REPORT CARDS – Report cards are issued three times a year. Report cards may be withheld pending settlement of financial obligations.

Honor Roll

Principal’s Award - All A’s (and no disciplinary referrals)                  

First Honors - All A’s and one B          

Second Honors - A’s and B’s (and no lower than a B in conduct)

AWARDS/RECOGNITION - As good Christians we understand that the best recognition we have for a job well done is the inner peace we feel with the sense of accomplishment and self-discipline.  We will gently guide the children to the idea of cooperation being superior to competition. In the hopes of illustrating a Christian formation, cautiously, we will offer awards and try and motivate students to achieve without competition.

Trimester Awards: 3^rd through 8^th grade Only

Good Steward Award – At the end of the year during Award’s Recognition, a Good Steward Award will be presented to the child displaying a Christian way of life through out the year.  The student who receives a disciplinary referral will not be eligible. 

Academic Deficiency Policy/Progress Reports

PROGRESS REPORT – A progress report is issued during the sixth week of each trimester. It is also required that Intermediate Progress Reports be sent to parents, at any time as student’s need arises. 

WEEKLY PROGRESS REPORT – If your child is having academic or behavior problems, you may request a weekly progress report. Consult with teachers for suggestions.

STUDENT EVALUATION – Evaluations will be conducted by the teacher who will use objective tests, homework, and classroom participation.  Each teacher will have available for the parents the requirements and standards for his/her class during Parent Orientation Night.

PROMOTION FOR PK-2^nd GRADE - Students will be promoted to the next grade when their achievement is satisfactory.  A student may be required to take the equivalent of the entrance exam to determine if they are prepared for the next grade.  Students, who receive a NEEDS IMPROVEMENT passing grade, will be asked to attend Summer School in order to continue at MOC. 

Academic Probation Policy

CONDITIONAL PROMOTION - Students who miss one subject may recuperate during summer school.  Students who fail Science, Social Studies, PE, Art or Music will attend Summer School for reading.

RETENTION - Students who receive a 69 or below will not be promoted to the next grade.  In grades 1-8 Religion, English, Reading, and Mathematics are considered basic-core subjects.  Promotion and retention will be based on grade level competence in these subjects. The student who misses two subjects will be retained.  The student who missed more than 18 days of school may be retained or may be required to attend Summer School.  Students’ who receive a failing grade in a subject during the 3^rd trimester, will not be promoted in that subject and will need to attend summer school.

Teachers will keep records of all Parent/Teacher conferences and notes sent home regarding students’ deficiencies or observations.

Attendance

Procedure for Absence  Student absences will be excused for the following reasons:

a.                   illness of student when a doctor’s note is present

b.                  family emergency (principal/parent conference necessary)

When a student is absent from school, a parent or guardian is requested to contact the school office, either by e-mail to norta.llana@motherofchirst.net or by phone (786-497-6111) and give the following information:

 A. name of person calling
B. student’s name, grade and homeroom teacher’s name
C. reason for absence
D. day the student is expected to return
E. request (or not) homework to be picked up after dismissal

   When contacting the school for homework to be picked-up, please e-mail your child’s teacher by 11AM so that she may prepare the work during their break.  This allows the teacher to prepare your child’s homework without interrupting their class.

Students returning to school after an absence must present a note explaining his/her absence to the homeroom teacher.  Students who are absent three consecutive days, must present a doctor’s note stating that the child is ready to go back to school. On the day of the 3^rd absence the teacher will call the student’s parent/guardian to be informed the reason of the absences; and of any danger of failure because of absences with ample time. All absences will be recorded.

The Principal has the right to refuse an excused absence in cases where the parents’ reason for keeping the child out of school does not seem valid.

Truancy By law, students have the responsibility to attend school 180 days each school year.  A student who has more than 18 unexcused absences may be retained.  Students who have over 25 absences, regardless of whether they are excused or unexcused, must attend summer school in order to be promoted.  Teachers are responsible to inform the parents and the office of children’s absences. Parents must ensure that students are present, unless illness or emergencies are of such severity as to prevent attendance.  Parents need to call the school by 10:00AM to report child’s absence.   Teachers will call home after the 3^rd continuous absence and the school office, may call after the 6^th continuous absence.

Sickness – If you child visits the school office because he is not feeling well.  Depending on the condition, we will contact you.  If you child has a fever or has obvious signs of being sick, we will contact you immediately so that your child may be picked-up.  If your child advises us that he is not feeling well, but there is no fever or other signs of sickness, we may have him stay in the clinic for observation and return to his class after a while. 

Makeup Work Students will be allotted the same amount of days that they were out to make-up their class and homework; if they were out 2 days, the child will have 2 days to make-up the work (including weekends).

Tardiness - Students must be in their desk by 7:45AM. Any child arriving after 7:45 AM is considered tardy, and doors for drop-off will be closed as soon as the 7:45 AM bell rings.     Any child arriving late must be accompanied by a parent and will receive a “tardy slip” from the office.  If the child arrives late by the drop-off area and does not receive a slip, he/she will be marked “tardy” by the teacher.  Any work turned into the teacher after 7:45 AM will be considered late and will be marked accordingly. Parents will be charged a $5.00 tardy fee for each additional tardy after the fourth tardy in one trimester (paid at the end of the trimester). 

After the third tardy, the teacher will contact the parents for a telephone conference.  If the problem continues, parents will be contacted by the Assistant Principal for a conference.  Families with students who are consistently late for school will be called for a conference.  PLEASE GET YOUR CHILD TO SCHOOL ON TIME!!!

Cancellation of School or Class In case of emergencies and natural disaster, the school will follow procedures devised by the Archdiocese of Miami/Miami-Dade County Public Schools.  Parents are to listen to AM, FM & TV Emergency Broadcast Warning for special interactions. 

School Events/ Activities

CLASS PARTIES - Class parties are the responsibility of the classroom teacher.  Parties should be planned and organized according to the teachers’ plans.  Parents are of vital importance in helping teachers, but it is the teacher’s responsibility to organize, control the discipline, and set up the parameters for the celebration.  This applies to all parties. A “surprise” party for a teacher needs to be approved and coordinated by the administration. The students’ birthdays will be announced every morning. The students may bring a simple snack to be served to the whole class immediately after lunch on the Friday after their birthday (PK-8).     Invitations may not be handed out at school.  Whole school class parties will be scheduled: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s, and End of Year.  No moneys can be collected for parties of any form unless cleared with the administration first.  Please note that with the exception of PK through 2^nd grade, there will be no Birthday celebrations during Lent.   No other birthday celebrations will be permitted.  School does not sponsor any outside of school parties, and does not sanction any parties that are not supervised by school personnel.

PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATIONS

MOC strongly recommends and encourages open communication between teachers and parents.  It is our belief that the job of educating a child can only be accomplished by parents and teachers working together.

Beginning of Year Orientation -At the beginning of the school year, parents are invited to an orientation meeting. The curriculum, classroom rules, regulations and teachers’ expectations will be discussed at this time. We encourage parents and guardians to be present for this meeting.

Parent-Teacher Conferences - Parent-Teacher conferences and good communication are a vital part of the educational process.  Teachers share with parents the privilege and obligation of educating their children, therefore, every effort should be made for parents or guardians to keep informed about school programs, student progress, and special student activities.

Faculty members are always eager to discuss pupil progress with parents and guardians. Teachers, however, will be available for conferences at other times as well. MOC appreciates the interest parents show in their children’s progress. It is, however, necessary that a conference be scheduled beforehand. Parents may do so by sending a request note, by sending an email, or by calling the school to schedule a conference.   “Instant conferences” are not permitted.    At all times, visitors are asked to report to the office. 

Parents’ phone calls are to be responded promptly (within 24 hours).  Teachers need to document all conferences with parents. These notes should have the date, the time, persons present, subjects discussed and outcome. If there are follow-ups to be done, documentation is required as well.

In keeping with the Church’s principle of subsidiary policy, all problems should be solved at the lowest level whenever possible.  It is then advised that persons having a problem with another individual go directly to that individual before going to that person’s supervisor.  The Principal will hear parents’ complaints about teachers only after the problems have been voiced to the teachers and to the Assistant Principal

CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED - We recommend to parents, and request from the teachers, that all correspondence should be sent to the school in sealed envelopes for confidentiality of school transactions.  We recommend to parents and request from the teachers that all correspondence sent to the office be addressed and labeled to the intended recipient.  The school office will only receive from students checks and money orders in a sealed envelope addressed to the office.  Cash and credit card payments will only be accepted from the parents(s) or guardian(s) directly at the office.  The office can not be responsible for cash sent to school with the children.  Please ensure that you indicate where the funds are to be applied.

E-MAIL – All faculty have e-mail addresses.  You may access the directory on the school website http://motherofchristcatholicschool.net.   The administration may send memos via e-mail instead of hard copies, please keep your e-mail address up-to-date.

EDLINE – This website based program will give access to parents to their child’s grades and other vital information.  Teachers will post their classroom policies, projects, news and upcoming events.  You may also enjoy class pictures.

SCHOOL WEBSITE – The school website is a vital source of information and resources.  The weekly and yearly calendar will be posted on this site, as well as other important forms.  You may download Authorization for Medication form from the website also.

School Regulations

Arrival & Dismissal Procedures     Students will be released only to those persons who are listed on the registration papers.  Parents must be sure that the school is notified in writing of any changes occurring with that information.  Your child will not be allowed to call home to make arrangements to leave school with another child.  In the event that your child will leaving the school with another parent, the office must receive authorization in advance.  Any situations involving court orders and legal documentation must be filed in writing.  Other than the regular school dismissal procedures, students will be dismissed from the office only.  This is a MUST.  If a parent/guardian goes to the classroom to dismiss a child, they will be sent to the office in order for the administration to verify dismissal. There will be no exceptions.

EMERGENCY DISMISSAL – Only a parent or guardian may request, in writing, special permission regarding the dismissal of the child.  The emergency dismissal of a child will be granted for valid reasons only.  Parents are urged to set-up Doctor and Dentist appointments for after school hours and to keep the emergency dismissal to a minimum.   If there is a need to be dismissed during the school day, a note from the parents must be sent to the office.  No child will be allowed to leave school without a written permission from a parent or guardian.  This is for your child’s protection.

The note should contain the date, the time of expected early dismissal, name of person picking up the child, the reason the child is leaving and the signature of parent/guardian.  Children who in some cases have records of tardies or early dismissal will not be considered for a Perfect Attendance Certificate. 

Children will not be released to anyone other than the persons specified in the child’s emergency contact form.  No child will be allowed to go home with another family unless arrangements have been previously made.  The school reserves the right to double-check the person’s identification if there is reasonable doubt.  All request for emergency dismissal must be done through the office.  Children will be dismissed from the office only and not from the classroom.  Children will not be dismissed after 2:00 PM.  Teachers are held responsible for complying with this request.

Students will not be released to a faculty member for dismissal unless there is an officially executed Hold Harmless Agreement on file.

EARLY DISMISSAL DAYS – Only a parent, guardian or an authorized person listed on the emergency contact form may pick-up a child on an early dismissal day.  If the child is being picked up by someone other than the parent or guardian, a written permission regarding the dismissal of the child must be sent to the office, even if the person is listed as an authorized person.  No child will be allowed to leave school without a written permission from a parent or guardian.  This is for the child’s protection.  There will be early dismissal the first Friday of every month.  Dismissal times are as follows:  

               PK4 and Kindergarten at 12:15 PM by the Chapel canopy.

               1^st through 2^nd Grade at 12:30 PM by the Chapel canopy.

               3^rd through 8^th grade at 12:45 PM by the School drop off/pick-up lane.  

Please note that when driving up to the canopy, if your child’s class has not been dismissed or arrived at the canopy, you may be asked to park in order to continue with the pick-up of other students.  Please ensure that grandparents or any other family member picking up your child is aware of the rules.  We will not dismiss students to anyone not on the authorized list or unfamiliar to us.  If an authorized person approaches the canopy for pick-up with the “car tag” but we are not familiar with this person or we did not receive a letter from the parents, we will not allow your child to leave with this person.  The person would have to park and go to the office in order for proper identification and authorization to be established.

There will also be Special Early Dismissals days (the days before Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, End-of School, etc.) when everyone is dismissed at 12 Noon, and there will be no after school care available.  Please make sure to review the monthly calendars for special days with early dismissal and the exact dismissal time.  Please note that you will be charged a $1.00 a minute for every minute your child is under our supervision.

VISITORS - Anyone, visitor or volunteer, coming to school unexpectedly or by appointment, must first report to the School Office.  Appropriate attire (no shorts, biking shorts or tank tops) is required when volunteering in school. 

Parents are asked to leave siblings at home when coming to school to volunteer. Parents are not allowed to walk their children to class in the morning. Instant conferences are not allowed.  Teachers may be dismissed for violating this policy. All parent/teacher conferences are to be recorded.

VOLUNTEERS - Any adult who works directly with the students must file and sign an Archdiocesan volunteer application, Code of Conduct form and a fingerprint card with a check made out to the Archdiocese of Miami., have completed the “VIRTUS: Protecting God’s Children for Adults” workshop offered by the Archdiocese.  Once the course has been completed ongoing trainings must be completed on-line. 

The school strongly encourages parents’ participation. Each class has a designated homeroom parent.  In consultation, the teacher and the principal choose the Homeroom Parent.  Parents need to be in good standing to become homeroom parent. Each family is required to volunteer at school events and in the fundraisers i.e. Harvest Festival, Golf Tournament, etc. All families are required a minimum of 40 volunteer hours per school year. If you are unable to volunteer the required hours a $10.00 fee will be charged for every hour that was not fulfilled.  PLEASE TRY TO ATTEND, WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE YOU HERE!!!

ROOM PARENTS - Each classroom has the services of a volunteer Room Parent.  The function of a Room Parent is to help the teacher; therefore, coordination and planning of activities is to be done in accordance with the teacher’s plans.  The teachers will authorize all Room Parents activities. See requirements for volunteering, please. Call the school for information. We require that Parent Volunteer’s wear a tag to be recognized by the students as a Volunteer.  Please note that room parents will not attend all the field trips, and will only be asked to attend a field trip when the Administration feels the need for additional chaperones.

Persons who work directly with children will have to be fingerprinted, attend the VIRTUS Workshop according to Archdiocese’s policies, and sign a code of conduct form.

Change of Address/Telephone Number – It is the parent’s responsibility to advise the school office of any change of address, telephone number or e-mail address.   This must be done in writing.  Please note that when contacting you for an emergency, we need to have updated information.

Search and Seizure Policy - The principal and his/her designee has access to any lockers, handbags, electronic devices, cell phones, book bags, desks, cars or any other object that is brought onto the campus of the school or any school sponsored event, and may remove or confiscate any object which is illegal or contrary to school policy.

Use of Cell Phones or Electronic Devises  - Cellular phones, beepers, personal listening devices (ipods), video games, and all other toys are to be left home. The school is not responsible for the loss or damage of such.  Students are not allowed to bring these items to school.  These type of items will be returned directly to the parent.

Lost and Found - There will be a LOST AND FOUND area in the Reception Area, and parents are encouraged to check it once in a while.  Found articles will be kept in the Lost and Found until the last Friday of each month, at which time the area will be completely cleaned and all articles will be donated to a charity.

·         Misplaced books will be returned to the classroom teacher, when properly identified.

·         Toys and jewelry should be left home.  The school is not responsible for personal valuables brought to school.

·         Make sure to label all of your child’s items, especially all of their clothing (uniform and outerwear), it facilitates return.

·         Teachers will not be responsible for items left in their classrooms.

·         Please do not call the office for an employee to search for an item in the lost and found, please visit the office personally.

Safety & Security - Fighting or encouraging fighting is not acceptable behavior. This may warrant immediate suspension or expulsion. A child, who is found to have a weapon, or any inappropriate object that can be considered a weapon, may be subject to immediate expulsion.

Medications - Students are not permitted to carry or distribute any prescription or non-prescription drugs or treatments, including aspirin, on the school grounds or at any school function.  The administering of medicine to a student outside the doctor’s office or a health institution is a parental responsibility and should not be delegated to school personnel except under unusual circumstances.  Parents should ask their physicians if it is possible to prescribe medication so it can be administered at home.  Only when necessary will the school allow the administration of medication on campus, and only under the following guidelines:

1.            An “Authorization for Medication” form must be completed and submitted by a parent or legal guardian of the student.  The name of the medication and dosage should be indicated on the form.

2.            Medications to be taken by students must be personally brought by the parent or legal guardian to the School Office.  Medications to be dispensed at school must be labeled with the child’s name and the exact dosage.  The name and telephone number of the physician should also be on the label.  Students may not bring the medication to school alone.

3.            If a student must take any medication during the school day, the medication must be kept with the Nurse or School Office and the student must go there to take it.

4.            While the school will monitor a student taking the medication, the school will not remind students to come and take their medication.

Parental Cooperation - The school views the education of a student as a partnership between the parents and the school.  Parents and students are expected to comply with the school rules and policies, and to accept and support the authority of school officials.  Just as a parent can withdraw a child from the school if desired, the school has the right to disenroll a student if it determines at its discretion that the parent or student partnership with the school is irretrievably broken.

Rules of Conduct

Dress Code  - In order to maintain a wholesome image, the school will insist that children wear their complete uniform, and no substitutions are made.  Students are made aware of good grooming.  In addition to wearing proper uniform, students are also expected to wear their hair in a conventional manner.  Boys must wear their hair short (hair may not be lower than their eyebrow, may not touch their ears, and can not touch their collar in the back).  When your child receives a hair infraction notice, you will have 2 days to cut their hair.  After the 2 days, if the child arrives in school without his hair cut properly, he will receive a detention for each day the infraction has not been corrected.  No fad hairstyles or coloring (dying) permitted.  Students are not allowed to wear make up, nail polish or artificial nails.  The wearing of jewelry is discouraged.  Only the following items will be accepted: One small chain with a small cross or Christian medal.  (No rings, no watches, no bracelets)  (Girls who have pierced ears will be allowed to wear one small pair of earrings.  Hoops are discouraged for safety’s sake.  Boys will not be allowed to wear earrings.)  Students are to wear their PE uniform for PE only. Updated information about uniforms will be sent to as necessary and may be obtained from the uniform company.  Only solid Navy Blue jackets/sweaters will be permitted.

Information about uniforms is sent to parents at the beginning of each year. PK4 and Kinder students only are encouraged to purchase sneakers and shoes with Velcro. Only MOC white socks and navy blue or white sneakers will be allowed.

DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS – Children will receive a Uniform Violation Warning when they do not come to school with their proper uniform.  Once a child receives 3 violations, he/she will receive a detention which must be served at 7 a.m. on the assigned date.

DRESS PROCEDURES FOR DENIM DAYS AND OTHER SPECIAL DAYS - Children which have paid to wear jeans for denim days, must wear their Crusaders t-shirt with denim pants.  Shorts or capris are not allowed.  When we celebrate other special days (St. Patrick’s, Say No To Drugs, Earth Days, etc.), we will announce the color of shirt, and they may wear jeans or school pants.  No shorts or capris will be allowed.  Please ensure that your child does not wear inappropriate attire, since you will be called by the office to bring appropriate clothing for your child.  Your child will have to wait in the school office in the meantime, causing your child to lose valuable learning time.

SCHOOL DANCE DRESS ATTIRE – For school parties or dances where regular clothes are allowed, children are to wear appropriate attire that may also be used to attend mass.  Girls cannot wear tank tops, spaghetti strap blouses/dresses, shorts, jeans with holes or inappropriate wording, mini-skirts or see-through leggings.  Boys can not wear loose (rapper type) pants, t-shirts, jeans with holes, dirty/broken sneakers.

Communion Dress Attire - For communion girls must wear a white dress that covers the top of their arms.  No spaghetti strap dresses.  Boys may wear a white suit with a white shirt.

Confirmation Dress Attire – Girls must wear a knee length dress or skirt with blouse.  No spaghetti strap dresses or blouses and flat shoes (no heels).  Boys must wear a blue or white shirt with a tie.

Harassment and Discrimination  - The school is committed to providing an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.  In keeping with this commitment, the school will not tolerate harassment or discrimination on the basis of a person’s protected status, such as gender, color, race, ancestry, national origin, age, physical disability, mental condition, marital status, veteran status, citizenship status.  All employees, faculty members and students are protected under this policy.  In addition, this policy applies to all conduct occurring on school grounds, at assignments outside the school, or at school-sponsored events.  All students are responsible for helping to assure that any harassment or discrimination is reported.  If a student witnesses or learns of any conduct that violates this policy, the student must immediately report the incident to his/her principal.  If, however, the principal is the individual who is believed to have engaged in the inappropriate conduct, the student should notify the Superintendent of Schools of the Archdiocese of Miami.  If an investigation reveals that inappropriate conduct has occurred, the school will take corrective action based on the circumstances.

Drug and Alcohol Policy The use or possession of illegal drugs or illegal mood altering substances, alcoholic beverages, drug-related paraphernalia, or the abuse of prescription or over the counter drugs by any student on school property or while attending or participating in any school sponsored activity or at anytime the student is wearing a school uniform is forbidden.  Transgression of this rule will result in disciplinary action, which may include expulsion from the school, even for a first offense.  Any student selling drugs on school property or at school functions may be immediately expelled.

The school is committed to a drug-free environment.  This commitment may, under some circumstances, prompt a need for testing of students for evidence of substance abuse.

If a student exhibits the symptoms, or is suspected of substance abuse, the school may require that the student undergo substance abuse testing at the parents’ expense.  If the results of the test suggest abuse (and the substance was not used on or brought to campus or a school related activity), the school will normally use this information to help the student seek assistance.  Refusal to participate in such a test may result in expulsion from the school.

At times, the school may choose to conduct random drug testing of the student body at the parents’ expense.  While this measure may not often be implemented, given the seriousness of substance abuse, the administration may consider it an effective and justifiable way of combating the problem.  A school may conduct random searches as set forth in this handbook.

Anti-Bullying Policy The school is committed to promoting a safe, healthy, caring, and respectful learning environment for all of its students.  As such, bullying is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.  Therefore, this policy prohibits any unwelcome verbal or written conduct or gestures directed at a student by another student that has the effect of:

(1)        physically, emotionally, or mentally harming a student;

(2)        damaging, extorting or taking a student’s personal property;

(3)        placing a student in reasonable fear of emotional or mental harm;

(4)        placing a student in reasonable fear of damage to or loss of personal property; or

(5)        creating an intimidating or hostile environment that substantially interferes with a student's educational opportunities or the Catholic mission of the school.

Definition

a.                   Bullying may involve but is not limited to: teasing, name-calling, slurs, rumors, jokes, false accusations, intimidation, stalking, innuendos, demeaning comments, pranks, social isolation, gestures, cyber-bullying or other verbal or written conduct.  Cyber-bullying includes the following misuses of digital technology: teasing, intimidating, or making false accusations about another student by way of any technological tool, such as sending or posting inappropriate email messages, instant messages, text messages, digital images or website postings (including blogs and social network sites).

b.                  This definition includes students who either directly engage in an act of bullying or who, by their behavior, support another student’s act of bullying.

I.       Scope

c.       This policy prohibits bullying that occurs either:

                    i.            on school premises before, during, or after school hours;

                  ii.            on any bus or vehicle as part of any school activity; or

                iii.            during any school function, extracurricular activity or other school-sponsored event

       or activity.

II.                 Reporting Complaints

a.       Each student and parent has a duty to report any bullying to the school immediately.  If a student experiences (or a parent witnesses or learns of) any incident of bullying, the incident must be promptly reported to the school principal.  The principal will provide the student/parent with the Bullying Complaint Report Form which must be completed, dated and signed by the complaining party so that the school may initiate further inquiry, when appropriate. 

III.               Disciplinary Action

a.       Any student found to have violated this policy may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, which may include: temporary removal from the classroom, loss of privileges, detention, counseling, parent conference, suspension, expulsion, and/or notification to appropriate authorities.  The disciplinary action may be unique to the individual incident and may vary in method and severity based on the principal’s discretion. 

False reports or accusations of bullying also constitutes a violation of this policy and may subject the offending party to appropriate disciplinary action.

Weapons Policy  - Weapons are not permitted anywhere on school grounds.  Anyone who brings a weapon on school grounds, who is in possession of a weapon, or who threatens others with a weapon may be expelled from the school.  Any item used to threaten or cause bodily harm may be considered a weapon.

Threats of Violence - The disciplinary consequences for a student whose verbal or written comments, including email messages, that threaten serious bodily harm to another student or member of the faculty or staff or destruction of property, may include, but not be limited to:

a.         Immediate suspension from the school;

b.         Treatment or consultation by a psychologist or psychiatrist at the parents’ expense and/or by the school counselor, both of whom may be asked to submit a written evaluation.  If it is determined that the child was serious about the threat and has the capacity to carry it out, the child may be expelled from the school.  If it is determined that the child did not seriously intend to do harm to others, the child may be allowed to return to the school, at the discretion of the school principal.

c.         If allowed to return to school, the child may be placed on probation with an indication that, should a similar threat occur, the child will be expelled from school;

d.         The school should inform the Department of Schools of these cases.  The school may submit an informational report to the police.

Public Display of Affection - The Catholic school promotes friendship, charity, kindness, love and respect for self and others.  However, inappropriate displays of affection, such as kissing or embracing which connote more than simple friendship, are not permitted in school, at school dances, or at any school event.  Those who violate these rules may be subject to disciplinary measures, including detention, suspension or expulsion.  The administration reserves the right to determine what is, or is not, appropriate behavior in a Catholic school.

Cheating - Any student found being dishonest including plagiarizing but not limited to with regards to classwork, homework, exams, projects, tests, forging signatures, etc. may receive a zero for the assignment and may have other consequences at the administrations discretion.

Stealing/Vandalism - Students will respect the properties of self and others. Unauthorized possession of another’s property without the owner’s consent is stealing. Willful/malicious destruction and/or damage of another one’s property are considered vandalism. It will not be tolerated and warrants a suspension.

Inappropriate Language - Students will respect and obey teachers and all school personnel at all times. Verbal disrespect or the use of vulgar, profane language will not be tolerated.  School rules are to be followed for the protection of all.

Smoking - MOC is a smoke free environment.

Disciplinary Procedures

Student Conduct - Students are expected to behave consistent with the mission, philosophy and spirit of the school and the moral teachings of the Catholic faith.  Because the school cannot anticipate all conduct that violates this policy, it reserves the right to take any form of disciplinary action, including expulsion, against any behavior that violates this policy, even if not specifically stated in this handbook.

Computer Services

Computer Use - The school may provide its administrators, faculty and students with access to computers and various information technology resources including email and Internet access in order to enhance the teaching and learning environment of the school and to improve the school’s operations.  Students must use these resources in a responsible, ethical, and legal manner in accordance with the mission of the school and the Catholic teachings.  Therefore, students must abide by the following general rules of conduct:

1.                  Respect and protect the privacy of others;

a.                   Use only assigned accounts and passwords;

b.                  Do not share assigned accounts or passwords with others;

c.                   Do not view, use or copy passwords, data or networks to which you are not authorized;

d.                  Do not share or distribute private information about yourself or others.

2.                  Respect and protect the integrity, availability, and security of all electronic resources;

a.                   Observe all network security practices;

b.                  Report security risks or violations to the school principal;

c.                   Do not vandalize, destroy or damage data, networks, hardware, computer systems or other

resources;

d.                  Do not disrupt the operation of the network or create or place a virus on the network;

e.                   Conserve and protect these resources for other students and Internet users.

3.                  Respect and protect the intellectual property of others;

a.                   Do not infringe on copyright laws including downloading or copying music, games or movies;

b.                  Do not install unlicensed or unapproved software;

c.                   Do not plagiarize.

4.                  Respect the principles of the Catholic school;

a.                   Use only in ways that are kind and respectful;

b.                  Report threatening or discomforting materials to the school principal;

c.                   Do not access, transmit, copy or create materials that violate the school’s code of conduct (such

            as indecent, threatening, rude, discriminatory or harassing materials or messages);

d.                  Do not access, transmit, copy or create materials that are illegal (such as obscene, stolen, or

            illegally copied materials or messages);

e.                   Do not use the resources to further any other acts that are criminal or violate the school’s code of

            conduct;

f.                   Do not use the resources for non-educational purposes such as visiting chat rooms, social

            websites or networks like My Space or Facebook;

g.                   Do not send spam, chain letters or other mass unsolicited mailings;

h.                  Do not buy, sell, advertise, or otherwise conduct business or political campaigning without prior

            written approval from the school’s principal.

Supervision and Monitoring - The school and its authorized personnel may monitor the use of information technology resources to help ensure that users are secure and in conformity with this policy.  The school reserves the right to examine, use, and disclose any data found on the school’s information networks in order to further the health, safety, discipline or security of any student or other person or to protect property.  It may also use this information in disciplinary actions and may furnish evidence of a crime to law enforcement.

Unacceptable Use of Outside Technology - The school expects students to use information technology (including, but not limited to, the Internet, email, instant messaging and text messaging) in a responsible and ethical fashion in compliance with all applicable laws and with Christian moral principles, both in and out of the school setting.  Accordingly, students may not post, place, upload, share, or communicate any images, photographs, statements or inferences relating to or including profanity, vulgarity, indecency, illegal use of drugs, illegal use of alcohol or other illegal or illicit activities.  Additionally, students may not use information technology for the purpose of defaming, threatening, teasing or harassing any other student, staff member, parent, faculty member, or other person.  This includes, but is not limited to, communications on social networks such as My Space and Facebook.  In addition, this rule applies to communications both during the school year and while students are on vacation or summer breaks.  Students are responsible for all materials and communications made on personal websites and social networks and the materials and communications should be consistent with Christian moral principles, including any materials or communications posted on their sites by other individuals.  Moreover, any unauthorized use of the school’s name (or common names associated with the school) or any likeness or image of the school or its employees or agents is strictly prohibited.

Consequences for Violations - A violation of these rules may result in disciplinary action, including the loss of a student’s privilege to use the school’s information technology resources and any additional consequences at the principal’s discretion including expulsion.

School Counselor – The school has a Licensed Mental Health Counselor on staff.  Please be advised that anything that your child discusses with the counselor may be shared with the Administration as deemed necessary by the Counselor, and will be kept private among the related parties. We welcome parents to discuss issues that may arise with the counselor, and invite your child to visit with her.  You may recommend to your child to visit with the counselor, but please keep in mind that recommendations may also come from your child’s teacher and/or the Administration.  An authorization must be on file in order for your child to visit with the counselor.  Please be aware that any incidents of suspected child abuse will be reported to the proper authorities.

The policy of the Archdiocese of Miami requires that MOC administration, faculty and staff report all cases of suspected child abuse.  If the complaint received is not allegedly caused by the action of the parent(s) or guardian(s) of the child, the parent or guardian will be notified by the school administration.

Library – The school library will be located in our new media center.  Students will visit the library with their teachers, and will be able to take-out a book of their choice or as recommended by a teacher.  Overdue books are charged a fine until returned or a replacement fee if not returned.

Fundraising - No student may solicit funds in the school’s name unless such solicitation has been authorized in writing by the principal.

Field Trips - Teachers will take children on field trips as an integral part of the curriculum.  It will be purposeful and related to the educational program of the school.  Advance notice will be given when a field trip is planned.  Permission slips will be sent home.  These must be completed and returned to school at least two weeks prior to the scheduled trip. Children who have not returned their permission slip will not be allowed to accompany their class on the trip.  To go on a field trip with the school is a privilege, not a right.  If a student’s discipline can cause a problem, or endanger his/her or anyone else’s safety, s/he will not be given permission to go. Siblings will not be allowed to attend field trips.   Field trip fees, once paid are non-refundable. To chaperone a field trip with your child, you must be a registered volunteer.   Once the chaperones have been chosen, you will be notified by your child’s teacher so that you may submit your payment.  Please do not send payment before this time.  Permission forms for field trips will include information about the means of transportation to be used, the destination and the cost. Teachers are not allowed to drive students in their own car. Please do not send extra money with your child, as students will not be allowed to purchase any food or items.  According to the Archdiocese policies, field trips that extend beyond school hours are discouraged for elementary schools. Overnight trips are forbidden for elementary schools.

School Sponsored Events - The school does not sponsor, oversee, or in any way control parties or social functions at private residences.  School-sanctioned events are specifically identified in this Handbook or are identified as such in written notices generated and distributed by the school. 

Parents, by executing this acknowledgement of receipt of this Handbook, hereby release the school, the Archdiocese of Miami, and their corporate members, officers, employees, and agents, from any claims or liabilities that allegedly arise from or are related to attendance at parties or social functions at private residences or from attendance at functions not sponsored by the school. Students engaged in conduct that is contrary to the mission and philosophy of the school may be subject to disciplinary action regardless of whether the conduct occurred at a school-sponsored function.

Participation in School Athletics or Organizations- The school recognizes the following sports, activities and clubs:

School Clubs: Choir, Safety Patrols and Altar Servers Major School Activities: Harvest Festival

Dances: Middle School Homecoming and Spring Dance         Athletics: Volleyball and Basketball

Parents acknowledge that participation in these sports, activities, or clubs may be inherently dangerous and, the school cannot ensure the safety of all students involved in its activities and programs.

Prior to participation in any sport, each student must complete the Parent Consent and Release of Liability form and a physician’s certificate to the effect that the student is physically fit for participation in the sport.  Participation includes pre-season conditioning, open gym, tryouts and practice.  Parents, by executing this acknowledgement of receipt of this Handbook, hereby release the school, the Archdiocese of Miami, and their corporate members, officers, employees, and agents, from any claims or liabilities that allegedly arise from or are related to participation in any sports, leagues, clubs or activities.

The school is not responsible for student participation in any sports, leagues or clubs not identified above.  Parents hereby acknowledge that students who participate in any such program or activity do so at their own risk.  Parents further acknowledge that the school does not control or sanction any such program or activity and that it shall not be held liable for any injuries or damages sustained by students or others arising from participation in such program or activities.

Student Official Records - Students’ official records (academic transcripts; academic testing; health records, and court orders) are kept in the school office in a folder.  Only contents of the official record folder will be forwarded to another school.   The Principal and parents reserve the right to reverse this decision if other records are to benefit the child.  Mutual consent is necessary.

Release of Students Records - The school substantially follows the guidelines set forth in the Buckley Amendment pertaining to release of student’s records.

Withdrawal- The parent who wishes to transfer a child should contact the office.  An exit interview will be scheduled and proper documentation prepared.  All financial obligations must be fulfilled before records are sent to another school. Student’s grades at the time of withdrawal will be recorded.

Non-Custodial Parent - MOC will substantially abide by the provision of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents.  In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding the child.  If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order.

Emergency Contact Information- At registration, parents fill out an Emergency Contact Form. These forms are kept on file and will be used if/when the student experiences an emergency, illness, or accident while in school.  It will include authorization for the school to act in an emergency when the parent or guardian cannot be reached.  It is therefore, of vital importance that the emergency card be kept accurate, complete and up to date.  Parents are required to inform the school of any changes.  In an emergency, time is a critical matter.

Immunization Records - Each student must have in his/her file both HRS certificates (680 and 3040) before the beginning of the school year.  These forms may be obtained from a private physician or from the Miami-Dade County Department of Public Health. The required vaccinations are DPT, or DT, polio, measles, rubella, and mumps.  No student will enter school without the required immunization.

Notification of Rights under FERPA  - The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are:

(1) The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should complete the Request for Release of Student Records and submit it to the School principal [or appropriate school official] identifying the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

(2) The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy rights under FERPA.

Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the School principal [or appropriate school official], clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

(3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person or company with whom the School has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using its own employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the School discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5920

Tuition and Fees– Monthly payments will be done through the FACT system.  FACT will automatically charge your established account on the 5^th day of each month from August through May of the following year.  If there are no funds available on the charge date, FACT will carry a $25.00 surcharge.  Delinquent tuition payments will carry a late payment fee of $25.00 (monthly) charged by the school.  For a better accounting system, send tuition and after school payments to school.  Pledge and church contributions are to be paid to the Church Office.  Parishioner tuition rates are dependent upon Mass attendance and a minimum contribution of $10.00 weekly, established through the Offertory envelope system.  Please use the envelope so proper credit can be given.  Students are subject to dismissal from school if financial obligations and Mass attendance are not kept current.  The building fund is $800.00 per year per family as long as the student is enrolled.

DO NOT SEND CASH WITH STUDENTS - The school is not responsible for cash sent to school with the students.  Cash payments will only be accepted from an adult.

Registration Fee – This fee is due when registration or re-registration is made, and it is non-refundable. Registration is contingent upon clearance of all financial obligations.  Book rental fees are due on or before May 31^st.  The Parish requires a minimum participation of $100.00 worth of raffle tickets sold for the Annual Carnival.

Building Fund - The pledge for the building fund is a separate fee from tuition.  Once the child begins school, the pledge money paid is non-refundable. The pledge obligation payments must be kept current each month to maintain good standing.  Weekly Offertory contributions of at least $10.00 per week and Mass attendance are required to maintain active participation status in Parish and school. The last day to pay Offertory contributions for the current school year is December 31^st. All financial matters should be cleared with the office at least one week prior to report cards.

When a child withdraws from school, the family needs to take care of the financial obligations before transcripts are released.  The school can not offer a letter of recommendation for a student to another school when the family has not taken care of their financial obligations.  Financial obligations continue until the child is formally withdrawn from the school and all proper separation papers are signed.

Returned Checks Check Policy – If the bank returns a check, it will not be re-deposited.  The family will have to pay cash.  No post-dated checks will be accepted.  Families that consistently have NSF checks will be called to the pastor’s office for a meeting.  Future payments may be required to be cash.  This applies to all checks received from the family through-out the year.  Tuition payments are received through FACT.

Financial Obligations - The satisfaction of all financial obligations to the school, including tuition and fees, constitutes a material condition for continued enrollment in the school.  The school may disallow students from taking quarterly, semester, or final examinations if the parents or legal guardians fail to meet any financial obligation to the school.  In addition, the school may withhold the issuance of transcripts or any other student records and/or disallow participation in or access to school activities, and/or disenroll the student if any financial obligations are not met.

Child Protective Investigations  - Florida law provides that any person who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a child is abused by a parent, legal custodian, caregiver or other person responsible for the child’s welfare must report such knowledge to the Department of Children and Families.   The- school will cooperate with all child protective investigations by DCF or the local law enforcement agency.  Reports should be made to Florida’s Department of Children and Families by calling the Abuse Hotline at: 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873).

Child protective investigations by DCF or local law enforcement agencies sometimes include interviews of students at school and may occur without advance notice.  When it is reasonably possible, the school will seek to notify the parents that their child has been asked to participate in a child protective investigation.  The school may also request the presence of a school staff member during investigative interviews on school property.  However, please note that, under Florida law, DCF and local law enforcement have the discretion to conduct unannounced interviews and to disallow school staff member’s presence during these interviews.

Testifying in Divorce or Custody Proceedings- The Catholic Church recognizes marriage as a Sacrament.  In the Union of Christian spouses, the sacrament of Matrimony celebrates the relationship of Christ to the Church.  Therefore, the school strongly supports the sacrament of matrimony as the foundation of family life and of the domestic Church.  In recognition of the importance of the matrimonial sacrament to the Catholic faith, parents agree not to compel the attendance, testimony, or deposition of any school or church employee in any divorce, custody, or other legal proceedings which may in any way involve the dissolution of marriage or the determination of parental/custody rights.

In the event that a parent or legal guardian breaches this policy, any school or church personnel who are required to attend legal proceedings may be represented by an attorney.  In addition, any and all legal fees and costs incurred by the school will be charged and become the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. 

Use of Photos - The school reserves the right to use student or parent photos in any school publication and on the school’s website.  Any parent who does not wish his or her child’s picture or video to be used accordingly must notify the school’s principal in writing prior to the beginning of the school year.  Parents, by executing this acknowledgement of receipt of this Handbook, hereby release the school, the Archdiocese of Miami, and their corporate members, officers, employees, and agents, from any claims or liabilities that allegedly arise from or are related to the use of student or parent photos.

Communicable Diseases - Parents will be informed of any communicable disease discovered at school to which their child may have been exposed.

Accidents - Parents/Guardians will be notified immediately in case of sudden illness or accident.  In case of minor accidents (scratches and bruises), the school will inform the parents by sending a note home at the end of the school day.  We report all known/self-reported accidents.  Students, who are absent due to a communicable disease, must present a doctor’s note and medical clearance before returning to school. (Please see section on absences.)

After School Program - The After School program is designed to help the families who need after school supervision of their children.  It is offered from dismissal to 6:00PM. The children will be given time for snack, study, activities, and play. The cost of the After School Program is hourly, daily, or monthly.  Prices will be provided in the beginning of each year.  There is a registration fee for After School Care.  If you may find that you can not pick-up your child by dismissal time, please call the school office and we will place him/her in after school.   Any child attending after school, that is not registered for after school, will be charged at the end of the month at a rate of $20 a day.  Children left in after school after 6PM will be charged $1.00 a minute for every minute they are late with a maximum of $20.00.

Insurance -  The Archdiocese of Miami requires mandatory school accident coverage insurance.  The cost of this insurance is included in the school fee. School insurance covers sports activities but not transportation.

Students will not be allowed to use the school phone to contact parents or family members for items they have forgotten (sneakers, homework, lunch, etc.)  In the event that the school feels the issue at hand warrants a phone call to the parents, the phone call will be made by office personnel and not the student.

SCHOOL DISCIPLINE PROCEDURE

Each teacher develops their own classroom discipline.  The parents (during parent orientation) and students (during the first week of class) are duly informed of the rules and consequences for undesirable behavior.  In the teacher’s disciplinary steps there will be recommendations for parent information.

The Principal retains the right to make exceptions to the above stated procedures. The Principal will be the final resource in all disciplinary situations and may waive or accelerate any disciplinary rule for just cause at her discretion.  Students who receive a referral will not be eligible for the Principal’s Honor Roll.

Transportation - Parents/Guardians are responsible for providing transportation to school. Teachers are not allowed to drive students in their personal cars.  If a teacher school employee must transport children other than their own, a Hold Harmless Agreements must be fully executed and on file in the office.

Morning Drop-off and Afternoon Dismissal - Our main concern is the safety of the children, and the expediency with which we carry out morning drop-off and afternoon dismissal.  Parents are to follow carefully the directives given by school personnel at the beginning of the year. Children will not be placed in a car unless the proper identification is displayed.  You will be asked to park and come in to the office if the identification is not shown or we were not aware of someone other than the customary pick-up person shows up.   They are not to leave their car while dropping-off or picking up a child in the car line.  Student Patrol officers will help by opening and closing car doors.  Drive slowly and be patient.  Safety is extremely important. Follow directives given during Parent Orientation.

Transportation to Athletic and Other After School Events  - Occasionally, students participate in off-campus activities.  The School does not provide transportation to these events, it is the parents responsibility to pick-up their child and transport them to the event.  If your child will be attending the event with the parent of another child, we ask that you please send us a letter with the complete name of the person picking up the child authorizing us to release your child to this person.

Homework - Homework is an essential part of a good school program.  It reinforces the skills taught in class. It encourages sense of responsibility and initiative for student’s own progress. Homework also provides an opportunity for parents to participate in the child’s scholastic growth.  Homework is assigned for all grades every day except Friday. Sometimes, however, a science or research project may have to be done on the weekend. Early elementary education will include family projects to be done on weekends. If the child is not bringing homework to do at home, parents are requested to check with the teacher. An important reminder to parents is to encourage the child to seek help when s/he needs it, but let the homework be the child’s responsibility. 

Students in 2^nd through 8^th grade will receive a homework journal - an agenda - to keep an accurate record of daily assignment.  Extra agendas for lost cases can be purchased at the office for $6.00. Every student needs to have his or her agenda at the teacher’s requests.  Some notes to parents are sent in the agendas.

Teachers will assign homework that is relevant, and not simply busy work.  It should reinforce what was learned in class.  Teachers will not ask children to do homework on material not taught, unless it is a reading or research in preparation for a lecture.  Please guide yourself according to the suggested homework time listed below, please note that this not include “study” time and time may vary according to the needs of each particular student:

            K                     30 minutes      

            Grades 1- 2      approximately 40-50 minutes per night

            Grades 3 - 8     approximately 60 minutes a night                   

            Studying for a test, reviewing assignments, or reading is not considered homework.  

School Lunch - Students will have the choice to purchase lunch from a catering service or bring a lunch from home.   If you elect for your child to buy school lunch through  the catering service, please send the payment with the lunch menu to the office.  Lunch must be paid the week prior to be beginning of a new month.  Lunch, including pizza, will only be sold monthly. When bringing lunch from home, please ensure that your child is receiving a balanced lunch.  Please do not include sodas or candy with their school lunch as these are not allowed, and teachers have the authority to take these away from your child.  In maintaining a balanced lunch, your child should only have 1 dessert with his/her lunch.  Teachers are authorized to monitor children’s lunch.

PK students are requested to bring a snack for mid-morning.  Please pack healthy lunches and snacks. “Fast Food” lunches will not be delivered to students, they will have to eat in office.  Please plan ahead for your child’s needs. While we will never let a child go hungry, it is disruptive to the child’s routine. 

To encourage the children to develop responsibility, lunch will not be delivered to children during the day. 

Fire Drills - In an emergency, all effort is directed toward getting the students out of the building safely.  Teachers are instructed and routes will be posted in each classroom.  Regular fire drill practices will be done.

Lock Down Procedures – When potentially hazardous conditions exist in the vicinity of the school or on the school property, the school may go into lock down procedure.  All doors will be locked and no one will be allowed in or out of the school.   We may also follow lock down procedure when instituted and instructed by the Archdioceses of Miami/Miami-Dade County Public School, whether the potential may or may not be directed towards our immediate school.  We ask that everyone please follow the instructions being given at the moment, and keep in mind that these procedures are followed for the safety of your children.

Textbooks - Textbooks are school property. The students rent them for a fee.  Students are required to cover and take good care of them.  There will be charges for lost or damaged books.

Home and School Association (HASA) of MOC is designed to assist the administration as the social and fundraising organization of MOC. The association dues are $50.00 (annually) per family, paid to the association at the time of registration.  All dues must be paid before the last day of school.  You may contact your HASA officers.

PRINCIPAL’S RIGHT TO AMEND THE HANDBOOK

The Principal has the right to amend this Handbook.  Parents and teachers will be promptly notified if changes are made via memo or e-mail from principal.

Rita Rodriguez, M.S., Principal  2010-2011

Please read carefully and fill out with your child’s name.  Once signed by both parents, please return to your child’s teacher.

I have received, read and understand the Parent Handbook and agree to all rules and guidelines stated therein.

I am aware that it is mandatory to sign up for F.A.C.T. for the 2010-2011 school year.  I will not be awarded any volunteer hours for doing so.

If by January 2011, if I have not met the parishioner requirements, I will be charged the non-parishioner rate.

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION – Third grade students are prepared for First Reconciliation and First Communion.  Students need two years of Sacramental preparation to receive the sacraments.  Parents are required to attend two meetings and a retreat for these sacramental preparations.  Students are required to attend mass and abide by the guidelines set forth at the first sacramental meeting.  The Pastor reserves the right to deny First Communion to any child that has not been fully prepared or has not fulfilled requirements to receive the sacrament.