end of each school year, academic letters will be awarded to students who achieve First Honors for 2 consecutive semesters.

Failures

Students who fail a subject at the semester are required to make up the credit. Any student who fails more than two subjects at the semester or who demonstrates a continuing pattern of unsatisfactory grades may be asked to leave Lumen Christi.

Academic Warning

Students who fail to maintain a 2.0 or higher mark in any course will be issued an academic warning. The Principal may assign students on academic warning to one or more tutorial classes.

Academic Honesty

As honesty is a fundamental expectation of a Catholic community, so honesty in academic work is a fundamental requirement for a Catholic school. Academic dishonesty is a violation of justice (in that it prevents fair evaluation) and a subversion of the educational process (in that it conceals weaknesses that should be strengthened). Lumen Christi High School will not tolerate academic dishonesty.

A student can be academically dishonest in several ways:

1)      Plagiarism - use of the language or ideas of another as if they were one's own. Cutting and pasting information from web sites is plagiarism.

2)      Copying another's answers or providing answers in examinations, tests, quizzes, take-home tests, research papers, term papers or lab work;

3)      discussing answers during in-class tests or take-home tests;

4)      using crib notes, prepared tests or other unauthorized material as substitutes for study and expected test preparation;

5)      attempting to secure copies of a test or examination before the test or exam date;

6)      being in possession of a copy of a teacher-made test or testing materials before the test or exam date;

7)      resubmission of previously graded work, even a student's own work, for a new course without agreement of new instructor;

8)      submission of the same paper for two courses without the agreement of both instructors;

9)      Impeding the academic progress of other students by such means as removal or misplacement of library materials, theft or damage to equipment, or stealing or defacing another's work.

The penalty for academic dishonesty is an automatic “F” for the assignment. A report will be made to the Principal. Subsequent offenses could be reason for dismissal from the School. The Principal retains the final judgment in all matters of academic dishonesty.

Late Work and Incomplete Grades

Homework and projects are due on the date specified by a teacher. If a student is absent from class, he/she will have one day to make up missed homework for each day absent.

Late work will not be accepted. All work must be completed during the term it is assigned. A grade of Incomplete may be given by a teacher at the quarter for students who have had extended absences. At the end of the semester, an Incomplete can only be given with the approval of the Principal and completion of the necessary paperwork.

Extra-curricular Eligibility

Student eligibility is based on the previous quarter report card. A minimum 2.0 GPA with no “F” in any class is required for participation. Any student who desires to participate in an extra-curricular activity must have the Principal's permission. Maintaining eligibility during the quarter is an ongoing process. During the sport/activity, each participant grades will be checked weekly. A student may fall behind and thus not be eligible for certain periods of time until grades are restored to acceptable levels.

Graduation Requirements

In order to participate in graduation, a student must meet or surpass Alaska State Education requirements, and be in good standing behaviorally. Participation in graduation ceremonies is a privilege that can be denied.

Attendance

Absences

A student who is absent misses whatever material is covered during the time of absence. Since learning is a sequential and communal process, when a student misses a class, a gap may develop which may be difficult to bridge. Therefore, any absence has a natural consequence that will be reflected in a student’s grades depending on the course and the number of absences.

School attendance is a State requirement. The only “excused” absences are those where the student is participating in a sport or competitive academic activity away from the school during the day, or some other type of school business.

Procedure for absences

1)      The parent is to call the school as early as possible. A message may be left if no one is in the office. The following information should be left:

·         Name of the student

·         Reason for absence

·         Anticipated length of absence

·         Name and relationship of person calling

The parent should call back to school only if the absence exceeds the anticipated length.

2) Upon returning to school, the student may be required to present a note from his/her parent or guardian who states the day(s) of absence and the reason for the absence, and present this to the office before the first period of the day.

If a student is absent for more than three consecutive days, a physician’s note may be required. If a student is absent for three days or less, s/he is expected to call the teachers or classmates, or check the website, for assignments. For anticipated longer absences, teachers may send assignments to the office to be picked up by a parent or other authorized person.

When a student misses fifteen class sessions of a course in a semester, for whatever reasons, credit may be denied. This includes the accrual of tardies. (Three instances of tardiness will be considered equivalent to an absence.

Truancy

A student who is absent from school without a parent or guardian’s excuse is considered truant. If the parent/guardian does not call the school office for an absence, the student will be considered truant. A student is also considered truant when he/she is absent from his/her assigned area without permission. This not only pertains to classes, but all Lumen Christi activities, such as religious services.

A truant student should expect the following:

1st Offense:   Student will serve one detention. Depending on the seriousness of the truancy, the student may face a two day suspension.

Further Offenses: Parent(s)/Guardian(s) will be notified and the student will be assigned appropriate number of day’s in-school or out of school suspension.

Chronic offenses may be reason to reconsider continued enrollment at Lumen Christi.

General Discipline Guidelines for Tardiness

A student who is not in his or her assigned area and ready to work when the bell rings is considered tardy.

Subsequent offenses will be dealt with on a case-by-case situation with student, parent, and principal.

If a parent brings a student to school late this is not an excused tardy.

Three instances of tardiness will be considered equivalent to an   absence.

Decorum

General

Lumen Christi High School promises an educational environment that allows faith and Catholic values to be integrated into the students’ lives while they develop self-discipline and self-motivation. The School requires that students contribute to this process by upholding an appropriate standard of decorum. Students are expected to behave as responsible members of the Lumen Christi community, mindful of their own reputations and the reputation of the School. Respect for authority, respect for oneself, for one’s neighbor, and for property are also necessary for a Catholic learning environment. Decorum is expected off campus as well, especially when representing the School, as at a School sponsored activity, or even with publications on the internet.

Since a breach of decorum is harmful to the School’s educational environment, the Principal will take steps to maintain good discipline. Sanctions for inappropriate conduct may include parent conferences, detentions, work detail, school suspensions, or expulsion. In these matters, as in all matters of school discipline, the decision of the Principal is final.

Uniform Dress Code

Students are to adhere to the Lumen Christi High School uniform dress code at the School and at School functions. The code is a visible sign of membership in the Lumen Christi High School community. Inside the school, uniform dress is a reminder to students of their equal importance and their common goals. Outside the School, students represent Lumen Christi to the public; they represent the School’s name by their attire, the School’s values by their behavior.

Particulars of the uniform dress code are described below in Appendix A. The code is based on the School’s standards of decorum, on good taste, cleanliness, modesty, neatness, and safety. The Principal will determine when a student's appearance is in violation of the code and may confiscate non-conforming articles. The Principal must approve any exceptions to the code.

After school, a student may remove his/her tie and any Lumen Christi insignia for more casual attire. If there is no visible sign of items that signify Lumen Christi’s uniform, the shirt may be un-tucked, unbuttoned, and the sleeves may be rolled up. At no time during the school day or school functions where the uniform is expected may this occur.

General Discipline Guidelines for Uniform Infractions

1^st infraction: If a suitable alternative cannot be found at school the student may be sent home to correct the infraction. Usually the student will face an immediate detention.

Other infractions: Parents are notified and an appropriate plan of action that is agreed upon by the principal, the student and the parents will be initiated. If there are three or more uniform infractions within a 3-4 week period, morning detention and/or Saturday detention will be assigned.

Continued infractions: One of the most important criteria to being      enrolled at Lumen Christi is the agreement to wear the required uniform. If this practice is not acceptable to the student then continued enrollment in the school becomes unnecessary.

General Guidelines for Misbehavior

Generally the teacher will handle classroom discipline. We have a singular policy of treating each student with respect and empathy for their individual origins and situations. We are focused on creating a total environment permeated with the Gospel spirit of love and freedom. This focus is for everyone in the building. No student is expected to interfere with anyone else’s opportunities for learning and maturing in the image of God. A much higher level of behavioral standards is expected of the students at Lumen Christi. Classroom disruptions, rudeness, lack of concern for the building, lack of care for others are simply not accepted and will not be tolerated. If this philosophy of behavior is not acceptable to the student, then continued enrollment in the school becomes unnecessary.

Rules of Discipline

PERSONAL ELECTRONIC SIGNALING DEVICES

Students are not permitted to use any type of electronic signaling device before school, during class time, passing periods or breaks (e.g. between classes) and lunch.   The electronic signaling device must remain turned off during the instructional school day. A device that is set in vibrate or silent mode is NOT considered to be turned off.

A school staff member will confiscate a device if it is visible (whether it is on or not). Parents will be notified promptly and the device will be returned in accordance with school rules. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen electronic signaling devices. Students are to make arrangements with their parent(s) or guardian(s) to contact the school office when attempting to reach them during the school day.

Students who act in violation of this policy shall be subject to the LCHS's progressive discipline as follows:

Initial violation - electronic signaling device will be confiscated by school staff and secured in a safe location. The electronic listening device will be returned to student at the conclusion of the staff work day;

Second violation - electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location. The electronic listening device will not be returned to the student until the student's parent or guardian meets with school administrative staff for the purpose of clarifying this policy;

Third violation - the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location. The electronic listening device will not be returned to the student until the student's parent or guardian provides written assurance that the student will no longer be allowed to possess the electronic listening device during the instructional day. Additional confiscations will result in suspension.

Prohibited Conduct:

Possession of a cellular telephone or other ECD by a student is a privilege, which may be forfeited by any student who fails to abide by the terms of this policy, or otherwise engages in misuse of the device so as to violate the law or any other school or Archdioceses Catholic School policy. In addition to those conduct rules set forth elsewhere, the following violations may result in disciplinary action:

1. Accessing and/or viewing an Internet site that is otherwise blocked to

students at school.

2. Sending an e-mail, text message or other communication that harasses,

intimidates, threatens, bullies, or discriminates against another individual.

3. Using a camera device at school or a school-sponsored event to take,

send, download or upload a harassing, threatening, or embarrassing

photograph of anyone.

4. Using a camera, whether functionally part of a EDC or stand alone device, in a restroom, dressing room, or locker room

5. Using a camera or other recording device to record or capture the

content of tests, assessments, homework, or classwork without

express prior permission from the instructor.

The contents of a cellular phone, camera, or other ECD may be searched to

determine ownership, to identify emergency contacts, or upon reasonable

suspicion that a school or other rule or the law has been violated. A cellular telephone or ECD that has been confiscated and not turned over to law

enforcement will be released/returned to the parent/guardian when no longer

necessary for investigation or disciplinary proceedings. As appropriate, the

cellular telephone or ECD may be returned directly to the student.

1)      Language that is inappropriate, including foul or disrespectful language, is unacceptable in the building, on the grounds, or at any school-sponsored event and will be subject to disciplinary action.

2) Audio-visual devices may not be used BEFORE school. Students may use them appropriately during 7^th period upon approval of the teacher and after school.

3) Backpacks, winter coats, and school bags are to be stored in the appropriately assigned places, such as lockers or coatroom, not in the classrooms.

4) Food and drink are to be consumed only inside the lunchroom, picnic area or gym area. If the student room remains clean, students may have a snack in that area.

5)     At no time is gum chewing permitted in the school building.

6)     Students are expected to exercise the virtue of chastity. For unmarried persons this means celibacy. Personal displays of affection appropriate to unmarried persons are nevertheless inappropriate in an academic setting, and students are expected to refrain from them while on campus. This includes hand holding, hugging, etc.

School Regulations

Records



Lumen Christi High School will maintain all students’ records, documents, and transcripts. Records will consist of health information, standardized test scores, report card grades, attendance, extra-curricular activities and disciplinary actions taken at Lumen Christi High School. All records received from other schools are kept on file with Lumen Christi Student information.

Health Immunizations

State Law requires students to be fully immunized. Parents must provide a valid certificate showing all immunization dates before a student will be allowed to start school. If students need immunizations anytime during the school year, parents must provide proof of compliance before students may return to school.

Safety

Lumen Christi High School has established a number of regulations to promote the safety of the School’s students.

Sanctioned Activities

The Principal shall provide for adult supervision of all School sanctioned or sponsored activities, whether before school, during recess or lunch periods, or after school and whether such activities occur on School grounds or not. All School sanctioned activities require the express permission of the Principal. To represent Lumen Christi High School at a sanctioned activity, an individual must have received authorization prior to the commitment date and responded in full to all inquiries made by the Principal and supplied documentation required by the School.

Student Driving

Students who drive to school must follow the regulations, which are part of their Parking Contract. Parents will also be required to sign the Parking Contract.

Students are not to enter their own cars or anyone else’s during the school day, including lunch time, without the permission and/or accompaniment of a teacher or person of authority. This includes students riding back and forth to the lunch area with other student drivers. There is a speed limit of 10 mph on campus at all times. This includes the church parking lot. Students who violate any of the school regulations concerning driving, parking, and auto use will receive detention and may lose their privilege of on-campus parking. Lumen Christi High School generally does not allow the use of student drivers in conjunction with any school-sanctioned activity.

Closed Campus

Students must remain in the building at all times during school hours. No one is to be in the parking lot or in a car during school hours. At no time during the day are students allowed to leave the building without teacher and/or parental consent and the permission of the Principal. Lumen Christi strictly enforces closed campus at lunch time. Permission to leave is granted only by the Principal. Students must sign out in the front office when leaving the campus. Violation of the closed campus policy will be treated as a truancy violation.

Visitors

Visitors to the school must sign in at the School office upon arrival. Student visitors are not permitted in the school or the lunchroom during the instructional day without an approval by the Principal. Student visitors will be limited to those who are seriously considering enrolling at Lumen Christi or very recent alumni. These students should contact the school prior to when they wish to visit. Enrolled students who wish to bring a visiting student must receive approval from the Principal and each period teacher.

Corporal Punishment

The application of physical force to the body of a student for disciplinary purposes is contrary to the philosophy of Lumen Christi High School and is forbidden. This prohibition does not preclude the use of reasonable and necessary restraint of a student to protect the student or others from physical injury or to protect property from damage or destruction.

Alcohol and/or Substance Abuse

Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, or drug products is prohibited on the School campus and at school activities. To deliver, use, possess, sell, give, or be under the influence of tobacco, drugs, or alcohol or to possess drug paraphernalia may result in expulsion, and/or legal action. Students in the company of such individuals may also face similar consequences.

Lumen will NOT make any distinction between lookalike alcohol, tobacco, or drug products and the real thing. This includes, but is not limited to, cough drops, aspirin, Tylenol, Advil, mouthwash. If it looks like a real drug, it will be treated as such. Also, any prescription drugs a student may need to take during the school day MUST be dropped off in the office in the original container, before school and administered in the office. Prescription drugs will be treated as a drug product if it is found on a student or in a locker. If it is necessary to take home unused meds, they will be given to the parent/guardian.

Weapons

No weapons or dangerous materials of any kind shall be brought onto School property. This prohibition includes pocketknives and Leathermans. Lumen will NOT make any distinction between a lookalike weapon and the real weapon. A lookalike weapon will be treated as the real thing.

Fighting

Physical assault of any kind is strictly prohibited. Fighting or assault may result in a minimum three-day suspension. Conduct will be considered mutual assault unless it can be clearly shown that one party made every reasonable effort to remove him/herself physically from the situation and acted only in self-defense. Refer to the Lumen Christi Bullying Behavior Rubric.

Threats/Intimidation

Threats or intimidation of any kind are strictly forbidden and will not be tolerated. If a student threatens or intimidates a faculty or staff member of Lumen Christi High School, s/he will be immediately suspended or expelled. If a student threatens or intimidates another student, s/he will be immediately suspended. A conference with all parties involved will be required before the suspended student returns to school. Bullying includes, but is not limited to, hitting, poking, spitting, wedgies, exposing body fluid, stealing and/or moving other students’ property, intimidating, mocking, passing rumors (character defamation), excluding, and using inappropriate online/text messaging.

Refer to the Lumen Christi Behavior Rubric.

Hazing/Harassment

Hazing is defined as any type of harassment including verbal, sexual, racial, or physical harassment. It includes activities or actions that intimidate or threaten another individual or actions designed to create group affiliation or isolate a student and that can cause bodily danger, physical harm, or mental and emotional harm. Any and all infractions may result in immediate suspension from school or team sports. Refer to the Lumen Christi Behavior Rubric.

Damage to School Property

Students are expected to care for School property. Any student who carelessly or willfully damages School property is expected to compensate the School for the damage. It is the responsibility of the student to care for the textbooks assigned to them.

Any student guilty of malicious damage may be subject to suspension or expulsion. Lumen Christi High School will assess a student the replacement value, plus shipping, for any assigned textbook or materials that are lost or damaged. Report cards, transcripts, and all school records will be held until the assessment is paid in full.

School property refers to the exterior and interior of the building at 8110 Jewel Lake Road and all of its contents, the parking lot, and vehicles used for transportation to and from Lumen Christi sanctioned activities arranged by school representatives.

Stealing

Stealing is a serious offense and constitutes a significant breach of trust. Any student who steals from the School, from any faculty member, or from another student is subject to suspension or expulsion.

School Cleanliness

All students are expected to help maintain the cleanliness of the school and its grounds. Students are expected to dispose properly of waste materials. They are expected to tidy the classroom and locker rooms at the end of class and the lunchroom at the conclusion of lunch. They are expected to do whatever is needed at any given time to maintain a clean school and campus.

Personal Property

Students are responsible for having the supplies necessary for classes. Although many students transport books and supplies in large sport type bags, backpacks, etc., these bags may not be taken into classrooms or left in hallways or classrooms as they pose a safety hazard. The administration reserves the right to check backpacks, sport bags, lockers, or purses at random times. This includes student vehicles as well.

Changes in the Handbook

The School reserves the right to make changes in the information in this Handbook during the year. Should this happen, all parents will be notified in writing.