Episcopal School of Acadiana
Lower School Handbook for Students and Parents 2017 - 2018
Lafayette Campus (PK3 – 5th) 721 E. Kaliste Saloom Rd Lafayette, LA 70508 Phone: (337) 993-2263 Fax: (337) 993-3706
Cade Campus (6th – 12th) PO Box 380 Cade, LA 70519 Phone: (337) 365-1416 Fax: (337) 369-9841 www.ESAcadiana.com
Dear Episcopal School of Acadiana Community, Welcome to ESA! ESA is a learning community, rooted in scholarship and honor, where students and teachers learn and work together to achieve the common goals of academic excellence, leading lives of integrity, and developing the physical and spiritual dimensions of our lives. ESA was founded to provide a model of such an approach to teaching, learning and life for the greater Acadiana community. Our Handbook is best understood as a guideline for common understanding of our basic policies, practices, and approaches. As a framework, it is not intended to provide an exhaustive list of all policies and rules. Such a document or approach would be inconsistent with our school mission and philosophy where freedom, responsibility and accountability in all that we do are our guide stars. As a framework, it provides a philosophical context that we use in deciding matters not covered as policy, and it provides a context for addressing individual cases as the need arises. We are glad that you are with us, and we look forward to growing and learning with you as a member of our community. If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know. Respectfully, Paul Baker, Ph.D. Headmaster Episcopal School of Acadiana
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mission Statement ..................................................................................................................... 1 Vision and Values Statement .................................................................................................... 1 Philosophy of Education ........................................................................................................... 2 School Motto ............................................................................................................................. 2 School Colors ............................................................................................................................ 2 Episcopal School of Acadiana .................................................................................................. 3 Seal and Symbolism.................................................................................................................. 3 Alma Mater ............................................................................................................................... 4 School Prayer ............................................................................................................................ 4 Academics ................................................................................................................................. 5 ACADEMIC CALENDAR ....................................................................................................................................... 5 CURRICULUM ..................................................................................................................................................... 5 REPORTING PRACTICES ...................................................................................................................................... 5 NetClassroom Access .................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. GRADING SYSTEM .............................................................................................................................................. 6 GRADING SCALE ........................................................................................................................................ 7 ACADEMIC HONORS ........................................................................................................................................... 7 Headmster’s List ........................................................................................................................................... 7 Honor Roll .................................................................................................................................................... 7 Academic ranking ......................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. Awards .......................................................................................................................................................... 7 GENERAL ACADEMIC INFORMATION .................................................................................................................. 7 Homework ..................................................................................................................................................... 9 Late Assignments .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Student Life............................................................................................................................. 10 CHAPEL ...................................................................................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. THE HONOR SYSTEM .................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. ESA Honor Code ........................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. CODE OF CONDUCT .......................................................................................................................................... 10 School Expectations .................................................................................................................................... 11 Disciplinary Responses ............................................................................................................................... 11 Drug and alcohol Policy ............................................................................................................................. 11 ATTENDANCE ................................................................................................................................................... 11 Absences from School ................................................................................................................................. 12 Tardies ........................................................................................................................................................ 13 DRESS CODE..................................................................................................................................................... 14 Spirit Dress ................................................................................................................................................. 16 Physical Education uniforms ...................................................................................................................... 16 TRANSPORTATION ............................................................................................................................................ 16 Bus Regulations .......................................................................................................................................... 16 Student Drop-off/Parent Parking ................................................................................................................ 16 Carpools........................................................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined. GUESTS AND VISITORS ON CAMPUS ................................................................................................................. 19 LIBRARY........................................................................................................................................................... 19 Policies and Fines ....................................................................................................................................... 19 ELECTRONICS ................................................................................................................................................... 19 TECHNOLOGY ................................................................................................................................................... 19 Acceptable Use Policy ................................................................................................................................ 20 The Use of Video Capable Technology on Campus .................................................................................... 21 2015-2016 ESA Handbook
LUNCH & BREAK .............................................................................................................................................. 22
Helpful Information ................................................................................................................ 23 MEDICAL INFORMATION................................................................................................................................... 23 Prescription Medication ............................................................................................................................. 23 BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL ............................................................................................................................... 23 STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE POLICY ......................................................................................................... 24 ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................................................ 24 LOST AND FOUND ............................................................................................................................................. 24 BIRTHDAY & HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS ........................................................................................................... 24 OFFICE HOURS ................................................................................................................................................. 25 SCHOOL CLOSING/EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS .............................................................................................. 25 STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY................................................................................................ 25 USE OF SCHOOL NAME, HANDBOOK, AND DIRECTORY .................................................................................... 25
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MISSION STATEMENT Episcopal School of Acadiana is a coeducational, independent day school for students in grades pre-K through 12. Its mission is to instill in every student the habits of scholarship and honor. ESA challenges students to develop intellectually, spiritually, and physically.
VISION AND VALUES STATEMENT At ESA, we nurture the twin virtues of freedom and responsibility. We pursue these virtues in the daily life of our school by balancing joy and challenge, inventiveness and tradition, respect and informality, trust and support. We cultivate and celebrate this balance in our vibrant, eclectic community that prizes both individual freedom and cooperation. We take responsibility for what we do and say, and freely use our individual talents and strengths to become energetic citizens who sustain our community by making positive contributions. In order to accomplish ESA’s mission our students are expected to learn, live and grow through the following: Habits of honor develop in our community, which expects the choice of right over wrong. Our code of honor promotes fairness, truth, and honesty; our commitment to honor affords the freedom necessary for responsibility and the confidence that ideas, ideals, and property are respected. Habits of scholarship develop from the relationship between passionate teachers and creative students; fueled by the joy of discovery, self-motivated students exhibit an intellectual vitality which strengthens their beliefs yet inspires an open mind. Students develop intellectually in our nurturing environment where they master skills and knowledge. Students are challenged to learn, think and question critically; students take intellectual risks, learn how to express and support their ideas, and are encouraged to defend their positions. Students experience the Episcopal traditions and liturgies and they are supported in their search to discover a personal relationship with God. Spiritual development follows through sharing meaningful experiences with each other and through offering our leadership and talents at ESA and our services to the larger community. Students’ physical development is grounded in our physical education curriculum that encourages lifelong health and physical activity. Every student acquires physical skills, learns the value of competition and teamwork, and cultivates the ethos of sportsmanship.
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PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION Episcopal School of Acadiana holds as its basic purpose the development of an academic environment in which a student's intellectual, emotional, social and physical growth are accompanied by a corresponding spiritual and moral growth. We are an Episcopal School, a community which professes the Christian Faith as stated in the Apostles' and Nicene Creeds. Within this environment, and using the resources of the Christian Faith as practiced within the Episcopal Church, we emphasize that true learning is a cooperative effort among students, parents, faculty, administrators and staff to stimulate critical thinking, self-reliance and academic competence in a rapidly changing world. We also believe that each student, upon graduation, should be well-prepared to continue his/her education on the college level. As an Episcopal school, we affirm the educational tradition of academic freedom. The school provides opportunities for each student to achieve self-fulfillment as an individual and as a member of a community. Activities in and out of the classroom help students to recognize the need for self-discipline, a sense of citizenship within the democratic process and the development of their spiritual dimension and moral responsibilities. To these ends, we recognize that superior faculty, as well as supportive and involved parents, are of paramount importance. We recognize the importance of physical well-being in the holistic development of the individual, as well as the role of the arts in our lives as essential to understanding the culture man has created. Recreational activities promote attitudes of fair play, teamwork and leadership. Episcopal School of Acadiana seeks to instill, in each student, self-confidence, an awareness of one's relationship to God and man, and a continuing development of mind, body and spirit.
SCHOOL MOTTO "EXCELLENCE FROM WITHIN"
SCHOOL COLORS Navy Blue and Gray
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EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF ACADIANA SEAL AND SYMBOLISM The Episcopal School of Acadiana crest was designed by the late Mrs. Charles (Penny) Godchaux of Abbeville, Louisiana. Circle: Stands for eternity because it is without beginning and without end.1 Crook: "The hooked staff is a pastoral attribute in the church and a symbol of faith. By virtue of the sigmoid significance of the hook, it stands for divine power, communication and connection; because of its spiral form it is a symbol of creative power."2 Chi Rho: Formed by the two crooks - this is the earliest monogram of Christ3 from the first two letters in the word for Christ in Greek. Miter: A traditional headpiece worn by some bishops, emblematic of the highest order of the ministry. Used in this seal to denote that the Episcopal School of Acadiana is a Diocesan School and as such shares the benefit and direction of the Bishop. Jewels within the miter - there are twelve small jewels symbolizing the twelve Apostles. These are centered around a single larger jewel representing Christ. The two crosses on the miter represent the two natures of Christ. Celtic Cross (Iona): Generally associated with the Anglican, hence Episcopal, Church. The sign of the cross was "employed by early Christians to direct special attention to the sacrifice of our Lord and the manner of His death. The cross also taught the earlier Christians, as it does us, the lesson of personal dedication to our Redeemer, who commanded His followers to take up the cross."4 Laurel Leaf: Suggestive of eternity because the foliage does not wilt.51 It is a Christian symbol of triumph. (I Corinthians 9:24 - 27) Colors: Blue - signifies heavenly love and truth; "eternity, faith, and truth." Gold - "symbolizes sovereignty, the sun, love, constancy, dignity, and wisdom."65
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Symbols of the Church, Carroll E. Whittemore A Dictionary of Symbols, J. E. Cirlot 3 Saints, Signs, and Symbols, W. Ellwood Post 4 The Sign Language of Our Faith, Helen Stuart Griffith 5 Ecclesiastical Embroideries, Beryl Dean 2
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ALMA MATER Beneath the Oaks, Amid the Cane Lyrics by Dr. Arthur White Beneath the oaks, amid the cane, my thoughts are always turning back again to the gentle place that formed my youth where I learned to seek and discern the truth. A place of study and a place of play; the place where I made the friends I love today, where excellence we both sought and gained, beneath the oaks, amid the cane. We stretched our minds and our bodies too, as we sought the limits of what we could do, in lab and class, on field or court, for the love of learning or the joy of sport. At times the work was hard, the play it was intense, but as we grew, it gave us confidence that there’s no height that we cannot attain, beneath the oaks, amid the cane. God grant His blessing on this place, guard and preserve it by His grace. In work and play His blessing give; that in His Kingdom may its meaning live. Make us gentle, generous, truthful and kind with gallant courage in both heart and mind, that our blessed fellowship may long remain beneath the oaks, amid the cane.
SCHOOL PRAYER O heavenly Father, who has given us Thy Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Friend and example, help us to understand His friendship, and to do such things as will please Him. Bless us in our work and in our play. Make us gentle, generous, truthful, kind and brave. Keep us in purity of heart, and let the life of our school go on from strength to strength and have its place and meaning in Thy kingdom. All of which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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ACADEMICS Academic Calendar The Lower School academic year is divided into four quarters.
Curriculum Curriculum components of our early childhood program emphasize the developmental nature of young children and consist of: Gross and Fine Motor Development Social Development Cognitive Development o Language and Emerging Literacy o Mathematics Core curriculum for Lower School students in grades K - 5 consists of instruction in the following content areas: Language Arts (Reading and Writing) Mathematics Social Studies Science Complementary curriculum in grades K – 5 is integrated, whenever possible, with the core curriculum and consists of instruction in: Physical Movement Music Visual Arts French (Grades 3 – 5) Enrichment o A key component of the Schoolwide Enrichment Model, enrichment clusters bring students together in interest groups to explore real-world topics. Students are sorted into mixed-age groups on the basis of their choices from a wide list of student-generated topics. Each week for seven weeks, the groups meet to explore their areas of study, learn from experts in the field and chart their own in-depth learning. Enrichment clusters often result in products, performances, or presentations. Enrichment cluster topics have been derived from students’ interests in cooking, carpentry, robotics, economics, medicine, world cultures, music, visual arts, and many more.
Reporting Practices ESA reports grades and/or detailed progress to students and parents at the end of each quarter. Reports of Progress are available via myESA usually by 6 pm three academic days after the end of a marking period.
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myESA ACCESS ESA now posts all Reports of Progress and Interim Reports online. Students and parents may access these reports using myESA. My ESA is accessed from the ESA website. Selecting the myESA button from the top right of the ESA website homepage will bring you to the Resource Screen. Select the child whose report you want to view. Each member of a family has a unique user id and password. Families new to ESA need to follow the link First time on our new site? Forgot your login? just below the log in screen and follow the direction to receive their username and password. Each student and parent needs to follow this procedure to receive their individual log on information. Should a family not have access to myESA, they should contact the Registrar and request a hard copy of reports to be mailed home.
Grading System nd
PK3 through 2 grade are non-graded. Each quarter, students receive detailed individual narratives and progress reports indicating growth in specific skills across the curriculum using the following descriptions. E Exceeding Expectations M Meeting Expectations N Nearing Expectations B Below Expectations Each quarter, 3rd grade students receive letter grades and detailed individual narratives in language arts and mathematics. Student progress in specific skills related to science and social studies is reported using one of the following descriptions: E Exceeding Expectations M Meeting Expectations N Nearing Expectations B Below Expectations Fourth and Fifth Grade students receive grades in all core curriculum courses. Student progress in specific skills related to science and social studies is reported using one of the following descriptions E Exceeding Expectations M Meeting Expectations N Nearing Expectations B Below Expectations Interim reports and/or conference requests are sent each grading period if there is a significant decline in a student’s work. Teachers will be pleased to discuss your child’s progress and/or grade reports by appointment and at regularly scheduled parent-teacher conferences. 2017-2018 ESA Handbook
GRADING SCALE ESA uses a grading system that includes pluses and minuses. Letter grades correspond to the following numerical values and grade point equivalent on a student's transcript: A+ = 4.33 A = 4.00 A- = 3.67
A+ = 97– 100 A = 93 – 96 A- = 90 – 92
B+ B B-
= 3.33 = 3.00 = 2.67 F = 0.00
B+ = 87 – 89 B = 83 – 86 B- = 80 – 82
C+ C C-
= 2.33 = 2.00 = 1.67
C+ = 77 – 79 C = 73 – 76 C- = 70 – 72 F = 59 – 0
D+ = 1.33 D = 1.00 D- = 0.67
D+ = 67 – 69 D = 63 – 66 D- = 60 – 62
ACADEMIC RANKING ESA does not academically rank its students.
Academic Honors HEADMSTER’S LIST A student must receive a 3.67 grade point average and receive no grade (in any course) below a B- to receive this honor. HONOR ROLL A student will receive Honor Roll recognition provided he or she receives no grade (in any course) below a B-. FIFTH GRADE AWARDS The Headmaster’s Award is presented to the fifth grade student who most exemplifies “excellence from within.” The qualities considered for this award include academic excellence, leadership, and contributions to the well-being of the community. The St. Barnabas Award is presented to the fifth grade student who maximizes their ESA experience.
Support Services Lower School Support Services on the Lafayette campus are services available on site, and include: Executive Function classes, Academic Support, Learning Center Language Arts instruction, and before and after school tutoring. The purpose of these services is to assist all students in achieving academic success at ESA, ultimately instilling the habits of scholarship and supporting their intellectual development. 2017-2018 ESA Handbook
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Lower School Executive Function Classes All students in grades 1 through 5 are supported by Executive Function classes, taught weekly for 30 minutes. EF Classes are taught collaboratively by the school’s learning specialist, the director of the learning center, and the school counselor. The five-year EF curriculum includes: active listening, planning, organizing, advocacy skills, test taking skills, study skills and strategies. The focus and content of the lessons vary as students progress through the grades, matching the academic demands of each grade level. By the end of fifth grade, students have had instruction and practice in all the student skills they need to be successful independent learners in ESA’s middle school. Before and After School Tutoring ESA lower school provides before and after school tutoring for individual students. This tutoring is prescriptive in nature. The needs of the individual student are addressed on a case-by-case basis. Typically a student is identified by the classroom teacher or a parent referral. Often tutoring is the first service recommended for a student who is struggling. This support service can help to either remediate the area of difficulty or identify that more information is necessary. If more information is needed, students are referred by the learning specialist for an evaluation with an outside service provider. This additional information helps guide the parents, learning specialist, counselor and teachers to the best possible services. Diagnostic information aids in the identification of necessary accommodations, as well as any necessary remediation. Academic Support The Academic Support service is designed to help meet the individual learning needs of students. Supporting the belief that students learn in different ways, the Learning Specialists works with students, teachers, parents and administrators to identify individual needs and decide how best to meet those needs. Academic Support is a contracted service available on campus designed to assist students with any or all of the following skill needs: general study skills and organization; individualized study strategies matched to personal learning styles; reading and vocabulary development; special assistance to students with learning differences. Services vary based on the individual needs of the student. Students are pulled from their scheduled world language class to meet, one-on-one, with their academic support teacher four days a week for 30 minute sessions. Individual objectives are developed for each student based upon their specific needs. Academic support personnel work closely with classroom teachers to ensure that the student’s time is well spent and directly impacts their academic success.
Learning Center
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The ESA Learning Center is a contracted support service for students with a diagnosed language-based learning difference. It is designed to serve students with average to above average intelligence who have not experienced reading success in the regular classroom, even with additional support. Students work with their Learning Center instructor in lieu of the regular classroom language arts block. This allows students to thrive in their strength areas by having them receive all other instruction with their class, while supporting them with appropriate accommodations and/or support in their challenge area. The Learning Center employs the Hill Center Language Arts Model, a unique, research-proven reading program and service delivery model of explicit, structured, systematic, phonics-based instruction developed specifically by The Hill School in Durham, North Carolina. Each class is ability grouped in a 1:4 teacher to student ratio. All Learning Center teachers have attended the Hill-Reading Achievement and Writing Programs and are pursuing or have achieved certified status with IMSLEC.
General Academic Information HOMEWORK Homework is a meaningful part of the total instructional program at ESA. The purpose of homework includes, but is not limited to, introducing investigations, reinforcing skills, extending and developing concepts introduced in the classroom. Teachers take their responsibility to assign meaningful homework seriously and expect students to prepare assignments carefully. Time spent outside of classes on homework will vary according to grade level and the individual student. Homework will generally be assigned throughout the week except on Fridays or the day before a holiday. Students will learn the time management skills necessary to complete long-term projects. LATE ASSIGNMENTS Students are expected to complete and submit all assignments on time. Typically, an assignment will be counted late if it is not ready to submit at the beginning of the period on the date assigned by the teacher. Late assignments may be subject to a grade penalty. When a student is unable to attend school, he or she should contact a fellow student and make his/her best effort to complete the class homework. If a student is absent for three consecutive days, a parent should call the secretary to request missed assignments from the classroom teacher.
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STUDENT LIFE The development of personal integrity and excellence of character are primary goals of Episcopal School of Acadiana and have resulted in the creation of the ESA Honor System.
The Honor System ESA HONOR CODE "As a member of Episcopal School of Acadiana, I pledge that I will not lie, cheat, or steal, or withhold information concerning those who do." Honor offenses are lying, cheating and stealing. They are formally defined as follows: Section 1. LYING is defined as presenting a false impression or giving false information to another person. Section 2. STEALING is defined as the taking of another person's property without right or acknowledgement. Section 3. CHEATING is defined as giving or receiving any unauthorized information on any quiz, test, examination or other written work. Plagiarism is a form of cheating. Plagiarism is defined as the representation of work (words, phrases, graphics, ideas or images) of another's not commonly known as one's own, that is, without quotation marks, footnotes or some form of citation. Section 4. WITHHOLDING INFORMATION is defined as refraining from providing important information regarding a violation of the honor code. The Honor System represents the values of the families, students, and faculty who form our community. The Lower School teaches these values and affirms their presence in the character of each student. We recognize that children make mistakes as they learn. We encourage them to learn to accept responsibility for their mistakes and accept the consequences that result. The focus in the Lower School setting is on teaching the honor system and what it means to us as individuals and members of a community.
Code of Conduct By enrolling at ESA, each student agrees to abide by the school’s expectations and the spirit of those expectations, and parents agree to support the school’s policies. ESA is a school community based on strong belief in mutual trust and self-responsibility. Students enjoy privileges and freedoms in day-to-day activities that are based on each student assuming responsibility for his or her actions. It is important for students and parents to know the expectations for conduct set forth by the ESA community. These expectations grow out of genuine concern for each student’s growth and development as a happy and healthy individual guided by strong moral and ethical values.
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SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS The Episcopal School of Acadiana expects that every student will: A. Be honest. B. Respect parents, teachers, and fellow students. C. Behave appropriately and in a manner that reflects favorably upon our school. Sportsmanship, courtesy, and appropriate dress are the hallmarks of an ESA student. D. Take pride in keeping the ESA campus a clean and beautiful place. E. Meet all commitments and obligations. F. Respect and care for school property and the property of others. DISCIPLINARY RESPONSES Teachers generally handle minor infractions in the classroom, on campus, or at ESA activities. Teachers may utilize a variety of strategies designed to meet the personality of the child and nature of the situation. Disciplinary action is age appropriate and may include time-outs and loss of free play or other privileges within the school day. Severe or ongoing discipline matters are handled by the Head of Lower School. Parents are notified by the teacher or Head of Lower School in these cases. Students and families should be aware that any disciplinary action may be disclosed to third parties. DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY ESA is committed to a drug and alcohol free environment for students at ESA, to providing appropriate drug and alcohol education for our students, and to treating involvement with drugs and alcohol as a health issue as well as a disciplinary issue. Alcohol and drug involvement are violations of the laws of the State of Louisiana and incompatible with the school's mission and its daily operation. PRESCRIBED MEDICATION Students who have medication specifically prescribed by a physician to treat medical conditions and need to receive doses during the school day must have an Administration of Medication Form completed by the prescribing physician and on file in the main office. Parents are responsible for delivering/receiving all medication to/from the receptionist, who will log the receipt/disbursement of medications into the system. All medications are stored and administered in the front office. Students are not permitted to carry medication in their backpacks or on their person.
Attendance Students should arrive at school on time every school day. Not only is regular attendance important for the individual student, but also the individual’s participation is important for the group as a whole. ESA’s calendar provides ample time off for our students at strategic points in the academic year. We expect parents to support their students by not removing their child from classes
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for anything but the most serious of situations. Students are expected to return from scheduled breaks on the dates designated. The Head of Lower School will designate any student absence as “excused” or “unexcused”. 1.
2. 3. 4.
ABSENCES FROM SCHOOL We are not an elementary school that devotes whole days before a holiday to parties or movies. Each school day is an instructional day; therefore, the school strongly discourages parents from removing students from classes on the days before and after a holiday. All absences must be reported by phone by a parent to the office before 8:30 a.m. If an absence is not reported by 8:30 a.m., parents should expect a phone call from the school, either at home or at their work place. All absences will be considered unexcused until a phone call or a note from a parent is received explaining the nature of the absence so that the Lower School Head can make an “excused” or “unexcused” determination. When a student accumulates 5 or more tardies, or 10 or more absences, either excused or unexcused, there will be a review by the Division Head. Parents should expect a letter home notifying them of the status of the student’s attendance record.
EXCUSED ABSENCES Examples of absences that may be considered excused are: Illness reported by a parent Medical or dental treatment NOTE: Every effort should be made to schedule routine appointments (i.e. medical, dental, orthodontic) and the like during vacations and non-school hours. School sponsored academic, athletic, or extracurricular events Family emergencies Excused Absence Make-up Work Generally, the student is expected to submit all work missed within the same number of days he or she was absent. The student is responsible for speaking with his/her teachers to confirm assignments or to request extra help. Teachers will make every effort to schedule a help session if needed. UNEXCUSED ABSENCES Examples of absences that may be considered unexcused are: Family trips or vacations Participation in non-ESA competitions (club volleyball, soccer, etc.) Attending an entertainment event or social function
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ANTICIPATED ABSENCES The ESA school calendar provides ample time for holidays and family vacations at strategic times during the academic year. The school strongly discourages parents from removing students from classes on the days before and after a holiday. An anticipated absence occurs when a student will be absent for one or more days of classes for a planned non-school event. The school needs to be notified of anticipated absences so that they can be evaluated by the school well in advance of the intended date(s) of absence. The evaluation rests with the Head of Lower School. Anticipated absences may be determined to be excused or unexcused. Unexcused Anticipated Absences If the student and family decide to take an unexcused anticipated absence, the school will not require teachers to:
prepare assignments for the time missed provide extra help to enable the student to catch up on work missed provide class notes or other assistance to the student
The student is responsible for submitting all work missed during an unexcused anticipated absence on the day of return. Failure to submit work owed may result in the student receiving zeros on any or all incomplete assignments. Students are expected to be prepared for all academic work that takes place the day of their return. This includes tests, quizzes, papers and any homework assignments. Tests that were missed must be completed by the date designated by the teacher. TARDIES All students are expected to be in their classrooms at 8:00 a.m. Students are tardy if they arrive after 8:00 a.m. Young students who arrive late are put at a disadvantage right from the start of their day. They miss valuable moments to unpack, preview the day’s agenda, and get settled and mentally prepared to be attentive. In addition, late arrivals are highly disruptive to an elementary class in progress. TARDY PROCEDURE Any student reporting late to school must sign in at the receptionist’s office and will automatically be given an unexcused admit slip unless a note from a parent or doctor makes it clear that the tardy was unavoidable. Unacceptable reasons for morning tardies include: Oversleeping for any reason other than documented illness Fatigue Unsubstantiated traffic or car problems Unspecified illness or general malaise Generic notes asking that a student be excused but giving no reason why Non-emergency personal or family errands
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SIGN-IN/SIGN-OUT Arrival at School – Parents must bring students who arrive after 8:00 to the reception desk to sign them; students will be given an admit slip for entering class. Early Departure from School – Students who must leave school for any reason other than school monitored events must be signed out by the parent with the receptionist. Students remain in their classrooms until the parent arrives and completes sign out procedures. NOTE: Unless the reason for checking out complies with definition of “excused absence,” a student’s absence from any class due to an early departure from school shall be considered unexcused. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES Special circumstances may arise during the course of the year that require a student to miss an extended period of school or schedule a recurring medical appointment during the academic day. ESA will make every effort to work with students and families to ensure the student does not suffer academically should this occur. To help us prepare a plan of action for the student, parents should meet with the Head of Lower School before any class time is missed.
Dress Code Students are always expected to dress in good taste and in compliance not only with the written code, but also with the spirit of the code. Extremes in attire and grooming are not allowed. Students must not view the flexibility of the Dress Code as a means to separate themselves from the community. ESA wants to celebrate individuality while teaching students about standards for appropriate dress and the importance of personal appearance. Students should take pride in their appearance and dress neatly and appropriately every day. All students must be in dress code for the entire school day, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Dress Code is managed at the discretion of the Head of Lower School.
Girls: Modern fashion for young girls does not always have a place at school. Girls should never wear short skirts, short shorts or tight clothing, and they should never have any exposed waistline or midriff. Skirts:
School plaid, navy, gray or khaki; must extend to no more than five inches from the top of the knee
Skorts:
School plaid, navy blue, gray or khaki
Jumpers:
School Plaid with collared shirt underneath at all times (Bloomers are optional) 2017-2018 ESA Handbook
Dresses:
School plaid dresses with attached white collar are available and are allowed for PK and K girls
Shirts:
White, light blue, navy blue, or gray heather shirt, with same color collar and sleeves. Shirts must be long enough to stay tucked. Turtlenecks under shirts are allowed in white and navy blue.
Slacks:
Khaki, gray or navy long pants. No drawstring pants or elasticized bottoms are allowed. Elasticized waistbands are allowed.
Belts:
Students may wear a navy blue, black, or brown belt on any pants or shorts that have loops.
Shorts:
Plaid, khaki, or navy shorts with at least a 5� inseam. Elasticized waistbands are allowed.
Tights:
Navy or white permitted under skirts, shorts, and jumpers.
Shoes:
Athletic/tennis shoes worn with socks at all times. No boots or dress shoes please. Shoes must be suitable for movement class.
. Boys: Boys should look neat and presentable at all times during the school day. Shirts:
White, light blue, navy blue, or gray shirt with same color collar and sleeves. Shirts must be long enough to stay tucked. Turtlenecks under shirts are allowed in white and navy blue.
Slacks:
Khaki, gray, or navy long pants. No drawstring pants or elasticized bottoms are allowed. Elasticized waistbands are allowed.
Belts:
Students may wear a navy blue, black, or brown belt on any pants or shorts that have loops.
Shorts:
Plaid, khaki, gray, or navy with at least a 5� inseam.
Shoes:
Athletic/tennis shoes worn with socks at all times. No boots or dress shoes please. Shoes must be suitable for movement class.
For Boys and Girls: Sweat suits: Navy blue sweats may be worn. Sweaters:
White or Navy sweaters or vests may be worn.
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Outerwear:
No prominent logos, other than the school logo. No blue jean jackets are allowed.
SPIRIT DRESS Spirit Days are announced at the discretion of the Lower School Head. Students may wear an ESA shirt with uniform pants/shorts or blue jeans on these days. PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORMS Students are not required to wear PE uniforms during their PE class. Girls should wear shorts under their skirts and/or jumpers for physical education classes.
Transportation BUS REGULATIONS The safety of students using ESA transportation is very important. Therefore, students are required to follow the following regulations concerning bus transportation: 1. Students should arrive at the designated bus stop 5 minutes prior to departure. The bus will not wait. Parents are responsible for student supervision until bus arrives. 2. Parents should arrive at the designated bus stop 5 minutes prior to arrival. The bus will not wait. Parents are responsible for student supervision until bus arrives. 3. While waiting for the bus, students must conduct themselves in an orderly manner. 4. Students may not get out of their seats, throw objects out of the window, harass other students or the driver, or generally behave in a loud or disorderly manner while riding the bus. 5. The bus driver will report any inappropriate behavior to the Head of Lower School. Unacceptable behavior on the bus may result in disciplinary action including but not limited to suspension or expulsion from bus service. STUDENT DROP-OFF/PARENT PARKING Parents should drop off all students in the designated areas. Drop off at any other point creates a dangerous situation and impedes traffic flow. A copy of the traffic pattern will be distributed to each family. Please follow the one way pattern as shown on the diagram. Do not turn left onto Kaliste Saloom Road during carpool hours. Early morning and after school care are administered by a service called REACH. Please contact the office for information and cost of this service. MORNING DROP-OFF 7:40 – 8:00 All grade levels Parents may choose to drop students off in the car line circle or to park and walk in through the Enrichment Center (EC) front building. After 8:00, the gates will be closed and all students must enter, accompanied by a parent, through the EC.
2017-2018 ESA Handbook
Morning walk in.
Park in the front parking lot and accompany children into the EC (front building). Before 8:00, it is not necessary to stop at the reception desk. Accompany children through the EC; do not leave them at the front door. If you arrive before duty personnel are in place at 7:40, you may wait with your children inside the EC, in the chapel area, or outside the back door. Children should not be left unattended downstairs, and they may not be upstairs before 7:40. Beginning at 7:40, duty personnel will signal you when it is safe to cross, using the yellow crosswalk. Students can walk themselves to class from there.
Morning car line.
Enter the parking lot using the entrance closest to the railroad tracks (not Elberson Drive). Do not pull into the car line circle, under the canopy, until directed to by duty personnel, beginning at 7:40. At 7:40, cars enter the car line circle in a double line School policy and state law prohibit the use of handheld cell phones while driving on school property. Please observe this important safety regulation and communicate it to anyone who may drop off your children. Students remain in the car until school personnel open the door. Weather permitting, we attend to 8 cars at a time (2 rows of 4 cars). When you are among these 8 cars, put your car in park and remain in the car. Wait for a signal from duty personnel before driving forward out of the car line circle. Cars must merge into one lane to exit. Please be cautious and courteous. NO LEFT TURNS onto Kaliste Saloom are permitted during car line time. Attempting to do so seriously delays and disrupts the car line process for everyone – adults and children - behind the person trying to turn left. The gates will be closed at 8:00. If you arrive after that, you must park, walk in with your child, and complete the sign-in procedure described in the Tardies section of this handbook.
AFTERNOON PICKUP Staggered times, depending on grade level Parents may choose to pick students up in the car line circle or to park and walk in through the Enrichment Center (EC) front building. Afternoon walk in.
Dismissal times: o 2:45 - PK 3 AND PK 4
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o 3:00 – K – 5TH grades
Walk in through the EC. It is not necessary to sign in. At the dismissal times indicated above, PK and K students will be seated on the sidewalk between rooms 101 – 105. All other students will be seated outside of their classrooms, or in the back of the EC if their last class was in the EC. Any duty personnel with a walkie-talkie can assist you in calling your child to meet you at the back of the EC if you aren’t sure where to find them. Car traffic is flowing at the same time, so please be attentive to the signals of duty personnel about when to cross the car line circle.
Afternoon car line.
Pickup times: We use a staggered afternoon pickup schedule to regulate traffic. You will be issued colored car line signs. The color indicates your pickup time, based on the grade level of the oldest student in your family. If you arrive before your assigned time, you will be directed to a parking spot to wait until it’s time for you to enter the car line. o 2:45: Families with students in PK3 and PK4 (and no older siblings) may enter the car pool line. o 3:00: The afternoon bus to the ESA Cade campus departs. o 3:00: Families with students in Kindergarten, 1st, or 2nd grade (and no older siblings) may enter the car pool line. o 3:10: Families with students in 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade may enter the car pool line. Display your colored car line sign where it is easily visible – on the dashboard or hanging from a visor or rearview mirror. Extra signs can be obtained from the office if multiple people will regularly pick up children. Please note, only those individuals who have been listed on the car line form as authorized by you will be allowed to pick up children. The car line sign alone is not enough. If we don’t recognize the driver, we will ask them to pull into the parking lot while we call a parent for authorization. Enter the parking lot using the entrance closest to the railroad tracks (not Elberson Drive). Do not pull into the car line circle, under the canopy, until directed to by duty personnel. Cars wait in the parking lot or driveway until the ESA bus has left the car line circle at approximately 3:05. Cars enter the car line circle in a double line School policy and state law prohibit the use of handheld cell phones while driving on school property. Please observe this important safety regulation and communicate it to anyone who may pick up your children. Weather permitting, we attend to 8 cars at a time (2 rows of 4 cars). When you are among these 8 cars, put your car in park and remain in the car. Duty personnel will walk your child to the car and assist them in as needed, including helping with car seats. You may be asked to circle around if your child is not on the walkway and prepared to enter the vehicle. 2017-2018 ESA Handbook
Wait for a signal from duty personnel before driving forward out of the car line circle. Cars must merge into one lane to exit. Please be cautious and courteous. NO LEFT TURNS onto Kaliste Saloom are permitted during car line time. Attempting to do so seriously delays and disrupts the car line process for everyone behind the person trying to turn left. Students who have not been picked up by 3:20 will be put into aftercare. Parents are responsible for fees incurred.
Guests and Visitors on Campus Guests or visitors should check in with the receptionist in Room 101 and receive a visitor badge prior to entering any classroom.
Library The libraries will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and welcome all students who come in for the purpose of study, research and pleasure reading. POLICIES The following are guidelines for the book check outs; however, these guidelines can be adjusted to accommodate the varying needs of readers. PK3 – 2nd grades 3rd – 5th grades
1 week 2 weeks
2 books 3 books
Students who do not demonstrate responsibility in the care of library books and attention to due dates risk losing their library privileges for a time. Students will be given overdue notices, if needed, each week in library time; after 21 days (3 notices), parents will be emailed.
Electronics The use of any electronic device – whether school-owned or personal – for music, video streaming, or gaming during the school day is inconsistent with the mission of ESA and is not permitted.
Technology ESA seeks to foster the pursuit of academic and personal excellence in each child. ESA is committed to preparing its students for working, living and learning as students and leaders in their chosen careers. Technology visions must be flexible in today’s world. What is considered high-tech, top-of-the-line today, is often passé next month. We seek to create an environment where students, faculty, and staff, use innovative technology effectively and responsibly. Technology enhances the way we teach, learn, and communicate with one another at ESA and the world. Excellence in technology education promotes higher-order thinking skills, problem-solving skills, motivates students, and provides another tool to facilitate student learning. Faculty
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members benefit from the exchange of new methodologies, resources, and ideas to implement the curriculum. ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY ESA is a community of students, teachers and staff committed to the school’s core values of scholarship and honor. It is out of honorable respect of these values that we share the privileges and responsibilities of becoming and being literate computer users within the school environment and at home. The following statement is an articulation of our responsibility as individuals and as a community to be honorable and ethical users of technology: The use of the ESA network and equipment is a privilege – not a right. Computers and internet access are available to students and faculty through the school network as an educational tool to support the curriculum. It is expected that student and faculty use of computers and the internet will be consistent with the goals, objectives and rules of conduct of ESA as described in the Student Handbook and Codes of Conduct. Individual users of the computer network are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. It is presumed that users will comply with ESA’s established standards. These rules apply to computer usage on campus, but also to Upper Elementary students’ use of their school-issued Chromebooks while at home. Because the ESA computer network has limits, and because of the protecting young children from encountering the wrong kind of content on the internet is important, students must understand that the campus computer network and school-issued devices should be used for academic or school-related purposes only. With this in mind, the following are not permitted on any ESA-owned device unless directed and supervised by a teacher for classroom purposes: Streaming internet audio or video Bypassing the firewall Game or other entertainment Internet sites Uploading or downloading any type of files from the internet Chat room or social networking sites of any kind Violations may result in the loss of access to technologies on the ESA campus. Files and other communications, both active and stored on local or network hard drives, may be reviewed by the Network Administrator to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly. Finally, the network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access is a privilege – not a right. Access entails responsibility.
Chromebooks 2017-2018 ESA Handbook
Third through fifth grade students will be issued a school-owned Chromebook for their use throughout their three years in our Upper Elementary grades. On-going technology instruction occurs weekly in these grade levels to both introduce students to software and programs that enhance their learning, and also to provide guidelines for safe and ethical use of technology. The Chromebook remains the property of the school and should be treated as such. No personalization, including downloading apps or programs not directed by a teacher, is permitted. Students and their parents will sign a Chromebook Usage Agreement, detailing all the expectation for care and use of the device while in the student’s possession. Failure to comply with the agreement is likely to result in the student’s loss of his/her Chromebook for whatever time teachers and the Head of Lower School deem appropriate. The Chromebook, its case, and its charger are expected to be turned in at the completion of a student’s fifth grade year, or departure from ESA prior to that. If desired, parents may purchase their child’s Chromebook at the end of fifth grade; it can be an effective and inexpensive way to comply with the Cade campus bring-your-own-device policy. THE USE OF VIDEO CAPABLE TECHNOLOGY ON CAMPUS No one may take photos or videos while on an ESA campus or at ESA sponsored events without permission. There must be valid educational rationale for such technology to be used on campus, such as accomplishing a particular assignment.
Student Activities and Services Chapel Chapel is an integral part of the school day. It is a time when the school community comes together to celebrate the life of ESA, explore and nourish daily life with God and neighbor, and plan the day. Students are encouraged to play an active and integral part in our chapel services as they grow spiritually and develop relationships of care and trust within the school community. Parents are always welcome to join us for chapel, and they will be notified in advance if their child is to be a presenter or recognized at chapel The Episcopal rite of Eucharist is celebrated monthly. Dates for Eucharist can be found on the school calendar. All students and faculty attend Communion services and, as conscience dictates, participate in the services. Parents specify, on the provided Chapel form, the level of participation they desire for their children.
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Lunch & Recess ESA Lower School does not offer food service. Students bring their own snacks for recess. They may bring their own lunches or parents may contract with Lagniappe Lunch to provide delivered lunches for some or all school days. Lagniappe Lunch can be accessed through the MyESA webpage. No carbonated beverage or candy should be brought to school. We model and recommend healthy eating habits. If a student has forgotten to bring a lunch, and the oversight is noticed by morning recess (10:30), he/she will be allowed to call a parent to bring a lunch. If we’re not aware of the lack of a lunch until lunch time, students will be issued a sandwich or Lunchable in order to avoid delaying the student’s return to class after lunchtime. Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly manner during lunch and recess and to dispose of trash properly. Students are taught from the earliest grades to clean up after themselves, and this is an ongoing expectation. Students are also expected to be mindful of recycling options when disposing of trash. Food and drink must be consumed in the designated lunch areas. Parents may occasionally bring lunches to their children and/or eat lunch with their children; however, please be mindful of our emphasis on healthy eating and of the tight timelines for lunch and recess so that the visit enhances, rather than disrupts, your child’s school day. Parents may bring/send treats for the class for their children’s birthday. These will be consumed after students have eaten their lunches. Please do not send class treats for any other reason (such as King Cake at Mardi Gras) without prior approval from the teacher.
Support Personnel ESA’s commitment to develop the whole child – intellectually, physically, and spiritually – is supported by the presence on staff of a full-time counselor and full-time chaplain. Both the counselor and the chaplain are integrated into all aspects of school life, work to get to know all students, and make themselves available as resources to the whole school community – students, parents and staff. A parent may contact the counselor at any time to seek advice or to request that their child be seen. Teachers and/or the Head of Lower School may consult with or refer a student to the counselor. Parents will be notified when their child is seen by the counselor. A parent may contact the chaplain at any time to ask for information about Episcopal tradition, the role of the Episcopal faith in our school, for pastoral guidance, or to ask that a child be seen. Students will be welcome to seek out the chaplain if they have questions about faith, God, or spirituality in general. Parents will be notified if the chaplain has a student- or teacher-initiated conversation with the chaplain.
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Extracurricular Activities Lower School extracurricular activities are driven by student interests and may include students from any grade level. Long- or short-term clubs or after-school activities most often begin with a request from a student. Teachers who propose an extracurricular activity, or who agree to facilitate a student-originated one, will notify parents of the days and times. Recurring extracurricular activities include choir and the spring musical. Fifth grade students may opt to participate in middle school sports, utilizing the ESA bus to attend after-school practices on the Cade campus.
HELPFUL INFORMATION Medical Information State of Louisiana law requires the following information be on file at ESA before a student is permitted to attend classes: 1. A completed and signed health form 2. Immunization according to State of Louisiana requirements ESA also must have on file a certified copy of each student’s birth certificate. PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION School personnel are permitted to administer prescription medication issued by a licensed physician only. (No over the counter medications can be administered by school personnel.) Parents are responsible for delivering/receiving all medication to/from the receptionist, who will log the receipt/disbursement of medications into the system. All medications are stored and administered in the front office. Students are not permitted to carry medication in their backpacks or on their person. Please see the Drug and Alcohol Policy for other important information.
Business and Financial As outlined in the Enrollment Agreement, the following three options are offered for payment of tuition: A. One annual payment by July 21, 2017 B. Two payments: the first payment by July 21, 2017 and the second payment by November 17, 2017. C. Ten monthly payments beginning July 21, 2017, and ending April 20, 2018 *The two payment plan requires an automatic bank debit on November 17, 2017. This plan option carries a 1.0% monthly interest charge based on the outstanding tuition balance owed from July 21, 2017 until paid in full. *The monthly payment plan requires an automatic monthly bank debit from a designated bank account for the ten months listed and carries a 15% interest payment.
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Tuition finance fees for installment payments are due and payable each month beginning July 20th and ending April 20th. Transportation charges are billed October 1st and may be paid in two installments of one half each October 20th and December 20th. Parents Club dues and incidental fees are billed September 1st and are due September 20th. Miscellaneous charges are billed every month beginning September 1st and are due the 20th of the month. If a parent's account is not paid in full or is not otherwise current at either the end of the second quarter or the end of the school year, the student’s grades will not be processed and grade reports and transcripts will not be mailed until payment is received.
Student Accident Insurance Policy A student accident insurance policy is provided for all students at no cost to the parents. Application packets for extended 24-hour coverage and dental riders are available in the Business Office and mailed to all parents at the beginning of each year.
Asbestos Management ESA has complied with requirements of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in maintaining an asbestos management plan for all of the school buildings. The plan, which was reviewed and approved by the EPA, is available for review by parents and employees between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Lost and Found Any items found on campus grounds are placed in the Lost and Found in the Swap Shop, located at the side of the chapel in Enrichment Center. Please label all clothing and other personal possessions. Unclaimed items at the end of each school year are either placed in the Swap Shop or forwarded to Goodwill.
Birthday & Holiday Celebrations Treats for birthdays may be brought to school and served at a time that does not interfere with classroom instruction. Arrangements should be made in advance with the classroom teacher. Cupcakes, cookies, and individual serving size juice boxes are preferable. Please do not send party favors/bags, etc. Simple celebrations are more meaningful and memorable. Parents may, if they choose, participate in Birthday Book Club by assisting their child in selecting and donating a book to the school library in honor of their birthday. Students whose birthdays fall in the summer time may wish to celebrate their “half birthday� during the school year. We request that party invitations not be sent to school. The school directory contains student and parent address lists to assist students and their families in contacting one another. Classroom celebrations will be coordinated with the classroom teacher.
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Office Hours The main office of the school is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday except for the following holidays when it is closed: Labor Day (Monday, September 4, 2017) Fall Break (Thursday, October 5 – Friday, October 6, 2017) Thanksgiving Break (Monday, November 20, 2017 – Friday, November 24, 2017) Christmas Break (Thursday December 21, 2017 – Friday, January 3, 2018) Martin Luther King Day (Monday, January 16, 2018) Mardi Gras Break (Monday, February 12, 2018 – Friday, February 16, 2018) Easter Break (Friday, March 30, 2018 – Friday, April 26, 2018)
School Closing/Emergency Notifications When ESA needs to get critical information out to families, broadcasts are sent out via email and text alerts through the website. It is very important that all families, parents and students, sign up to receive these messages. To receive emergency communications, log into your myESA account at www.ESAcadiana.com. On the Resources page, click on the green Using myESA tile to access a video with instructions on verifying your mobile phone number and signing up for text and email alerts. Occasionally inclement weather requires ESA to close early or not to operate for a day. In addition to text and email alerts, ESA will announce all unanticipated school closures on local television and radio stations.
Statement of Non-Discrimination Policy Episcopal School of Acadiana admits students of any race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.
Use of School Name, Handbook, and Directory No one is authorized to use the names “ESA” or “Episcopal School of Acadiana” for promotion or solicitation purposes without the expressed, written consent of the Headmaster. The ESA “directory and handbooks for students and parents” and the information contained therein, including the names and addresses of ESA families, faculty and staff, and the names “ESA” or “Episcopal School of Acadiana,” are intended for official use by the school and the private use of the students of ESA and their parents. We ask that our families and friends not use, lend or distribute these for any commercial, political or solicitation purposes. Please contact the Headmaster if you have any questions.
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