| Pastor | Rev. Alden J. Sison |
| Principal | Mrs. Kathleen Delgado |
| Kindergarten – Room 8 | Mrs. Angela Boyce |
| Grade 1- Room 9 | Mrs. Ellen Driess |
| Sr. Michelle Hetherington | |
| Grade 2- Room 10 |
Mrs. Susan Romero |
| Grade 3- Room 11 |
Mrs. Jean Poole |
| Grade 4- Room 12 |
Ms. Eileen Hawe |
| Grade 5- Room 16 | Mrs. Lisa Williams |
| Grade 6- Room 15 | Ms. Ana Fernandez |
| Grade 7- Room 14 | Ms. Stephanie Werth |
| Grade 8- Room 13 |
Ms. Rose Kennedy |
| Computer Teacher | Ms. Jodi Heim |
| Teacher Assistant (K) | Mrs. Marilou Manlapaz |
| Teacher Assistant (2nd) | Ms. Angela Ransick |
| Clinic |
Mrs. Margaret Lundin |
| Ms. Amanda Cortez | Physical Education |
| Music | Mrs. Kathleen Schechter |
| Librarian |
Mrs. Beverly Borra |
| Secretary | Mrs. Blanca Benitez |
| Office Assistant |
Ms. Dora Godina |
| School Custodian |
Mr. Rogelio Leal |
| School Maintenance | Mrs. Juana Leal |
| Director Crusader Club Day Care | Mrs. Mary Cortez |
MISSION STATEMENT OF OUR LADY OF THE VALLEY SCHOOL
As educators and learners in a Catholic environment centered in Jesus Christ we work in partnership with parents to prepare our students to become fully active members of the Catholic Church, to serve others, and make a difference in the world. Our commitment to the total development of the child provides students with a level of literacy and fluency that enables them to be morally responsible citizens of the world; competent, productive contributors to the workforce; and thinking, fulfilled individuals in a diverse society.
Jesus Christ is the foundation for our community, The Catholic School in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. His call to teach is our inspiration; His Image the model for our students. In partnership with parents, we prepare our students to become full and active members of the Catholic Church, to serve others, and to make a difference in the world. We commit our schools to provide a quality education so that a Catholic Education is an advantage for life.
“ A vision for Catholic school”
Department of Catholic schools,
Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
As partners in the education of children, we at Our Lady of the Valley school recognize parents as the primary educators of their children in our Catholic Community. The faculty and administration strive to inspire and model Gospel values enabling students to adopt them, live them, and extend them to the community.
The educators of our school community are dedicated to the spiritual, intellectual, social, moral aesthetic, and physical growth of its members and to the development of each person according to the example and teaching of Christ. We affirm that each child is unique, and that the dignity and potential of each individual should be respected.
We are committed to nurturing a community, which encourages understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity. While celebrating the diversity of our community, we define ourselves as members of one body, The Body of Christ. With this philosophy in mind, Our Lady of the Valley school community has chosen Schoolwide Learning Expectations which will enable learners to graduate well prepared scholastically and with a Catholic identity.
Students of Our Lady of the Valley School are:
· who make faith an integral part of their lives
· who foster an atmosphere of love, peace, respect and the sacredness of human life
· who take opportunities for service at home, school, parish and community
· who understand, but still grow in basic truths of the Catholic faith
· who are critical, creative, independent thinkers, responsible decision makers and communicators
· who motivate themselves to continue a desire to learn
· who are able to use current technology constructively
· who are prepared to pass the entrance exam for Catholic high school
· who are able to relate academic learning to practical life experiences
· who accept themselves as unique individuals and others for who they are
· who are confident and cooperative in relationships
· who accept responsibility for their actions
· who recognize the needs of others and involve themselves in reaching out
· who understand their obligation to promote social justice and work for peace
· who respect and care for the earth and its resources
· who can utilize cognitive thinking skills such as reading, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis and judgment/evaluation
· who know and use research methodology
· who can use problem solving skills in everyday situations
· who can apply knowledge
· who are able to set goals and design a plan of action
· who complete tasks assigned
· who are self-disciplined
· who are responsible for making healthy choices
· who are leaders and participate with the entire group
· who are aware of the deep richness and contributions of many cultures to society
· who observe, enjoy, and admire God’s inspirations through the fine arts
· who understand local and global environmental issues
In 1948, during the Silver Jubilee of Our Lady of the Valley Parish, a new parochial school and convent were erected and placed under the direction of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. The original building consisted of four classrooms, an office and a first aid room. Four more classrooms were added in 1952, and by 1968, the total plant was completed including eight more classrooms and an auditorium.
Though the school was flourishing, a decline in religious vocations made it necessary to gradually reduce the number of rooms for classrooms teaching to the present nine.
In September 1972, some of the empty classrooms were utilized by opening a school library, a faculty room and a clinic. Our first kindergarten opened in September 1974. Other vacant classrooms have been put to practical use by Religious Education, Youth Ministry, Parish Ministry Center, Spanish Ministry and Adult Education. The total plant has been fully utilized since the summer of 1979 when a resource room was established as a teacher center for instructional materials. In September 1980, a small storage room in the Parish Hall was converted to a special remedial reading room.
In order to meet the growing needs of the students, the Parents’ Association donated a Computer Lab, located in the Resource Room, in September 1985. It has provided students in grades K through 8 the opportunity of developing skills in computer programming.
In the Fall of 1990, Writing to Read was added for the primary grades. 15 new PS2/25 computers and 2 printers were provided by the Riordan Foundation.
In the Spring of 1989, the principal did not renew her contract and no other sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet applied for the position and the school hired its first lay principal.
In 1998, the school celebrated its 50th anniversary with a dinner hosting several present and former teachers and administrators as well as Bishop Wilkerson and the Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Jerome Porath. Another celebration was held during the summer, which included many former students and their families.
1. Registered, supporting and involved families living within the geographical area of the parish having other children already enrolled have first preference.
2. If a registered, supporting and involved family from another parish, having children who have been attending Catholic school, moves in to our area, they are given high consideration.
3. If a registered, supporting and involved family from another city, having children who have been attending Catholic School, moves into our area, they are given high consideration.
4. Registered, supporting members living in the geographical area have next preference. The determining factor will be involvement in parish life.
5. Our Lady of the Valley School does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnic origin or sex.
6. Birth certificate, Baptismal certificate, Social Security Number and the child’s latest report card, as well as proof of immunization must be presented at registration time; also, First Communion and/or Confirmation Certificate if applicable
7. Conduct grades must be satisfactory.
8. Parents must agree to actively support the spiritual and academic standards of the school.
9. Students registering for kindergarten must be 5 years of age by September 30th . Testing is usually scheduled for March or April. Students registering for Grade 1 must be 6 years old by October 15th, and must take a placement test. All incoming students grades K – 8 must take a placement test.
10. Final determination will be made by the Pastor and Principal. Placement test scores and report records from previous school will be part of the decision of acceptance or non-acceptance.
1. Re-admission of students currently enrolled is based on #’s 2,6,7,8,9 and 10 above.
2. Tuition and other fees for the current school year must be up-to-date.
3. The Principal may request, with the Pastor’s approval, the withdrawal of any student whose
conduct, effort and academic grades are consistently unsatisfactory or whose parents do not
cooperate with school policy.
This elementary school admits students of any race, color, racial or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, racial or ethnic origin or religious belief in administration of its education policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. This elementary school does not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of sex, and does not discriminate against any applicant or pupil because of sex in admissions, educational programs and activities.
Kindergarten 8:00-2:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday
First Bell 8:00 a.m.
Tardy Bell 8:05 a.m.
Recess 10:00-10:20
Kinder Lunch 12-12:50
Dismissal 2:50 Monday-Thursday for grades 1-8
Friday Dismissals 12:30 every Friday K-8
12:30 on days before vacations K-8
No student is to arrive at school before 7:45 unless enrolled in morning day-care.
NO STUDENT IS PERMITTED TO LEAVE THE SCHOOL GROUNDS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY UNLESS SIGNED OUT BY AN AUTHORIZED ADULT.
ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO LEAVE THE SCHOOL GROUNDS IMMEDIATELY AFTER DISMISSAL unless they are involved in a supervised activity. There is supervision after school only for those students enrolled in the Crusader Club Extended Day Care and/or the supervised sports program. Your cooperation is most essential for the safety of your child.
AT NO TIME MAY A STUDENT LEAVE THE SCHOOL GROUNDS WITHOUT SCHOOL PERMISSION. THIS IS A SERIOUS OFFENSE. This includes before, during or after school. Example: Student may not go down the street to a fast food place between school and after school events. A note from a parent will not be acceptable. Failure to obey this rule may result in suspension, removal from a team, or expulsion. This policy will be enforced for the students’ safety.
Students participating in any after school activity must be picked up as soon as the activity ends. Otherwise they will be sent to Crusader Club and parents charged accordingly.
On early dismissal days (12:30), please, make arrangements for your children to be picked up PROMPTLY. If the Faculty Meeting is away from school, all teachers need to leave immediately. It is inconsiderate to expect teachers or office staff to supervise those children left here, thereby being late themselves. If parents are late picking up children, the students will be sent to Day-care and parents will be assessed a fee. Students may not walk out of the school gates to wait for parents. They must remain within the play area gates.
Please notify clinic at (818)340-3544 before 10:00 a.m. in cases of absences or tardiness, or leave a message at any time in advance of the absence. We would appreciate your attention to this in order to keep us from having to make too many calls. However, we will call your home or business after 10:00 a.m. if you have not called us. This is a safety precaution.
The Tardy Bell rings at 8:05 a.m. The gates are closed at this time and all students must first enter through the office in order to enter class. Tardiness is very disruptive to all students and the teacher. Five tardies within a trimester will result in a detention. Fifteen tardies will result in a suspension. Please review the suspension policy and requirements for re-admission. Any student with an excess of five tardies will not be eligible for a grade of Outstanding in conduct for that trimesterr.
If a student has a medical, dental, eye or educational appointment during the school hours, the parent or guardian must inform the teacher by means of a written note, which is dated and signed. This note should indicate the time when the student is to be released from class and when he/she is expected to return to class. At the appointed time, the parent or guardian should go to the office and sign the child out. No student may leave the premises during the school hours unless signed out by an adult whose name is on the emergency card. A written certification from the doctor or dentist stating the time of release should be requested at the doctor’s office and given to the teacher upon the student’s return. The certification from the doctor is the ONLY LEGAL reason a student may not be counted tardy or absent.
With Friday 12:30 p.m. dismissal for all grades, we strongly encourage you to make appointments on these afternoons and not during school hours.
1. When a pupil has been absent, a written excuse giving date and reason for absence and signed by the parent or guardian is required; these must be kept on file until the end of the official grading period.
2. When a pupil is absent without an excuse, the situation should be investigated and appropriate remedies applied. Truancy will be reported to the attendance officer of the local public school district.
3. If a pupil is absent for fifteen or more days during a trimester marking period, official grades may be withheld. This decision is, however, left to the judgment of the local administrator.
4. Parents must call the Health Office when a child has a communicable disease, (i.e., chicken pox, strep throat, head lice, pink eye, etc.). This information is needed so that we may notify other parents that their children have been exposed to such diseases. When a child has recovered from a communicable disease, a doctor’s release is REQUIRED for re-entry to school.
5. A pupil absent from school because of television or movie contracts is considered as an ordinary absentee and is marked as such in the Pupil Attendance Register. (cf.rk. Permits: Art. 8400).
6. If, for family reasons, parents wish to take their children out of school temporarily, the Principal and teacher should discuss with the parents the possible effects of such an absence. It is suggested that a record of the recommendations made to parents be kept on file.
7. Children are dismissed through the office or clinic only. Dismissal must be noted in the release book; then the office personnel will send for the student.
8. All messages and forgotten items are to be brought to the office, never to the classroom. Please, do not interrupt a teacher while class is in session. Lunches are to be sent with the student in the morning; P.E clothes are to be brought to school by the student on P.E class days.
Students are expected to work to the best of their ability. Each student is expected to come to school daily with an attitude conducive to learning and with the supplies necessary to complete assignments. Homework is to be completed neatly and turned in on time.
Most students should be able to maintain passing marks in all subject areas. D’s, F’s or unsatisfactory marks are signs for concern and possible academic probation. In the case of a pupil with a severe learning difficulty, special testing may be necessary to determine which type of educational setting best fits the student’s needs. It may be necessary to recognize that the parochial school is not equipped to meet the needs of every student and that a transfer to another school may be necessary. Retention may be necessary if a child is not making sufficient progress.
The basic curriculum prescribed for all elementary schools, beginning in kindergarten and continuing through eighth, includes the following areas:
Religion Social Studies Reading
Language Arts Spelling Handwriting
Science Art Music
Physical Education Computer Literacy
The offering of additional instructional programs and services is dependent on the available resources and needs of each school.
The purpose of homework is to reinforce material already taught and to foster habits of independent study.
Assessment of student learning is a critical component of the educational program; it is ongoing and multifaceted. To help all students achieve high standards and become self directed, responsible, and faith filled individuals, schools shall assess student learning with standardized and curriculum-based forms of assessment.
Each year students in grades 2 through 8 participate in standardized testing using the Iowa Basic Skills test. The Assessment of Catholic Religious Education (ACRE) is designed to assess the religious knowledge and outcomes of Catholic school religious programs. The assessments are administered annually to Grade Five and Grade Eight.
Field trips shall be of educational or cultural value and directly related to the curriculum.
Parent permission slips must be completed by a parent/guardian before a student can participate in a field trip.
The decision to promote a pupil to the next grade or to retain him/her in the present grade should be based upon a consideration of the overall welfare of the pupil, (i.e. made by carefully weighing academic, emotional and social factors).
In the event that retention is under consideration, the following guidelines should be applied:
· The teacher is responsible for consistent evaluation. Initially, the teacher should provide remedial help to the pupil within the school setting, either by individualized instruction or tutoring. If such help proves to be inadequate, the teacher should advise the parents to arrange for academic testing or outside remedial help, such as professional tutoring, remedial learning center or a summer session.
· Withholding of diploma: If a student merits two “F”s on the final report card, the diploma can be withheld until a passing grade is achieved in summer school. All fees and tuition must be current.
The school grants full credit for all work a student accomplishes up to the time of transfer.
Written notification to the principal of intent to withdraw a student is required.
When a student transfers from one school district to another, or to a private school, or transfers from a private school to a school district within the state, a copy of the Cumulative Student Report and the original Health record shall be transferred by the former district or private school upon the request from the district or private school where the pupil intends to enroll.
SCHOOL POLICIES
The discipline policy of Our Lady of the Valley School is based on the following two principles:
ANY BEHAVIOR WHICH INTERFERES WITH A TEACHER TEACHING OR A STUDENT LEARNING IS UNACCEPTABLE.
EVERYONE AT OUR LADY OF THE VALLEY SCHOOL MUST SHOW RESPECT FOR ALL PEOPLE, PROPERTY, RULES, AND IDEAS.
All students are expected to:
· Follow all classroom rules established by teachers
· Refrain from chewing gum
· Show acceptable, non-violent behavior in play and language
· Be on time for school and prepared for class
· Follow all uniform guidelines
Detention will be held every Tuesday at lunch from 12:25 – 12:50. Any student who receives a detention within the previous week is expected to attend. Detention should be considered very seriously at home. Forms must be signed by a parent and returned the following day. Three detentions within a 90-day period will cause an automatic suspension requiring a parent- student conference with an administrator prior to returning to school. Six detentions will require a behavior contract for the balance of the year. This may result in not being asked back for the next school year.
Students at Our Lady of the Valley School are expected to conform to appropriate standards of behavior. Any behavior or activity which interferes with the education process of Our Lady of the Valley School or which is contrary to the atmosphere of a Christian community, including conduct detrimental to the reputation of Our Lady of the Valley, will be considered reason for disciplinary action. The principal will determine appropriate disciplinary action, which may include suspension or expulsion.
Should serious discipline problems arise, the policy on discipline dealing with such problems in the Archdiocesan Handbook for Schools will be followed. The Archdiocesan policy for suspension/expulsion is as follows:
a. Actions gravely detrimental to the moral and spiritual welfare of other students
b. Habitual profanity or vulgarity
c. Continued willful disobedience
d. Open , persistent defiance of the authority of the teacher
e. Assault, battery, or any threat of force or violence directed toward any school personnel or student
f. Smoking or having tobacco, matches, lighter or any other highly flammable material.
g. Use, sale, or possession of narcotics
h. Use, sale, distribution, or possession of any alcohol for beverage purposes on or near school premises
i. Cutting, defacing, graffiti, or otherwise injuring in any way property belonging to the school, parish or any fellow student or school employee. Cost of repairs or replacement of materials will be the responsibility of the person(s) committing the offense
j. Repeated cheating
k. Stealing
l. Habitual truancy
m. Leaving the school grounds during school hours without signing out at the office.
n. Possession of or use of knives, guns, (toy or other), any material that can be used as a weapon or any sharp objects that can cause bodily harm.
o. Membership in, active involvement in, affiliation with or dressing as a member of a gang or group responsible for coercive or violent behavior is grounds for expulsion.
Suspension means that the student:
· does not attend school on the day/days of his/her suspension
· is responsible for all work missed
· may not participate in or attend any school-sponsored activity including practice games, tournaments, etc.
· will merit a lowered behavior grade
Expulsion means that the student will be asked to leave the school permanently.
The principal, in consultation with the pastor, is the final recourse in all disciplinary matters and can, for just cause, at his/her discretion waive any disciplinary regulation.
The Archdiocesan policy states that each school is committed to provide a learning environment that is safe and free from harassment in any form, and that should a child believe he or she has been treated unfairly by derogatory comments or actions regarding race, color, national origin, physical condition or sex we will review the situation and treat allegations of such behavior seriously. Instances of substantiated acts of such harassment will result in disciplinary action. Students must also be aware that falsely or frivolously suggesting harassment is extremely serious, and will be subject to disciplinary action. A full statement policy is available in the school office.
Our Lady of the Valley School adheres to procedures as stated in the Archdiocesan Handbook.
(Available in the school office).
Our Lady of the Valley School needs your help in keeping our school safe for everyone. OLV, will take seriously all threats, verbal or written, to inflict serious harm to self or others. The school will respond to any statements or behaviors of a threatening nature, any behaviors by individuals that might pose a threat to the well being of students, staff or others and any weapon possession. Our Lady of the Valley School has an obligation to keep our school safe and will take this matter seriously. This is not an area for practical jokes or offhand comments, as recent events demonstrate the importance of investigating thoroughly all potential concerns. If you become aware of a threatening situation, you must immediately report it to a teacher or the principal.
Every parent, guardian or other person who upbraids, insults or abuses any teacher or administrator of the school, in the presence or hearing of a pupil, is guilty of a misdemeanor (Education Code 44811).
If the teacher is insulted or abused by any person in the presence of other school personnel on school premises, on public ways adjacent to the school, or at another place where the teacher is assigned, that person is also guilty of a misdemeanor (Education Code 44812).
Under normal circumstances a student is not to be deprived of a Catholic Education on grounds relating to the actions/attitudes of parents. It is recognized, however, that a situation could arise in which the uncooperative or disruptive attitude or abusive behavior of parents might so diminish the effectiveness of the education process that continuation of the student in the school may be impossible.
Each student is responsible for replacing any lost books or payment for damage he/she may cause to schoolbooks and property.
The school abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with 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 an official copy of the court order. In relationship to this matter, the office must have copies of any court order, which restrains a non-custodial parent, or any other person from seeing or removing a child from the school at any time. The school will not be held responsible for failing to honor arrangements that have not been made known in writing.
Principals, teachers, and other school personnel will respect the verbal or written confidences of students except in cases where the health or safety of the students or others is involved.
The California Penal Code requires that any employee of the school who knows or reasonably suspects that a child has been a victim of child abuse or neglect must report the incident to a child protective agency immediately by phone.
There is a student body Mass once a month. On these days, the students will be joining the parish community at the 8:15 a.m. Mass. In addition, grades 3-8 will attend 8:15 Mass once a week. On these days students are required to wear their full dress uniforms.
Students in grades 3-8 have the opportunity to receive the sacrament of reconciliation during Advent and Lent.
Parents whose children are preparing for the reception of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist are to attend scheduled meetings and instructions as required by the pastor so that they are better able to help their children prepare for these sacraments. At least one parent from each family is obliged to attend these meetings. These requirements are fulfilled during the child’s second grade year.
C.J.S.F is a statewide organization whose purpose is to foster high standards of scholarship, service, and citizenship on the part of students in the junior high schools of California. Students are required to maintain a specific grade point average based on a point system for one semester of their 7th grade year and both semesters of their 8th grader year. Students also must maintain a satisfactory conduct grade. Students who are eligible academically, but who, in the judgment of the principal and teachers are unworthy citizens shall be disbarred from membership.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students in grades 5-8 are eligible to join school athletic teams providing the following requirements are met:
1. Students must maintain a 2.0 average with no grades of “F”.
2. Behavior and Work Habits grades must be satisfactory.
3. Parents must sign an Athletic Program Waiver and Release Agreement and pay a sports fee.
4. Failure to meet the above requirements may result in temporary probation or permanent removal from a team.
While family parties (including parents and children) are encouraged, mixed parties for the upper grades are strongly discouraged in the Administrative Handbook of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
PARENT SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
Tuition may be paid in full or through automatic deduction each month. This is provided through the FACTS tuition service. There is an annual set up fee of $38.00.
Registration for the following year is due in April. In addition to the per child registration fee, all families pay a one- time yearly fee of $40.00 to cover lunch yard duty. The yard duty fee is refundable based on participation in the yard duty program.
Annual parent-teacher conferences are held in November. All families MUST make an appointment and attend a conference at this time. If individual conferences are desired at any other time, please contact the student’s teacher for an appointment. The principal is also available for consultation by appointment, but only after the parent has discussed the matter with the teacher.
The family envelope is used as a means of effective communication between the school and parents. Family envelopes are sent home with the oldest child in each family on the first day of school each week. Inside the family envelope will be the principal’s letter, important notices, Hot Lunch order forms, updated calendars, etc. It is requested that the family envelope be signed and returned to school the next day. This envelope system is the safest way to return payments, communication, etc. to the school office.
Three general parent meetings are held each year, in September, January and May. Parents are expected to attend these meetings.
Each family is expected to contribute a total of 30 hours of service per year. At the beginning of the school year, a list of needed services is sent out in the family envelope. Hours are credited for working at the Parish Fiesta in October. Various opportunities arise during the year, which are publicized in the family envelope. 15 hours must be completed during the first semester, which ends in January and all hours must be completed by the end of May. Hours not completed on time will be billed at $15.00 per uncompleted hour. The family service program is NOT OPTIONAL; it is as much an obligation as tuition.
Our Lady of the Valley School maintains a closed campus during school hours. The only entrance available is the school office on the Gault Street side. All visitors should report to the school office upon arrival.
NO other person will be allowed to visit the school or converse with students during school hours. To prevent embarrassment for all concerned, students are requested to acquaint their friends with this regulation.
Badges are required to be worn by anyone on the school grounds while classes are in session. To obtain your badge, you are required to sign in at the school office. This applies to volunteers for classrooms, yard duty and hot lunch.
Neither children nor teachers will be called to the telephone during school hours. Students are not to use the school telephone except in cases where a real emergency exists.
Student should arrive at school with a nutritious lunch. Children should be responsible for bringing lunch daily. PARENTS ARE STRONGLY DISCOURAGED FROM PURCHASING FAST FOOD LUNCHES. Please send a nutritious snack to school each day, including Hot Lunch Days and Fridays.
The school has a pre-ordered, pre-paid once-a-week (Thursday) lunch program. Throughout the year Monday hot lunch id offered. These lunches are at a higher price since they are used as fundraisers for various activities. Since these are ordered in advance, no refunds are given for absentees. Additional information will be sent home through the family envelope.
Regarding special celebrations, NO FOOD can be sent to a classroom unless:
1. The teacher and office are notified in advance;
2. An adult comes to serve and clean up.
ALL CLOTHES MUST BE CLEAN AND OF PROPER SIZE, LENGTH, FIT AND COLOR FROM DENNIS UNIFORM. ALL SHIRTS AND/OR BLOUSES MUST BE TUCKED INTO SKIRTS, SHORTS, OR PANTS AT ALL TIMES
Girls: Girls may wear the plaid uniform jumper (grades K-4), plaid uniform skirt or skort (grades 5-8), uniform navy shorts or uniform navy twill or corduroy long pants. Only white uniform blouses or white or gold OLV logo polo shirts may be worn with jumpers, skirts, skorts, shorts or pants. All of this clothing must be purchased from Dennis Uniform Company. ALL GIRLS MUST HAVE AT LEAST ONE UNIFORM JUMPER (K-4) OR SKIRT/SKORT (5-8) FOR MASS DAYS AND SPECIAL EVENTS.
Boys: Boys may wear navy twill or corduroy long pants or navy shorts with navy blue or gold OLV logo polo shirts, all of which must be purchased at Dennis Uniform Company. ALL BOYS MUST HAVE AT LEAST ONE PAIR OF UNIFORM LONG PANTS FOR MASS DAYS AND SPECIAL EVENTS.
All students may wear uniform blue sweaters, OLV sweatshirts, or plain NAVY BLUE crew neck sweatshirts as part of their uniform. Any other outerwear will not be permitted in the classroom.
When attending mass, girls will wear jumpers or skirts. No shorts or pants. Boys will wear long pants, no shorts.
SHOES AND SOCKS: Shoes are to be black, white, blue or gray or a combination of these colors. Shoelaces must be white or match the shoe color. All shoes must be securely fastened. No slip-ons. Shoelaces must be visibly tied. The logo of the shoe company may be of another color. SOCKS MUST BE KNEE SOCKS OR CREW SOCKS, ABOVE THE ANKLE. ONE PAIR OF SOCKS ONLY. Socks must be white.
P.E. UNIFORMS: Students in grades 3-8 are required to wear a P.E. uniform. The uniform is as follows:
Navy blue OLV shorts or OLV sweatpants. Any OLV T-shirts or Fiesta T-shirts. PE UNIFORMS ONLY PURCHSED AT DENNIS UNIFORM. Students not wearing proper P.E. attire will not be allowed to participate, which will result in a lowered P.E. grade. Three P.E. out of uniforms in one trimester will result in a detention.
Students in grades K-2 will wear their school shorts on their P.E. days.
ALL UNIFORMS, SWEATSHIRTS, JACKETS, LUNCHBOXES, ETC. SHOULD BE MARKED WITH STUDENT’S NAME. Lost articles are kept in a container in the school office. This container will be cleaned out at the end of each month and the unclaimed items will be donated to charity.
NON-UNIFORM DRESS REGULATIONS: All students, grades K-8, have the privilege of non-uniform dress days during the school year. On such days we ask that you observe the following so that students are dressed appropriately for school. Students will be sent home or parents called to bring the regular uniform if the teacher or administration determines dress is not appropriate.
Long pants, dresses, or skirts (mini skirts, spaghetti straps, cropped tops, low-cut tops or exposed midriffs are not acceptable)
Properly fitting clean jeans are acceptable
Plain colored (no white), patterned T-shirts with small non-offensive manufacturers’ logos
Shirts/tops must have collars or appropriate necklines. Shorts must be uniform shorts or proper fitting walking length shorts (no other shorts)
NON-COMPLIANCE WITH THE UNIFORM POLICY WILL RESULT IN AN OUT OF UNIFORM SLIP. This slip is to be returned the next day, signed by a parent. THREE OUT OF UNIFORM SLIPS WILL RESULT IN A DETENTION.
HAIR AND ACCESSORIES
The school administration does not permit any student's hair to be tinted, highlighted or dyed.
Girls: Hair must be clean, cut in a traditional style and not interfere with vision. No extreme hair adomments. Pierced earrings (one small stud in each earlobe), a watch, a single religious necklace and one ring are the only jewelry permitted. Makeup (glitter, etc.) is not acceptable. Only clear nail polish is allowed.
Boys: Hair must be clean and cut in a traditional style (e.g.,no excessive spikes or steps). No hair is to hang over the collar or in eyes. Boys are not permitted to wear pierced earrings (or any other piercing). A watch and a religious necklace are the only jewelry permitted.
Only regular watches may be worn to school. NO WATCHES WITH CALCULATORS, CAMERAS, TEXT MESSAGE CAPABILITIES, GAMES, ALARMS, ETC.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITY FOR STUDENT DRESS, HAIR AND ACCESSORIES
Parents and students are expected to cooperate with the uniform code. If there is a disagreement about acceptable appearance at school, the principal will make the final decision. Issues relating to dress or appearance of a student that are not specifically mentioned in the parent/student handbook, but are inconsistent with the school's regulations, may be deemed unacceptable at the discretion of the principal.
NON- INSTRUCTIONAL OPERATIONS
California law requires that all children entering a school for the first time must have a health screening check-up within the past year. This includes health history, physical examination, necessary immunizations and vision and hearing screening. Parents can sign a waiver that they do not want their child evaluated in this way. However, parents are strongly urged to have their children screened so that problems can be detected early and immediate care may be given. A completed Health Screening Form must be presented to the office within 90 days after the child enters First Grade. Failure to comply can result in the child being excluded from school until such form is on file.
Students are given vision screening every two years. Audio testing is available each year for first graders and new students. Scoliosis tests are given to 7th and 8th grade students.
THE SCHOOL SHALL NOT FURNISH MEDICATIONS. If your child requires medication it must be provided by you and the following procedures must be followed:
· Release from doctor and parent must be written clearly as to date, time, dosage, directions, and possible reactions.
· All medication must arrive at school sealed and labeled with your child’s name visible.
· All medication will be stored in the Clinic. No student may have any medicines (except for asthma inhalers) on their person or in their possession including, aspirin, cough drops, etc.
· Students must report to the clinic or school office for medication.
· A student’s medication must be self-administered under adult supervision.
The school will have a practice Fire Drill and “Drop” drill (used in case of earthquake or other disaster) each month to familiarize the students with emergency procedures. In the event of an actual emergency during the school hours, the students will be kept under the school’s supervision until called for by the parents or other responsible adult with note from the parent. Ordinarily, a telephone committee will contact parents in case of emergency. If an emergency occurs outside school hours, please, listen to your local radio station for instructions on school closure. As a general rule, Our Lady of the Valley School will follow the same procedure as the public schools in the area. Each family must have TWO Emergency Cards on file giving the information requested. One card is kept in the school office; the other in the clinic. The names of TWO local people MUST be listed on the back in case of an emergency when the parents cannot be reached. If your address or telephone number changes during the year, please notify the school office immediately.
Our Lady of the Valley operates a closed campus during school hours. All parents must enter through the school office on the Gault Street entrance. A visitors badge is required before entering the campus. Visitors may not enter through the side gate next to the parish parking lot. This is for the safety of all students on the campus during school hours.
MORNING PROCEDURES: At 7:45 a.m. the parking lot gate closest to Kindergarten (near the corner of Gault and Glade) will be open for students to enter school on foot or for cars to drive through and drop students off. THERE IS NO LEFT HAND TURN ALLOWED AT THIS GATE. ALL CARS MUST APPROACH FROM TOPANGA AND MAKE A RIGHT HAD TURN INTO THE SCHOOL. Please pull all the way forward when you drive in and be patient if there is a line. DO NOT ENTER FROM GLADE AS THIS IS ONLY THE EXIT! There is no parking on the schoolyard in the morning. Drive-through only.
Any student who arrives before 7:45 a.m. will not be allowed on the school grounds. Before 7:45 the students are your responsibility. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE THEM UNATTENDED. Morning day care is available for a fee. NO CHILD SHOULD BE DROPPED OFF ACROSS THE STREET TO CROSS ALONE. All students who walk onto campus or whose parents walk them on must enter though the walk-in path provided at the Gault.. DO NOT ENTER THROUGH THE OFFICE UNLESS THE PARENT HAS BUSINESS IN THE OFFICE.
AFTERNOON PROCEDURES: At 2:35 p.m. both the Gault (entrance) and Glade (exit) gates will be opened for afternoon pick up. Please drive forward as far as you can and pull forward into a parking space, facing the hall. Students in grades 1-8 are to be picked up from the classroom porches, or area in front of the hall. All parents and students walk along the “safe path” and approach the parked cars from behind. Please, do not walk between the parked cars. Kindergarten parents picking up at 2 p.m., come to the Kindergarten play yard to get their children directly from the teachers.
Bicycles, Skateboard and Scooters
a. Students may NEVER ride bicycles on school grounds. Students who violate this rule will receive a
detention ticket.
b. Students must never ride bikes on sidewalks bordering the school grounds.
c. Bicycles must be locked when on school grounds. Vandalism should be reported to the Principal.
Students found tampering with bikes will receive a detention ticket and further action will be taken if necessary.
d. Bicycle riders must walk their bikes out the Topanga Canyon (near rectory) or Gault Street (near
Parish Center) exits.
e. The borrowing of a bicycle without the owner’s permission is a misdemeanor.
f. Skateboards or scooters are never to be brought to school or used on school grounds.
Our Lady of the Valley School provides an extended Day Care program for students enrolled in our school. Our extended Day Care Coordinator is Mary Cortez. These programs are under the guidelines set by the Department of Catholic Schools and monitored by the Principal.
Morning Care: This is from 6:45-7:45 a.m. and takes place in Room 7 (next to Kindergarten). Entry is through the Kindergarten play yard.
After School Care: This care is from Dismissal until 6:00 p.m.
Crusader Club Day Care Fees: The fees charged for 2003-2004 school year are as follows:
Registration Fee: $25.00 (Per child)
A.M. Crusader Club P.M. Crusader Club
1 child $35.00 per month $1250 per year - $125/mo.
2 children $45.00 per month $1550 per year - $155/mo
3 or more $45.00 per month $1650 per year - $165/mo
Drop-in fee - $15.00 per day
Special rate for Friday afternoons until 3 p.m. or Kindergarten needing just 1 hour coverage until regular dismissal.
Computer Network User Agreement
*Parents – please go over and explain these policies to your child/ren, especially the primary grade students.
General Guidelines:
· The school only provides limited privacy in the contents of student personal files on the school’s computer system. The situation is similar to the rights students have in the privacy of lockers.
· Parents have the right at any time to request to see the contents of your e-mail files.
· Students will promptly inform their teacher or other school employee of any message received that is inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable.
· The school will not be responsible for supervising or continually monitoring every communication and Internet session for every student and staff member beyond the scope of supervision defined in the user agreement.
· Internet access from outside the school is the domain of the parents or guardians. We expect our parents to be equal stakeholders in the implementation of our computer system policies by monitoring their child’s Internet access and electronic use at home in a manner supportive of the school’s policies. While the school cannot provide consequences for inappropriate electronic communications among students outside of school, note that in some cases, law enforcement may be called to intervene.
· ***Additionally, we expect parents and students to follow the appropriate chain of communication (contact school personnel first; if issue is not resolved, then contact the principal, pastor, and the Archdiocese) in communicating problems or issues with the school. Posting inappropriate comments about the school, its personnel and students, on the web and via emails does not constitute following the appropriate chain of communication. The school reserves the right to ask parents to withdraw their children in such cases where parents become uncooperative.
· Students using our computers and/or related systems may not:
· Post personal contact information about self or others. Personal contact information includes address, telephone, school address, parent/s name/s, work address, etc.
· Agree to meet with someone they have met online without their parent's approval. A parent should accompany them to this meeting.
· Use obscene, defamatory, disruptive language.
· Harass, insult or attack others.
· Send comments or images that would offend someone or an organization on the basis of race, creed, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, political beliefs, or disability
· Upload, download, view, or otherwise transmit copyrighted, trademarked, patented, or indecent material, trade secrets, or other confidential, private, or proprietary information. Regarding copyright materials, certain exceptions are given for educational purposes and if there is any doubt, students must consult with their teachers.
· Engage in any other illegal act, such as arranging for a drug sale or the purchase of alcohol, etc.
· Employ the network for commercial and/or or political lobbying purposes.