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Saint Brendan School provides a quality Catholic elementary education to the community of the Ormond Beach area. We achieve this in an atmosphere rooted in the Gospel values. We stress academic excellence, and also athletic, cultural, and social development. We accomplish this by developing a sense of personal responsibility, respect, and self-discipline. We create a positive and caring environment by cooperation and participation of both home and school.
Saint Brendan School is a Catholic elementary school, grades Pre-K to 8, affiliated with the Diocese of Orlando, and fully accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference. We are a community of faith, committed to carrying out the fourfold purpose of Catholic education; proclaiming the message of God revealed by Jesus Christ, building fellowship in the life of the Spirit, providing service to the Christian community, and worshiping God in public and private prayer. We use our human and material resources to establish and maintain a school climate conducive to the spiritual, moral, intellectual, emotional, physical and social development of each student. Our curriculum is challenging and broad in scope, and places emphasis upon the development of the attitudes, values, and skills. This enables the student to think clearly, act purposefully, and deal effectively with their interpersonal relationships and with the scholastic and cultural challenges they face every day. We affirm the role of parents as the primary educators of their children; and, as partners in parenting, we encourage parental involvement. We believe in the dignity of each child; therefore, we emphasize through word and example the absolute necessity for respect of self, of others, and of property. This acknowledgement of the sacredness of each person's dignity, we believe, leads to a greater mutual respect for one another in our community of faith as we proclaim and live the Good News of Jesus Christ.
The development of each child's faith life is fostered through times of prayer, participation in religious celebrations, liturgy, services and the study of scriptures, thereby providing a Christian foundation and climate of faith to mature. Non-Catholic students are expected to participate in all religious activities and classes, except the Sacramental Life of the Catholic Church.
Children in Grade 2 will be prepared to receive the Sacraments of Penance and Eucharist. Students in Grades 7 & 8 will be prepared to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Saint Brendan School exists as a vital part of the worshiping community of Saint Brendan Parish. The children's presence at Mass manifests their faith life and the commitment of the school to witness the sacramental life of the Church by participating in the celebration of the Eucharist.
School Hours Pre-K to 8th Grade
- 7:45 AM – Homeroom/ Prayers
- 8:00 AM – Classes begin
- 3:10 PM – Dismissal
The school will not accept responsibility for students dropped off before 7:40 AM. Students may enter their classroom at 7:45 AM.
When waiting for activities (athletic, social, etc.), the students must be supervised by an authorized adult. Any student not picked up by 3:25 p.m. will be placed in the After School Program and charged the hourly fee.
Students may not be in the buildings at any other time unless they are supervised by an authorized adult.
Each student's progress and effort is unique to the individual. When it becomes evident that it is necessary for a student to repeat the grade, parents will be notified in March. Any student in grades 4-8 who fails two major subjects for the year will not be promoted. Primary students (K-3) must pass Religion, Reading, and Mathematics. Summer school or tutoring may be accepted in order to make up these failures. Approval must be given by the principal.
All students in Eighth Grade must pass all major subjects in order to be eligible for graduation. Tests will be administered periodically throughout the marking period. Exams will be given at mid-year and also at the end of the year for students in Grades Six through Eight in Religion, Reading, English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science.
Parents are asked to be vigilant regarding student progress by checking progress reports and report cards, which are issued every 4.5 weeks.
Attendance and Absence from School
A student must be present at least 40 of 45 classes each marking period. If a student misses more than five days not related to a health problem, the teacher may drop the student one letter grade. Excessive absence during any one marking period may result in no-credit reporting which would hinder advancement to the next grade the following year.
To receive the maximum benefit from classroom and instructional participation, it is important that a child report to school each day. Illness of the pupil, death in the family, and exceptional instances that affect the child are the only legitimate excuses for absence from school. Oversleeping is not an excuse for absence because it is better to be late than absent.
A parent is requested to call and leave a message with the office between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM to report a student absent. A written note must be presented upon the child's return to school with the following information: Child's Name, Grade, Date of Absence, Reason, and Signature by a Parent or Guardian. If any student is absent for four or more days, a Doctor's note must be presented to the office. All contagious disease must be reported as soon as diagnosed. A parent will be notified if the child becomes ill or is injured while at school. Emergency numbers for parents and two other people responsible for the child must be kept on file in the Health Room and must be kept current.
When a student has been absent from school for any reason, it is her/his responsibility to personally check with the teacher or teachers to determine the work that has been missed during her/his absence and the possibility of make-up work where the teacher feels it is necessary.
Homework will not be sent home until the second day of illness. Excuses from Physical Education on short-term illness will be granted only upon a written statement from the parent or guardian. Extended illness requires a doctor’s note in order to be excused and a note to return to full activity.
If an extended absence for illness from school is necessary, please contact the school for arrangements for necessary class work assignments, or home tutoring. Absence from school excludes attendance at ANY extra-curricular activities held that day.
Family vacations should be planned to coincide with school holiday periods whenever possible. Children need the continuity of the learning experiences provided through teacher presentations and student interaction. Written work alone cannot substitute for these experiences.
If for some unavoidable reason, a family needs to remove a child from school for a vacation, we ask that you notify the office in writing regarding the number of days that your child will not be in school. Missed assignments should be discussed with the teacher after the student returns to school. NO ASSIGNMENT WILL BE GIVEN DURING VACATION ABSENCES.
Doctor or other appointments should be scheduled outside school hours and on school holidays whenever possible. A written request from the parent or guardian must be submitted to the principal on or before the requested day of early dismissal stating the reason for this request. The note should clearly state who is calling for the student. The parent, or proxy, should go to the office to sign out the student who will be summoned to the office for dismissal.
Telephone requests will be honored only in cases of at emergency and upon satisfactory identification of the caller.
Punctuality is very important in the education of a student. A student who is late must report to the office to obtain an admittance slip to class. Students must be in their homeroom by 7:45 AM bell. Students who are not in school or who are tardy without parental or school consent will be considered truant. Truancy will be considered a serious offense. The Principal will note any incidence of frequent tardiness and discuss the reasons for it with the parents. Students are expected to be punctual to school and classes.
If a child has a special medical condition, this information must be filed with the office with instructions on how to dispense medication. Please help your child to practice good health habits that we will enforce at school. The main phases of our Health Program are as follows:
- Pre- K, K, and students new to Florida Schools must have a physical exam before coming to school. It is the parent's responsibility to provide for such an exam and return a doctor's certificate to the school.
- Hearing tests are given each year to grades K, 1, & 7. In addition, any pupil referred to the nurse for a hearing problem will be tested.
- Vision tests are given to grades K, 1, & 7. Notices are sent home only to those who need attention. Please return these completed papers.
- Scoliosis screening is done on every pupil in Grade 7. Any pupil shall be exempt from examination upon written request of a parent or guardian. Parents may be present for the examination.
- First aid, if needed, is given by the office during the school day. The usual antiseptics used are hydrogen peroxide, Bactracin-Neomyocin-Polymyin-B, Calamine lotion, and soap. If your child is allergic to these or any particular substance, please let the office know so that we may avoid unnecessary problems. When an ace bandage is used please return it to the nurse after use.
- Prescription medications will be given by the office, if the permission to administer it is given in writing by the doctor. Non–prescription medicine must also be prescribed by the doctor, otherwise non-prescription medicine will not be dispenced during the school day. Medication must be in a labeled prescription bottle with the student’s name and required dosage.
- Students are not permitted to carry medications, not even aspirin.
- Injuries occurring at home will not be treated in the Health Room.
- If your child contracts a communicable disease, do not send the child to school until your physician gives you permission. Please notify the school immediately. State law requires a doctor's certificate if a communicable disease is the cause of an absence.
- Tetanus shots required at beginning of 7th grade.
Students needing medication prescribed by a doctor while at school must have a statement of permission signed by the doctor and parent.
A labeled prescription bottle with the student’s name and dosage is required and must be left in the Health Room.
No staff member, OR VOLUNTEER NURSE, may issue aspirin or any medication to any student at any time, IF NOT DOCTOR PRESCRIBED. THIS INCLUDES OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATION.
The program operates from 3:15 until 6:00 PM. Information regarding the program is sent home in August.
For the protection of all, students are not permitted to leave the school grounds during school hours or during after-school activities. Students are required to remain "in sight" of teachers and supervisors at all times.
In the event of emergency closings or delayed opening, announcements will be made over local Radio and TV Stations. We will follow Volusia County’s lead in closings. If school is closed or dismissed early due to inclement weather, parents will be notified via the automated calling system or the classroom parent. Closing information also will be available on the school webpage and announced over radio and TV stations. Please instruct your child where to go if you are working and no one is home. Be sure that your emergency numbers are kept current.
A clean and neat appearance enhances a child's dignity and helps to promote proper behavior. The school uniform achieves these purposes.
All uniforms must be purchased through Fontaine Apparel Co. (1-800-237-1603). All students must be in the complete required school uniform unless a free dress day has been designated.
Dress Uniforms will be required on designated special days and occasions. If a student is not in the proper school uniform, the parent must send a note to the Principal explaining the reason.
BOYS: GRADES K - 8 DRESS UNIFORM
- Shorts/Slacks — Khaki
- Belt — Khaki or brown or black leather
- Maroon School Shirt
- SOCKS — WHITE-CREW MUST COVER ANKLE
- SHOES – ALL BLACK OR ALL WHITE SNEAKERS
GIRLS: GRADES K-5 DRESS UNIFORM
- Maroon Plaid school jumper
- Short sleeved white blouse (must be worn with jumper)
- Khaki walking shorts/slacks with brown, black or khaki belt
- Khaki skort
- Maroon School Shirt (worn with khaki shorts only)
- SOCKS — WHITE-CREW MUST COVER ANKLE
- SHOES –ALL BLACK OR ALL WHITE SNEAKERS
GIRLS: GRADES 6 –8 DRESS UNIFORM
- Maroon plaid school skirt / skort
- Maroon school shirt
- Khaki walking shorts/slacks with brown, black or khaki belt
- Khaki skort
- SOCKS — WHITE-CREW MUST COVER ANKLE
- SHOES –ALL BLACK OR OR WHITE SNEAKERS
Grey sweatshirts, maroon hoodie sweatshirts, maroon sweaters and maroon jackets by Fontaine may be worn in classrooms during cold weather. All other outerwear must be placed in lockers or cubbies during the school day. Children may remove and wear these items during recess.
SHOES
Uniform: ALL STUDENTS SHOULD WEAR ALL BLACK OR ALL WHITE SNEAKERS AND WHITE SOCKS THAT COVER THE ANKLE OR DRESS DAYS AND PE DAYS.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM
Regulation uniforms are to be worn by all students in grades PK-8 for physical education classes. These uniforms must be purchased through Fontaine Apparel. The uniform consists of maroon school shorts or black mesh shorts, grey school shirts, white socks and ALL BLACK OR ALL WHITE SNEAKERS.
Students in grades 6-8 will purchase St. Brendan solid black shorts for class. All Students will wear their PE uniform to school on the days they have PE. During cold weather, students may also wear grey school sweatshirts and sweatpants for PE All students may wear school grey sweatshirts when the weather requires it. No other sweatshirts are permitted.
Students may wear their own jackets/coats to school, but must be left in their locker or cubby during the school day.
OTHER:
- Uniform school shorts and slacks must be worn at the waist. Shorts and skirts must not be more than 2 inches above the knee and they must not be rolled up. Uniform shirts and PE shirts must be worn tucked in at all times.
- EXCESSIVE JEWELRY, NAIL POLISH AND MAKE-UP ARE NOT PERMITTED FOR ANY STUDENT.
- BOYS -- AAA haircut: Above the brow, Above the ear, Above the collar – no highlights or color.
- GIRLS – NO HIGHLIGHTS, STREAKS, FROSTING, HENNAS, FULL HEAD COLORING OR DYES – HAIR MUST BE NATURAL COLOR. NO WEAVES, WEAVE WRAPS, JEWELRY WRAPS.
- Body decorations and piercing will not be permitted, except for girls' earrings. One simple post earring in each ear. Simple thin chain with cross or holy medal may be worn inside shirt. Students may not wear hats, bandanas, scarves, sunglasses, etc.
- Parents must take responsibility for proper uniform attire every day. If a student is not in proper school uniform, the parent will be contacted, and if unable to bring in the proper uniform, the child will receive a consequence. If persistent uniform infractions occur it will be considered “insubordination”.
- Book bags – no wheeled book bags. Book bags will not be used in passing between classes. Students will carry books. There will be a locker / passing period to in order to trade off folder for the next class. Girls in grades 6-8 may bring purses to school, but purses must be kept in lockers during the school day. Students may access their purses during locker changes throughout the school day.
The Principal determines violations of the Dress Code as well as any teacher and staff member.
ALL ARTICLES OF CLOTHING MUST BE LABELED WITH THE NAME OF THE STUDENT. The school is not responsible for lost, misplaced or mis-appropriated clothing!
Only dress shorts, walking shorts, jeans or dresses, are permitted. NO jean shorts, baggy jeans, tight clothing, bicycle shorts, tank tops, halter tops, bare midriffs, sheer clothing, hats of any type, short skirts and short shorts are permitted. Students may wear sneakers, closed toes shoes, or school shoes. Sayings and pictures must not contain inappropriate language or advertisements.
Saint Brendan Catholic School does not discriminate against applicants or students on the basis of race, color, gender, or national and ethnic origin.
The age requirement:
- Pre-Kindergarten: 4 years of age on or before September 1;
- Kindergarten: 5 years of age on or before September 1;
- Grade 1: 6 years of age on or before September 1 providing the child has successfully completed Kindergarten.
An original birth certificate is required as well as the Social Security number. A health record containing immunization information is required by the Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services. For Catholic students, a certificate of Baptism is required. All registrations must be made in person with original certificates.
Admission is determined on a year-by-year basis with priority given to parishioners of Saint Brendan Church. As space is available, admission is extended to parishioners of Prince of Peace, of other Catholic parishes in the area, to transfer students from Catholic schools and to students of families of other Church affiliations. Having siblings previously enrolled will not be an automatic criterion for admittance. However, care will be taken to examine individually each request for admittance.
St. Brendan Catholic School adheres to the class size standards set forth by the Diocese of Orlando and the Florida Catholic Conference. Enrollment is limited to no more than 25 in Pre-Kindergarten, with a full-time teacher assistant, 30 in Kindergarten, with a full-time teacher assistant, and up to 30 in Grades 1-8. As space becomes available, consideration is given to those placed on an active waiting list. The following factors will be used to determine acceptance from the waiting list.
- Parents who are registered, supporting, practicing Catholics of Saint Brendan Church.
- Registered supporting, practicing Catholics of other Catholic churches.
- Having siblings currently in school.
- Others interested in a Catholic Education.
FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS: TUITION AND FEES ARE USED TO HELP DEFRAY THE COST OF EDUCATING A STUDENT AT ST. BRENDAN SCHOOL. NOTIFICATION OF TUITION AND FEES IS GENERALLY ANNOUNCED BY JANUARY. PRE-KINDERGARTEN TUITION IS A SEPARATE RATE FROM THE FAMILY TUITION PLAN. FEES INCLUDE REGISTRATION, TECHNOLOGY, BOOKS AND SUPPLIES, GRADUATION, BAND FEE, AND H.S.A. FEE. THE TUITION PAY PLAN CONTAINS THREE OPTIONS:
- pay in full by August 1.
- half payment by August 1 and half paid by December 1 (late fee of 5% per month).
- SMART TUITION 11 payments from July through May (using SMART TUITION, a family authorized automatic tuition payments from a bank account on either the 5th or the 20th of each month beginning in July. The contract contains a non-refundable enrollment fee of $35 deducted from your account upon inception of the agreement). Registration, Technology, and H.S.A. fees are due at the time of registration. Books and Supply Fee is due August 1. Band fee is due August 11th. This fee is for students who wish to join the School Band. Graduation Fee is due August 1. All fees are non-refundable. Tuition will be refunded effective on the first day of the following month of transfer. There will be a $20 fee charged for any returned check.
All financial obligations must be current within each marking period. A parent who is having unexpected financial difficulties should inform the Principal immediately.
Since tuition, fees, and parish subsidy do not cover the cost of educating each child at St. Brendan School, supplemental fees are derived from each family's participation in the fund raisers sponsored by the school, H.S.A., and parish. Parents will also be required to give not less than 20 hours of volunteer service during the school year. Failure to do so will result in a service fee of $300 due by May 1st. Full cooperation by each family is expected in order to maintain the family tuition plan.
In order to be billed the Parish tuition rate, which includes the parish subsidy; families qualify as St. Brendan's Parishioners if they meet the following criteria.
- Registered in the Parish for at least one year
- Attend Church weekly
- Contribute generously through regular use of the envelopes
- Volunteer a minimum of 20 service hours per year Records will be reviewed quarterly. If there is no responsible Church attendance and envelope contribution, you will be charged the non-parish rate
If a family is registered in another Catholic parish, please come to school office for subsidy process.
It is the policy of Saint Brendan School to require parents to give not less than twenty (20) hours of volunteer service in the school year. The failure to give the twenty hours of volunteer service will result in a $300 assessment fee per family due by May 20th.
The members of the executive board of the H.S.A., who manage the Volunteer Service Program, may be contacted for information about the service activities. A comprehensive list of such activities can be found in a ledger book kept in the school office. The recording of hours worked is to be entered into this book by each volunteer.
In Saint Brendan School, a student's birthday is honored by permission to be out of uniform for that day. If a birthday falls on a weekend or holiday, another day may be selected by the student with approval by the teacher. Appropriate apparel for school must be chosen.
Parents are welcome to send goodies to school with their child on birthdays, but treats need to fall into the cookie/brownie/cupcake category to simplify the process of distributing the goodies to children.
Birthday invitations to parties outside of school must be mailed from home.
Reasonable care of the school buildings, furnishings, books, and instructional materials is emphasized at all times. Parents are requested to render active support to this program. In this manner, operational and maintenance expenses can be held to a minimum. If any book is torn or defaced payment must be made for the replacement. Books must be covered at all times. Marking or in any way destroying school property or uniforms is inexcusable and subject to disciplinary action. This may include paying for repairs. CHEWING GUM IS NOT ALLOWED IN THE CLASSROOM OR ON THE SCHOOL PREMISES IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN CLEANINESS AND HYGIENIC CONDITIONS.
Desks / Storage Cubes / Lockers
The school is the co-tenant of all storage areas and desks and reserves the right to search them at any time without notice. Defacing desks, chairs, “cubes” or lockers is strictly forbidden.
All visitors, including parent volunteers to the school, except at the times of public function, must sign in/out at the school office and receive a badge before going through the school.
Parents are to schedule conferences in advance at times convenient for both teachers and parents. Conferences will be scheduled at such times that they do not interrupt or interfere with a teacher's class.
Students are not permitted to have visitors during the school day.
We make every effort to keep interruptions of the instructional program to a minimum. Therefore, teachers and students will not be called to the phone during the school day.
- Messages to students from parents will be taken and delivered by the School Secretary.
- Parents are encouraged to e-mail teachers @ www.stbrendanormond.org. Electronic Devices are not allowed on campus: CD players, MP3 players, games, etc. will be confiscated and held for parent to pick up after school hours. Cell phones must be turned off and placed in lockers or backpacks during the school day. Students found with cell phones during the school day will have them confiscated and held for parent pick up after school hours. Repeated violations will result in further disciplinary measures.
Toys, pagers, disc players, MP3 players, laser pointers etc, may not be brought to school. Articles which have been found, other than textbooks and library books, should be taken to Lost and Found. Library books and textbooks should be taken to the library.
Lost articles can be claimed by proper identification. The school is not responsible for any items that are lost or missing.
Progress Reports are issued mid-way between the marking periods to keep parents informed of the student's progress. Cooperation between the school and home is absolutely essential for a child's successful academic achievement.
Report Cards are issued at the end of each quarter and are an indication of a student’s achievement in various academic areas along with their effort and conduct. Parents are asked to sign and comment on each report and then return the card promptly to the school. Formal parent/teacher conferences will be held annually, usually at the end of the first marking period. Individual conferences may be made with specific teachers. In Kindergarten and First grade, specific, detailed report cards are issued tailored to the needs of that age group. They are distinguishable and unique for those grades and St. Brendan School. In Grades 1-8, students are graded quarterly in each subject area with a letter grade for achievement and students in grade 1-8 will also be graded on conduct. Students in Pre-K and Kindergarten are issued reports at mid-year and the end of the year. Mandatory exams are given in all major subjects in grades 6-8, for the mid-year and the end of the year. Any student not taking any of these exams will receive an F for each exam missed.
Grades 6-8:
Grade Percent Range Grade Point Equivalent A 90-100 4.0 B 80-89 3.0 C 70-79 2.0 D 60-69 1.0 F 59 & below (not passing) SPECIALS: S – Satisfactory N - Needs Improvement CONDUCT: (1) – Satisfactory (2) - Needs Improvement
Grades 1 – 5:
- A - Outstanding
- B - Above Standard
- C - Meets Standard
- D - Below Standard
- F - Failing
- ( 1 ) Satisfactory
- ( 2 ) Needs Improvement
The following criteria have been established for grades 6-8 for the Honor Roll:
- Academic Excellence: 4.0
- High Honors: 3.5 – 3.9
- Honors: 3.0 – 3.4
Students must also have Satisfactory in all Specials.
Parents' Right To Review Records
Parents may have access to review their child's records. This request must be made in writing to the principal and the school will respond to the request within twenty-four hours. In the absence of a court order, a non-custodial parent has access to the academic records and to other school related information regarding the child. If there is a Court Order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with a copy of the Court Order.
Mutual understanding between home and school plays an important role in the development of the child. The following points will help produce a harmonious teacher-parent relationship and a level of understanding that is essential.
- When in doubt regarding some school regulation, please contact the school office to clarify your question.
- Faculty members will be happy to make arrangements for a conference with any parent at a time that is convenient for both parties. Arrangements may be made through the office or by a note or e-mail to the teacher.
- Parents may not disturb a member of the teaching staff or a student, before school, in the morning, during the school day or during dismissal. Items that students forget may be left at the office.
- Appointments with the Principal may be made by calling the office.
- You are encouraged to communicate with your child's teacher when and if difficulties arise, whether they are academic or disciplinary in nature, before contacting the principal.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES, CONTESTS, SCIENCE FAIR, SOCIAL STUDIES FAIR, SPELLING BEE, POETRY AND VARIOUS ESSAY AND POSTER CONTESTS
The Student Council provides the leadership in promoting the goals of Saint Brendan School. It is responsible for organizing spiritual, educational, and social activities. Student Council is a main channel of communication between students and administration. It is open to all students in the school who qualify for membership. The Student Council is advisory in nature and all procedures and activities must meet with the approval of the faculty advisor and Principal. To be eligible for and to maintain the status of this office, a student must meet the following requirements:
- Must have a current G.P.A. of 2.0;
- Must not have a grade in conduct lower than “Satisfactory” (1).
- Must fulfill the eligibility requirements as set forth by the Student Council Constitution.
Like the Student Council, the NJHS provides the leadership in promoting the goals of Saint Brendan School. It is limited to Grade 8 students with induction of new members taking place for 7th graders during Catholic Schools Week. The following is the established criteria for selection to the Saint Brendan National Junior Honor Society based on the guidelines issued by the National Council of the NJHS:
- Membership is an honor bestowed upon a student in grade 7 or 8.
- Candidates must have been in attendance in Saint Brendan School the equivalent of one semester.
- Candidates must have a cumulative scholastic average of at least 3.5 and a "Satisfactory” (1) in school conduct. Candidates will then be evaluated on the basis of service, leadership, character, and leadership.
- Selection for membership is by a faculty council.
- Once selected, members have the responsibility to continue to demonstrate the above five qualities necessary for membership. Failure to do so may result in the student being placed on probation.
Students may be referred to the Guidance Counselor by the administration or Faculty for academic or social problems. The student may also request to Guidance Services. The Guidance Counselor will determine if the parent needs to be notified of the problem.
Students who are interested may participate in activities, which will result in a school yearbook and also a school newspaper. Both of these activities are moderated by faculty members.
Saint Brendan School offers several activities in which the students may participate if they meet the academic and physical requirements. Some sports activities are cheerleading, basketball, golf, tennis. We do not intend to place total emphasis on these activities, and we ask you to follow the same practice.
However, for a well-rounded education, we offer a balance between academic studies and extracurricular activities so that one has the opportunity to develop intellectually, morally, emotionally, physically and culturally. Parental permission is required for students who participate in these programs.
A student who participates in any school or sport activity must maintain passing grades in all subject areas and also in conduct. Students who do not maintain a 2.0 may not participate in the activity until progress reports are sent. Students who participate in sports activities must maintain a yearly physical examination by a physician. Students who are absent from school may not participate or be present at any activity after school or be present on school property. Students who miss excessive amounts of practice without permission may not be able to participate in games.
Assemblies are scheduled periodically for the students for educational enrichment. Assemblies provide an opportunity for children to personally experience public speaking, and they teach children proper audience behavior and appreciation.
Parents are invited and encouraged to attend any school assembly, function, Mass, etc., even if their child is not actively participating. Your presence gives support and at the same time, helps you keep in touch with the school.
Extra-Curricular Activities and assemblies are student privileges. Students who have less than satisfactory conduct/effort may lose some privileges during the school year.
Students may buy lunch daily in the cafeteria. Milk, juice or water may also be purchased. Menus will be issued at the beginning of each month, and lunches are paid for on a daily or weekly basis. Children may also bring lunch from home. In an emergency, students may charge lunch for the day and pay the following day. No further credit will be allowed until the original debt is paid.
Written notification of a change in address or telephone number is to be sent to the school office immediately when the change is made. This is necessary to keep our files as current as possible.
Periodically, students are taken on field trips as a part of their educational program. These trips are considered a privilege and a student may be denied participation if he/she fails to meet academic or behavioral requirements. When such trips are being planned, permission forms will be sent home to be signed and returned to school. Forms, other than the school form, will not be accepted. Any student who fails to submit the Diocese of Orlando Permission Form signed by a parent will not be allowed to participate. Telephone calls will not be accepted in lieu of the proper form being completed. A parent has the right to refuse to allow the child to participate in the field trip.
Any student who does not participate in the field trip must report to school. All trips are supervised by the classroom teacher and other adults. Students must remain for the entire class trip and be dismissed from school. The school is not liable for any accidents occurring during the class trip. When participating in a field trip, all school rules and sanctions apply.
Fire / Tornado / Lockdown Drills
In compliance with State Law regarding fire and tornado regulations, drills are held monthly throughout the school year. Students are trained to move quickly and quietly to their designated locations. Fire equipment is inspected in accordance with state law requirements. Lockdown drills are scheduled at different times during the year.
Homework may be either a written assignment or a study assignment. The homework policy for St. Brendan’s is:
- Grades 1 and 2 20 – 30 minutes
- Grades 3, 4 and 5 45 – 60 minutes
- Grades 6, 7 and 8 60 – 90 minutes
Parents should not do their child's homework, but parents should supervise home study and train the child to present her/his work to them for approval. Advice and direction are sometimes needed, but the child develops self-confidence and a sense of responsibility when working independently.
If definite study has not been assigned for the night, it is advisable for the student to review her/his work in preparation for the next day's classes. Saint Brendan Student Planners are given to students in grade 3-8 and are utilized in each grade based on the specific teacher guidelines. Additional planners used as replacements can be purchased in the school store. Also see attendance/absence policy re homework.
Every student is covered by the Diocese of Orlando Insurance Plan during school hours. The cost of the coverage is included in the book fee. Optional 24-hour coverage is offered by requesting forms from the office. In the event of an injury, it is the responsibility of the parents to request a claim form from the office.
The Saint Brendan School Library is staffed by a full-time librarian who manages the library, and provides a number of instructional services including li- brary/study skills lessons, storytelling, audio- visual productions, computer lessons, and supervision of private group study.
The library and media center provides a variety of materials for teachers and students including books, pamphlets, periodicals, filmstrips, videotapes, DVDs, CDs and equipment.
Library materials may be borrowed for one (1) week. Fines for overdue materials will be charged for days school is in session. Report cards will be held at the end of each semester and the end of year until fines are paid or materials returned.
Every month, information about school projects, important dates and happenings, etc, will be sent home or posted on our web page. Every effort will be made to have this to you at the beginning of the month. Please read what is sent home to you. Information will be sent to you through the YOUNGEST and/or ONLY child in the family in the COMMUNICATION ENVELOPES each Wednesday. Class papers to be signed and returned to school will be sent home in the school folder.
School pictures are taken yearly. The dates when the pictures will be taken will be announced at the beginning of the school year. The purchase of these pictures is optional.
The IOWA Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) is conducted annually in Grades 2 through 8. This testing takes place in the October for grades 3-8 and in Spring for Grades 2, 5 & 7. It is designed primarily for following a student's growth from year to year within each subject area.
This testing is valuable because the scoring is scaled to provide useful information for the teachers in evaluating and continuing the improvement of the student's educational progress.
Cognitive test are also administered to the students three times during their eight years of elementary school in Grades 3, 5 and 7. Skill Profile Sheets are distributed upon the return of the achievement tests to the parents.
Fifth and Eighth grade students also take a religious education test (ACRE) in February.
For the safety of our children, students being transported by car are to be discharged and picked up next to the curb by the school building. Students are reminded to watch out for all traffic, and no parent or child should walk between the cars at anytime. All students should use the crosswalk when going to or from the parking lot.
- PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN ARE TO BE DROPPED OFF AND PICKED UP IN THE EAST BEACHSIDE CIRCLE LOT.
- GRADES ONE THROUGH EIGHT ARE TO BE DROPPED OFF AND PICKED UP IN THE WEST PARKING LOT.
- ALL STUDENTS ARE RELEASED AT 3:00 PM.
- FOR THE SAFETY OF OUR CHILDREN, PARENTS SHOULD NOT WALK THROUGH OR LEAD THEIR CHILDREN THROUGH THE DISMISSAL CAR LINE, USE THE SAFETY CROSSWALK.
- FOR THE SAFETY OF OUR CHILDREN, PARENTS SHOULD NOT CONFERENCE WITH TEACHERS DURING DISMISSAL.
- There are only two drop off and pick up locations. For the safety of our children, please do not ask your child to meet you at any other location. In order to insure proper supervision, students must be picked up or dropped off at one of the two sites.
The Diocese of Orlando is committed to doing everything in its power to ensure the safety of all those entrusted to its care. All employees and volunteers must complete a Criminal Background Check Form and a Fingerprint Card. There is a processing charge, which is approximately $40.00 or more. Persons who have undergone a fingerprint screening within the past seven years and who provide proof of same need not be re-fingerprinted or undergo a criminal background investigation until the expiration of the seven-year period.
The education of the child involves a cooperative enterprise between home and school. You, as a parent, are urged to contribute your suggestions and viewpoints concerning the educational needs of your child. The most efficient means to carry out this privilege is to become an active member of the H.S.A. The objectives of this organization are as follows:
- To help parents and teachers develop a mutual understanding and appreciation of the ideals of Catholic education; namely, message, community, service, and worship.
- To provide programs, opportunities, and funds that will:
- Assist the children to develop a personal and community lifestyle grounded on Catholic teaching and Gospel Values.
- Foster the religious, intellectual, physical, cultural and social development of each child.
- Enhance the ability of parents to participate actively and effectively in their child's education.
All parents are members of the H.S.A. upon registration of their children. You are cordially invited to participate in all activities of the H.S.A. and attend the monthly meetings.
The Saint Brendan School Board is a body whose members are selected and/or elected by the parish to participate in decision-making in designated areas of responsibility.
Usually these areas include planning, development, public relations and marketing.
In addition to the Board members, the Pastor and his Associates, the Principal, an H.S.A. representative, and a Parish Council representative serve on the School Board. The Board is advisory and meets monthly on the First Wednesday of the month.
To assist the school in maintaining quality education, there must be effective communication between parents, students, teachers, and the administration. To help young people develop the self-control necessary to succeed to the best of their ability, adults are obligated to teach and give good example. Parents need to develop in their children good habits of behavior as well as proper attitudes toward school. To help children, all parents should:
- Recognize that the teacher takes the place of the parent while the child is in school.
- Teach and explain to children respect for law, for authority, for the rights of others, and for private and public property.
- Talk with children about school programs, activities, and share an interest in pupil progress. Praise improvement demonstrated by the child on progress reports.
- Insist on prompt and regular school attendance and comply with attendance rules and procedures.
- Be responsible for periodic health examinations for children.
- Make every effort to attend individual and group parent-teacher conferences.
- Arrange for a time and place for students to complete homework assignments.
- Work with the school in a cooperative effort to carry out recommendations made in the best interest of the child.
- Understand and comply with the rules of the school concerning pupil conduct and cooperate with the school in carrying out disciplinary action.
- Explain and review periodically the Catholic-Christian behavior with the child.
- Parents, who are Catholic, must be practicing Catholics; accept responsibility for their child/ren's Sunday Mass Attendance; and live the Catholic values in the home.
As a student, you attend school so that you develop your individual capabilities to their full potential. To accomplish this, you need to:
- Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Develop personal standards of conduct that are reflected in socially approved behavior. Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Accept responsibility for your own actions. Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Respect the rights of others. Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Obey school rules and regulations. Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Be regular and punctual in attending school and classes. Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Observe the Dress Code, which is:
- Neatness and cleanliness at all times
- Your attire needs to be modest and in good taste and appropriate for the classroom at all times
- The same good taste observed during school hours needs to be carried over in personal life. Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Help maintain school property and keep the school environment free from damage and defacement. Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Recognize that the teacher takes the place of your parent in school. Make a sincere effort to do your best work.
- Pray, think and act as a Christian.
The ultimate objective of school discipline is student growth in abilities, attitudes, and habits, which are essential to acceptable standards of behavior. The immediate objective of school discipline is to maintain effective teaching/ learning conditions. Discipline will be administered when any individual's actions interfere with the right of teachers to teach and students to learn. Students are reminded that any teacher or staff member in the school has the right to correct unruly individuals at any place at any time. Hopefully, the occasion to invoke serious penalties will rarely occur.
However, if flagrant violations of school rules take place or repeated indifference to correction is demonstrated, appropriate disciplinary action must be taken.
As a member of the Body of Christ and part of the community of St. Brendan Catholic School, each person has a right to be treated with respect and dignity. No student has the right to treat another in any way, which will cause physical or emotional pain. Some, but not all, examples of this behavior are the following: name calling, put downs, starting or spreading rumors, lying about another person, physical threats, intimidation, insults, negative gestures, facial expressions and writing/drawing unkind notes or pictures, and cyberbulling. Appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken for violations of this policy.
Detention is the basic disciplinary sanction. Teachers may use detention at their own discretion. A detention slip is issued and must be signed and returned the next day. Failure to attend detention sessions as scheduled will result in the assignment of additional time or may result in suspension.
In guiding the child’s growth in Christian attitudes and in habits of virtue, it is the school’s policy to emphasize the positive rather than the negative. Students are young, developing people who posses strengths, hopes and expectations. These young people depend on the adults in their lives to model Christian values and conduct. Knowing their limits and school rules will help them in making choices. St. Brendan School is committed to fairness in dealing with any discipline problem, so in most cases, the Administration or disciplinarian will make every effort to tell the students what he/she did that was wrong. The students and teacher will both be given a chance to be heard.
Grades Pre-K – 5
Early childhood, primary and elementary teachers work with the children at various developmental stages that require individualized methods of discipline. At this level, any serious difficulties first would be brought to the attention of the parents by the classroom teacher. If the behavior continues, the Administration will be advised, and parents will be called in for a conference.
Grades 6 – 8
Most often, disciplinary measures will be handled by the classroom/special teachers using a step-by-step procedure. For example:
- Step one - Verbal warning
- Step two - Written warning – name placed on parental notification form
- Step three – Parent notification sent home and consequence assigned such as lunch detention, recess detention, cafeteria cleanup, loss of special area
- Step four – Parent notification sent home and consequence assigned such as before or after- school detention or in-school suspension
- Step five (severe clause) – Student is sent to principal, parents are called immediately However, if the situation or behavior continues on a regular basis, then the parents will be notified and the student may be placed on a Behavior Contract.
All students need to be aware of the following rules and discipline procedures.
- Respect for all authority is expected.
- Students are expected to respect and accept fellow classmates.
- Students will be in complete uniform each day as specified in the section on school uniforms.
- Being on time for school and reporting to individual classes on time is expected.
- Students are expected to play fairly.
- Fighting is not a solution to a problem and is not permitted, under any circumstances.
- The use or possession of illegal drugs or illegal mood altering substances, alcoholic beverages, drug-related paraphernalia, or the abuse of prescription or over the counter drugs by any student on school properly or while attending or participating in any school sponsored activity or at anytime the student is wearing a school uniform is forbidden. Transgression of this rule will result in disciplinary action, which may include dismissal from the school, even for a first offense.
- Any student, who for any reason, is found to have a weapon or any object deemed inappropriate by the principal will be subject to immediate expulsion.
- Any student, who threatens another student/teacher either physically, verbally, written expression, by e-mail, or on profiles posted on a website will be subject to immediate suspension which may result in expulsion.
- Cheating is a form of stealing, therefore; copying homework, using notes during a test, receiving answers from another student, or copying verbatim from the Internet is not allowed.
- Any student who displays inappropriate behavior or conduct unbecoming a Christian student and contrary to the good order of the entire school will be subject to disciplinary action.
- Students who abuse their computer time will lose their privilage. When students from the primary/elementary grades are responsible for more serious disciplinary infractions, the administration, after informing the parents involved, will look into the matter, will determine the severity of the misconduct and will take appropriate action.
The principal and/or pastor is the final recourse in all disciplinary situations and may waive any and all regulations for just cause at his or her discretion.
At the beginning of the school year, classroom rules and school policies will be discussed with the students. Appropriate behavior will be expected for all students and consequences of choices made will be fairly treated. Please note that St. Brendan School is committed to act in a fair and moral manner regarding any disciplinary action. Students will be told the nature of the offense and will be given an opportunity to present their side of the story. At the first Parent Teacher Meeting, Teachers will discuss with the parents the school and classroom policies. Parents are expected to uphold and support these policies by their words and actions.
PLEASE NOTE: A student accused of a serious wrong may be placed on a home- study program.
When a child is sent directly to the Principal for disciplinary consequences, it is regarded as a serious matter. There will be a record of the student’s visit made by the Administration.
The following consequences will apply:
- First Referral –an Administrator or guidance counselor will have a conference with the student to counsel about behavior.
- Second Referral –an Administrator will contact parent by telephone and/or writing and a consequence will be assigned.
- Third Referral - is a serious matter and the student may be suspended. However, a student may be suspended at any time if the situation warrants.
Suspension may be given to a student for serious infractions of the school rules. Or to a student who has a pattern of less than satisfactory conduct or effort. The student will be removed from the classroom for one to three days. For an Out-Of-School Suspension parents must provide supervision and student receives a zero for all assignments due or completed during the time of suspension. During this time the student is ineligible to participate in any school sponsored activity. In addition, the student is placed on Probation until the next Progress Report or Report Card is distributed.
Following a formal suspension, the st