Student/Parent Handbook 2017-18 Academic Year
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Table of Contents Contents Chapter 1: General School Information Mercy High School Alma Mater Mission Vision Corporate Philosophy of the Sisters of Mercy and Mercy High School, San Francisco Accreditation Philosophy, Goals, and Objectives of Mercy High School, San Francisco Code of Christian Conduct Covering Students/Parents/Guardians
5 5 5 5 6 6 6 7
Chapter 2: Attendance
9
School Hours
9
Attendance Policies and Procedures
10
Absences
10
Procedures for Absence from School Other than Illness
11
Tardy Policy
12
Cutting Class and Truancy
13
Unexcused Absences/Tardies
11
Off Campus and Early Dismissal Permits
12
Transportation
13
Chapter 3: Academic Policies and Expectations
14
Academic Honesty Policy
14
Programming and Re-Registration
15
Student Records
15
Homework
15
Course Changes
16
Course Requirements Comparison 2017-2018
18
Mercy Courses Eligible for Honors points for Both U.C. And C.S.U Systems
20
Field Trip/ Intersession Policies
24
Graduation Requirements
17
A-G Course Requirements
19
Grading Policies & Procedures
21
Chapter 4: Student Expectations and Discipline
25
Student ID Card
25
Use of Electronic Devices
25 2
Fidget Spinners and/or Fidget Cubes
26
Dress Code
28
Behavior in the School Building
30
Cyberbullying (Electronic Bullying)
34
Use of Lockers
27
Discipline Policies & Procedures
30
Weapons, Dangerous Instruments and Fireworks
31
Disruptive Conduct
35
Student Conduct (on and off campus)
35
Final Recourse on Disciplinary Matters
39
Administrative Procedures on Zero Tolerance Policies
39
Lost and Found
40
Inappropriate Language (Swearing)
35
Progressive Discipline Policy and Procedures
36
Falsification of Notes and/or Misrepresentation by Telephone
39
Physical Assaults and Verbal Altercations
40
Chapter 5: Student Activities
41
Campus Life Team (CLT)
41
Campus Ministry
42
Christian Service Program Overview and Requirement
44
Extracurriculars
45
Student Voice
46
Guidelines for Cast Members and Tech Crew
46
Guidelines for Student Audience Behavior
46
Mercy High School Dance Policies
47
Chapter 6: Student Services
50
Wellness
50
Counseling Department & Services
50
Extended Time for Standardized Testing
51
College Preparation
51
Academic Support Services
51
Library
53
Technology Available at Mercy High School
53
Bring Your Own Device Policy
54
Technology and the Internet Use Agreement
54
Cloud-based Technologies
54
Sexting
55
Cyberbullying
55 3
Chapter 7: School Safety
57
Out of Bounds
57
Fire Safety
57
Fire Drills/Emergency Evacuation Procedures
57
Earthquake Procedures
58
Lockdown/Lockout Procedures
58
Dismissal in Case of School Emergency
59
Accident Reports
58
Chapter 8: Student Health and Safety
59
Illness/Injury During the School Day
59
Medication
59
Student Health History
59
Pregnancy and Marriage
60
AIDS/HIV
60
Alcohol and Drugs
60
Chapter 9: Financial Policies
63
Financial Expectations
63
Smart Tuition Payment Plan
64
Financial Assistance
64
Length of Contract and Cancellation
63
Delinquent Account
64
Chapter 10: Acknowledgement Page
65
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Chapter 1: General School Information Mercy High School Alma Mater Mercy will keep us ever, True to the Land we honor and love; Mercy lives on forever; Honoring the Queen we serve above. With hands and hearts together, Through the happy years; Strong is our chorus! All lies before us! Our Mercy spirit we cheer; Here’s to Mercy High, Lift banners to the sky! Daring to do or die, ‘Til all of our glory is won! Proudly we sing to you, In loyalty cling to you, With true hearts we bring to you Our tribute of love fore’ev Hear our song, loud the call, Come along, one and all, Join the marching of the Red and the White Life will ever be a pledge of loyalty, Live on to honor thee, Mercy High, All hail to thee!
Mission
Mercy High School, San Francisco, educates women to pursue lives of spiritual and intellectual depth, determination, and daring action to improve our world a s an inclusive, Catholic, college preparatory community enlivened by the Gospel of Jesus and the charism of the Sisters of Mercy.
Vision We are the “Social Advocacy Based Learning” Catholic school of the San Francisco Bay Area where women graduate with fierce determination to improve their world.
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Corporate Philosophy of the Sisters of Mercy and Mercy High School, San Francisco
We, the Sisters of Mercy, because of our commitment to participate in the teaching mission of the Church, sponsor secondary education facilities. We believe that the message of Jesus can be taught only when deed matches word. Therefore, our goal in education is not simply academics, but an overall service of compassion, respect and justice.
Accreditation Mercy High School is accredited through the Western Catholic Educational Association and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Philosophy, Goals, and Objectives of Mercy High School, San Francisco In cooperation with the Sisters of Mercy, the home and the community, Mercy High School seeks to provide an educational environment where young women can achieve their whole potential.
In offering its students a college preparatory curriculum, Mercy fosters intellectual growth and creative expression and provides the tools for the acquisition of knowledge. Through the programs at Mercy, students also develop attitudes and fundamental skills upon which they will base their continuing education and involvement in society. Supported by a Catholic Christian environment that emphasizes personal responsibility and service to society, Mercy also offers each student opportunities and experiences to mature in her own religious faith. Mercy values intellectual and personal integrity, responsible decision-making, development of self-esteem, respect for life, and genuine regard for ethnic diversity. Mercy recognizes the obligation to respect and preserve the goods of the earth for the sustenance and enjoyment of future generations. Mercy acknowledges the special role of women in all aspects of life in an ever-changing world. It is the expectation of the Sisters of Mercy and the Board of Trustees that the administration, faculty and staff will uphold the corporate philosophy and fully support the policies, goals and objectives of Mercy High School.
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Roman Catholic Welfare Corporation Code of Christian Conduct Covering Students/Parents/Guardians The students’ interests in receiving a quality, morally-based education can be served if students, parents and school officials work together. Normally, differences between these individuals can be resolved. In some rare instances, however, the school may find it necessary, in its discretion, to require parents/guardians to withdraw their child. It shall be an express condition of enrollment that the student behaves in a manner, both on and off campus that is consistent with the Christian principles of the school as determined by the school in its discretion. These principles include, but are not limited to, any policies, principles or procedures set forth in any student/parent/guardian handbook of the school. These principles include the use of technology in the public domain. It shall be an expressed condition of enrollment that the parents/guardians of a student shall also conform themselves to standards of conduct that are consistent with the Christian principles of the school, as determined by the school in its discretion. These principles include, but are not limited to any policies, principles or procedures set forth in any student/parent/guardian handbook of the school. These Christian principles further include, but are not limited to, the following: Parents/guardians are expected to work courteously and cooperatively with the school to assist the student in meeting the academic, moral and behavioral expectations of the school. Students and parents/guardians may respectfully express their concerns about the school operation and its personnel. However, they may not do so in a manner that is discourteous, scandalous, rumor driven, disruptive, threatening, hostile, or divisive. Students, parents, faculty and staff are responsible for their conduct when using the Internet. All policies regarding conduct apply to the use of technology in the public domain. These expectations for students and parents/guardians include, but are not limited to all school-sponsored programs and events (i.e., athletics, field trips, etc.). The school reserves the right to determine, in its discretion, which actions fall short of meeting the Christian principles of the school. Failure to follow these principles will normally result in a verbal or written warning to the student and/or parent/guardian and normally will first result in disciplinary action short of a requirement to withdraw from the school (i.e., suspension of student or suspension of parent’s/guardian’s privilege to come on the campus grounds and/or participate in school activities, volunteer work, etc.). The school reserves the right to determine, in its discretion, when conduct is of such a severe nature as to warrant immediate action without a warning and/or without an intermediate step short of withdrawal. 7
Integral Student Outcomes (ISOs) and Characteristics 1. Each student will develop a personal spirituality and demonstrate the Mercy values of compassion, respect and service. She: a. acknowledges the needs of others and makes contributions and commitments to meeting those needs b. responds to issues of social justice c. nurtures her spiritual life through prayer and reflection d. respects the property, privacy, and confidentiality of others e. articulates the Catholic theological tradition and its relevance to the contemporary world f. demonstrates awareness of and respect for other religious traditions. 2. Each student will grow in intellectual curiosity and creativity and will demonstrate responsibility for her own learning. She: a. prioritizes and sets realistic goals and expectations for herself b. prepares herself to participate in classes and co-curricular activities c. is conscientious and persistent in her studies d. expresses herself creatively and intellectually in a variety of endeavors e. continues to pursue formal and informal educational opportunities. 3. Each student will develop a positive respect for self and for others and work cooperatively within the community. She: a. develops confidence in her ability to work with others b. maintains her physical, mental, spiritual and emotional well being c. displays an appreciation for the uniqueness and contributions of other cultures and viewpoints d. respects and demonstrates care for the environment e. contributes to common goals and negotiates and compromises when appropriate f. learns the rights and responsibilities of democratic citizenship. 4. Each student will communicate effectively in written and oral expression. She: a. reads actively and writes English proficiently b. demonstrates public speaking, oral presentation skills and artistic skills c. develops a personal voice in written and oral expression d. articulates ideas logically and persuasively e. listens to other points of view and responds with objectivity f. achieves basic communication skills within a second language. 5. Each student will develop skills to become an independent, critical reader, thinker, and problem solver. She: a. develops an inquisitive and critical mind b. develops mathematical and analytical proficiencies c. is technologically literate and adapts to emerging technologies d. comprehends and interprets texts 8
e. f. g. h.
identifies, analyzes, evaluates and synthesizes information independently formulates and supports opinions with evidence applies problem-solving strategies to real-life scenarios integrates knowledge and skills across academic disciplines.
6. Each student will develop skills to become a strong, independent woman who can make a difference in the world. She: a. exhibits intellectual competence and confidence to succeed in her personal, professional and academic life b. demonstrates integrity of principles and a willingness to defend them c. questions authority constructively d. takes risks and learns from her successes and failures e. participates in her local national and global communities.
Chapter 2: Attendance School Hours
▶MERCY HIGH SCHOOL IS A CLOSED CAMPUS◀
Main Office Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students are not to arrive before 7:00 a.m. and must leave by 4:00 p.m. unless under the supervision of a teacher or other school personnel. Please note that the daily school schedule for dismissal times will vary. Note: Bell Schedules can be found on the back of the Mercy student planner and on the website at: http://www.mercyhs.org/bell-schedule.html 1. On days when faculty/staff morning meetings are scheduled, students are encouraged to remain in Barrett Hall/Cafeteria until 9:15 a.m. Homeroom will begin at 9:25 a.m. 2. Students may not be in the main building,Visual & Performing Arts wing, or Catherine McAuley Pavilion at any time without adult supervision. 3. Official attendance is taken in every class and during homeroom. Parents are called when the school is unable to account for a student. 4. Students should report to campus at least 5 minutes prior to their first class. 5. When a teacher is absent, students are still required to report for class and remain in class as the substitute directs. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE STUDENTS TO DISMISS THEMSELVES; early dismissals will not be issued. Students may go to the Library, Library Annex, or Barrett Hall/Cafeteria when dismissed by the substitute. Students need to remain on campus until the end of their regular scheduled last class. Students will be assigned a detention for non-compliance. 6. Students may, however, leave campus after their last class unless they have a substitute teacher, at which time; they need to stay on campus for the entire period. Parents/guardians are asked to review their student’s class schedule each semester to be informed of her dismissal times. 7. Please refer to the official school calendar for early release dismissal times. Since the building will be closed, it is required that parents/guardians make arrangements for their student to wait 9
for them at an off-campus location. 8. Visitors must check in with the Administrative Services staff. Administrative approval must be granted prior to visiting classrooms during the school day. 9. We do not accept personal deliveries for students.
Attendance Policies and Procedures
Student success in high school is directly linked to attendance and participation. If your student is absent due to an illness, an emergency, or an appointment, we will need a note from a parent or guardian upon your student’s return to school and a phone call must be made to the Attendance Office before 8:00am each day of the absence. The Attendance Office phone number is (415) 334-4900; a 24-hour message service is available. Official attendance is taken in every class and at homeroom time. Parents are called when the school is unable to account for a student. 1. Regular and prompt attendance is required for all classes and at homeroom time. 2. Attendance is required for all school-wide activities and special assemblies (i.e., assemblies, liturgies, class meetings, Mercy Day, Senior Awards Assembly, Spring Day etc.). A student who is absent for these events must have a doctor's note verifying illness or she will be considered unexcused. No early dismissals will be issued. 3. Tardiness is considered a serious matter and, if chronic, will be dealt with as an unexcused absence and detentions may be assigned to allow student to make up any work they may have missed. 4. Students may not leave campus during the school day unless the school has received written parent/guardian permission; however, students may leave after their last class unless they have a substitute teacher, at which time, they need to stay for the entire 85-minute class.
Absences In the event of absence due to illness or other necessity, the student's parent/guardian MUST notify the Attendance Office before 8:00 a.m. each day of the absence. Upon returning to school, the student MUST bring a note of explanation signed by her parent/guardian to the Attendance Office BEFORE going to her first class. This note is in addition to the phone call made to report the absence and is a written record for the student’s file. A detention may be issued for an overdue note. Guidelines for Absentee/Tardy Notes and Phone Calls 1. The date. 2. The student’s name, Homeroom section, and ID number. 3. The reason for the absence/tardiness. 4. A parent or guardian signature (on note)/name (on voicemail message). 5. A phone number where the parent/guardian might be reached, if we have a question.
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Excused Absences/Tardies Excused absences or tardies are defined as, but not limited to: 1. Personal illness (the school may require a doctor's note for verification if the school deems it necessary). 2. Medical or dental appointments; however, the student should have a note from her parent/guardian and the doctor confirming the appointment. We strongly encourage that appointments be scheduled outside of school hours. 3. Funeral services of immediate family, close family relatives, or friend. 4. Observance of a religious holiday or ceremony (three days advance notice to school). 5. Personal court appearance (requires verification via a note from the government office). 6. Personal problems excused by Director of Student Life We encourage parents/guardians to contact the school ahead of time. 7. At the discretion of the Director of Student Life, tardy due to MUNI and transportation problems may be excused. 8. Taking a driving test (requires verification via note from the DMV or dated receipt). 9. Students who miss a class due to school sponsored events, such as a retreat, an athletic or Visual Performing Arts’ activity, etc. must meet with her teachers at least the day before her absence to make arrangements to make up the work that will be missed in class. Homework assignments due that day are still required to be turned in by the specified time. Please refer to Mercy High School's Retreat Program Guidelines, including excused absences for retreat, and - for make-up policies regarding tests and quizzes missed while on retreat. Reminder: It is the student’s responsibility to meet with all of her teachers and make arrangements to make up her work within a reasonable time frame.
Procedures for Absence from School Other than Illness
In the event that a student is taken out of school for personal reasons, the parent/guardian and student must assume full responsibility for this action and for the academic consequences entailed. Neither the school nor the teachers can assume responsibility for special assignments, tests, etc. to make up for what is missed in class during this type of an absence. ● THE ADMINISTRATION DOES NOT EXCUSE ABSENCES FROM SCHOOL FOR VACATIONS. ● Students and their parents/guardians should consider absence from school as an exception and should take into consideration student’s attendance and academic standing prior to scheduling vacation outside the regular school breaks (Thanksgiving Break, Christmas Break, Easter Break, and Summer) ● Students are required to schedule college visitations during summer, Christmas and spring break. Such visits will not be excused during the regular school year. ● Seniors may be excused for special collegiate program/orientation days upon receipt of official documentation from the college.
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Unexcused Absences/Tardies Make up work will be at the discretion of the Associate Head of School for Academics in consultation An unexcused absence directly impacts your child’s full potential for success. The School does not concede to the parent/guardian the right to alter the school calendar for personal convenience with the student's teachers.
Unexcused Absences or Tardies are Defined as, But Not Limited To: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Trips/Vacations scheduled during school days are considered unexcused. Going to work with a parent/guardian or other family member. Babysitting or caring for other family member. Waiting for service/repair people. Oversleeping. Transportation problem or transporting someone else to school, work, airport, etc. Cutting class(es). Non-Mercy related club sports, practices, or tournaments.
Excessive Absences
1. If a student is absent for three (3) consecutive days, a doctor's note confirming the illness may be required. 2. If after 5 absences in a given semester, a pattern of chronic absences continues, a doctor’s note and or visit may be required. 3. Absences from classes for five (5) or more days per semester may result in the teacher, after consultation with the Administration, in taking the option of giving a “No Credit,” an “F” or an "Incomplete" grade for the course. Depending on the circumstances, if a student has been absent for five or more days in a given semester, regardless of the reason, the administration reserves the right to determine if the student will receive credit for her courses. 4. Detentions may be assigned to the student to provide time for make up work.
Tardy Policy
Students are expected to be on time and to participate in each class. If a student arrives late to school, regardless of the time or reason, she must report to the Administrative Services office prior to going to class. A note from the parent/guardian may be required. At the third (3) unexcused tardy, the student will receive a detention and parents will be notified of potential consequences for further tardies. The student may not be allowed to make up the missed class work which could adversely affect her academic performance and grade. At the tenth (8) tardy, the student will lose all her co-curricular privileges (i.e., clubs, sports teams, CLT, drama, dance/chorus, etc.) for the semester.
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Off Campus and Early Dismissal Permits
If your student needs to leave school for an appointment they must follow this protocol: 1. The student must bring a note signed by her parent/guardian to the Attendance Coordinator BEFORE her first class or homeroom. Note must include: - The reason for leaving campus - Time of departure and approximate time of return. Upon return, a medical or dental appointment must be submitted for the absence to be considered excused. 2. Only individuals listed on the student’s emergency card will be allowed to have the student released to them.
Cutting Class and Truancy The school will notify the parent/guardian when the student has cut a class. Student will receive a detention, be placed on Disciplinary Probation, added to a Loss of Privileges List for that semester, and the parent/guardian may be required to attend a conference at school. 1. The student may not make up tests or assignments given on the day she cut the class and she may not receive credit for assignments due on the day she cut the class. 2. Following a cut, the teacher has the option to deny the student admission to class unless she shows evidence that she has reported to the Director of Student Life.. 3. Any subsequent cuts will result in a parent meeting. The student will be placed on Disciplinary Probation, added to the Loss of Privileges List, and receive an in-house suspension. In serious cases, she may be dismissed from Mercy.
Truancy A student is considered truant when they repeatedly choose not to attend school without permission. She will be subject to the following actions: 1. The student will be placed on Disciplinary Probation and given in-house suspension. 2. Student will be placed on the Loss of Privileges list. 3. The student will be responsible for learning all the material covered during her truancy. Credit may not be extended at the discretion of the teacher. 4. A parent/guardian conference, either in person or by telephone, may be required.
Attendance at Co-Curricular Activities
Daily Co-curricular Participation Policy Students must be present in school at least two (2) periods in order to participate in/or attend any after-school co-curricular activity on that day. A student, who has an absence whether excused or unexcused absence not related to a school-sponsored event for any part of a school day, will not be permitted to participate in any co-curricular activity that takes place on the day of that absence. 13
Transportation Mercy does not provide any student parking. Parking areas on the campus are assigned to faculty and staff only. Unauthorized cars on campus are subject to towing at the owner's expense. Parents and Guardians are not to drive on campus between 7:30 and 4pm to drop off or pick up their daughter. If you have a medical reason, you may receive a temporary parking permit from the Attendance Coordinator. Illegally parked cars may be towed.
Chapter 3: Academic Policies and Expectations Academic Honesty Policy
Mercy High School considers cheating or academic dishonesty to be a serious violation of school rules. Cheating/academic dishonesty is defined as follows: ● copying another student’s work including homework ● receiving or providing information during a test ● receiving or providing information on tests given during an earlier period ● using unauthorized material on tests ● violating testing rules as outlined by teacher ● using ideas or written material from other sources--students or professional writers —without acknowledging the source in their own writing ● allowing other students to use your work on assignments ● removal of program CDs from computer labs ● text messaging during tests ● taking pictures of tests This list is not meant to be all inclusive. Other actions not specifically delineated herein may also be rightfully determined as cheating. The following procedures will be followed when a student is found in violation of the Academic Honesty Policy:
First Offense
Student receives an "F"/0% on the assignment or test, and she is referred to the Associate Head of School for Academics who will notify the parents/guardians of the incident.
Second Offense
Student receives an "F"/0% on the assignment or test; she is referred to the Associate Head of School for 14
Academics who contacts the parents/guardians and informs the Associate Head of School for Mission and Director of Student Life. Student is given a one-day suspension* and a parents/guardians conference follows.
Third Offense
Student is given a three-day in-house suspension* and a parent/guardian conference follows. Student is subject to dismissal from Mercy High School. Suspensions, particularly for academic dishonesty, can adversely affect college admissions. Disciplinary files are not part of a student’s transcript. To Avoid Disciplinary Problems, We Encourage Students to: 1. Talk to a counselor, administrator, faculty or staff member. 2. Seek assistance from a parent/guardian/responsible adult. 3. Utilize conflict management. 4. Use community service agencies. (We also encourage our parents/guardians to avail themselves of our services to help their daughter avoid any disciplinary problems.)
Student Records
Cumulative Records - Registrar’s Office
The following information is kept on file under the supervision of the school Registrar: ● Registration form: name, address, birth date, telephone number(s), parish, parents’/guardians’ names and occupations as well as business telephone number(s) ● Correspondence to parents/guardians ● Mid-Semester Progress Reports ● Semester Report Cards ● Summer School report card, if applicable ● Health Records
Attendance Records
The following information is kept on file under the supervision of the Attendance Coordinator and Director of Student Life: ● Attendance records ● Emergency cards (Electronic)
Transcript - Registrar’s Office ● ● ● ● ●
Names of parents/guardians, address, phone number(s) Semester grades Date of entry Transfer or withdrawal information Graduation date, final GPA and class standing 15
Procedures for Withdrawal from School
Withdrawal is initiated through the registrar. Parents/guardians will be requested to complete two (2) forms when a student withdraws. When the forms are completed and returned to the registrar, transcripts will be forwarded upon request.
Programming and Re-Registration
Mercy evaluates course offerings yearly in order to meet the needs of the students and the requirements of outside agencies and institutions. At the beginning of second semester, each student is given access to the course catalogue and her counselor provides meetings for explanation and course selection. The re-registration fee and re-registration form (tuition payment plan) must be submitted to the Business Office by the deadline date. Students re-registering after the deadline risk not being programmed into courses they have chosen. The parent will receive a notification of the student’s course selection by the end of April. At the beginning of the new school year, each student is responsible for checking her class schedule and for reporting any errors to her counselor.
Homework Students should check course syllabi for their courses for appropriate homework policies. If a student is absent, she is expected to access the appropriate Canvas pages for the classes missed. Students should provide their teachers with ample advance notice regarding any planned absences.
Course Changes
Mercy High School endeavors to schedule students appropriately through an extensive course selection process that involves the students, families, teachers, department chairs, and their counselor. A student's schedule is considered to be her school contract for the year. All course change requests must be initiated in conjunction with the counselor. Only under special circumstances will the school approve a schedule change request. Requests to change a class must be made by the end of the first full week of instruction of each semester. Students may request to drop a class for a free/study period anytime prior to the end of the second full week of instruction of each semester so long as they maintain the minimum required units. The schedule change deadlines can be found on the school calendar and are reflected in the Student Planner. Course change requests made after second full week of instruction in either semester will be considered only in cases of extreme hardship (documentation may be required). If approved, the course title will remain, and a W indicating withdrawal or WF indicating withdrawal failure, will be posted on the student’s transcript. Students who have a D- or better may receive a W and students who are below a D16
will receive a WF. A W or WF will never be granted because a student ends the semester with a poor course grade. Schedule changes may occur during the semester because the student has been misplaced in a level of a particular class or the student is unable to handle the rigors of the course as determined by the teacher. Students may not request a transfer out of year-long courses in the second semester. All schedule changes require the written approval of the teacher(s), student, family, and counselor. The counselor submits the request to the Assistant Head of School for Academics, who makes the final decision. Students shall maintain original schedule until notified in writing of approval of request by the Registrar.
Graduation Requirements
Students must complete 240 credits, 50 volunteer hours, and a culminating service project in order to graduate from Mercy High School. A student who has received one "F" in senior year may participate in the awards ceremony and graduation procession however she will not recieved her diploma. The student must make up the course within one year of her scheduled graduation date and will receive her diploma upon proof of completion. A second "F" eliminates the student from the senior dinner, senior awards and graduation ceremonies. She will receive her diploma after she makes up the courses within one year of her scheduled graduation date. Any student who has not met the community service requirement will not be permitted to be a part of the senior dinner, awards ceremony nor the graduation ceremony. The date the diploma is issued will be noted on the official transcript. Students who do not earn qualifying grades to meet U.C./C.S.U. subject requirement of a “C-” or higher should attend summer school. Students will not be permitted to repeat the course during the regular school year. Summer school grades of those repeating classes will appear on the student’s official transcript but the grades will not alter the student’s Mercy grade point average nor alter Academic Probationary Support status. Students should check with individual colleges as to how they calculate grades for repeated coursework. Student placement is designed to meet individual academic needs and interests. All student placement is done in collaboration with counselors, teachers, the Associate Head of School for Academics and parents.
Unit requirement All students must take a minimum of 60 credits each year; 65 is the maximum number of credits a student may take in a given year. Seniors taking two or more Advanced Placement or Honors courses can elect to take a minimum of 55 17
credits, if they meet all subject requirements and the 240 total unit requirements. Mercy High School strongly recommends that any student, who earns below the qualifying “C-” subject requirement grade for college admissions, should go to summer school. Students will not be permitted to repeat the course during the regular school year.
Additional Mercy Graduation Requirements
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Intersession: 2.5 units completed in 9th or 10th grade; 2.5 units completed in 11th or 12th grade. Community Service: 50 volunteer hours and a culminating service project
Course Requirements Comparison 2017-2018 *Grades of “C-” or higher needed to meet subject requirements for college admission Mercy High School Credits History/ Social Science
30 semesters
English
40 4 years
Mathematics Science
1 year World History 1 year U.S. History OR 1 semester U.S. History and 1 semester U.S. Government
b : c:
4 years
d :
Life Science (1 year) Biology or Physiology
6
30 3 years 30 3 years
e :
World Languages
20 2 years
Visual and Performing Arts Electives
10 2 semesters
f:
35 7 semesters minimum 30 6 semesters
g:
Religious Studies Physical Education
Intersession
10 2 semesters (1 semester grades 9/10) (1 semester grades 11/12) Total: Mercy High School Requirement = 240 credits 2.5 units completed in 9th or 10th grade 2.5 units completed in 11th or 12th grade
U.C./C.S.U. Systems
a:
3 years (4 years recommended UC)
Physical Science (1 year) Integrated Physical Science (CSU) or Chemistry or Physics (CSU/UC System) (3 years recommended) 2 years (3- 4 years recommended UC) 2 sequential semesters (A/B of visual and performing arts same area) “P” electives per course catalogue “P” Religious Studies satisfy elective requirement
15 full year courses 150 credits
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Community Service
50 volunteer hours and a culminating service project
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Subject Eligibility for College Admissions
In order to meet the subject requirements for the University of California and California State University systems, students must earn a “C-” grade or better in the following courses. Should a student earn an “F” semester grade in either semester of these courses, she is required to make up the class in summer school to earn the required credits. She will need to earn a “C-” or better to meet college subject eligibility. Should a student earn a “D” semester grade in these courses, she must make up the class in summer school and earn a “C-” or better to meet college subject eligibility as follows: English I English II AP English Language AP English Literature All upper-division English Electives Biology Honors Biology Chemistry Algebra I Adv. Alg., Hon. Adv. Alg. Geometry, Hon. Geometry Spanish I, French I semester 2 only Spanish II, French II semester 2 only World History Honors World History Honors Chemistry semester 2 (CSU) U.S. History
semesters 1 and 2 semesters 1 and 2 semesters 1 and 2 semesters 1 and 2 semesters 1 and 2 semesters 1 and 2 semesters 1 and 2 semesters 1 and 2 (UC) semester 2 only semester 2 only semester 2 only semesters 1 and 2 semesters 1 and 2
Should a student earn a “D” in both semesters, she does not meet subject eligibility and should attend summer school for either semester of U.S. History.
V&P Arts Electives
Students earning a “D” in any semester of their V&P Arts elective need to earn college subject eligibility in summer school. (Students are required to take an A/B sequence or full year of Intermediate, Advanced or AP VPA classes) Art A Acting A Chorus A Art B Acting B Chorus B Ceramics A Dance A Ceramics B Dance B
A-G Course Requirements Contemporary World Issues World Religions
First two years of a second foreign language: French III, Honors III, IV, V, AP French Language 20
Hebrew and Christian Scriptures Social Justice Ethics Advanced Problem Solving AP Calculus (AB and BC) Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus Honors Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus Statistics
Integrated Physical Science Physics Honors Physics Physiology AP Chemistry AP Biology Creative Writing Speech Journalism
Spanish III, Honors III, IV, AP Spanish Language Intermediate Performance Workshop Advanced Performance Workshop Intermediate Art Advanced Art Intermediate Ceramics Advanced Ceramics Intermediate Dance Advanced Dance AP Studio Art -- 2D Design AP Studio Art -- 3D Design AP Studio Art -- Drawing
Mercy Courses Eligible for Honors points for Both U.C. And C.S.U Systems AP Biology AP Calculus AB and BC AP Chemistry AP English Language and Composition AP English Literature and Composition AP French Language AP Government & Politics United States AP United States History
AP Spanish Language AP Studio Art – 2D Design AP Studio Art – 3D Design AP Studio Art Drawing Honors Chemistry Honor Physics Honors Pre-Calculus/Trigonometry Honors Spanish III
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Grading Policies & Procedures Grading Policy General
A. SUPERIOR ACHIEVEMENT A 4.0 GPA ● Student exceeds maximum requirements of course. ● All work done is consistently of excellent quality. ● There is active participation in class. B. ABOVE AVERAGE ACHIEVEMENT B 3.0 GPA ● Student covers all requirements at an above-average level. ● Work done is consistently of high quality. ● Contributions to class discussions are pertinent and effective. C. AVERAGE ACHIEVEMENT C 2.0 GPA ● Student meets basic requirements satisfactorily. ● Student shows steady progress in application of knowledge acquired. D. BELOW AVERAGE ACHIEVEMENT - BARELY PASSING D 1.0 GPA ● Student acquires essentials for passing. ● Work done is generally of poor quality. ● Student is entitled to credit but may not take advanced work in the subject if it is an elective course. F. FAILURE - No Credit F 0.0 GPA ● Student has not met the minimum requirements. ● Excessive absenteeism. Incomplete: In extreme circumstances and with prior approval of the Director of Teaching and Learning or Associate Head of School for Academics, an “Incomplete” may be issued for illness or other authorized extended absences when a student has not completed sufficient work to earn a passing grade. A student who does not make up the incomplete work within the specified and agreed to period will receive a failure in that course
Grading Scale 95-100 A 90-94 A-
87-89 B+ 83-86 B 80-82 B-
77-79 C+ 73-76 C 70-72 C-
67-69 D+ 63-66 D 60-62 D-
0-59 F
Grade Point Average
A 4-point scale is used (A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0). The student's official transcript indicates the student’s 22
GPA for each semester and the cumulative GPA. All graded courses offered in the regular school day program are computed into Mercy's GPA. The GPA for the University of California system and the California State University system are calculated differently and will be discussed at workshops for seniors in the fall. Advanced Placement and Honors courses are weighted in computing semester GPA's (A=5, B=4, C=3 only).* * All Honors and Advanced Placement courses at Mercy High School are weighted (A = 5; B = 4; C = 3) in computing the semester and cumulative GPA. However, colleges typically weight only upper division Honors and Advanced Placement courses. Classes approved by U.C. but offered during after school hours – (P) Dance Ensemble and (P) Acting in Production – are credited on the student’s official transcript but are not computed in the Mercy GPA, which pertains only to the regular day program.
Departmental Grading Policies
At the beginning of each semester, each teacher will provide students with a copy of the expectations, procedures and grading policies for the class.
Grade posting
Mercy High uses RenWeb as our School Administration Software. RenWeb provides a secure SSL login for students and parents to monitor the student’s classes, grades and homework assignments. There is also a link on each class page to email the teacher or her counselor directly. Approximately every two weeks, all faculty ensure all grades are up to date, indicated by a ‘Grading Posting Day’ in the school calendar. The registrar will email a Mid-Semester Progress Report summary to all student and parents. Details to the grade summary can be found in RenWeb.
Report Cards
The semester grades are posted on the student’s official transcript. A mid-semester report will be issued to all parents/students as well as the semester grade report. Mercy High School will email the final Report Card to all students and parents. If you wish to receive the Report Card in the mail, please send a request to the Registrar, Kathryn Ann Dougery at
[email protected] or call her at (415) 334-0525 x212. Report Cards convey the following information: academic grades for each subject, GPA per semester, days absent and unexcused tardies.
Honor Roll
Mercy presents honors each semester to students as follows: Honors 3.50 to 3.99 semester GPA High Honors with Distinction 4.0+ semester GPA
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parents/guardians are encouraged to consult the teacher when there is a concern about a specific 23
subject. Leave a message on the teacher’s voice mail or email. Teachers will return phone calls within 48 hours. Parents/guardians may contact the student’s counselor if there are overall concerns about their student.
Failure of Classes
1. A student who receives a semester “F” in a required course must repeat the course in Mercy’s summer school to remain eligible for promotion to the next grade level. 2. If a senior receives an “F” in any course during her senior year, she will not receive her diploma until that “F” is made up. If it is a first semester “F” and a class is available second semester, she may make it up second semester; otherwise, summer school attendance is necessary in order to earn her diploma. In either case, the Associate Head of School for Academics must give approval. 3. In the years when the school sponsors an Intersession, a senior will not receive her diploma until she has earned the Intersession credit. Should a senior not complete Intersession at the scheduled time, she must make it up during summer school. 4. A senior who has five credits or less of unresolved “F” grades may participate in the graduation ceremony but will not receive her diploma until these credits/hours are earned. Seniors who have six or more credits of unresolved “F” grades will not be permitted to participate in the senior dinner, senior awards nor the graduation ceremonies. Should the student complete the needed credits within one year of her scheduled graduation date, she will receive her diploma. Should this take a longer period of time, she will not be eligible for a diploma unless the Head of School makes the exception. The final transcript will reflect the actual date that high school work is completed. 5. A senior who fails to complete her community service requirement cannot participate in the senior dinner nor the awards and graduation ceremonies. Her diploma will be withheld until the requirement is satisfied. The final transcript will indicate the actual date of meeting this graduation requirement. 6. Any senior that does not satisfy all graduation requirements will NOT be permitted to participate in any “Grad Night” trips.” This pertains to both academic and community service requirements. All business and fund raiser accounts must be up to date as well.
Repeating Courses in Summer School
If a student is required or is permitted to repeat a course, the following policy applies:
“D” in any Course:
The repeated course and the grade earned will appear on the transcript, but the original “D” is the only grade used in computing Mercy’s grade point average. (Colleges will evaluate the make-up grade at their discretion.)
“F” in any Course:
Both the original and repeated course and grades will appear on the transcript. Both grades will be used in computing the grade point average. (Colleges will evaluate the make-up grade at their discretion.) NOTE: Students are required to repeat classes in Mercy High School’s Summer School or at a school approved by the Assistant Head of School for Academics. Except for extraordinary reasons, students will 24
not be permitted to repeat classes during the course of the school year. Grades below a “C-” are not considered qualifying grades for college admission. Summer School grades do not alter a student’s status on Academic Probationary Support from the preceding semester.
Major Long-Term Assignments
A teacher may specify that completion of a long-term assignment which is an integral part of the course is necessary to pass the given mid-semester and/or semester. This information will be communicated to students by the teacher in advance.
Semester Exams
These examinations are comprehensive summaries of the work accomplished during the semester. The semester’s work will be based on the student’s work for the entire semester, including the final exam or project grade. The final exam or project grade will not exceed 20% of the total semester grade. Tardies for Semester Exams: Students are expected to be on time for all exams. On exam days, a bell will ring signaling the start of each exam. Should a student arrive after the bell rings, she will not be admitted to the exam, but will be directed instead to the Assistant Head of School for Academics who in consultation with the subject teacher, will determine whether or not the student will be permitted to take a make-up exam. If the teacher allows the student to sit for the exam, it may be downgraded one letter grade. Students are not permitted to leave campus between exams. Make-Up Policy for Semester Examinations: Since semester examinations are scheduled at least five months in advance, illness is the only excuse that will be accepted. A doctor's visit and note are required and the Assistant Head of School for Academics will review each case. All other absences will be considered unexcused. All absences for final exams, excused and unexcused, must be referred to the Assistant Head of School for Academics who will determine whether or not a student will be permitted to take a make-up exam. Make-Up Policy for Tests: Students with excused absences are permitted to make up tests. A student who is absent the day before the test may be required to take the test on a scheduled day. It is the responsibility of the student to know if she has missed a test and to make up missed tests within 2 school days of her absence. Final Exams are retained by the school for one year. Students and parents/guardians may review them upon request. Exam Attire: Students must be in Formal Dress.
Field Trip/ Intersession Policies
While field trips have an educational purpose and are an integral part of the curriculum, they are privileges afforded to students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip. Students can be denied participation if they fail to meet academic or behavioral requirements. Parents/guardians also have the right to refuse to allow their student to participate in a field trip. Unless otherwise approved, only students currently enrolled at Mercy will be permitted on Mercy sponsored field trips. 25
Intersession is an integral part of the curriculum and a graduation requirement. Tuition payments must be up to date before registering for overnight courses. Because of the additional supervision needed on overnight courses, students incurring any disciplinary action will be allowed on overnight courses only at the discretion of the Director of Student Life and Director of Teaching and Learning. During first semester, there are to be no field trips scheduled after December 1. During second semester, there are to be no field trips scheduled after May 1.
Chapter 4: Student Expectations and Discipline
Mercy High School abides by the standards of behavioral expectations as outlined in the Archdiocesan Policy, which includes reverence and respect for self and others, including the use of technology in the public domain. Thus, students can expect assistance and guidance in all aspects of their school experience for which they are to provide equal cooperation. Regardless of age, including students who are over 18 years of age, all students at Mercy High School are required to comply with all rules and regulations found in this Parent/Guardian/Student Handbook. The school requires its students to reside with parent(s) or approved guardian(s) while enrolled. Our goal is to create an atmosphere in which students with different personalities and talents can come together harmoniously while working toward personal and common goals. Implicit in our expectations and policies is the understanding that school and home will work in partnership to provide the optimum educational experience for each student. Students are always to conduct themselves as Mercy students and to exhibit the behaviors expected of such students. Immorality in talk or action and conduct detrimental to the reputation of the school is considered prohibited behavior.
Student ID Card
All students are members of the Mercy High School Student Body and participate in the student activities program. An official student ID card with photo is issued to each registered student at the beginning of the school year. Students are expected to have these cards with them because they may be required for identification purposes at school-related functions. Student ID cards are also necessary for the Epicurean meal plan If lost, students must see the Main Office who will re-issue a new card. The cost of replacement is $5.00
Use of Electronic Devices (Laptops, Cellular Phones, Smart Phones, Tablets, iPods, iPads)
Students are allowed to use laptops for classroom and instructional purposes only. The Technology Office should be notified for network security purposes. The student is responsible for any hardware or software issues arising from the use of their computer at school. Mercy High School is not responsible for any theft or damage to the student’s personal electronic devices. 26
Mercy High School has established the following policies for cell phone use throughout the building. Teachers may set their own in-class policies regarding cell phone usage. ● ●
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Students may use their cell phones in Barrett Hall/Cafeteria or outside before school, during lunch, and after school. Students may use cell phones for non-calling usage (texting, listening to music with earbuds, internet, etc.) in these locations: Barrett Hall/Cafeteria, Computer Labs, Library, Library Annex and the Catherine McAuley Pavilion (but not during masses or assemblies). Students may not use their cellphones in the Wellness Center, Theater, and Student Life Office. The main lobby, hallways, stairwells and the bathrooms are off limits to cell phone usage as well. Students must have their cell phones powered off during Morning Prayer, announcements, liturgies, assemblies, retreats, and while in the theater. To keep the network running quickly for those doing school-related business, please do not connect your cell phone to the Mercy wireless network – use your own data plan. Have your parents contact the Main Office in case of emergency. If you are sick, use the Main Office phones to contact your family, not your cell phone.
If any of the above rules are broken, the following disciplinary actions will occur: CELL PHONE CONFISCATION POLICY 1st Offense - The cell phone will be confiscated until the end of the current school day - Student will receive a detention 2nd Offense* - The cell phone will be confiscated until the end of the next school day. - Student will receive a detention. - Parent Contact 3rd Offense* - The cell phone will be confiscated until picked up by a parent/guardian along with a mandatory Parent/Guardian Conference. - Student will receive a detention - Student will be placed on the Loss of Privileges List. *Subsequent offenses will result in confiscation and include an administrator generated discipline referral. Confiscated phones will be locked up and can be picked up between 3:15pm - 4:15pm. See the Director of Student Life. At the end of the school year, if you have not collected your electronic devices (cell phones, iPods, etc.) Mercy High School will recycle them.
Fidget Spinners and/or Fidget Cubes Fidget spinners, fidget cubes, and fidget toys are not allowed in the classroom or school premises unless a student has a valid note from a medical professional. Use of such objects, without a documented reason, will result in confiscation of the object and detention. 27
Use of Lockers Assignment of lockers is made at the time of registration and changing lockers is rarely allowed. Students who do not abide by this rule will forfeit the use of a locker. Any damage to a locker will be billed to the student assigned that particular locker. Report cards and transcripts can be withheld until damages are paid. Locker combinations are confidential; for the student's protection, she should not share her combination with other students. Lockers remain the property of the school and may be opened and inspected at any time by the Administration for disciplinary, health or safety reasons. It is the student’s responsibility to keep her locker locked at all times to prevent theft. Students who do not properly lock up their locker may receive a referral. Birthday celebratory signs are allowed to be placed on lockers. Signs must be in good taste and not interfere with nearby lockers or they will be removed. Birthday celebratory signs will be removed from the lockers the first and third Fridays of each month. Only masking tape is allowed to be used to hang birthday signs on lockers.
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Dress Code ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
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Dress Code attire should always be clean, neat, and appropriately sized. Pants that sag below waist level are not appropriate. The dress code should be in good condition (no frayed or ripped hems). Shoes and socks are to be worn at all times. The dress code that is worn on a daily basis is Casual Dress. Certain events at Mercy High School require Formal Dress. Jewelry and makeup should be minimal and appropriate to the school setting. Visible body piercing, including nose rings/studs, tongue studs, clear plastic plugs, and tattoos are not allowed. ○ Band-Aids or flesh colored tape may not be worn to cover the piercing. Students with visible body piercing or tattoos will be sent home. Hair styles are to be neat, clean, and appropriate to the school setting. ○ Dyed hair must be in a natural color. A student with an extraordinary or extreme hair color such as an nontraditional color or a two-tone look with vivid, bright or off beat hair colors or styles will be required to dye her hair back to an acceptable color and style within a week. Students may not shave any part of their head. Dress Code regulations extend to the entire campus and apply to the entire school day. Students should enter the campus dressed in dress code attire. General appearance should be appropriate to the business of school. After 3:05 p.m., unless the Mercy dress code is worn properly and in its entirety, the student can change to complete free dress.
Free Dress/Senior Free Dress Guidelines ● ● ● ●
Clothing should be neat, clean and appropriate for the “business of school” Students may not wear halter, tank, or tube tops, long underwear, pajama tops or bottoms, leggings, yoga pants, shorts, skorts or mini skirts At no time should a student's midriff be on display No platform shoes, flip-flops, rubber beach or shower sandals, crocs, ugg style footwear, slippers, moccasins
Faculty or staff who deems a student to be inappropriately dressed should issue the student a referral. Seniors failing to comply with the Free Dress Guidelines may have this privilege revoked.
Improper Dress Code Procedures
A student who is not in dress code attire will be assigned a referral which may result in a detention. If the non-dress code article is removable, the student will be requested to remove it and she will be assigned a referral. The item will be held in the Student Life Office. A parent/guardian must come to school to pick up the item within 30 days or it will be donated to charity.
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Club/Class/Intersession/Team Sweatshirts
Your sweatshirt may only have your first name or your last name. There will be no nicknames for safety reasons. All designs must be cleared by the Associate Head of School for Mission.
Discipline Policies & Procedures Behavior in the School Building
1. Students are not to sit in the halls when classes are in session. 2. Students are not to run in the halls or put themselves in locations where they may cause damage to property or hurt themselves or others. 3. Students should show respect for self and others when maintaining order and cleanliness on the campus. 4. A student who needs to be in the halls during class time may request a hall pass from the Associate Head of School for Mission or a faculty member. 5. Tampering with health and safety equipment on campus may lead to expulsion. 6. Students not in class are to be in the Library, Library Annex, Computer Labs, Counseling Center, Achievement Center, Barrett Hall/Cafeteria or on back campus.
Respect and Courtesy Respect for Students, Faculty, Staff, and Cafeteria Personnel Students are expected to act respectfully in their relationships with Mercy personnel, other students, parents/guardians, and visitors to the school. This includes the use of technology in the public domain. A student who is disrespectful or uses abusive language may be suspended and is subject to expulsion. At the discretion of the teachers, students will receive detention/detentions for disruptive behavior or insubordination. A student who is disrespectful or uses abusive language may be suspended and is subject to expulsion. Any student found guilty of physical or verbally abusing an administrator, faculty or staff member or another student on or off campus will be expelled. The student may be subject to legal action.
Harassment Any demeaning behavior, including harassment, bullying, hazing, cyberbullying, name-calling and threatening will not be tolerated.
Complaint Procedure
Students who feel aggrieved because of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment may, depending on the severity of the conduct, directly inform the person engaging in such conduct that such conduct is offensive and must stop. In many circumstances it may be better to directly contact an adult. 31
If the students do not feel comfortable doing this or are unable to do so, they shall direct their verbal complaint to their parents or to a school counselor, Director of Student Life, Associate Head of School for Mission, or Associate Head of School for Academics. If the student is uncomfortable speaking to administrators who are of the opposite sex then they may request that a same-sex teacher also be present. These persons have been designated to assist in resolving sexual harassment complaints and are bound by the highest degree of sensitivity, concern and professionalism. The designee receiving the complaint will follow the school's disciplinary plan and will act in a prompt and timely manner to ensure that the matter is investigated and responded to in accordance with legal procedures. Any investigation will be conducted in as confidential a manner as is consistent with these requirements and a thorough investigation of the complaint.
Arriving and Departing from School Please follow the directions of our security guard concerning parking at all times. The Lower Junipero Serra entrance to Mercy’s campus is the only entrance and exit for students who are driven to school. It is unsafe and illegal to stop on 19th Avenue to drop your daughter off. Parents/guardians driving their student to and from school who use the Lower Junipero Serra entrance must observe the "No Parking" signs or risk a citation by the Police Department. Double parking is a safety hazard and may incur a citation. Parents/guardians are encouraged find other convenient locations for picking up and dropping off a student since Lower Junipero Serra becomes extremely congested. There is no double parking or stopping allowed on Junipero Serra Boulevard. There is also no double parking on Lower Junipero Serra when dropping off or picking up your daughter before or after school. Please pull into the curb while waiting; do not idle in the middle of the street. Students who, or whose parent/guardian, violate these rules may be subject to detention.
Weapons, Dangerous Instruments and Fireworks Students are not allowed to possess, handle, or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon: a) on the school grounds at any time; b) off the school grounds at any school function or event; c) or, while en route between home and school. Students violating this rule are subject to expulsion.
Hazing It is a crime to engage in hazing activities. In addition, any student who participates in hazing or any act that causes or is likely to cause personal humiliation or disgrace will be suspended or expelled.
Racism and/or Prejudiced Behavior Students should treat all persons equally and respectfully and refrain from willful or negligent use of slurs against any person on the basis or race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation or disability. Students who exhibit verbal, physical behavior and/or use of technology of a racist or prejudiced nature toward any other member of the community at school or at any 32
school-sponsored event will be suspended and placed on Disciplinary Probation. Students who continue racist and/or prejudiced behavior will be dismissed from Mercy High School.
Respect for Property and Cafeteria
Students proven guilty of stealing school property, the property of a fellow student, administrator, faculty or staff, or goods from any agency employed by the school may be dismissed from Mercy High School. Students proven guilty of vandalizing the property of an administrator, teacher or staff member or other students, visitors, or school property are subject to expulsion. This includes marking or carving desks, lockers, walls, pillars, bulletin boards, books, etc. Parents/guardians will be required to pay the cost of repairs as the law provides.
Money and Valuables When turning in money for school projects, trips, or activities, students are expected to have the exact amount in an envelope labeled with the student’s name, homeroom and activity. Students should not bring large amounts of cash or valuables to school. If it is absolutely necessary to bring a large sum, please turn it into the main office to be placed in the safe for the day. Students may ask the Administrative Services Office to hold money/valuables for the day as well. For prom bids, etc., cash, checks or money orders will be accepted. Mercy High School is not responsible for lost/stolen items.
Telephone ●
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Phone messages will be taken on the school phone only from a parent or guardian in emergency situations (i.e., change of doctor or dental appointments). Students will not be taken out of class for messages except in an emergency. Messages regarding transportation for after school pick up will not be accepted after 2:00 p.m. Students are to contact the Administrative Services Office if they need to make an emergency call; otherwise, the main office phones are not for student use.
Elevator If a student needs to use the elevator because of a specific health need, that should be verified by a note from her parent/guardian and doctor addressed to the main office. Students who use the elevator without permission will be subject to detention.
Photocopy Machines
Students are not permitted to use the photocopy machine in the teachers' work room or mail room. If a student officer or club president needs multiple copies for school activities, she should request them from the faculty member supervising the activity. 33
The photocopy machine in the library is available for students' personal use.
Barrett Hall/Cafeteria Regulations Barrett Hall/Cafeteria is the place to socialize when students are on their break or eating. It is very important for all of us to realize the benefits derived from the proper use of this school facility. The following regulations should be observed while in Barrett Hall/Cafeteria: 1. Students are to be respectful and courteous to the adult supervisors, cafeteria personnel and other students. 2. Proper accepted social behavior should be observed by everyone. This means no loud screaming, shouting and hollering at each other or running around. 3. Show respect and consideration for others who are in Barrett Hall/Cafeteria to study. 4. Students are expected to remain respectful and wait their turn in food lines. 5. Everyone is expected to clean up their "TRASH" (or garbage) after eating, lunching and drinking their sodas. Recycle all aluminum cans and empty bottles in the “DESIGNATED BINS” (blue and green). Please do not throw your garbage into the recycling bins. The school expects each student to cooperate with the recycling and compostable – collection system on campus. All daily activities and special events are to use this system. Not only does this save the school money, but it expresses the environmental responsibility that is part of citizenship and Christian faith. 6. Everyone should be in their proper dress code at all times. 7. The tables are for studying and eating purposes, not to be sat upon. Do not put your feet up on the seats or tables. 8. The area where you sat should be cleaned up before leaving for class or home. 9. Keep the space between the windows and posts in Barrett Hall/Cafeteria free for easy flow of foot traffic.
Food, Gum, and Beverages In order to maintain cleanliness and respect for each other, students must eat or drink in the following areas: Barrett Hall/Cafeteria, McAuley Pavilion courtyard, and the back campus. Students may bring water to class. Gum chewing is NEVER allowed on campus. Any infractions/violations of this policy will result in a detention. After students have finished eating, they should be considerate of others by disposing of papers, wrappers, beverage containers, etc., in the appropriate receptacle(s). The school expects each student to cooperate with the recycling and composting system. All daily activities and special events are to use this system. Not only does this save the school money, but it expresses the environmental responsibility that is part of citizenship and Christian faith.
Harassment Mercy High School affirms the Christian dignity of every student. Harassment is unacceptable conduct that is severe, pervasive, and deliberate. Harassment occurs when an individual is subjected to treatment in a school environment which is hostile, offensive or intimidating because of the individual's 34
race, creed, color, national origin, physical disability or sex. Harassment of any student by any other student is prohibited and will not be tolerated. It is the policy of Mercy High School to provide an educational environment in which all students are treated with respect and dignity. It is the student's responsibility to conduct herself in a manner which contributes to a positive school environment. Students will not commit acts which can injure, degrade, disgrace, or threaten the safety, privacy, and respect of other students, teachers, or staff members. Teachers shall discuss this policy with their students in age-appropriate ways and shall assure them that they need not endure any form of harassment. The school will treat allegations of harassment seriously and will review and investigate such allegations of harassment in a prompt, professional, and thorough manner. If you are having a communication problem with another student, you are to see your counselor. You may not communicate with anyone about this issue on your cell phone; through e-mail, text messaging, Snapchat, Instagram, or on Twitter; through any blog or website; through any internet chat room; or by way of any other social networking web sites.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment can be directed toward a student under conditions such as the following: Verbal Harassment: Sexual demeaning comments, sexual statements, questions, slurs, jokes, anecdotes, or epithets; Written Harassment: Suggestive or obscene letters, notes, or invitations; Physical Harassment: Unkind, immoral and/or unlawful physical touching, contact, assault, deliberate impeding or blocking movements, or any intimidating interference with normal study or movement; Visual Harassment: Leering, gestures, display of sexual suggestive objects or pictures, cartoons, posters or via the internet or technological devices.
Cyberbullying (Electronic Bullying) Cyberbullying is defined as: an act of communicating or causing a communication to be sent by mechanical or electronic means, including posting statements on the Internet or through a computer or e-mail network, disseminating embarrassing or sexually explicit photographs; disseminating private, personal, false or sexual information, or sending hate mail, with no legitimate private, personal, or public purpose, with the intent to harass, annoy, threaten, abuse, taunt, intimidate, torment, humiliate, otherwise inflict significant emotional harm on another person. Cyberbullying also can be referred to an online social cruelty or electronic bullying. Examples of Cyberbullying ● Sending cruel or threatening messages ● Creating web sites that have stories, cartoons, pictures and jokes ridiculing others ● Posting pictures of classmates online and asking students to rate them 35
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Breaking into an e-mail account and sending vicious or embarrassing material to others Engaging someone in via social media or text and tricking that person into revealing sensitive information, and forwarding it to others Taking a picture of a person in the locker room and using a camera phone then sending that picture to others
The school will immediately contact law enforcement if the cyberbullying involves any of the following: ● Threats of violence ● Extortion ● Obscene or harassing phone calls or text messages ● Harassment, stalking, or hate crimes ● Child Pornography Any student who participates in cyberbullying or any act that causes or is likely to cause personal humiliation or disgrace to another will be suspended or expelled. A cyberbullying incident would include those taking place in classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, common areas, athletic facilities, vans, buses, parking lot and any other environment hosting a school-sponsored event. There is also in-person-bullying as well as electronic bullying through social media, texting, e-mail, voicemail, chat rooms, instant messaging or websites.
Disruptive Conduct Inappropriate Language (Swearing) Avoid it. No matter who else in the school uses it, an obscenity will do nothing to advance your high school career. A detention will be issued for those who disregard this rule. Conduct which interferes with the educational process, including insubordination, is considered serious at Mercy High School. At the discretion of the teacher, the student will be issued a detention and may be placed on Disciplinary Probation and/or suspended. A parent/guardian/teacher/student/Administrator conference may be scheduled.
Student Conduct (on and off campus)
While attending events at other schools or places in the community (i.e., Intersession, Senior Grad Night, etc.), Mercy High School students are considered to be representatives of the school. Therefore, the rules governing conduct at in-school functions will apply to behavior at out-of-school functions such as actions and conduct detrimental to the reputation of the school. Violation of Mercy's rules or those of another school or organization may result in a parent/guardian conference and/or any other disciplinary action deemed necessary depending upon the specific action and circumstances. 36
Neighborhood It is expected that students will respect the privacy and property of our neighbors in the area of the school. Gathering on the steps or in the doorways of neighboring homes and stores, leaving refuse lying around, defacing of property, not respecting our neighbors or their property is not acceptable. Students will be held responsible for their conduct within the neighborhood and are subject to disciplinary action. The school reserves the right to discipline a student for actions committed off-campus if they are intended to have an effect on a student or they adversely affect the safety and well-being of a student while in school.
Smoking The law prohibits any person under 18 from possessing tobacco or tobacco products. Students found smoking on campus or off campus while in dress code or while attending school-sponsored activities will be directed toward mandatory counseling to help assist her in overcoming her smoking habit. Parents/guardians will be notified.
Public Transportation Conduct
A student exhibiting disruptive conduct on public transportation will be subject to disciplinary action.
Progressive Policy and Procedures Detention Detention is issued for dress code violations and other minor referrals. Detention starts daily after school depending on the dismissal time. A student may be issued a detention by an administrator, faculty, or staff member. Deliberately failing to show for detention will automatically place the student on Disciplinary Probation and she will be re-assigned an additional detention. A student on Disciplinary Probation is neither permitted to participate in nor attend any co-curricular activities during her Probation. A student already involved in an activity will not be able to participate.
Suspension and Expulsion
For serious reasons, a student may be immediately suspended from school and placed on Disciplinary Probation. The dates of suspension will be indicated on the Disciplinary Contract. The student may not return to school until her parent/guardian has had a conference with the Associate Head of School for Mission. The student may be permitted to make up tests, quizzes and homework, but late academic penalties will be assessed per individual instructor. Students may incur an "F/0" grade for assignments or activities specifically designed for a given class period (i.e., lab experiments, critique of a film or guest speaker, group or individual presentations) which a student misses due to her suspension. The suspension also includes exclusion from any and all school activities for the duration of the 37
suspension. If a student receives two (2) suspensions in one school year, she may be dismissed from Mercy.
Reasons for Disciplinary Probation, Suspension, and/or Expulsion Disciplinary Probation
(This list is not all inclusive and it is up to the discretion of the school to determine a suspendable offense.) Students may be placed on disciplinary probation depending on the severity of the offense. This will be on a case by case basis. ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Extreme disrespectful behavior or insubordination on or off campus Falsification of notes, phone calls, or lying Cutting a class(es) Excessive tardies (five or more per semester) Unexcused absences on special days (i.e., assemblies, Mercy Day, etc.) Disregard of rules governing school activities Serious objectionable behavior off campus Five (5) detentions within one semester Off campus without a pass Tongue studs, body piercing, and/or visible tattoos Thieving, cheating, plagiarism, dishonesty or vandalism Bullying/Cyberbullying Inappropriate use of the Internet Physically fighting, physical and/or verbal harassment or threatening another student
Students who already are on Disciplinary Probation and receive another detention will receive additional days of Disciplinary Probation.
Suspension (This list is not all inclusive and it is up to the discretion of the school to determine a suspendable offense.) ● Physical fighting, physical and/or verbal harassment, threatening another student ● Truancy ● Disrespectful behavior or insubordination on or off campus ● Violation of Disciplinary Probation ● Off campus without a pass ● Serious objectionable behavior off campus ● Stealing ● Inappropriate use of the Internet ● Continued disrespect for school policies ● Cheating/Plagiarizing/Dishonesty ● Tongue studs, body piercing, and/or visible tattoos ● Cyberbullying/Bullying ● Inappropriate text messaging and telephone calls
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All three-day suspensions must be approved by the Associate Head of School for Mission.
Administrative Requests -- Student Withdrawals/Expulsions
1. Prior to suspension, students who are involved in any disciplinary incident which may result in withdrawal or expulsion from Mercy will meet with the administration to clarify the details of the incident. 2. Students who are being considered for withdrawal/expulsion for disciplinary reasons will be suspended for up to three days. At that time, all pertinent information will be gathered from teachers and counselors and appointments with the parent/guardian will be arranged. 3. The report will be distributed to the student’s teachers. This information is needed to provide parent/guardian with a current report and will help to facilitate the decision-making process. 4. After all the information has been gathered, the administrators and the student’s counselor will meet to review the information. At that time, a decision will be made as to how to handle the situation and conduct the parent/guardian meeting. This meeting will take place for all cases concerning withdrawals/expulsions unless the Head of School deems it necessary to act immediately. 5. The withdrawal/expulsion meeting with the parent/guardian and student will include appropriate members of the school administration and the student’s counselor. At that time, parent/guardian and student will have the right to present any further information concerning the issue. Based on all the information concerning the case, the final decision for withdrawal/expulsion will be made by the Head of School. 6. If the student is allowed to remain at Mercy, a written contract of conditions will be discussed and a copy of these conditions will be sent to the parent/guardian and student. The student’s counselor will be responsible for recording and monitoring the contract. It is up to the discretion of the teacher as to whether the student can make up her work from the suspension period. 7. After withdrawal/expulsion, all logistics concerning the student’s departure will be handled by the Registrar and the Administrative Services staff (check-out forms, Business Office, library, locker, grades, etc.).
Expulsion ● Selling, distributing or possessing alcohol, drugs or weapons ● Any student who has a physical altercation with another student may be expelled ● Stealing, cheating, plagiarism or vandalism The above list is not intended to be exhaustive; students may be expelled for inappropriate conduct as determined by the Head of School.
Expulsion Procedures
1. Students will be placed on suspension in accordance with the handbook policy. 2. The Associate Head of School for Mission will prepare all the necessary documentation concerning the incident and her recommendations. 3. The student's counselor will provide any further information concerning the student which is relevant to the procedure. 4. Academic progress reports will be compiled from each of the student’s teachers. All other school information (i.e., absences, tardies, past disciplinary actions) will be compiled. 39
5. The student and her parents/guardians will meet with the appropriate school administrator(s) (and the student’s counselor when appropriate) to evaluate the situation and allow the student and parents/guardians to present information. 6. The Head of School will make the final decision concerning expulsion and will communicate this to the student's parents/guardians.
Final Recourse on Disciplinary Matters
The Head of School has the final recourse on all disciplinary matters.
Falsification of Notes and/or Misrepresentation by Telephone
Forging a parent's or guardian's name on a note, altering a note in any way, making or having someone else make a telephone call in which the caller falsely claims to be a parent or guardian are dishonest. The parent/guardian will be notified and the student will be immediately suspended and placed on Disciplinary Probation. The student may be subject to dismissal.
Administrative Procedures on Zero Tolerance Policies All demeaning behavior, including harassment, bullying, hazing, cyberbullying, name-calling and threatening is wrong and will not be tolerated. To promote an environment free of harassment, the Head of School shall take appropriate actions such as removing vulgar or offending graffiti, establishing site rules, and providing staff in-service or student instruction and counseling. This policy prohibits student to student sexual harassment and bullying whenever it is related to school activity or attendance and occurs at any time including, but not limited to, any of the following: a. While on school grounds; b. While going to or coming from school; c. During the lunch period; d. During, or while going to, or coming from, a school-sponsored activity. e. On the internet or with technology f. Any student who engages in the sexual harassment or bullying of another student is subject to disciplinary action up to and including verbal and/or written warnings and reprimands, counseling, suspension, and expulsion. Note: Should substantiated conduct outside the school environment come to the attention of the school, this too may serve as grounds for discipline as students of Mercy High Schools are expected to conform their lives to Christian principles at all times. A charge of harassment shall not, in and of itself, create the presumption of wrongdoing. However, substantiated acts of harassment will result in disciplinary action up to, and including, dismissal. Students found to have filed knowingly false or frivolous charges also will be subject to disciplinary action up to, and including, dismissal. Depending on the nature and extent of the charge, if reasonable suspicion of misconduct is determined, the alleged harasser may be sent home pending conclusion of the investigation by the school. 40
Dissemination of Policy
In order to ensure that all students and employees have knowledge of this policy and administrative procedures, a copy of the policy: a. will be posted in a prominent location in the administrative building; b. shall be provided to all students currently enrolled in the Mercy High School and shall be distributed at all orientation programs conducted for new students at the beginning, of each academic year and summer session; c. shall be provided to all faculty members, administrative staff, and support staff at the beginning of each school year or at the time that a new employee is hired; d. shall appear in the parent/guardian/student handbook at each local site.
Complaint Procedure
➢ Students who feel aggrieved because of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment may, depending on the severity of the conduct, directly inform the person engaging in such conduct that such conduct is offensive and must stop. In many circumstances it may be better to directly contact an adult. ➢ If the students do not feel comfortable doing this or are unable to do so, they shall direct their verbal complaint to their parents or to a school counselor, Director of Student Life, Associate Head of School for Mission, or Associate Head of School for Academics. If the student is uncomfortable speaking to administrators who are of the opposite sex then they may request that a same-sex teacher also be present. These persons have been designated to assist in resolving sexual harassment complaints and are bound by the highest degree of sensitivity, concern and professionalism. ➢ The designee receiving the complaint will follow the school's disciplinary plan and will act in a prompt and timely manner to ensure that the matter is investigated and responded to in accordance with legal procedures. Any investigation will be conducted in as confidential a manner as is consistent with these requirements and a thorough investigation of the complaint.
Physical Assaults and Verbal Altercations (On and Off Campus)
Physical assaults and verbal altercations between students are met with severe penalties which include one or more of the following: suspension, Disciplinary Probation and/or expulsion. In addition, malicious slander or threats of any kind regarding any school personnel or student via the use of technological devices (e-mails, blogs, texting, snapchatting, chatting, tweeting or bulletin boards, and any unauthorized use of devices), may result in suspension or expulsion.
Lost and Found Lost and found items may be turned in or claimed from the administrative services office. Items unclaimed after thirty (30) days will be donated to charity. The school cannot be responsible for items left in classrooms or hallways. As a matter of policy,
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students are encouraged to write their name in their textbooks and personal possessions in order to facilitate their return in case they are lost.
Chapter 5: Student Activities Campus Life Team (CLT)
The Campus Life Team (CLT) provides the overall leadership of the student body at Mercy High School. Members of the CLT are students who represent their school in a positive way, in the Catholic tradition and in the spirit of Catherine McAuley. They must meet the expectations of academic achievement (at least 2.5 cumulative GPA) and behavior (positive role-modeling for the students), and attendance procedures set by the school. Finally, students must be willing to make the commitment to the CLT their top priority, after academics, for the academic year. The CLT is the umbrella organization that includes various aspects of student life. Individual teams work collaboratively to embody the mission and philosophy of the Sisters of Mercy in the daily life at Mercy High School. The teams which comprise the CLT are the following: Associated Student Body (ASB) Officers and Class Officers (elected positions), Appointed Officers, Homeroom Representatives, Campus Ministry Core Team, and Campus Ministry Retreat Team (application/interview process). Incoming CLT students have the opportunity to attend a leadership conference during the summer which develops skills that can be implemented in the upcoming school year. The moderator of the ASB and the Campus Minister work collaboratively to serve as co-moderators of the CLT. All students are encouraged to run and/or apply for positions on the CLT which include the following:
ASB Executive Board (Elected Positions)
ASB President, ASB Vice - President, ASB Secretary/Treasurer, Senior Co-president, Junior Co-president, Sophomore Co-president, Freshmen Co-president
ASB Executive Board (Appointed Positions)
Community Service Commissioner, Corresponding Secretary, Dance Commissioner, Environmental Commissioner, Interschool Relations Commissioner, Publicity Commissioner, Spirit Commissioner
Homeroom Representatives (Application Process)
Each homeroom has two representatives who assist the homeroom teacher with homeroom business.
Campus Ministry Core Team (Application Process)
The Core Team consists of a diverse group of students who, as a team, have responsibilities as they pertain to planning and delivering liturgies, prayers services, special “drives” (book, food, etc.) and other faith sharing opportunities in our Mercy community.
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Campus Ministry Retreat Team (Application Process)
The Campus Ministry Retreat Team is comprised of juniors and seniors who are tasked will the planning, organization, advertisement, and leadership related to various retreats throughout the year. Members must attend weekly meetings.
Campus Ministry The Department of Campus Ministry takes, as its starting point, these statements from the Mercy High School Philosophy Statement: Mercy recognizes the goal of helping each student to mature in her own religious faith in a Catholic Christian environment that nurtures self-esteem, integrity, respect for human rights, compassion for others, and a maturing faith in God. In this climate, which stresses mutual respect, Mercy encourages the student to work toward becoming a sensitive and self-confident adult who demonstrates a responsible concern for the human condition and responds to needs of the world. The Department of Campus Ministry at Mercy High School is an outreach to the entire community to promote Christian life. Opportunities to expand that life are provided to all students and faculty. All members of the school community share responsibility for its faith life. Youth ministry, in the best sense, is experienced in all of young people's relationships--with each other, with caring adults, with their families and with the larger community. Teachers, especially, attempt to integrate this ministry into their own roles as educators. A team of faculty and a core group of students seek to provide the student body with: ● a "connection" where they can associate with others whose beliefs and values support their own; ● a forum for discussing and testing questions which arise at times when life experiences test one's beliefs; ● opportunities to experience "Mercy" as compassion and care for others; ● times and places for building habits of peaceful reflection; ● opportunities to act on personal values by exercising leadership in religious and spiritual spheres; ● opportunities to interact and enjoy one another as a Christian community; ● opportunities to interact as part of the wider community: ● Archbishop Riordan High School ● local elementary schools ● parish ● diocese ● community agencies All students are invited to witness to their faith through the following venues: ● all-school liturgies (Eucharistic liturgies and Liturgies of the Word) ● retreats ● fund-raising activities for local non-profit agencies ● Catholic youth events 43
● ●
Reconciliation Centering Prayer
All students are invited to exercise leadership and actively participate in Campus Ministry through the following: ● Liturgical Ministry Training as an acolyte (altar server), lector, Eucharistic Minister, and/or music minister ● Lay Presider Training ● Campus Ministry Core Team (see Campus Life Team description) ● Campus Ministry Retreat Team (see Campus Life Team description) ● Frosh Retreat Leader (Juniors and Seniors only)
Retreat Program
Mercy’s Department of Campus Ministry sponsors a day long retreat for each class as a means of fostering each student’s self-awareness, her relationship with God, and her relationships with others. Mercy’s four year, mandatory retreat program is integrated with the Religious Studies curriculum and is an important way in which students experience and express our identity as a Catholic, Mercy school. The optional overnight retreat for juniors and seniors offers further opportunity for students to deepen their spirituality and to grow in faith.
Program Guidelines
In order to encourage students to participate in Mercy’s Retreat Program and to help students meet their responsibilities, the following guidelines are in place: ● ●
● ●
Assignments due prior to the retreat or on the first day of the retreat may be required to be turned in before the students leave. Students are not permitted to do school work while on retreat. Any work due on the subsequent (second and third) days of the retreat is subject to the school’s attendance policy, students must be given reasonable time to make up work. No academic penalty is to be assigned. Teachers should not schedule tests on class retreat days. Teachers are expected to be supportive of all students participating in retreat opportunities.
Required Retreats
The 9th grade class participates in a full-day retreat is held in the fall semester. . Students attend the retreat according to their Religious Studies classes with half of the freshmen class attending one day, and the other half attending the second day. This full-day retreat (8:00am – 4:00pm) is centered on the students’ growing understanding of themselves as created in God’s image and in relationship with God, friends and family, and a community of faith. Sophomore and Junior Retreat: The entire sophomore and junior class participates in an all-day retreat (8:00am - 5:00pm) in the fall semester. Students attend the retreat according to their Religious Studies classes with one half of the each class attending one day, and the other half attending the second day. The retreat relies on the Religious Studies curriculum and is focused on themes from Scripture as a vehicle for further reflecting on one’s relationship with self, family, friends, and God. Senior Retreat: The entire senior class participates in an all-day retreat (8:00am – 5:00pm) according to 44
the semester they are enrolled in Religious Studies electives. The focus of the retreat is to encourage students to develop and be rooted in an adult spirituality as they move through their senior year and toward their future beyond Mercy.
Optional Retreats
Frosh/Sophomore Overnight Retreat: Ninth and tenth grade students are strongly encouraged to participate in a one-night, two-day, overnight retreat. Students are excused from classes for two full days in order to enjoy time away from campus for self-reflection, prayer, and community building. Junior & Senior Overnight Retreat: Juniors and seniors are strongly encouraged to participate in this three-day, two-night off-campus retreat during the spring semester. Students are excused from 2½ days of school in order to engage in community-building within and across classes, individual reflection, and prayer.
Christian Service Program Overview and Requirement
Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, dedicated her life to working with those who live on the margins of society. In honor and emulation of her, the program at Mercy: ● Seeks to have students go out into the community, as Catherine McAuley did, to help those who are in need: the poor, the elderly, the abused, the homeless, the disabled, those whose rights have been compromised ● Believes that community service is a fundamental part of being a Christian and it is deeply rooted in the Gospel tradition ● Encourages students to make volunteerism part of their ongoing lifestyle, not only because it transforms society, but because it enriches and nourishes our spirits.
Christian Service Requirement
The graduation requirement is two-fold: 1. A minimum of 50 hours of volunteer work with a non-profit organization * a. Prior to sophomore year, students must complete at least 20 service hours in an approved non-profit organization. b. Prior to junior year, they must have completed a cumulative total of at least 50 service hours in an approved non-profit organization. c. Students may begin completing their community service hours after their first day of classes at Mercy High School. d. Hours should be logged and verified using the Mercy High School Community Service Form (see website) Forms should be submitted to Dr. Adams in the Main Office. e. Students must complete their service hours and projects with not-for-profit organizations as approved by the Christian Service Department. A list of recommended organizations is available on the Mercy web-site. f. While Mercy High School encourages students to volunteer with events and opportunities on the Mercy campus, our community service program requires students to volunteer with organizations beyond the school itself. In circumstances when Mercy High School hosts events for disenfranchised populations (e.g., the Special Olympics), student volunteer hours would be credited toward the graduation requirement for 45
community service, upon approval by the Community Service Coordinator. Any hours completed at Mercy HS are capped at a total of 25 hours toward fulfillment of the minimum service requirement. 2. Culminating Service Project (CSP) a. During their junior year, students develop the CSP plan with the guidance of a school adviser. b. The project includes i. At least 15 hours at an approved non-profit organization ii. A 10-paragraph reflection paper iii. Participation in the Culminating Service Project Fair 1. During the Fall of Senior year 2. Preparation of an Electronic Display as well as optional table display items.
*Transfer Students ● ● ●
Students who transfer in at the beginning of their sophomore year are expected to complete at least 30 volunteer hours before their junior year begins and a Culminating Service Project. Students who transfer in at the beginning of their junior year are expected to complete a Culminating Service Project. Students who transfer in at the beginning of their senior year are not expected to complete community service as a graduation requirement.
Consequences for Failure to Complete the Christian Service Requirements
Failure to fulfill the annual requirements for community service will result in community service probation, suspending a student’s ability to participate in co-curricular activities until her requirements are met. Because community service forms require 5 business days for processing, they must be submitted at least one week before participation in the desired activity is allowed. ● Any student who has not met the community service requirement will not be permitted to be a part of the junior/senior prom, senior dinner, awards ceremony, nor the graduation ceremony. ● The date the diploma is issued will be noted on the official transcript.
Extracurriculars Mercy High School offers students many diverse opportunities to develop intellectually as well as personally. Mercy students have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of co-curricular activities. Club Moderators will be announced in the fall.
California Scholarship Federation Mercy has a chapter of C.S.F. Its purposes are "to foster high standards of scholarship, service and citizenship on the part of students of the senior high school of California." The motto is "Scholarship for Service." Membership is for the semester following the one in which the qualifying grades were earned, and is for one semester only. In order to become a member, the student must submit an application for 46
each semester for which she is eligible. At Mercy, an announcement is made when the application period is open. Semester membership is by application only and shall not be automatic or compulsory. Retroactive membership is not granted to a student who has failed to avail herself of the opportunity to become a member.
National Honor Society This organization recognizes and encourages academic achievement, service to and leadership within the school and larger community. A 3.4 cumulative GPA and 75 hours of NHS service above and beyond Mercy’s 100 hour requirement are required for membership. The Assistant Head of School for Academics and the Academic Council nominate students for this honorary society.
Student Voice
All notices and/or posters are to be posted only after approval by the Director of Student Life. Postings may not be made on hallway walls or windows. Posters may only be hung up in Barrett Hall. Electronic notices and/or posters may be aired digitally with Director of Student Life approval. For Walls: use masking tape only For Windows: Use scotch tape only (Tacks, staples, duct tape, packing tape, or scotch tape are not allowed)
Guidelines for Student Audience Behavior
1. Students are expected to exhibit respectful behavior during ALL performances at Mercy. This includes: a. Arriving on time for the performances. If students are late, they should remain in the lobby area. Students should then take a seat creating the least disturbance to the performance. b. Students should move to the center of the aisles to assist in the seating of others. c. Talking, shouting, whistling or name calling are not appropriate during a performance. d. Food, drink and gum chewing are not permitted in the theater. e. Electronic devices of all types are not allowed in the Theater. ALL cellular phones must be turned off during performances, but can be used outside the building during intermission as well as before and after the performance. f. Hats, caps and hoods should not be worn during the performance. g. Respect for performers on stage.
Guidelines for Cast Members and Tech Crew 1. Cast members, performers and tech crew should not enter the audience area or the lobby during the performance or at intermission. 2. Cast members and performers should be out of costume before leaving the backstage area. Students are to be picked up promptly by their parents/guardians after performances. The school will 47
send the student home in a taxi if the parent/guardian fails to pick up the student on time at the parents’/guardians’ expense.
Mercy High School Dance Policies Dances and Mixers
The secondary schools of the San Francisco Archdiocese have adopted the following common policies pertaining to regular school dances and mixers. The common policies of these schools promote Catholic Christian values that recognize the dignity and self-worth of each person. Dances and mixers should provide an opportunity for students to socialize in a supervised and safe environment.
Dance Policies
1. Students will not be permitted into any school-sponsored dance without a student ID or other valid photo identification. 2. All bags, purses, jackets, or other hand-carried items may be subject to inspection. 3. Student attire for dances must be clean, neat, and follow the school’s standards of modesty and appropriateness. The school reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of any attendee’s dress (see below). 4. Glow sticks or any glow items are not allowed at dances. 5. The drug and alcohol policies of the host school will be enforced at all times. 6. Students and their guests must engage in acceptable and appropriate forms of dancing for a Catholic high school dance. The school reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of any attendee’s form of dance (see below).
Dress Attire
All students and their guests MAY NOT wear the following: ● hats, bandannas or other head coverings ● sweats ● ripped or torn clothing ● clothing that promotes alcohol, drugs, profanity, tobacco, or anything deemed inappropriate by the school ● rubber beach thongs, backless sandals, or slippers In addition, the following items MAY NOT be worn: ● Males only: sleeveless shirts or tank tops, sports jersey ● Females: halter, tube tops, tank tops, spaghetti straps, tops that reveal the midriff or bare back, off the shoulder tops ► short skirts ► shorts ► spandex pants, leggings, or tights ► dresses or skirts with slits above the mid-thigh Closed shoes must be worn at all times by both males and females. Males are required to wear shirts with sleeves. 48
Schools may modify the dress requirement for a theme dance or formal.
Types of Dancing
Students and their guests MAY NOT engage in the following types of dancing: ● break dancing ● “freak” dancing ● Twerking ● moshing ● sexually explicit, suggestive, or otherwise inappropriate or dangerous dancing Students in violation of any of these rules will face the following consequences: ● parents of students will be contacted to pick up their child ● guests will be asked to leave the dance ● student’s and guest’s ID’s will be confiscated ● student will face disciplinary procedures as deemed appropriate by the school
Mercy High School Prom Regulations
Mercy students must be present for all classes on the day of the prom. Bids will be sold only in advance. Bids will not be available at the door. Bids are non-transferable unless approved by the Director of Student Life. Parents will be notified if a student purchases a bid and does not show up for the prom. The Mercy student is responsible for her guest’s behavior. The prom is held from 7:00-11:00 p.m. Mercy High School students may not leave before 10:30 p.m. Those who anticipate arriving late must notify the Associate Head of School for Mission the day before the prom. Students not in attendance at school may not attend. Any exceptions to this policy will be decided by the Associate Head of School for Mission . Students are to be picked up promptly after the prom. The school will send the student home in a taxi if the parents/guardians fail to pick up the student on time at the parents’/guardians’ expense. The Associate Head of School for Mission and/or the Director of Student Life will refuse admission to anyone whose behavior and/or attire are not appropriate to the prom. If the prom is formal or semi-formal, all escorts should wear a jacket and tie. Headbands, caps, hats, visors, hoods and walking sticks are not permitted at any prom. Students must inform their guests of Mercy High School regulations, and all students and guests must conform to these regulations. Disciplinary Probation and expulsion may be used if these regulations are not adhered to. Inappropriate behavior by a guest will result in denial of admission to future Mercy High School events. Inappropriate dancing will not be allowed. At the first incident, a time-out is given. If there is a second incident, parents of these students will be called and the student will be sent home. Inappropriate prom pictures will be confiscated. For example, “gang” signs, sexy poses, sunglasses, dates with hats or caps, and the holding of anything that might be construed as an alcoholic drink or drug paraphernalia. 49
All Mercy students and their guests are required to show a current and valid photo ID. No excuses will be accepted in this matter. No valid ID, No Entry! Students and their guests must enter and leave the prom together. Cellular phones and any other electronic devices will not be allowed into the prom. These devices will be confiscated and given back to the student at the end of the prom. There is no smoking at the prom. Students and their guests will not knowingly possess, use, transmit or be under the influence of any of the following: tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs, and any other controlled substances such as marijuana, crack, or other hallucinogens. These actions are considered serious, and students may be subject to expulsion. Parents will be informed of any instance of alcohol or drug use. Students will not be allowed to possess, handle, or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon. Students violating this rule are subject to expulsion. Guests will be reprimanded to the police. Parents will be notified. Mercy High School will not be responsible for any items left unattended during or after the prom. Negative evaluations may result in the cancellation of future proms. Students and/or their parents may be held liable for any damages resulting from their actions. The student must have met her community service expectations and be in good disciplinary standing before she can attend any prom. In spring, students will be sent prom guidelines and policies. All students will be required to sign a written contract, which outlines our policies and, for seniors, graduation practice information. This contract must be returned to the Associate Head of School for Mission’s office by the deadline date indicated on the contract or the student will be assigned a detention for every day that it is late and the senior will jeopardize her right to participate in graduation ceremonies.
Student Behavior Related to Proms
Mercy High School subscribes to the statement relative to student behavior at proms developed by the Principals of the Catholic High Schools in San Francisco. This statement expresses the beliefs that: 1. The school and parents/guardians share a responsibility in communicating areas of concern and responding to these. 2. The school and parents/guardians are expected to set time limits of the prom and related activities. 3. The school with the students establishes a prom budget and contract of prom costs, and parents/ guardians give guidance related to pre-prom and post-prom costs. 4. The school is responsible for enforcing prom regulations and for promoting proper behavior. The parents/guardians take direct responsibility for all pre-prom and post-prom activities. 5. The school enforces regulations regarding use of alcohol and drugs and parents/guardians are responsible to refrain from providing alcoholic beverages to refrain from providing alcoholic beverages to or for minors (parents/guardians who serve alcohol to minors assume a serious legal responsibility). 6. All other policies regarding dances also pertain.
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Chapter 6: Student Services Wellness Mercy’s new Wellness Program was created during the 2017-2018 school year to meet the overall well-being of the entire school community. The program will encompass holistic education and support to students, families, and staff, as well as mental health counseling and resources for additional support and learning. The Wellness Program strives to assess school needs and implement research-based socio-emotional learning into the curriculum and whole school environment. The Wellness Director works in collaboration with counselors, educators, and other faculty to develop healthy and sustainable practices throughout the school, and to incorporate student-driven health and wellness initiatives into life at Mercy.
Wellness Center The Wellness Center is safe, welcoming space designed for students and faculty to access the program’s offerings. The Center is an “offline/unplugged” zone where students have the opportunity to leave phones at the door in order to connect with themselves and each other more mindfully.
Counseling Department & Services Counseling Services
The Mercy High School Counseling Department provides a comprehensive four-year program for academic and college counseling. With two full-time guidance counselors, each student receives individualized attention from the same counselor throughout her four years at Mercy. This allows the counselors to get to know each student and address her unique needs. The Counseling Department holds Parent Nights each year as scheduled in the Student Planner/Calendar. Parents and guardians are expected to be in attendance. The Counseling Department administers standardized tests, such as the PSAT for sophomores and juniors. SAT prep classes are offered on campus in the spring.
Academic Advising
Counselors meet with their assigned students regularly, both individually and in groups, to ensure that they are fulfilling all Mercy requirements for graduation and college eligibility. Counselors monitor students’ progress and can provide referrals for academic tutoring, either at Mercy or in the community. After school Mathematics, Science, and English labs are available to assist students.
Personal Counseling
Students may meet with counselors on an individual basis throughout the school year. Mercy counselors do not offer long-term therapy, but will make referrals when indicated. The Counseling Department maintains a comprehensive list of outside counseling professionals. Personal guidance generally involves short-term counseling regarding common adolescent issues. 51
College Preparation
The College Counseling Department utilizes Naviance Family Connection, a web-based program which allows students, parents and counselors to communicate and navigate the college search and application process. The College and Career Advisor maintains a comprehensive, up-to-date library of college reference materials, schedules Mercy visits by college representatives and notifies students of upcoming college events, informational meetings and college fairs. The College and Career Advisor, as well as each counselor, meet individually with students during the junior and senior years to assist with college planning. Counselors hold an Introduction to College Night for juniors and their parents or guardians to hear about the various college systems from a panel of college representatives. Each junior receives a College Planning Guide, a reference tool for all aspects of college admissions which should be kept in their binders throughout the junior and senior years. Parents and guardians also receive an important packet of college-related information. During the summer, rising seniors who will need Letters of Recommendation from their counselor in the fall must complete a Senior Questionnaire; their parents also complete a Parent Questionnaire. These forms are available on Naviance. Seniors and their parents or guardians are invited to attend an evening College Planning Night in the early fall. A Financial Aid Night is offered in December to seniors and their parents or guardians to review the financial aid application process. Counselors meet with seniors individually to finalize their college plans and assist with their college applications.
Extended Time for Standardized Testing
Criteria for students applying for extended time on standardized tests (PSAT, SAT, ACT, AP Exam) ● The learning specialist applies for extended time with the College Board for students with identified learning differences who are part of the MAP program beginning in May of their freshman year. Students and their families will receive confirmation of accommodations from the College Board by September of their sophomore year. The learning specialist will provide a list of those students approved for extended time for the above tests as needed. ● Students not in MAP may obtain information for applying for extended time on the College Board standardized tests through their Mercy counselor.
Academic Support Services TIERS OF ACADEMIC SUPPORT ❖ Academic Review is a designation for students whose grades show two Ds, one or more Fs, or a GPA that falls under a 2.0 at the end of a three-week cycle. ❖ Academic Warning is a designation for students whose grades show two Ds, one or more Fs, or a GPA that falls under a 2.0 at the quarter grading periods. ❖ Academic Probation is a designation for students whose grades show two Ds, one or more Fs, or 52
a GPA that falls under a 2.0 at the end of two consecutive quarter grading periods. ACADEMIC REVIEW Academic Review is a designation for students whose grades show two Ds, one or more Fs, or a GPA that falls under a 2.0 at the end of a three-week cycle. Students on academic review will be required to meet briefly with their counselor to make an academic plan in writing to receive support from a tutor or teacher. Students on Academic Review may be required to attend lab hours for appropriate disciplines. For each academic support session, a signature is required from the tutor or teacher to confirm attendance by the student. All signatures should be handed in to the counselor by the student at the end of the review period. ACADEMIC WARNING Academic Warning is a designation for students whose grades show two Ds, one or more Fs, or a GPA that falls under a 2.0 at the quarter grading periods. A student who earns two Ds or one F at the quarter will be placed on Academic Warning for the next quarter. A student does not need to be on Academic Review to be placed on Academic Warning. Academic Warning requires a student to: ● Attend a meeting with her family, counselor, and the Associate Head of School for Academics at the beginning of probationary term. ● Attend two hours of tutoring per week either at or outside of Mercy High School and submit a record of tutoring when asked by the Associate Head of School for Academics. ● Meet with her Mercy counselor regularly to review her grades, discuss current academic standing, and to develop a plan for academic improvement ● Schedule appointments with teachers and other Mercy academic mentors as appropriate. Academic Warning students may participate in sports and co-curricular activities at the discretion of the Associate Head of School for Academics. ACADEMIC PROBATION Academic Probation is a designation for students whose grades show two Ds, one or more Fs, or a GPA that falls under a 2.0 at the end of two consecutive quarter grading periods. A student does not need to be on Academic Warning to be placed on Academic Probation; any student with two or more F’s is automatically placed on Academic Probation. A student on Academic Probation must complete the same requirements as Academic Warning and may be asked to add additional tutoring hours. Students on Academic Probation may not participate in athletics or co-curricular activities. Any student who wishes to attend a Mercy High School-sponsored dance while on Academic Probation is required to write a letter requesting permission to attend to the Associate Head of School for Mission. This letter should include which dance the student wishes to attend and an explanation of progress toward improving her grades. This letter should be submitted within one week of the end of ticket sales. 53
The final decision as to whether a student will be allowed to continue as a Mercy High School student after being placed on Academic Probation for two consecutive quarters will be made on a case-by-case basis. Parents will be notified of a student’s placement on Academic Review, Academic Warning, or Academic Probation by a letter from the Assistant Head of School for Academics. The Counselors will meet with students who receive multiple “Ds” or an “F” in any course to devise a plan for making up the course. Students are required to remediate any F in order to graduate from Mercy High School. Remediation of Ds and Fs should take place the semester or summer following the grade report.
Library The library is located on the 2nd floor of the school, and manages the print and digital resources for the school. Library Hours are 7:30 - 3:30 M-F; the library opens later on Faculty and Collaboration days, and closes earlier on Minimum days. "The library also has 2 printers and a copier/scanner for student use. Students are responsible for all materials that they check out. If materials are lost, please see the librarian. The library reserves the right to charge overdue fines for both books and textbooks, up to $5 per item. If materials are lost, please see the librarian to arrange for payment.
Textbooks Textbooks are distributed from the library at the beginning of the year, at the beginning of the second semester, and during the school year (on assignment by the teacher). Textbook due dates are set by the teacher and the librarians, who notify the students when books are due. NOTE: Students will be notified of overdue textbooks for one month before an automatic detention is issued. Each student is responsible for her books and must pay for any that are lost. A textbook “Lost and Found” is located in the library. Passwords and Computer Information You May Need InfoTrac: User ID: _______________________________________________________ TurnItIn.com: Your E-Mail Address: ____________________________________________ Your Secret Question: ____________________________________________ NoodleBib: Your Personal ID: ______________________________________________
Technology Available at Mercy High School
Students will be afforded the use of certain technologies, provided they adhere to the mission and values of the school and follow the policies outlined in the student/parent handbook. Mercy High School will not be responsible for the loss by any means of any personal technological items. Any passwords given to students for use on the network should never be given out to anyone on campus or off campus. 54
Bring Your Own Device Policy
Mercy believes that part of preparing our students for the future means using technology in meaningful ways in the classroom and beyond. Students are required to bring a laptop (Chromebook, MacBook, or Windows PC or Surface with keyboard) for enhanced classroom interactions. Mercy High School adopted this new requirement for the following reasons:
1. Mercy is a Google Apps school, and any laptop with a Chrome browser will give students more functional use of their Google Drive, Docs, and more for class work. 2. Students rely on many sites such as Naviance, Turn-It In, and Canvas, which have limited functionality on tablets. 3. A laptop keyboard encourages more organized and powerful writing, research, and note-taking workflows. 4. As a school that prepares students for college and workplace experiences, we believe they should practice using devices they will encounter.
Cloud-based Technologies
Students will also be given a Mercy High School e-mail address to be used for collaboration purposes within their classroom assignments. This account will enable the students to have access to Google Apps for Education and all the accompanying collaboration tools. In addition, the students and parents will have access to different websites, i.e. Naviance, Canvas, and RenWeb where they will be able to monitor homework and grades. These usernames and passwords are confidential and neither students nor parents should share these passwords with each other, or anyone else.
Technology and the Internet Use Agreement
The purpose of allowing students to access Internet resources is to support research, education, and communication in and among academic institutions around the world. The use of the Internet is a privilege and inappropriate use may result in a cancellation of these privileges, and, in some cases, may require other disciplinary action. It is assumed that all students will have access to the Internet. Be aware that many classes use the internet as a research tool and not having access may limit the student’s ability to participate in some class exercises. Also, in the event the student has received an award, scholarship or achieved some other milestone, her name and/or picture may be used in one or more Mercy Publications (i.e. Mercy News, Parent Newsletter, Mercy Web Site). Should a parent or guardian request that their student should not have access to the Internet or her name or picture published, please call the school’s administration. The technology policy of Mercy High School is that: 55
Mercy High School computing resources are provided to students for instruction and academic support. Any login IDs or passwords used by you to access our computer networks should not be shared with others. While users have full Internet access and personal communications capabilities, utilizing Mercy High School computing resources for any personal or commercial gain, is strictly forbidden. Internet filtering is mandated by the Children’s Internet Protection Act and by Archdiocesan policy. Mercy High School does employ an Internet firewall with content filtering enabled. Any attempt to bypass the content filter may result in disciplinary action. The following guidelines apply to Internet usage: Strictly forbidden when using Mercy High School technology are activities which: Others may find offensive, discriminatory or harassing ● Contain derogatory or inflammatory remarks about Mercy High School or any other individual’s race, age, disability, religion, national origin, physical attributes, or any other condition or status protected by Federal, State or local law and/or Mercy High School rules or policies ● Are obscene or X-rated including cyberbullying and sexting ● Contains abusive or profane language ● Violates the Mercy High School Mission and/or any of its policies Information transmitted over the Internet is public domain and can be picked up by virtually anyone on the Internet. Think before you send out anything over the Internet because you can never take it back.
Sexting Sending nude or semi-nude pictures over the internet is a crime. Federal law prohibits the production, distribution, reception, and possession of an image of child pornography using or affecting any means or facility of interstate or foreign commerce (See 18 U.S.C. § 2251; 18 U.S.C. § 2252; 18 U.S.C. § 2252A). If caught, you could be arrested and charged a felony. This could result in having to register as a sex offender every year on your birthday, for life.
Cyberbullying According to http://stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov, cyber-bullying, which is sometimes referred to as online social cruelty or electronic bullying, can involve: • Sending mean, vulgar, or threatening messages or images; • Posting sensitive, private information about another person; • Pretending to be someone else in order to make that person look bad; • Intentionally excluding someone from an online group (Willard, 2005). If it comes to our attention, that students are using the Internet to transmit offensive words or call for harmful actions against any MHS student, administrator, faculty or staff member, Mercy High School in general or any member of the surrounding community, disciplinary action will be taken. In addition, Mercy High School reserves the right to impose consequences for inappropriate behavior that takes place off campus and outside school hours. This includes the use of social networks, blogs, and other Internet sites that may be used for defamatory or harmful remarks, threats, offensive communications, pictures, or other forms of media that are directed at the school’s name, administration, faculty, staff, students or any other member of the surrounding community. 56
Any pictures, videos, or other media of any event at or involving the school, or including students, administration, faculty or staff, may not be posted on the Internet without prior consent of the school’s administration, and/or the consent of any individual that is contained in such media. This would include posting said videos to any Internet sharing site, i.e. Facebook, Tumblr, and Twitter. It is suggested that Parents, in addition to Faculty and Staff monitor student computer usage and attempt to have the students uphold the moral and ethical standards of Mercy High School when they are using both personal and Mercy High School computers. Students are not permitted to install or change any software or hardware on Mercy High School computers unless prior approval has been obtained from the Technology Office. This includes changing of the desktop’s wallpaper or screensavers or the installation of games or other software programs. Hacking will not be tolerated and disciplinary action will be taken. If you are using electronic devices in classes, do not turn any device on unless you are instructed to by the teacher. If your device is out, it should be placed face down on the desktop until instructed otherwise. When doing research, it is advisable to be aware of copyright laws and understand that plagiarism will be dealt with accordingly. Food and/or drink (including sealed bottled water) are not allowed at or near any computer station. Our warranties will not cover the cost of repairing computer damage due to liquid or food spillage. For this reason, any food and/or drink will be confiscated and placed in the trash. Once the students have been warned, a detention slip will be issued. Please keep all food and drinks in your backpack, not on the floor or table tops. In addition, please keep all backpacks under the table, away from the aisles, so that others have an accessible walkway. Class rules may include leaving your backpacks and bags either in the front or rear of the classroom. Failure to comply with these rules will result in disciplinary action and or fines. Mercy High School makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. Mercy High School will not be responsible for any damages to student files while using the system. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by the service’s negligence or your own errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained through the Internet is at your own risk. Mercy High School cannot take responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the Internet. Remember that the information on the Internet is not necessarily placed there by experts, and citations can be vague or non-existent. Please verify all information obtained from the Internet prior to publication of your documents. Mercy High School has equipment that may be used for classroom exercises and final projects. This equipment must be ordered by the Teacher in advance of the scheduled class. This equipment is limited and may be used by others. This equipment is loaned out on a first come-first served basis. You’ll have a better chance of getting the equipment if you order early. The computer lab in Room 318 may also be 57
reserved by teachers for presentations. REMEMBER TO SAVE YOUR FILES OFTEN! It is suggested that students have at least one USB flash drive (two, one as a backup, would be ideal) on which to store their data. Mercy’s computers may be re-imaged occasionally because of corruptions and/or viruses. Students may not be notified when this happens and all data will be overwritten during the re-imaging process. The Library and/or Technology Department have USB flash drives for sale. Students will have access to Google Apps for Education. This will give each student access to a Mercy e-mail address, Google Docs and online storage. Use this online storage as another way to store and share files with your teachers and classmates. If there is a problem opening a file, or a program, please see one of the members of the Technology Department who will gladly assist you. Questions regarding this and any technology question can be answered by calling or e-mailing the Technology Department and/or the Library Under no circumstance may material recorded on a cell phone at the school site be placed for public viewing on the internet. This is a violation of individual privacy and students who post unauthorized materials on the internet or in any other arena may be suspended or expelled for such actions.
Chapter 7: School Safety Out of Bounds
For safety reasons, all students are to remain in either of these areas: the cafeteria, in the quad, or in the patio area between the Catherine McAuley Pavilion and the Fine Arts Wing. Students are not to be in the following places unless they are with a teacher: the front campus, the side parking area, behind the Catherine McAuley Pavilion, behind the Fine Arts Wing, or on the walkway leading off campus. Students must be visible at all times in case there are emergency directions that need to be given.
Fire Safety
It is the responsibility of the Administration, faculty, staff and students at Mercy High School to develop a serious attitude toward fire safety. Individual(s) responsible for a false alarm is/are subject to suspension, disciplinary probation or expulsion
Fire Drills/Emergency Evacuation Procedures
Safety Requirements: ● students should leave all belongings in the classroom ● proceed in silence throughout the entire drill in order to hear emergency directions as given ● walk quickly to designated areas ● close classroom doors 58
● the first persons to reach an exit are to hold the doors open ● leave clear access for fire equipment ● upon arrival at designated area, report to teacher to be sure that all have reached safely ● students assemble in homeroom sections--in single file lines--so that roll can be taken ● respond immediately to directions given by supervising staff ● re-enter when the all-clear signal is given NOTE: The elevator should never be used during a drill.
Earthquake Procedures
Should an earthquake occur, faculty members are to instruct students to drop to a crouched position on the floor with their backs to the windows, heads protected. If a student takes cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, she should HOLD on to it and be prepared to move with it. When the shaking stops, students are to be instructed to approach the inner wall of the classroom – the wall nearest the corridor. Stay away from glass. A signal will be given to begin the evacuation of the building; walk in orderly silence. Students are to proceed to the back campus and assemble in designated areas by homeroom sections in single file lines. In the event of a major earthquake or other major local disaster, students will be kept at school until a parent/guardian or parent/guardian designate picks up the student. The student will be released only to parent/guardian or parent/guardian designate when the all-clear signal has been given.
Lockdown/Lockout Procedures Lockdown Mercy High School has a warning in place should an intruder enter the building. One of the Administrators will come on the PA and say, “Intruder in the Building” - “Lock Down”, “Lock Down.” At that point, everyone is to close and lock their doors, shut off the lights and stay away from the window on the door. You are to maintain silence and wait for the all clear signal given on the PA before you open the door. Also, students are strictly forbidden to use their cell phones at this time because we are concerned about misinformation being given out. The campus will be totally shut down until the all-clear signal is given.
Lockout If a threat is detected outside, the students should return inside to a place of safety. Teachers are to secure the perimeter. Be quiet. If you have a cell phone, silence the ringtone. The campus will be totally shut down until the all-clear signal is given on the PA.
Accident Reports
Every student is covered by school insurance. Coverage is for an hour before school, during school, during transportation by school personnel to and from school events, and for an hour after the student’s last class. All insurance and accident report forms are to be done in consultation with the Administrative Assistant 59
in the main office.
Dismissal in Case of School Emergency
In the rare instance in which school must be dismissed for the day due to an emergency, the following procedures will be followed: ● to the extent possible, the parent/guardian will be contacted ● school will be dismissed and students will be sent home by their usual means of transportation ● students who have special problems (i.e., illness, public transportation shutdown, excessive distance to walk in inclement weather), will be retained and a reasonable effort will be made to contact the parent/guardian by phone
Chapter 8: Student Health and Safety Illness/Injury During the School Day
Students who become ill or who are injured during the school day will report to the Administrative Services Office and the parents/guardians or authorized adult will be notified. Students are not to notify parents/guardians of illness or injury without first notifying the main office staff. Students are not permitted to leave campus without first obtaining the approval of parents/guardians or the person designated on the emergency card through the administrative services office. Immunizations required by the State of California must be kept up to date. Students with incomplete health files after the school specified deadline will not be allowed to attend school and will be sent home. Parents/guardians are required to keep emergency information updated. The school will not be held responsible for inaccurate information.
Medication School personnel are not permitted to dispense prescription or over-the-counter medication to students. In order to use medication, including Tylenol, the student is required to complete a Medication Authorization form. This form must be completed by a doctor for all prescription medications both carried by the student on campus and/or held in the School Safe.
Student Health History
If a student has an on-going health problem and/or is regularly taking medication, the parent/guardian is asked to inform the Office of Student Life at
[email protected] (Director of Student Life and the Associate Head of School for Mission) in writing. This information must also be recorded on the student's Emergency record on RenWeb: To Update Family and/or Student contact information, emergency information, medical information, etc.: 1. Go to https://logins2.renweb.com/logins/ParentsWeb-Login.aspx to Login to Parents Web 60
a. Enter the District Code: MER-CA b. Enter your username. (Use the forgot username/password link, if needed.) c. Enter your password. (Use the forgot username/password link, if needed.) 2. Click Parent button under password field. 3. Click Login button. 4. Click Family Information from the left navigation. 5. Click Family Demographics form link on the bottom right. 6. Click the button corresponding to the information you would like to update. 7. Enter new data on form. 8. Click Save, at the bottom of the form.
Pregnancy and Marriage
Issues of pregnancy and marriage will be resolved by the administration on an individual basis. Decisions will be made in consultation with the student, the student's physician, other health personnel and the student's parents/guardians. Throughout the process, the privacy of the student will be respected. The process also will reflect consideration of the needs of the family and student, as well as the responsibility of the school.
AIDS/HIV The school community is provided with up-to-date, accurate information regarding the cause, effects and prevention of HIV infection, AIDS, and AIDS Related Complex (ARC). Decisions regarding the type of educational or employment setting for HIV infected students or staff will be made by the administration on a case-by-case basis. The decision will be made in consultation with the student, the student's physician, other health personnel and the student’s parents/guardians. Throughout this process, the privacy of the student will be respected. The process also will reflect consideration of the needs of the families and students, as well as the responsibility of the school. If a student or staff member with AIDS, ARC, or other related conditions continues to be an active participant in school life, Mercy High School will demonstrate its continuing concern as it will toward any student or staff whose condition requires absence from school. In all aspects, as the school responds to AIDS and its victims, Mercy assumes the responsibility to combat fear and misinformation, and to stress the apparent non-existent risk of transmitting AIDS through casual contact. The administration will ensure that all rights to confidentiality of the student or staff member are strictly observed in accordance with the law and policies governing the confidentiality of student and staff records.
Alcohol and Drugs The use of alcohol or other illegal drugs contradicts the mission of Mercy High School. Therefore, any 61
possession, use, sale, and/or distribution of any quantity of alcohol or other illegal drugs will be handled with concern and attention. In determining what is best for the students and the school, the Administration will consider all of the relevant facts and circumstances surrounding any incident that is brought to its attention. Any student who comes forward, of her own initiative and volition, with an alcohol or drug problem, will be met with care. Likewise, in a medical emergency, any student seeking help will not face disciplinary consequences. Such a student will be directed towards assessment, counseling, and/or rehabilitation program that will assist her in overcoming her abuse or misuse of drugs and/or alcohol. Any costs associated with assessment or treatment will be borne by the family of the student. Any student who is discovered or reasonably suspected of possessing, using, selling, and/or distributing alcohol or other illegal drugs, as well as any student who is in possession of what may be construed as drug paraphernalia, will face a disciplinary process which could ultimately end in penalties up to, and including, dismissal. This disciplinary process will attempt to address the totality of the person, event, context, and consequence of the offense. Among the issues taken into account will be: intent of the offender (i.e., use, possession, sale, distribution), the location of the offense, the nature of the offense, the history of use by the student, harm to the user or others, school-community impact, public notoriety, and level of criminality. No single one of these issues is more important than the others; however, in each case, some issues will ultimately outweigh others. Mercy High School will notify the police of any drug-related crime that occurs on school grounds. As part of an investigation or as a condition for remaining at Mercy in cases where dismissal is not the outcome, a student may be required to obtain, a drug assessment at a school-approved facility. In such circumstances, continued enrollment will be contingent upon completing the assessment and recommended follow-up care. Students who violate this policy, while concurrently involved in school activities (i.e., speech, athletics, club trips, etc.), may face consequences from her moderator/coach in addition to the penalty prescribed by the school administration. In addition to any school sanctions, it is important to bear in mind that a person(s) who supplies alcohol or other illegal drugs to a minor, or who allows alcohol or other illegal drugs to be used by a minor when she/he is in position to prevent that use, may be liable for damages resulting from the minor’s impairment. For example, a person who supplies alcohol to minors or hosts a party where drinking is allowed, could be assessed for significant damages if the minor causes injury to herself, others, or property. Even if no injury or damages occur, a person who furnishes alcohol to a minor may be subject to fines and possible jail time. The following chemical substance policy will cover all school activities on the campus, school functions or times and places involving the school: 1. Any student found dealing in or selling drugs or alcohol or in possession of drugs or alcohol will be expelled. 2. Any student involved in possessing or use of drugs or alcohol at school or during a school function will be sent home immediately in the company of a parent or guardian and is subject to expulsion. 3. The school reserves the right to recommend treatment and/or drug/alcohol counseling for students as a condition of enrollment. 62
Alcohol and the Law It is against the law for a minor to have anything at all to do with alcohol, and such involvement can result in court action, fine and referral to a county program, or probation. Parents or adults responsible are ultimately “legally” responsible for their children’s actions or actions of those under their supervision and may be subject to both criminal and civil actions for not meeting these responsibilities. Also note that recent Court decisions may leave parents open to sizeable civil suits, should their own actions or those of their children result in damage or injury to another person. The following is a summary of some of the laws concerning alcohol use by minors: (B & P = Business and Profession Code, VC = Vehicle Code) ●
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Every person who sells, furnishes, gives, or causes to be sold, furnished, or given away any alcoholic beverage to any person under the age of 21 years is guilty of a misdemeanor. (B & P 25658) If the adults serve or permit alcohol to be served to minors at a home party, the parents (or adults responsible) can be charged with a misdemeanor (contributing to the delinquency of a minor – whether the children are their own or friends of their children.) (B & P 25658) If minors have been asked or have been charged money to help pay for beer or alcohol, the parents or responsible adults can be liable for criminal and civil charges rising from the subsequent actions of the minor (such as automobile accident, or assault and battery) who drank the alcohol at the party or carried the alcohol provided at the party to another location where the alcohol was consumed. (B & P 25658) Minors carrying full or empty beer cans or bottles in plain view or drinking from cans or bottles in plain view anywhere on the property of the home giving the party or on public property later, can be picked up by police as in possession of alcohol. (B & P 25662) Parents (or adults) who allow minors to take alcohol to a sporting event or who supply alcohol for minors who are school game spectators or participants are liable for possible civil and criminal charges resulting from the subsequent behavior of the minors and can be charged with contributing to the delinquency of minors. (B & P 25603) If the adults have bought the alcohol for their own use, but allow the minors to have a drink of the alcohol, the adults are also open to charges of contributing to the delinquency of minors. (B & P 25658) If teenagers lunch at home without parents being present in the home, parents should be careful to have a clear, firm understanding with their child that no alcohol will be drunk by the child or the child’s friends nor be supplied to minors to take and drink elsewhere, as the parents are legally liable. (B & P 25658) It is unlawful to have in a vehicle any bottle, can, or other receptacle containing any alcoholic beverage which has been opened, or seal broken, or contents of which have been partially removed, unless such container is kept in the trunk. (VC 23122) Any licensee under an on-sale license issued for public premises who permits a person under the age of 21 years to enter and remain on the premises without lawful business is guilty of a misdemeanor. (B & P 25655) Any person under the age of 21 years who has in his possession any false or fraudulent identification for the purpose of obtaining any alcoholic beverage is guilty of a misdemeanor. (B & P 25661) SB 1300 (Campbell) License Suspension for Youthful Drug and Alcohol Offenders. Under the 63
provisions of this law, youth between the ages of 13-21 convicted of drug and alcohol offenses committed anywhere—not just a school activity—will lose their driver’s license for a year, or have to wait an extra year to obtain a license.
Chapter 9: Financial Policies Tuition Returning students will receive a schedule of classes only when: ● Fees and tuition from the previous year are paid in full. ● Non-refundable re-enrollment fee is paid in full. ● All tuition documents have been signed and returned to the school. All tuition payments are due on time according to the tuition plan selected. If, for any reason, tuition payments are more than 30 days late, your student may not be permitted to attend classes, take exams, or receive report cards until: ● The account is brought current, or ● An adjusted payment schedule has been approved by the Director of Finance & Administrative Services. If any monies are owed to Mercy High School, a senior student may not participate in the senior dinner, awards and graduation ceremonies nor receive a diploma until all debts to Mercy High School are paid in full. If more than one person is responsible for payment of tuition, Mercy reserves the right to inform the other responsible party if the account becomes more than 30 days delinquent. Mercy High School has the right to take legal action to collect school tuition and fees. Parents/guardians will be responsible for all costs of collection, including court expenses and reasonable attorney’s fees.
Financial Expectations
Early in the second semester, parents/guardians are informed of the tuition for the following year. The explanations of the various plans of payment are presented at this time. In February, when the student prepares her courses for the next year, she is required to return her signed program, the tuition plan chosen and her re-enrollment fee. Should this not be done by the date specified, it is assumed that the student is not returning the next year. A place will not be reserved for her in her classes unless some contact is made with the school by the date specified.
Length of Contract and Cancellation
Once a student enrolls at Mercy High School, it is understood that they will remain enrolled at Mercy 64
High School for the entire academic year. Mercy High School commits to the faculty and staff and contracts for services on a yearly basis according to the number of students enrolled by the re-enrollment deadline date. Consequently, it is expressly understood by the parents/guardians and Mercy High School that if a student does not complete the full academic year, the parents/guardians are still obligated to pay tuition for the full year. In the event Mercy High School determines that continued enrollment at Mercy is not in the best interest of the student or the school, the school reserves the right to advise the parent/guardian, terminate the enrollment and this contract, and will not refund tuition.
Smart Tuition Payment Plan
Payment Option Plans 2 and 3 will be made through the SMART Tuition Management Company. The parent/guardian authorizes direct debit payments from your checking or savings account by completing our convenient online enrollment. There is an annual set-up fee that SMART will deduct from your account. No bills will be mailed. Families utilizing the SMART plan will have online access to their account. Statements are only sent when accounts become delinquent.
Delinquent Account
Any automatic payment missed due to insufficient funds will be reattempted on the next available payment date.
Financial Assistance
Financial aid is allocated to incoming and returning families on a yearly basis. Financial aid sources are: ● school budgeted funds ● interest from endowed scholarship accounts ● gifts to the school from individuals and foundations ● Archdiocesan scholarship assistance for those students who qualify ● General Scholarship Fund
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Chapter 10: Acknowledgement Page MERCY HIGH SCHOOL 2017-2018 STUDENT-PARENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM Student’s Name____________________________________________Grade: _____________ Please print We have read the Mercy High School 2017-2018 Student-Parent Handbook. We agree to cooperate with all the policies, procedures, and expectations outlined therein. Student’s Signature: __________________________________________________ Parent’s Signature: ___________________________________________________ Date: _____________________
Students: Please turn in this form to your homeroom teacher by Tuesday, September 12, 2017. Failure to return form by the end of day on September 12, 2017 will result in a detention for each day that the form is not turned in.
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