La Reina High School A Catholic College Preparatory School for Girls 106 W. Janss Road Thousand Oaks, California 91360 STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK 2014-2015 Office Hours Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (805) 495-6494 Fax: (805) 494-4966 Website: www.lareina.com School Code 053501
La Reina High School Personnel 2014-2015 Head of School: Michael Bates, Ed.D. Dean of Academics: Ms. Anne C. Rog, M.Ed. Dean of Student Life: Mrs. Tiffani Kocsis, M.Ed. Dean of Enrollment Management: Mrs. Cristy McNay 87, M.A.Ed. Dean of Mission: Sister Rebekah Kennedy, SND Director of Institutional Advancement: Ms. Karen Starleaf Director of Facilities and Operations: Mr. Laird Wilson Chief Financial Officer: Ms. Denise Monden DEPARTMENT CHAIRPERSONS Athletics... Mr. Don Hyatt Campus Ministry... Mrs. Kristine Durand English... Mrs. Nikki Blake Visual and Performing Arts... Mrs. Robin Privat Foreign Language... Mrs. Cristina Hirsch Guidance... Mrs. Melinda Hobmann Library... Miss Heather Neidenbach Mathematics... Mrs. Jessica Nasr Religion... Mrs. Allison Sain Science... Miss Hannah Robinson Social Studies... Mrs. Joan Petrone ACADEMIC, GUIDANCE AND PERSONAL COUNSELING Director of Guidance and College Counseling... Mrs. Mindy Hobmann Personal Counselor Grades 7-12... Mrs. Mindy Hobmann Guidance Counselor Grades 7-8... Mrs. Mindy Hobmann Guidance & College Counselor Grades 9-12 A-K... Mrs. Nicole Twohig Guidance & College Counselor Grades 9-12 L-Z... Ms. Jenny Charrett Learning Resource Support... Mrs. Mindy Hobmann College & Career Coordinator... Mrs. Nancy La Belle Accounts Receivable... Mrs. Jodi DeBiasio Associate Director of Admissions... Mrs. Jennifer Cohen Associate Director of Communications...Mrs. Darlene Goodman Associate Director of Advancement...Mrs. Darlene Goodman Website Manager... Mrs. Renee Biezins Alumnae Relations... Mrs. Betsy Potts Assistant Athletic Director... Mr. Josh Michael Cafeteria Manager... Mr. Cameron Parton Campus Minister/Senior KAIROS Retreat... Mrs. Kristine Durand Capital Campaign... Sister Lisa Megaffin, SND Chief Financial Officer/Financial Aid for Students... Ms. Denise Monden Christian Service Moderator/Senior Service Experience... Mrs. Tiffani Kocsis Executive Assistant... Mrs. Fran Foulkrod Finance Manager/Accounts Payable... Mrs. Linda Eggli Front Office Lead/Receptionist/Attendance... Mrs. Fedelma Zahlit Senior Moderator/Testing Coordinator... Mrs. Dana Coppa Parent Relations Director/Parent Guild Volunteers... Mrs. Barbara Lilley Registrar... Mrs. Alice Leavitt Retreat Director... Mrs. Kristine Durand Schedule Changes... Ms. Anne C. Rog Student Activities...Mrs. Emily Beutner Technology Director... Mr. Robert Lopez Technology Assistant... Mr. Clifton Brender Textbooks... Miss Heather Neidenbach Transcripts... Mrs. Alice Leavitt
Introduction The Student/Parent Handbook is intended to present school policies and procedures and to be a guide to answer questions for both students and parents of the La Reina High School community. The Handbook outlines the guidelines that help to create a safe and supportive learning environment. The Administration of La Reina High School has the right to add, modify or change any regulation in this Handbook for the good of the school or student. The Head of School is the final recourse in all disciplinary matters and, at her discretion, may waive any and all regulations for a just cause. The school reserves the right to amend this Handbook. Parents will be notified as soon as possible of all changes. Central to the philosophy of La Reina High School is the belief that parents are the primary educators of their children. In support of this belief, the school and the parents work in close collaboration in all aspects of the student s educational process. In working in partnership with you as a parent, the school asks that you as parents cooperate with school personnel when your daughter is being disciplined; to work respectfully with school personnel over disagreements in schedules, academic performance, rehearsals, practice, and playing time; to monitor the use of your home as a healthy gathering place for young people when appropriate; to participate with the school in the spiritual, moral formation of these charges of ours in all endeavors: academic, athletic, cocurricular, and Campus Ministry events. History of La Reina High School La Reina High School is a private, Catholic, college preparatory junior and senior high school for girls sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame, a religious community founded in 1850 in Coesfeld, Germany. The Christian education of youth has always been the Sisters of Notre Dame s principal apostolic activity. Christian truths and values are integrated into instruction. The purpose of all aspects of the school program is the formation of mature, Christian young women. Therefore, both the religious and lay faculty at La Reina High School endeavor to educate each student in such a way that she may reach her fullest spiritual and intellectual potential in an atmosphere of loving concern and religious commitment, where quality and the individual count. La Reina was established in the fall of l964. The school campus is situated on a 40 acre parcel of land. The three original buildings were completed between1964-1967. His Eminence James Francis Cardinal McIntyre dedicated La Reina on October 15, 1967. The multi-purpose building, consisting of an auditorium-gym, cafeteria, five classrooms, a computer lab and nine offices was built in l986. This building completed the campus, increasing the maximum enrollment from 400 to approximately 620. La Reina opened a junior high division in the fall of l973. Junior high students begin a college preparatory curriculum and have the advantage of accelerating into high school courses in foreign language and mathematics. In 1984, the graduation requirements were revised to reflect the standards for admission to the University of California. The Administration and faculty have developed a thorough college preparatory curriculum, including Advanced Placement courses in many disciplines. Most graduates attend four year institutions. A variety of curricular activities are available; the athletics, forensics, and Mock Trial programs have gained local and state recognition. La Reina is fully accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges through 2016. It is also a member of the National Catholic Education Association. While most students are Catholic, students of other beliefs are welcome. The administration and faculty work in cooperation with the students parents, who bear the primary educational responsibility, and with the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Conejo Valley Unified School District. Philosophy, Goals and Objectives La Reina High School is dedicated to providing a Catholic education, which strives to help every student realize her worth and find her place in God s plan. In the spirit of the Gospel, and according to the vision and educational principles of the Sisters of Notre Dame, La Reina helps each young woman discover, develop, and share the unique gifts God has given her. As a Notre Dame sponsored school that proclaims God s goodness, La Reina teaches the message of Christ, develops community and family spirit, and reaches out to those in need, both locally and universally. The curriculum is designed to prepare each student for a college education. It reflects the values of a traditional and classical education and recognizes the demands of a technological world. La Reina helps students develop a global perspective, motivates their intellectual pursuits, nurtures their sensitivity and creativity, fosters their physical development, and prepares leaders who further goodness and justice in society. Vision and Mission Statement La Reina High School is a Catholic college preparatory school for young women in the tradition, vision, and educational principles of the Sisters of Notre Dame. La Reina provides a nurturing, Catholic environment of educational excellence, focused on helping young women develop into moral and self-confident leaders, who work for the transformation of individuals and society. Students are given opportunities to foster their relationship with God, to grow intellectually, to develop their individual gifts, and to be catalysts for the promotion of justice locally, nationally and globally. 1
Governance Expected School-wide Learning Results (ESLRS) La Reina Graduates are women who: Foster their relationship with God Know Catholic traditions and beliefs Demonstrate respect for other faiths Develop personal and communal spirituality Demonstrate Christian values of integrity, justice and Service. Grow intellectually Demonstrate academic preparedness for college Use effective oral and written communication Use technology effectively, appropriately and ethically Use critical thinking skills. Develop their individual gifts Discover and foster God-given talents Realize a sense of self-worth and confidence Develop their creativity and imagination Participate in activities that demonstrate personal transformation. Contribute to the Community Demonstrate leadership and service in the community Practice responsible citizenship Promote justice in the local, national and global community. La Reina High School, sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame, is a notfor-profit religious corporation. The Directors of the Corporation, the Board of Members, hold reserved powers. This Board has delegated limited jurisdiction to a Board of Trustees to assist in the governance in the areas of - mission effectiveness strategic planning formulation of policies fiscal responsibility institutional advancement Catholic Identity Standards of La Reina High School 1. The school clearly delineates in its Vision-Mission Statement, philosophy and Expected School-wide Learning Results its fidelity to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church and to the Educational Principles of the Sisters of Notre Dame. 2. Students, regardless of their religious stance, are required to participate in the school s comprehensive six-year religious studies program that is consistent 2 with the teachings of the Catholic Church. 3. The school community promotes the inherent worth of each person by modeling respect for individual, cultural and religious differences. 4. The school promotes women s commitment to leadership with an emphasis on service to the Church, civic and global communities. 5. Gospel values are integrated, where appropriate, in all areas of the curriculum, extra-curricular programs and public relations materials. 6. Campus Ministry is a program that deepens the spiritual growth of students and other members of the faith community. 7. Faculty and staff are hired and retained for their support of the school s mission and are expected to model Gospel values. 8. Teachers who instruct in the religious studies program are committed to articulate more thoroughly the teachings of the Catholic Church. 9. The Church s social teachings are evident in the curriculum, organizations, and school-wide decisions regarding the use of resources. 10. Religion textbooks are in keeping with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Where content may be controversial in any curricular subject, the position of the Catholic Church is clearly stated. 11. The school s Catholicity and sponsorship by the Sisters of Notre Dame is apparent through the display of religious objects and symbols throughout the school and in the practice of Catholic rituals and traditions. 12. The school recognizes parents as primary educators and partners and makes concerted efforts to inform them about their daughter s spiritual and academic education. 13. Annually, the school provides the faculty and staff with opportunities to deepen their understanding of the charism, history, educational vision and principals, and Marian spirit of the Sisters of Notre Dame. La Reina Traditions School Motto:...where quality and the individual count. The school motto is based on the Notre Dame Educational Cornerstones. In 1964, Sister Mary Ralph Fahey, first principal at La Reina wrote: The young women of the Conejo need a high school of high standards and excellent curriculum, but most of all they need a quality education based on the Catholic faith and values and a school where the individual student is valued and respected. School Colors: Hunter green and gold School Insignia: REGENTS School Crest:
School Name: LA REINA HIGH SCHOOL is named for Mary, the Blessed Mother of Jesus. The name was taken from the full Spanish title of Los Angeles, El Pueblo de Nuestra Senora LA REINA, de Los Angeles, the City of our Lady, Queen of the Angels. The students, faculty and staff are placed under the watchful and loving eyes of Mary. College Board ID number for La Reina High School: 053501 Alma Mater Our La Reina High, loved Alma Mater, keep us true and loyal Regents all, e re upholding standard bold and daring, valiant students faithful to our call. We will always praise, defend all that s good, esteem the right and fair, love and cherish ev ry mem ry and be worthy of the name we bear. Our La Reina days hold many mem ries of the times we spend together here. They remind us also to look forward to each new, exciting, happy year. And Our Lady, Queen of all, is our model and our guide. She ll find us peace true and lasting til in heaven with her we ll all abide. The Alma Mater was written by Sister Mary Josanne Furey, SND. Opening School Mass On this day the entire school gathers for a special liturgy to officially open the school year. Student Council/Campus Ministry Liturgy Student Council officers and members pledge their loyalty and support to the ideals of La Reina High School. The student body also makes a commitment to emulate the principles of La Reina. Friendship Week Friendship Week is held in honor of the patroness of La Reina High School, Mary, Queen of the Rosary. During the week, the school community celebrates the bond of friendship, love and respect that unites all La Reina students with their classmates and as a school. The week culminates with La Reina High Day which begins with a prayer service followed by class activities that promote school spirit and friendship. Junior Ring Ceremony The Junior Ring Ceremony celebrates the members of the Junior Class as they receive their class rings and are welcomed as upper class women. Spirit Days During Spirit Days, the Student Council organizes activities that foster school and class spirit. Mary s Day In May, the school community honors Mary, the Mother of God, with the celebration of a special liturgy. Renaissance Festival A special day of Shakespeare and history, the Renaissance Festival provides an opportunity for students to perform scenes from classic Shakespeare and to fully participate in a Renaissance Faire experience. Retreats - Grades 7-11 An integral part of La Reina High School is the retreat program aimed at enhancing the spirituality of our students. Retreats are led by student leaders under the guidance of the Director of Retreats. Student retreat leaders go through an application and training process to qualify as leaders. Each grade level (7-11) has a one day retreat during the school year held at a retreat center or at a church off campus. The following is an overview of the retreats: Seventh Grade Retreat: focuses on age appropriate activities and reflection. The students have time to consider how they can use their God given unique gifts and talents to be a light to others in their school community and in their family. Eighth Grade Retreat: focuses on the culmination of the students junior high experience and their upcoming promotion to high school. Students reflect on the blessings of family and friends that God has given them through their junior high years. Freshman Retreat: concentrates on the theme of new beginnings and friendship. This retreat emphasizes the importance of nurturing their relationship with God and the gift of friendship with their fellow classmates. The day offers opportunities for class bonding and personal reflection. Sophomore Retreat: is an outreach experience of service to others. Students travel to Catholic elementary schools in the inner city of Los Angeles for a day long visit. Students prepare God centered lessons, activities and prayer experiences for the classes. The day ends with a reflection time and prayer service. Junior Retreat: underscores the acknowledgment of the juniors as upper-class women and their challenge to live out the Gospel values. Students have time to examine and assess their lives and deepen their understanding of God s call to them. It is a retreat of personal renewal and of growth as a faith community with their classmates. KAIROS Retreat/Service Experience (seniors) The KAIROS retreat is a four-day off-campus experience. Students may choose to attend either in the fall or the spring. Students consider what God has gifted them to do in life and invites them to accept themselves as loved unconditionally by God. KAIROS is a Greek word meaning special time. During this special time each participant will be looking carefully at herself, her relationship with others and her relationahip with God. KAIROS attempts to evoke in its participants a dynamic, personalized sense of God. It is a beautiful gift for young people. Our past retreatants say that they were so affected by the experience that it enhanced their relationships with family, friends, and even themselves. During the 3
KAIROS retreat days, each senior who is not on retreat participates in senior service experience projects. St. Julie Day The legacy of St. Julie Billiart, the spiritual foundress of the Sisters of Notre Dame, offers the school community a model of deep faith and trust in the goodness of God. Evening of Excellence The Evening of Excellence recognizes students who have achieved excellence in a particular field. Pioneered by the late Mark Bihn in 1983, this event gives the school and local communities the opportunity to recognize these outstanding students. All La Reina families are invited to attend. Green and Gold Tea Hosted by the Parent Guild, the Green and Gold Tea welcomes junior high students into high school. All incoming freshmen and their guests are invited to attend. Father/Daughter Bowling >Grades of C, D or F in the last three years ordinarily will not be considered for admittance. Every student new to La Reina is admitted on a probationary status for their first ninety days of their time at La Reina. As a Catholic school, La Reina gives first consideration to Catholic young women who qualify for the religious and academic program offered. Non-Catholic students are selected on the same basis as other applicants, without regard to race, color or national and ethnic origin. Preference will be given to students who have attended a Catholic elementary school. This policy is consistent with La Reina s strong emphasis on religion and moral training in the Catholic tradition. Nondiscrimination Policy La Reina High School, mindful of its mission to be a witness to the love of Christ for all, admits students of any race, color, national and/or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities at the school. The school is non-discriminatory in the administration of its educational policies, financial aid, athletic and other school administered programs. Father/Daughter Bowling is sponsored each year by the Freshman Class. All La Reina students and their guests are invited to attend. Mother/Daughter Event Each year the Sophomore Class sponsors a mother/daughter event. Past events have included fashion shows, high teas, and luncheons. The event takes place in the spring. All La Reina students are invited to attend with their mothers or another adult guest. ADMISSIONS AND ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Admissions On October 1, applications for the following academic school year are available online. Priority consideration is given to applications received before the third week of January. Applications received after this time will be considered as space permits. Orientation activities for applicants and their parents include Open House in November; Step-Up Day for prospective freshmen in November; Regent for a Day, a shadow program for all prospective students from October through May; the Green and Gold Tea for incoming freshmen in May; La Reina 101 and Junior High Meet and Greet in April; New Student Welcome Dinner in August, and New Parent Orientation Night. Admission is based on the following criteria: Desire to attend La Reina High School Above average citizenship grades for the past three years Above average scores on standardized testing over the past three years A composite score above the 60th percentile on the standardized entrance test Recommendations from current principal, math teacher, and a pastor, priest or religious leader Scholastic achievement in the last three grades of school >An A/B average will qualify for first round selection if consistent with other indicators >A C to C+ average will receive second consideration 4 Students with Special Needs Students who are identified as special needs learners through professional diagnosis and who are qualified for a rigorous college preparatory program will be accommodated within the current scope of the classroom, curriculum, and financial resources available. Admission Forms and Deadlines All forms and procedures need to be completed by the published dates before a student is accepted. A student who has been accepted is expected to maintain the citizenship and academic requirements that were the basis of her acceptance. The applicant s final June report card submitted by July 1 verifies successful completion of the last grade. Immunizations A student who does not have a current immunization record on file will be excluded from school until she submits a verification of current immunization. CIF Transfer Eligibility Any student who is transferring into 9th grade mid-year or 10th through 12th grade, and planning on participating in any CIF sanctioned sport, must contact our Athletic Director (Ext. 322) to make sure they qualify for the sport under CIF guidelines. Closed Campus/Security To preserve the academic environment and school security, La Reina High School is a closed campus. Those persons not in attendance, registered, or associated with the school are not permitted in or around the school. Parking placards are required of all cars parked on campus, with the exception of visitor parking spaces. The school employs security guards on campus on a daily basis. The School Day Refer to bell schedule in the Student/Parent Handbook. The school recommends that students arrive by 7:45 a.m. to be properly prepared for the first class. For those students taking the 0 Period, the school recommends that students arrive by 6:45 a.m.
The school is not responsible for students who are on campus before 6:45 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m. unless they are under the direct supervision of a faculty member. During the school day students are not allowed to be in a classroom unless they are under the direct supervision of a staff member. Absences from School Consistent attendance at school is one of the most important ways to maintain student achievement. Research shows that there is a direct correlation between attendance, performance and retention of learning. When a student misses class time, she misses more than paperwork; she misses the intellectual dynamic and the opportunity to test her ideas against those of her peers and teachers. She becomes dependent on someone else s notes and memory. Students will not be excused from school except in cases of illness or emergency. A student absent from class must bring a note from home if she misses more than 15 minutes of that class. The only absences that do not affect a student s attendance record are a school-sponsored activity, doctor verified dental/medical appointments and/or hospitalization. Parents are informed of their daughter s attendance record by mail after 6, 10 and 12 absences. 1. Calling the Office: ON EACH DAY that a student is absent from school, the parent/guardian is required to call the school office by 9:30 a.m. to inform the school of the absence. Messages may be left on the school 24-hour attendance extension 100. Phone calls must be made by a parent/guardian whose signature appears on the LRHS EMERGENCY INFORMATION FORM. A parent note verifying the absence is also necessary. 2. Emergency Information and Release Form: Parents are required to complete the Emergency Information and Release Form each school year. The school office should be notified of any changes to the information. If parents are going to be unavailable due to travel, etc., they must give the school advance notice in writing. This notice should designate who is authorized to sign for a student s release. 3. Written Excuse: On the day of the student s return to school, SHE IS REQUIRED TO PRESENT A WRITTEN EXCUSE SIGNED BY THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN to the Attendance Secretary before 8:00 a.m. (Parents may also email or FAX the school. Parents will be called to verify all faxes and emails.) The excuse should give the student s name, current date, days of absence, reason for absence, and a contact number for verification. Absence notes are kept on file for one year. If the student returns from an absence without a note, she still reports to the attendance secretary for an admission slip. The student has a 48-hour grace period to present the absence note; after that time a 2-point honor card deduction will be made each day that the note is late. If a student is signed out of school during the school day by a parent or legal guardian, no note is required for re-admittance as long as the student returns by the start of the following school day. Additional consecutive days of absence require an excuse note. School Work Missed Because of Absence 1. Students are expected to make up schoolwork missed because of absence. It is the student s responsibility to make up missed work. If the absence is over two days, parents may contact the school to request that their daughter s teachers provide information about missed assignments and homework. Teachers are asked to return this information to the office within 24 hours. These assignments will be left in the office for the parents. Teachers post homework assignments on the Teacher Page on the La Reina website. 2. Absences and Activities/Sports. To participate in a sport or school-sponsored activity on a school day (such as an athletic or speech contest, prom, etc.), the student must be present for a minimum attendance of four academic periods (or 2 academic block periods). Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the Dean of Student Life. 3. Retreat Days and Special Activity Days. La Reina High Day, Renaissance Festival, liturgies and assembly days, etc., are considered school days. Absence from these activities affects the student s attendance record. 4. Medical and Dental Appointments/Hospitalization. Students should not miss school for medical or dental appointments. Parents are asked to schedule these appointments outside school hours. However, if a student must leave school for a medical or dental appointment, she is required to present a note to the office before 8:00 a.m. that morning. Upon her return to school, the student must present a doctor s note. A student s absence record will not include medical and dental appointments and/or hospitalization if the student brings with her a statement from her doctor noting the time and length of the appointment or hospital stay. 5. Truancy and Ditching. A student is truant if she is absent from school for any part of the day without the knowledge of her parents. Students who come to school and then leave without permission are also considered truant. If a student is not in school and her parent does not know her whereabouts when the office calls, that student is considered truant. Ditching includes any absence from class without the express permission of the teacher. If the teacher has directed the student to be somewhere during the class period and the student does not comply, this would be considered ditching. No make-up work will be allowed for any classes missed due to truancy or ditching. The student receives no credit for work or tests missed during the time she was truant. Students may not leave campus in the morning once they have arrived on campus. Forged notes or signatures will be treated as truancies. 6. Excessive Absences. Each semester a student earns five credits in each class. A combination of 12 tardies and/or absences to a particular class (per semester) will adversely affect the amount of credit given for a course. Each case is reviewed individually by the administration. A student in the junior high must have 60 credits to advance from 7th to 8th grade and from 8th to 9th grade. Deficient credits must be made up in the summer and/or by taking online courses. Missing a block period is equivalent to 2 periods. 5
Tardiness If a student is tardy to the first period of the day, she reports to the attendance secretary and is issued a tardy slip. A maximum of one tardy per quarter with a note from a parent is permitted. The Dean of Student Life will handle special circumstances regarding carpools, etc. Illness Occurring at School If a student becomes ill during the day or during off-campus activities (e.g. retreats), her parents will be contacted. School personnel may not dispense medications, including overthe-counter varieties such as aspirin. The prescription medication/ inhaler may be carried by the student and used as prescribed after the Permission for Prescription Medication to be Taken During School Hours form has been filed with the main office. Emergency treatment for injuries or conditions incurred by a student while at school or a school-sponsored event, may be sought by the school without permission of the parents. if the school is unable to contact the parents/guardians or the individual s listed as emergency contacts and the school determines that treatment should not be delayed. If the parents/guardians or the indvidual s listed as emergency contacts are unable to pick up the student in what the school deems as a reasonable amount of time and the school determines that treatment should not be delayed. Release of Students No student may leave the premises during the school day except for medical and family emergencies. For a medical appointment: If a student is driving herself, the student must submit a note from her parent or guardian to the main office before 8:00 a.m. If the student is released to the parent, the parent must come to the main office and sign her out. The note must include the day and time of the appointment and a telephone number where the parent/guardian can be reached for verification. On her return, she must have a note from her doctor. For a family emergency: Parents or guardians must come to the main office to sign out a student. Only authorized individuals (as shown on the student s emergency card) may sign a student out of school, only after authorization is given by the parent/guardian. La Reina students cannot drive other students during the school day. Work Permits The law allows no minor under eighteen years of age to work without a permit. It is suggested that full-time high school students work no more than 20 hours per week. Withdrawal of Students La Reina High School provides withdrawal grades for students who are transferring. Parents submit a Withdrawal/Transcript Request form to the Registrar in order to make the official withdrawal. (See Financial Policy for further details.) As part of the withdrawal process, an exit survey will be conducted. Student Records Parents of students under eighteen and students who are eighteen have the right to review their personal records. No transcript of records will be released, either to another high school or to a college, without written authorization. The parents, or the student, if she is eighteen, must provide this written authorization. The only records that will be kept after a student graduates or leaves the school are her academic transcript and the number of official absences and tardies. In cases of legal separation and/or divorce, parents must submit a copy of the court order to the school. Parents with joint legal custody have the right: to consent to the release of records (unless both parents notify the school in writing of a mutual agreement permitting either parent to authorize release). to challenge the content of records. to write responses to information regarding disciplinary action to be included in the record. Access to Student Records Student records are only released to parents/guardians and/ or legal authorities within 24 hours of a written request. The Administration as custodian of the records, can authorize release of personal information about students. Access to records may include not only an oral description by the authorized school official but also permission to read or take away a copy of the original record. When the school is subpoenaed to release student record/ information to any persons other than the parent or legal guardian, a reasonable effort is made to inform the parent or guardian of the release. Transfer of Student Records Whenever a student transfers from one school to another, the student s permanent record or a copy thereof will be transferred upon written request from the school where the student intends to enroll. Student Status Eighteen Year Old Students: All school regulations apply to students who are eighteen years or older as long as they are enrolled in school. If the student is still living at home and/or is financially dependent upon her parents for her education, the school continues to report to her parents or legal guardians all grades, disciplinary matters, etc., and require parental certification of absence, permission for participation in school events, and off-campus requests. Eighteen year old students who declare their emancipation must do so in writing and present notarized verification from their parents. This may be done only if the student is financially independent of her parents for the purpose of her education. All issues regarding eighteen year old students will be handled on an individual basis by the school administration. Change of Residence: Students who attend La Reina High School must reside with their parents or legal guardian. Any exceptions must be approved by the school administration. 6
Pregnancy: The teaching of the Catholic Church is clear regarding the right to life of all human beings, and the reverence and respect owed to each person including those conceived and not yet born. The school will allow a pregnant student to continue to complete course work toward graduation. The safety and welfare of the student and her unborn baby, as well as the impact on the rest of the student body, will be carefully considered in all decisions pertinent to the situation. Any pregnant student attending school must have a doctor s approval note on file at the school. After the birth of the baby, the student may be readmitted depending on the circumstances and the wishes of the family. The school Administration reserves the right to make decisions on a case-by-case basis. Married Students: Since a married student is in effect no longer accountable to a parent or guardian, the relationship between the school and the parent is compromised. Each case will be handled at the discretion of the administration. HIV/AIDS La Reina High School has accepted the United States Bishops statement, The Many Faces of AIDS: A Gospel Response as adapted for use within the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The document states: HIV/AIDS infection is not spread by casual contact, therefore, infection with AIDS in and of itself is not a reason to exclude a student from attending school. Usually these students are entitled to all the rights and services accorded to other students. Decisions about any changes in the educational program of a student who is infected with HIV/AIDS shall be made on a case-by-case basis. Each situation will be analyzed and responded to as required by its particular facts. Any decisions will take into consideration Christian concern and compassion, community health and well being and individual privacy and needs. Infectious Diseases and Conditions Students with an infectious disease or condition should be treated by medical personnel and kept at home until they are no longer contagious. A student who comes to school with an untreated infectious disease or condition will be kept in the office until a parent or legal guardian comes to pick her up. A doctor s note must verify that a student is no longer contagious in order for her to be readmitted to school. Accidents/Illness and Insurance Accidents must be reported immediately to the person in charge and to the school office. The supervising teacher will submit a written report of the accident on the day the event happens. These procedures apply to accidents on the school premises and for all school-sponsored activities. The school recommends that all families provide insurance for their daughters, particularly for those students involved in sports. The school provides for student insurance coverage for all school activities and transportation. This secondary insurance is subject to a deductible and co-payments. In case of an accident, an insurance claim form should be secured from the school office. Neither the school nor its personnel incurs any financial responsibility for the transportation and/or treatment of a student. ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Graduation Requirements To graduate and receive a diploma, a student must have successfully completed a minimum of 240 semester credits, including the following specific requirements. Students receive five credits for each semester course. Course Credit Comments Religion 40 Including Christian Service requirement for each year. English 40 Social Studies 30 World History, U.S. History, Government, Economics. Foreign Language 20 In the same foreign language. Mathematics 30 Including Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry. Science 20 Biology - 10 credits. Chemistry - 10 credits. Physical Education 10 May be completed through participation in extracurricular athletic teams or the Dance Team. Fine Arts 10 This requirement may only be satisfied by a year-long Visual/ Performing Arts Fine Arts course. Academic Computer Skills 5 Speech 5 May be completed through participation on Speech Team or Mock Trial. Courses taken at other institutions Students may complete course work at another accredited institution with the approval of the Dean of Academics. However, no college prep graduation requirement may be completed at a school other than La Reina. Credits earned at the college level earn high school credit according to the following scale: three college credits equal 10 high school credits. Independent Study Programs Students may complete elective graduation requirements through independent study at an accredited institution with the approval of the Dean of Academics. Credits (Transferred) Credits will be accepted for courses (college, independent study, or adult education) from an accredited institution. However, these course grades are not computed in the La Reina High School GPA. 7
Only courses taken at La Reina High School will be used to compute a student s GPA. Schedule Changes The Dean of Academics handles schedule changes. Students may change their schedules during the first ten days of each semester, as indicated on the annual calendar, for the following reasons only: To change from one course to another (e.g. History to Dance) To change from one level to another (e.g. Algebra I-H to Algebra I-C) Schedule change requests for any other reason (change of teacher and/or period) cannot be accommodated. After the first ten days of each semester, students must remain in their assigned courses and periods unless the teacher initiates a level change. In some unusual circumstances, a student will be allowed to drop a class during the first four weeks of the quarter. However, placement in another class is at the discretion of the Dean of Academics. Challenged Courses A student may wish to challenge placement into a course for which she does not meet the prerequisites as printed in the Curriculum Catalog by filing a petition. The Dean of Academics will review all petitions and with teacher recommendation or Department Chair approval and provided there is room in the class, the student may be admitted. Both the student and her parent will sign a Contract for Challenging Course Placement form. Honors Courses Students are expected to earn at least 83% at the semester to remain in an honors class. Report Cards and Grading Grades are posted online during the four progress report periods and at the end of each grading period. These dates are posted on the La Reina website. Only semester grades are recorded on the official student transcript. Grades may be accessed at any time online. First and Third Quarters: Evaluates student progress for the first ten weeks of the semester. First and Second Semesters Evaluates student progress in semesters with the following weights considered in the average: 2/5 First quarter of the semester. 2/5 Second quarter of the semester. 1/5 Semester examination. The Dean of Academics handles special circumstances regarding semester exams. Students who are absent from a semester exam for medical reasons should bring a medical excuse upon their return to school. In addition, the student should contact the Dean of Academics to reschedule the exam. Students who for other reasons are unable to take their exams on the dates scheduled, will receive an INCOMPLETE and must make arrangements with the the Dean of Academics to reschedule the exams. NO EXAMS MAY BE TAKEN BEFORE EXAM WEEK. Incomplete Grade Policies Quarters: 1. An incomplete quarter grade becomes an F after 30 days. Semesters: 1. If a student does not take the final exam, after 30 days the semester grade will be calculated with F as the grade for the final exam. 2. A semester grade of Incomplete due to financial obligations is handled by the administration. 3. Each teacher resolves a grade of Incomplete for unfinished course work at the semester; however, final grades must be determined within 30 days of the close of each semester 4. Exceptions to these policies, for extenuating circumstances, are handled by the administration. Summer School Summer School information is available on the La Reina website. Weighted Grades and Class Ranking Grades for Honors (H) and Advanced Placement classes (AP) are weighted for courses taken in grades 9-12 ONLY. Grades for courses taken in grades 7 and 8 are not weighted (except for Algebra I Honors). Students are not ranked. Some courses are not computed in the student s grade point average. These include: citizenship, study hall, teacher s assistant, office assistant, physical education, and courses taken at other institutions. Transcripts Students (or parents if the student is under 18 years of age) may request an official transcript by submitting a request form to the La Reina Registrar s office. Students who are not seniors may receive 2 transcripts free of charge. Subsequent transcripts are $5.00. Seniors may receive an unlimited number of transcripts, covered as part of the Graduation fee. Any student may access an unofficial transcript online. After final semester grades are issued, students have two weeks to challenge any grade. Exams Semester exams of ninety minutes for high school classes and sixty minutes for junior high classes are required of all students enrolled in college preparatory and honors classes. 8
Academic Grading Scale Earning a GPA below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters is grounds for dismissal. Cases will be handled individually. Summer school grades are not included in the academic probation calculation. Grades are determined according to the following scale: Letter Grade Percentage Points Grade Weighted Grades A 93% - 100% 4.00 5.00 A- 90% - 92% Meaning: Indicates DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT; complete and regular preparation; correct and effective use of English; active participation in class; consistently high scores on examinations. B+ 87% - 89% B 83% - 86% B- 80% - 82% 3.00 4.00 Meaning: Indicates COMMENDABLE ACHIEVEMENT; better than average preparation; regular and complete assignments; active participation in class; strong scoring on examinations; other requirements the same as for an A but in a lesser degree. C+ 77% - 79% C 73% - 76% C- 70% - 72% 2.00 3.00 Meaning: Indicates AVERAGE ACHIEVEMENT; all requirements met in a satisfactory manner; steady progress; active participation in class; ranking near the middle of the class in examination scores. D+ 67% - 69% D 63% - 66% D- 60% - 62% 1.00 2.00 Meaning: Indicates a PASSING GRADE but does not represent achievement; preparation covers only minimum assignments and work of inferior quality. Causes may be lack of ability, excessive absence, assignments not completed, lack of participation in class, and/or consistently low examination grades. Students who receive a D grade at the semester may need to repeat the course. F Below 60% 0.00 XX Meaning: Indicates a FAILING GRADE. A student shows a marked lack of responsibility in meeting course requirements. A student with an F grade at the semester receives no credit. I Incomplete Meaning: A student who has not completed a considerable number of assignments or tests due to illness or absences may be given an I (Incomplete) for the quarter or semester grade. CR Credit Meaning: Indicates CREDIT without a grade designation. Some courses do not carry letter grades. Students receive variable credit for the work (e.g., yearbook, Student Council, etc.) Academic Probation La Reina High School requires that a student maintain a cumulative and semester Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0. If a student receives a semester GPA below 2.0, she is on academic probation status for the following semester. A conference is scheduled with the student, her parents, and a counselor. A student on Academic Probation is responsible for meeting with her assigned counselor and the Dean of Academics. The student also forfeits the privilege of participating or trying out in any extracurricular activity (e.g. clubs and sports) until her quarter GPA is at least 2.0. If her semester average has improved to a 2.0 average after the probationary quarter, she regains academic standing. 9 Activity Probation If a student receives an academic quarter GPA below 2.0, she forfeits the privilege of participating in any extracurricular activity (e.g. clubs, sports, including tryouts, etc.) for the remainder of the quarter. Within each quarter, only students who have a minimum of 89 honor points may participate in extra-curricular activities. Any student, who earns an F in citizenship for a quarter, is on activities probation for the following quarter. If a student receives an F in citizenship in June, she is on activities probation for the summer and first quarter of the following school year. Advanced Placement Courses and Examinations Qualified students are encouraged to enroll in Advanced Placement courses. Students enrolled in AP courses are required to sign a contract to take the AP exam in May. In order to maintain balance in their spiritual, physical, social, emotional and intellectual development, students are advised to limit their schedules to a maximum of three Advanced Placement courses per year. The school administers Advanced Placement examinations only in those subjects in which an AP course is offered. Only students who are participating in the AP program may take AP exams. Assignments/Homework Ordinarily a teacher assigns 20-30 minutes of homework per subject per night so that students have an average of two and a half hours of homework daily. The amount of time required for homework varies by grade and by subject. For example, junior high students have less homework; high school students enrolled in Honors or Advanced Placement courses have more homework. Homework may include reading assignments, written work, reviewing class notes, working on projects, and/or studying for a quiz or test. Teachers inform students of homework both in class and through the use of the school s website. Academic maturity requires students to use personal initiative and responsibility in studying. Students should check with individual teachers about make-up policies and missed assignments. When a concern arises about a grade that appears on the school website we ask that parents follow these steps: 1. Talk with your child first 2. Check to see if there is an assignment description to help to clarify instructions or expectations for a particular assignment. 3. Realize that no system is perfect, if a discrepancy is found please begin by asking your child to contact her teacher. Disputed Grades A student who has a question or disputes the grade she receives should first attempt to resolve the problem through her teacher. If the student is not satisfied with the response from the teacher or wishes further clarification of a grading policy, the student may appeal to the academic counselor or department chair. The department chairperson, in his or her discretion, may call a meeting of all involved in the grade dispute for a final resolution of the problem. The department chairperson will report the results of
all grade disputes to the Dean of Academics. The decision of the Dean of Academics will be final. Regent Roundtable La Reina offers homework help Monday-Friday. Members of the National Honor Society are available to help interested students. Students are also given opportunities to make up tests at these sessions. Make-Up Test Procedure A student can make up a test At Regent Roundtable on Monday-Friday after school in the library At the Test Center, Period 7 on Thursdays During a teacher s office hours Tutors Outside private tutors are not allowed on campus without prior approval from the Administration. Channels of Communication With a respectful attitude, students should ordinarily refer questions or problems to their classroom teacher or to the moderator of the organization. Teachers/moderators will then refer the matter to the appropriate administrator. Students are free to discuss problems at any time with the appropriate administrator, who will consult with the respective teachers or moderators before making any final decision. Parent-School Communication: If for any reason a parent wishes to contact school personnel, the following procedure should be followed: 1. The parent should first contact the individual teacher. If the matter is not resolved, the parent may then contact the Department Chair of the respective subject or the Dean of Academics. The Dean of Student Life should be contacted for disciplinary matters. The Administration will determine the final resolution to the matter. 2. La Reina High School welcomes and respects parent and student input regarding school matters. Students and parents are asked to follow the established channels of communication as published in this Handbook. School personnel will not act on any issues make through anonymous communication. Christian Service Requirement In fulfillment of the mission of the Sisters of Notre Dame and the philosophy of La Reina High School, a designated number of Christian Service hours is required of all students. This service is to be completed in the larger community, giving the student an opportunity to share her gifts beyond the school. Junior High Program The minimum number of hours for junior high school students is as follows: Grade 7: 5 hours per year Grade 8: 5 hours per year High School Program The minimum number of hours is as follows: Grade 9: 20 hours per year. The suggested area of service for Freshmen is service within faith communities, such as Vacation Bible School, Religious Education, parish festivals, etc. Grade 10: 15 hours per year with additional service completed through the 10th grade religion classes in preparation for the 10th grade retreat. The service theme for Sophomores is service through education. Students may complete their hours volunteering at local elementary schools, public libraries, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, preschool programs, etc. Grade 11: 20 hours per year. The suggested area of service for Juniors is working with the differently abled in such organizations as Special Olympics, Ride On, Junior Blind, handicapables groups, homes for the aged, etc. Grade 12: 15 hours per year with additional service completed through the Senior Service Experience. The suggested area of service for Seniors is service within the local community. All service must be completed through a pre-approved non-profit organization. High School students must complete an approval form of their planned Christian Service and submit the form to the Christian Service office by the designated date. Specific information about meeting this requirement is given by the Dean of Student Life through the religion teachers. Students should check the school website for important dates and forms. Failure to complete the yearly Christian Service requirement will result in the student s receiving an Incomplete in her religion course for the second semester. The student then has until the beginning of the following school year to fulfill the requirement. If the student does not complete her obligation by this time, she will receive a grade of F for her fourth quarter religion grade. A senior must complete the yearly Christian Service program requirement in order to graduate. The diploma will be held until the total requirement has been met and verified. The final transcript will indicate that the student has officially graduated when the requirement has been met. Senior Service Experience Kairos Retreat and the Senior Service Experience operate concurrently during the fall and spring of each year. During the Kairos retreat days, it is a requirement that each Senior who is not on retreat participate in the days of Senior Service Experience with her classmates at various centers in Ventura County. Senior Service is a requirement for the completion of the high school transcript. Concurrent Enrollment Students may not be enrolled for their senior year at La Reina while being enrolled full-time at a college or university. Controversial Issues Those topics or issues of a religious, moral, socio-political or scientific nature about which there is definite but differing opinions among recognized theologians, moralists, social scientists and scientists are considered to be controversial. La Reina High School desires that students acquire critical thinking skills and the ability to recognize the difference between fact and opinion. Students and teachers are encouraged to explore controversial issues, however, if a controversial issue of a religious or moral nature is raised, the current teaching of the Catholic Church will be presented. 10