Upper School Handbook 2014 by Rudy Gruenke

The Handbook for The Upper School at

Nativity 2014-‐2015 Cincinnati, Ohio

A World of Opportunities in Nativity Upper School The mission of Nativity School is to provide a solid academic education with a global perspective where the arts and technology are integrated throughout the curriculum – all rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Nativity School offers an abundance of opportunities and involvement that span the school’s mission statement. Strong academic programs, clubs that support the arts and technology, international experiences and service opportunities rooted in the Gospel help create well-‐rounded students who are prepared for success in high school.

Leadership Opportunities for Nativity Upper School Students

All students and parents are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities, through participation in some way. Take some time to learn more about these programs and put some thought into how you can contribute. If you have any input regarding leadership topics (e.g., ideas for opportunities, concerns, feedback on existing projects), contact one or more of the Upper School Steering Committee representatives. Opening of School Prayer Service Grade 8 th The Nativity Community comes together under the leadership of the 8 Grade to ask for God’s blessing on our efforts this new year, to give thanks for all that has been given and provided, and to welcome those who are new to the Nativity Community. The Service takes place in Church. Students lead the community in prayer, proclaim the scripture, offer a reflection on the message contained therein, welcome the new students, and partake in the procession. The call for student volunteers usually occurs during August via e-‐mail. Variety Show Grade 8 th For over thirty years the 8 Grade has provided the leadership for Nativity’s Annual Variety Show. They choose the theme, audition the acts, advertise the show, run the light and sound boards, serve as the Masters of Ceremony, run the house and any other tasks that enable the Variety Show to take place. th th Each year the Variety Show closes with the 8 Grade Act. This is one of the highlights of the 8 grade year and one that all the students K-‐8 look forward to. The Variety Show is usually held Presidents’ Day Weekend. Nativity H.O.P.E. (Helping Others toward Peace and Equality) Projects Grades 6, 7 & 8 Upper School students, working with Upper School teachers and parents, plan and execute a multi-‐ faceted annual service project. During the fall, the students work in teams to consider possible projects. In the spring, they implement their plans. Nativity launched H.O.P.E. in the 2009-‐2010 school year, raising relief funds and awareness about the country of Haiti in the wake of the January 2010 earthquake. rd 2011: Childhood Leukemia 2012: Spina Bifida 2013: Clean Water for the 3 World 2014: Downs Syndrome Camp Kern Grade 7 th The three day-‐two night field trip to Camp Kern is one of the highlights of the 7 Grade. Under the direction of the Camp Kern Staff, students have a variety of experiences in outdoor education. It’s an opportunity to build class spirit as they share experiences not normally associated with the classroom. Nativity Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

A Night at the Zoo – Wolf Woods: Predators in Peril

Grade 6 This Overnight examines the complex relationships within and between ecosystem trophic levels, as well as the vital roles predators play. This overnight also investigates the human impact on these interactions over the centuries.

Concluding Prayer Service

Grade 7 th We end the year as we began it: giving thanks to God for all that has been given and provided. The 7 Grade takes the leadership role for this Service. As in the Opening Prayer Service, there are multiple roles for students. One of the most significant roles is to offer a reflection on the events of the school year that has just concluded.

Forward Together: Project 2015

Focus on teaching and practicing “leadership” skills: It is our specific Upper School mission to create an environment that engages, includes, and fosters leadership in all students. There is particular emphasis on establishing a separate identity for Upper School and on utilizing our K-‐8 th th th structure to give 6 , 7 and 8 grade students numerous and varied opportunities to “lead the way” for the rest of the student body toward living the Nativity mission. We define “leadership” as follows with the key cornerstones being the 4 “I” words – Initiative, Involvement, Inspiration, and Integrity: Leadership at Nativity means stepping up to take initiative, involving yourself in the mission of Nativity, and inspiring others by your integrity and example, to pray and work to make Nativity a great place to be. International Opportunities Since the early 1980s, students at Nativity have had opportunities to travel abroad and host international students traveling to Nativity School. These opportunities enrich students’ lives through cultural understanding, which will travel with students throughout their lives The Friendship Journey Grade 6 Poland: Travel to Poland: June 2015 Host Poland: TBA Grades 7 and 8 Germany: Otto Hahn Gymnasium Travel to Germany: March 6-‐21, 2014 Host Germany: September 2014

Nativity Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

Opportunities for Excellence, Service, Leadership and Fun at Nativity

Month Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov.

Dec.

Jan.

Feb.

Mar. April May

June

7 Grade Students Serving Others (all year) Caring Place Volunteer (all year) Pop Booth at Festival

Zoo – Wolf Woods Leadership Lunch Student Led Conferences Canned Food Drive Spelling Bee in Class National Geographic Geography Bee Science Fair Spelling Bee – School Finals Math Competition Catholic Schools Week

Camp Kern Student Led Conferences Canned Food Drive Spelling Bee in Class National Geographic Geography Bee Science Fair Spelling Bee – School Finals Math Competition Catholic Schools Week

Student Led Conferences H.O.P.E. Map Test of the World Publishing Center Open House

Student Led Conferences H.O.P.E., Confirmation Retreat Confirmation Map Test of the World Publishing Center Open House Awards Assembly Closing of School Prayer Service

Awards Assembly

6 Grade Students Serving Others (all year) Caring Place Volunteer (all year) Festival

8 Grade Opening of School Prayer Service Caring Place Volunteer (all year) Festival Eucharistic Ministers Canned Food Drive High School Placement Test Student Led Conferences Canned Food Drive Spelling Bee in Class National Geographic Geography Bee Variety Show Kick Off Spelling Bee – School Finals Math Competition Begin Stock Market Game Catholic Schools Week th Faculty vs. 8 Grade VB Game Variety Show H.O.P.E. Portfolio Presentation Map Test of the World Publishing Center Open House Mary Service, Graduation Pictures Awards Assembly, Graduation Spirit Day Volunteers

Extracurricular Opportunities

The Upper School has numerous activities in which students are encouraged to participate. • Sports (including basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, track and football) ! School Band • Variety Show • Nativity Players • Robotics Team

Eligibility for Extra Curricular Activities – Grades 6, 7 & 8

Students who have at least one failing grade at the midterm of each trimester and at the end of each trimester will be placed on academic probation. If the student continues to have a failing grade in the same subject(s) at the end of the trimester, the student will be suspended from extra curricular activities until the next reporting period when the grade(s) are passing.

Service Opportunities

Throughout the year, Upper School students can participate in various service opportunities. Students and parents are urged to contact the office if they are unsure of how to participate in these service opportunities. • Students Serving Others -‐ This organization encourages students to volunteer three Thursdays a month at The Caring Place, a food pantry in Kennedy Heights. • Eucharistic Ministers -‐ Eighth graders will be offered this opportunity to serve the community at Mass.

Nativity Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

• • •

•

Servers & Liturgical Choir – Any Catholic Upper School student may serve at school Mass, weekend masses, funerals, or weddings. All are invited to join the Liturgical Choir under the direction of Mr. Fitch. Saint Vincent De Paul -‐ Students help load the collection truck several times a year. H.O.P.E. Project-‐ This yearly project is coordinated throughout the Upper School community; students, parents and teachers work to create volunteer projects that will benefit local or global charities depending on the theme chosen by the students. Canned Food Drive -‐ Students organize the effort of students in Grades K-‐8 to provide food for those in need. The Drive benefits the Caring Place, St. Vincent de Paul Society and local food pantries.

Awards & Recognition for Nativity Students

There are several categories of awards at Nativity School. Some awards are only available for graduating eighth graders, while others are available to students in Grades 4-‐8.

Grades 4-‐8 Merkowitz Brothers Award for Excellence in the National Geographic Geography Bee is presented to the student who finishes first in the school wide competition. Grades 6-‐8 • Amerigo Vespucci Map Award is presented to the student(s) who scores the highest on the comprehensive Map Test of the World (462 questions) administered after school in May.

Grade 6-‐8 -‐ Science Fair

Grade 8 -‐ Stock Market Game

Award Grades Perfect Attendance K-‐8 Every Day Robotics Team 4-‐8 After Sch/Wknds Spelling Bee 4-‐8 In Class Eucharistic Ministers 8 Volunteer Liturgical Choir 3-‐8 Volunteer Servers 4-‐8 Volunteer Caring Place 6-‐8 Volunteer St. Vincent de Paul Award 8 Volunteer Literary Award Book Club K-‐8 Optional Math Awards 4-‐8 Monthly Middle School Math Competition 6-‐8 Weekend Science Fair 6-‐8 After Sch/Wknds Foreign Language Award 4-‐8 In class Community Art Shows & Events K-‐8 By Invitation

Person Responsible Office Mr. Severyn Lang. Arts Teachers Fr. Paul Mr. Fitch Fr. Paul Parents Mr. Laney Mrs. Puls Math Teachers Mrs. Gruenke Ms. Daniel Language Teachers Mr. Ruthman

Join/ DNA Sept. DNA Sept. Sept. Sept. Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing In Class In Class January DNA DNA

Takes Place All Year All Year December All Year All Year All Year All Year All Year All Year Monthly Jan./Feb. Jan./March All Year Varies

Nativity Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

Awards for Members of the Graduating Class Subject Awards

These awards are determined by teachers of eighth graders and are based on success and consistent effort. The certificates are presented at the annual Awards Ceremony to students who demonstrate a consistent effort all through th the school year (not slacking off in the 4 quarter) and show a continuous desire to do well and improve. Religion Literature English Grammar Composition Math Science Social Studies Latin Chinese Spanish Art Music Physical Education

Certificate for International Studies Members of the Graduating Class are eligible if they have above average accomplishment (the grade of “B” or better) in the following areas: • 2 years of a world language th • The monthly map tests administered during the 8 Grade th • Participation in the 6 Grade Focused Study of an Islamic nation • Meaningful interaction with students from abroad • The Comprehensive Map Test of the World • Submit the International Studies Capstone Essay.

Fr. Bartel Christian Leadership Award

Fr. Bartel was the pastor of Nativity from 1924 through 1962. It was under his leadership that the parish grew and flourished. He was a man of tremendous faith and a great supporter of Catholic education. It was during his tenure that the school more than doubled its size and funds were saved for the new church. This Award recognizes those th students who “step up to the plate” within the 8 grade through the following activities: • Initiative: Volunteer for student roles in the Opening Prayer Service and class masses. Lead class or school prayers. Consistently volunteer to be of service to teachers, administration and parents. • Involvement: Active participation in the Upper School Leadership Council • Inspiring: Leadership role in H.O.P.E, the Upper School service project • Integrity: Positive role model for younger Nativity students • Inclusion: Take the initiative in making sure all students feel part of the class. Students who believe they qualify for the Fr. Bartel Christian Leadership Award are asked to submit a Leadership Capstone Essay that describes their accomplishments in the areas mentioned above. The Capstone Essay will be read by the Awards Selection Committee. The recipients will be announced at graduation.

Catherine McAuley Christian Service Award Catherine McAuley founded the Sisters of Mercy in 1831 to minister to the need of the poor and uneducated in Ireland. Sisters of Mercy came to Cincinnati in 1858 and to Nativity in 1924 when they took over the administration of our parish school. Many sisters taught here for over 70 years. The Spirit of Mercy is part of who we are. Because we believe that all people are called to a life of service as demonstrated by Catherine McAuley, Nativity is proud to give the Catherine McAuley Christian Service Award to those members of the graduating class who demonstrate the Spirit of Mercy: service to all. Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

Students who believe they qualify for the Catherine McAuley Service Award are asked to submit a Leadership Capstone Essay that describes their contribution to the community. The Capstone Essay will be read by the Awards Selection Committee. The recipients will be announced at graduation.

St. Vincent De Paul Service Award The Nativity Chapter of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society provides assistance to those who are most in need within our community and throughout the city. Students are often called upon to assist. This award recognizes those who responded to the needs of others by participating in the following activities: • The Clothing Drive – Drop Off Truck. Students are needed to assist in monitoring the SVdP truck on weekends when it is parked at Nativity. • The Canned Food Drive. Students who take a major role in the collection, sorting and distribution of the donated food are recognized with this award.

PTA Scholarship Scholarships in the amount of $50.00 are presented to the members of the graduating class who have consistently worked hard striving to learn as much as possible and who have been a positive force within the class making sure that all are included and welcome.

Christian Athlete Award presented by the Nativity Boosters

Members of the graduating class who demonstrate the following characteristics are eligible for the Christian Athlete Award. The coaches of 8th Grade teams determine the recipients of the Award. • Coachable, able to accept criticism • Provides leadership • Attends all practices and games • Gives 100% effort at all times • Is willing to help other athletes

Shannon Nolan Broe Scholarship Members of the graduating class who demonstrate the following characteristics of an athlete are presented with this scholarship. • Plays with the most heart. • Realizes that a win or a loss is the result of teamwork. • Is an inspiration to others. • Works for team unity. • Challenges him/herself and others.

Rita Wetzel Scholarship This $50.00 award recognizes a student / students who are consistently prepared for class, work hard, contribute to class discussions and demonstrate their belief in the importance and value of education.

Eileen Hackett Scholarship This $50.00 award recognizes a student / students who demonstrate a love for the arts through membership in the Liturgical Choir, participation in the Nativity Players’ productions, or leadership throughout the lead up to the Variety Show. Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

TGIF and Blue Slip Program for Upper School Students

To celebrate the behavioral accomplishments of Nativity Upper School Students, the TGIF program was established. Every other Friday, students get an extra 20-‐minute recess at the end of the day. TGIFs might have a snack, be held in the new gym, outside, etc. Students remain eligible for TGIF by staying compliant with TGIF policies listed below. Students who receive a Blue Slip for failure to meet the expectations listed below are ineligible for the TGIF and will work with two of the Upper School teachers. Students who receive a Blue Slip are assigned to cafeteria tables on the day of the infraction. That means that the student(s) wash the tables at the end of lunch and stack the cafeteria chairs so that the custodians can sweep the floor.

Upper School TGIF Expectations Students are prepared for Class. They are expected to come to class with all necessary materials including writing utensils, books, paper, etc. • Students are expected to turn their assignments in on the date they are due. • Students are expected to arrive on time for homeroom. • Students are expected to arrive on time for each class. • Students are expected not to chew gum. • Students are expected to be in compliance with the Uniform Code. See the dress code for specifics. • Students are expected to positively participate in class and not to disrupt class. • Students are expected to treat others as they would like to be treated. Parents have access to their son’s/daughter’s number of Blue Slips through the Parent Portal. The information contained therein indicates the date a Blue Slip was received and the reason. •

Behavior Among Students: Bullies

The Nativity School Handbook

Behavior that is intended to intimidate is not acceptable at Nativity. Students who feel that others are trying to intimidate them should report the incident to their parents and to a teacher or to the principal immediately. School personnel will work with the students involved and their parents to make sure that there is an environment at Nativity in which all feel safe.

Suspension and Expulsion

In response to serious behavioral infractions or to a consistent pattern of behavioral difficulties, Nativity School reserves the right to implement corrective measures that go beyond the Blue Slip disciplinary system. Such measures may include, but are not limited to, in-‐school suspension, out-‐of-‐school suspension, and expulsion. All such extra-‐ordinary disciplinary measures are only applied when absolutely necessary and are always implemented in conformity with the policies and guidelines of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Examples of conduct which warrant such action include but are not limited to: possession or use of a weapon, arson, leaving school property without permission, using or having illegal substances, alcohol, tobacco, false alarms, psychological or verbal assault, theft, sexual assault, sexual harassment, breaking and entering, using or having explosives (including fireworks), or committing any criminal offense on school property. This includes conduct, whether inside or outside school, that is detrimental to the reputation of Nativity. Students are always to exhibit the behaviors expected of Nativity students. The administration reserves the right to waive and/or deviate from any and all disciplinary regulations for just cause at his or her discretion. Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

Promotion -‐ Placement -‐ Retention Guidelines The promotion, placement or retention of a student is based upon the recommendation of the teacher(s) and school psychologist. The principal has the final responsibility of assigning students to a specific grade. Promotion is used to indicate that a student has satisfactorily achieved all the requirements for the year and has appropriate social, physical and emotional maturity. Placement is used to indicate that a student may move to the next grade, but the student has not met all the requirements for the year. Retaining the student is judged not to be beneficial to the student's academic, social, and/or emotional growth. Retention is used to indicate that a student has not achieved all the requirements or performed satisfactorily for the year and must repeat that grade next year. In order to make that decision the following guidelines are used. • If a student in Grades 4-‐8 earns a failing grade (F) for any two of the three academic trimesters in religion, social studies, math, science, world language, art, music or physical education, that student has failed that subject for the year. • In language arts each student is evaluated three (3) times a year in expression and reading for a total of 6 grades (2 subjects, 3 times a year). Any student who earns four (4) or more failing grades (F) distributed over expression and/or reading throughout the year will have failed language arts for the year. • A student who fails two (2) subjects for the year will not be promoted and must repeat that grade. • A student who has poor attendance record, i.e., is absent more than 30 days. • A student who does not complete the assigned work for the year.

Dress Code

It is generally accepted by educators that the manner in which children are dressed influences both their behavior and their performance. There is a long tradition of uniform dress in Catholic elementary schools, with positive results. The dress code at Nativity is intended to maximize those advantages. All students are to be neat and clean when coming to school. Basic Uniform Information Spirit Wear refers to the items sold by PTA. Kings Wear refers to the items sold by the Boosters. • Shirts Shirttails must be tucked in. • Skirts The length of skirts must pass the “finger tip test”. When the student’s arm is at her side, the bottom of the skirt must be at or below her fingertips. • Make-‐Up Lipstick, eye shadow, etc. are not appropriate for school and should not be worn to classes. • Socks Socks with patterns are not part of the uniform. Socks should be solid navy, white, red, black, or hunter green. Additional Uniform Regulations • PE Uniform Students are expected to wear the gym uniform to physical education classes. • “Pajama Pants” Pajama pants are not considered part of the uniform and are not permitted to be worn during school hours. • Special Event T-‐Shirts (e.g., Walk-‐a-‐thon) may be worn only on days designated by the principal. T-‐shirts that have been autographed or written upon are not considered appropriate to wear to school. • Team Specific Kings/Spirit Wear During the school day students may not wear sweatshirts or t-‐shirts that signifies membership on a specific team. Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

• •

Tournament/Season Championship Spirit Wear Students must receive permission from the office before wearing any spirit wear that acknowledges victory in a season or tournament. High School Spirit Wear High school spirit wear may not be worn during the school day. Students are discouraged from wearing high school spirit wear before and after school. Our experience has been that this has a negative impact on class unity.

Out of Uniform Days The principal may designate a day as an “out of uniform day” which means that students do no have to wear their uniform that day. An “Out of Uniform Day” comes in a variety of formats, e.g., Jeans Day. It is important that you listen carefully to the specific directions for each Out of Uniform Day. Questions should be directed to the School Office.

Specifically for Students

Academic Expectations Students at Nativity School are challenged through vigorous work across the curriculum. Many times, students will find they are working on multiple projects at one time. This requires students to manage time wisely, which can be a challenge for people of all ages. The first key in managing time is keeping organized.

Beating Disorganization 1.

2. 3.

Maintain your planner. If you forget to write something down in class, go back at the end of the day. If you aren’t sure you forgot, check with people in your homeroom If you forget to write down an assignment, check teacher websites If you still feel you are missing an assignment, phone a friend.

Managing Your Time Wisely 1. 2. 3.

Dedicate certain times each day for homework and keep those times. Knowing that you always do homework from 4:00-‐5:00 will keep you in check. When you are assigned a project, write the due date in your planner, no matter how far in advance it is. When you are assigned a project, count how many days you have to finish the assignment. Then figure out how much work you need to complete each day. Spending 15 minutes each day on a project will be much easier than 5 hours on the night it is due. Plus, you will have a better project. When you are given time to work in class, use it. There is always a book to read, an assignment to complete, or a project to plan. Everyone needs a mental break, but give yourself a couple minutes and then get back to work. It will mean less homework that night or over the weekend.

Cheating and Plagiarism Students who cheat in any manner will be referred to the principal for disciplinary action. Additionally, the assignment will receive a zero. If the cheating becomes a pattern, a meeting amongst faculty, parents and the student may be necessary.

Study Tables If you find that you are staying organized, managing your time wisely and STILL struggling to earn the grades you want, you will need to take more steps. Study tables are offered on Mondays from 3:00-‐4:00. Study tables are held in Ms. Gruenke’s room. Additional days will be determined at a later date. Students will not be dismissed and will head directly to the appropriate room for study tables. During this time, students may ask for help and are expected to get to work straight away.

Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

Team Meetings If students have maintained organization, managed time wisely, attended study tables and still are struggling, parents can contact Mr. Herring or Dr. Buchino to see if a Team Meeting might be appropriate. Here, parents, teachers and the student (if appropriate) will meet to discuss any struggles that are occurring. If necessary, Team Meetings may become recurring.

Social and Emotional Issues in Upper School

Adolescence can be a very stressful time. Figuring out how to deal with the social, emotional and physiological changes can, at the very least, be challenging. Upper School students are usually the first to notice unhealthy choices and behaviors among their friends. Consider the following issues and alert a parent, any teacher or staff member, Mr. Herring or Dr. Buchino if you have concerns about your friends. ! Anxiety Disorders – Constant or extreme worrying for no apparent reason, crying easily about everyday events, checking again and again to be sure something is done correctly, so panicked about an event he/she is unable to think or talk about anything else. ! Depression – Withdrawing from social interactions, group gatherings, sense of being overwhelmed with school or home, difficulty making decisions, seems to “not care” about anything, sleeping a lot more than usual, weight gain. ! Eating Disorders – Not eating at lunch time or when you get together, always claims he/she “isn't hungry”(anorexia), always goes to the bathroom right after eating (bulimia), does an extreme amount of exercising, eats only low calorie/low nutrition foods (i.e. lettuce, sprouts). ! Self Injury – Wears long sleeves or long pants on hot days, tries to hide arms and legs when changing for physical education class, talks about “cutting” him/herself or makes excuses for deep scratches or small scars. Experience has taught us that when issues are met with concern and a comprehensive approach, students respond well and develop appropriate coping skills. Mr. Herring, Dr. Buchino and the faculty will work with the student and his/her parents to develop a plan to address the needs of the students. Preparing for High School

Open Houses

The area Catholic high schools offer an opportunity to see their schools during an open house in the fall (usually on a Sunday). The open houses are a great opportunity to see the school and classrooms, take a tour, and ask th th questions. Both 7 and 8 graders are encouraged to attend the open houses and ask lots of questions. You will probably receive post cards from the area high schools about their open houses, or the dates will be posted on their websites.

Shadowing Eighth grade students are encouraged to visit the high schools of interest to them during a normal school day and “shadow” a current student at that school. You will basically follow this person around school for the day and “live a day in the life of a high school student”. You need to call the high school and schedule the shadowing day. Each school handles shadowing days a little differently, so you will need to look at the school’s website, under the Admissions tab, to find out their procedure. Enjoy the day – they usually are very enlightening. We recommend them provided you adhere to the following guidelines. th Nativity has designated the following dates as Shadow Days for our 8 Grade students. Wednesday, October 1, Thursday, October 9, and Friday, October 17. You are requested to visit the high school you are considering on one of those dates. th You must complete the “8 Grade Shadow Permission Form” found on Nativity’s web site prior to the day you visit a high school. The form must be signed by parents, the principal of Nativity and an official of the high school you are visiting. It is suggested that you try and shadow on a day that Nativity doesn’t have school, but if that doesn’t work, it is an excused absence from Nativity – but you have to make up all of your work from that day. Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

High School Placement Test (HSPT) for Catholic High Schools The High School Placement Test (HSPT) is a standardized test administered to eighth grade students to determine acceptance, scholarships, and class placement in their ninth grade classes at the area Catholic and/or private high schools. This test is given on one day to all students interested in attending one of the area Catholic schools. The test is rd customarily given on the 3 Saturday of November, which is November 17, 2012, this year. There are five different sections to the HSPT – Verbal Skills, Quantitative Skills, Reading, Math, and Language. The Upper School teachers prepare the students during the first quarter for this test, but to further prepare, there are many books, online sites, and classes that you can review/take. One of the most popular preparation books is ‘Barron’s How to Prepare for COOP, HSPT, TACHS’. Also, many of the high schools offer “HSPT Prep” courses, which are usually offered in the fall. You usually need to register for these classes in the summer. You can find out what is offered by going to a particular high school web site and looking at their Admissions tab (both genders can usually take these classes at single sex schools). You must register to take the HSPT at the school where you will take the test. The forms for registration are also on the schools website under the Admissions tab, or you can pick up the forms at the various open houses or on shadowing days. There is a $30 fee to take the test, and this is paid to the school where you are taking the test. If you would like your test results to be sent to more than one school, you will also need to send an application to each of these schools. There is no fee to apply to the school (if you aren’t taking the test there), and you can print the application from the school’s website. Keep in mind, some of the school applications require you to write a paragraph or short essay about a particular topic, and some schools ask for recommendations. The results from the HSPT test are mailed to you, from each high school, on the same day – usually in early January. So, everyone should receive his or her results, acceptances, and scholarship offers, on the same day. You will then have a couple of weeks to make a decision on which high school to attend, and then you will need to register with the high school. th Nativity 8 Grade Graduates have been successful at the following high schools: Men & Women High Schools Men High Schools Women Public Purcell Marian Saint Xavier Mount Notre Dame Walnut Hills Roger Bacon Moeller Saint Ursula Withrow McNicholas LaSalle Ursuline SCPA Summit Country Day Elder McAuley Indian Hill, Sycamore

Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

Eighth Grade Graduation Portfolio

Proving you have completed the Mission of Nativity School and are ready to graduate. The mission of Nativity School is to provide a solid academic education with a global perspective in which the arts and technology are integrated into the curriculum -‐-‐ all rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The mission of Nativity comes in five basic areas: " Global perspective " Technology Solid Academics " Arts " Rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ

As a near-‐graduate, it is your job, for your Language Arts fourth quarter exam, to prove that you have accomplished this mission by finding pieces of work (homework, projects, assignments, etc) that reflect each part of this mission. These assignments can be relatively new or very old. You will then write a one-‐page (minimum), typed letter for each segment, explaining how it demonstrates your accomplishment of that portion of the mission or how you have grown to accomplish that portion of the mission, if the assignment is older. The portfolio you complete will have the following five segments that correspond with the mission:

Part I: Solid Academic Educations Demonstrate the “solid academic education” you have received in the “traditional” subjects. This includes language arts, English, math, science and social studies. Select 2-‐3 pieces (minimum) that reflect your growth and accomplishments as an academic. Then, write a letter analyzing each piece, telling how it demonstrates your growth. There only needs to be one letter for the entire section.

Part II: Global Perspective Demonstrate the “global perspective” you have experienced in any of your subjects including foreign language, art, religion, gym and music. Select 2-‐3 pieces (minimum) that reflect your growth and accomplishments as a global citizen. Then, write a letter analyzing each piece, telling how it demonstrates your growth. There only needs to be one letter for the entire section.

Part III: Arts Demonstrate your artistry by selecting 2-‐3 pieces (minimum) that reflect your growth as an artist. These pieces can come from any of the subjects involving the arts or can come from more traditional subjects. Write a letter analyzing each piece, telling how it demonstrates your growth. There only needs to be one letter for the entire section. If your pieces do not fit inside a traditional portfolio, you may either redesign the portfolio so that it is in a box or you may take photos of your work. Make sure the photos are of high enough quality so that the work can clearly be seen; if multiple photos of each piece are necessary, please feel free to include them.

Part IV: Technology Demonstrate your ability to use technology in appropriate situations by selecting 2-‐3 pieces (minimum) that reflect your capabilities. These pieces can come from any of the subjects. Write a letter analyzing each piece, telling how it demonstrates your growth and/ or accomplishments. There only needs to be one letter for the entire section.

Part V: Rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ Demonstrate your knowledge of the gospel or evidence of how you implemented that knowledge in your every day life. This can come from evidence of community service, religion assignments, fundraising efforts, volunteerism, etc. These can be pieces from school or outside of school. Select 2-‐3 pieces (minimum) that reflect your accomplishments/ growth. Then, write a letter analyzing each piece, telling how it demonstrates your growth and/ or accomplishments. There only needs to be one letter for the entire section.

Epilogue: Finally: Write a letter about your hopes for the future and how you will use the knowledge you have acquired at Nativity School in your future endeavors. What are the most valuable lessons you will take away? Compile all of this work in an attractive way. Your encasement should reflect the respect you have for your academic career. Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

Nativity’s Upper School – The Right Place at the Right Time for You We’re glad you’re here.

Mr. John Laney

Mr. Nick Vose

Mrs. Margo Bellman

Mrs. Karen Gruenke

Religion, Language Arts

History

Language Arts

Math

Ms. Sue Daniel

Mrs. Lynn Elfers

Mrs. Coco Li

Science

Language Arts, Religion

Chinese

Ms. Elizabeth Squeri Spanish

Mr. Greg Ruthman

Mr. Dave Arbogast

Art

Physical Education Music

Mr. Gerry Ahrens Latin

Mr. Joe Beiting

Mr. Bradley Fitch

Fr. Paul DeLuca

Sr. Janet Schneider

Liturgical Music

Pastor

Director of Religious Education

Mrs. Nancy Ciarniello

Assistant to the Principal Principal

Mr. Bob Herring

Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15

Nativity School Shadowing Form 5936 Ridge Avenue Cincinnati, Ohio 45213 513-‐458-‐6767 The Shadowing Documentation Form is completed only when shadowing is scheduled while Nativity School is in session. Please follow these steps for completion of the shadowing Documentation Form: • • • • • •

Student completes appropriate information on the form. Parent completes appropriate information on the form. Form is reviewed and signed by Mr. Herring Form is taken to the high school where shadowing will take place. Form is signed by an authorized high school representative. Form is returned to Nativity as documentation of shadowing experience and verification of reason for absence from Nativity. Form will be kept on file by Nativity for final attendance record

• Student Name of Student ________________________________________________________________ High School Scheduled for Shadowing _______________________________________________

Date of Shadowing Appointment ____________________________________________________ Student’s Signature _______________________________________________ Date _________ Parent Parent Signature

______________________________________________ Date _________

Nativity School Principal’s Signature ______________________________________________ Date _________ High School High School Principal’s/Representative’s Signature _____________________________________________________________________ Date ________ Please note: •

• • •

Eighth grade students are encouraged to shadow in the fall. High schools may choose to allow the grade student who have not selected a high school or those who are considering transferring their placement test scores to another high school to shadow by the date in may determined by the individual school. Shadow appointments should be scheduled as early as possible, preferably at least 72 hours in advance. Shadowing is preferred on days when elementary schools are not in session. Absence from school on shadowing days when elementary schools are in session is processed as an excused absence, such as a doctor’s appointment if the protocol is followed by student / parent.

Thank you for your cooperation in following the recruitment/ shadowing guidelines in order to facilitate the process and assist all participating parties.

Nativity School Upper School Handbook 2014-‐15