The Ursuline School Handbook, Updated 12.2020

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This handbook is designed to provide you with information on issues that may arise during your time at The Ursuline School. It contains rules and regulations, policies and procedures, resources, and other important information. It is required reading for all. Students and parents are bound by the rules and policies set forth in this handbook.

The Ursuline School reserves the right to change its rules and regulations, policies and procedures, admission and graduation requirements, academic calendar, financial policies, course offerings, delivery methods, tuitions, fees, and any other material at its sole discretion at any time without prior notice. Nothing in this handbook is intended to create, nor shall anything be understood to create contractual or legally enforceable rights. Students and parents are deemed to have read and understood this handbook.

If you have questions, contact the appropriate individual listed under the Channels of Communication at the end of this handbook.

This handbook outlines some aspects of the contractual relationship between the parent/guardian and the school. Please note that, for just cause, the President/Principal may waive any rule in this handbook and may amend the handbook at any time. Any changes will be made on the electronic version found in the Parent Portal, and notifications of any changes will be communicated when absolutely necessary.

The completed Student-Parent Handbook signature sheet attests to an understanding of and compliance with the rules and regulations of The Ursuline School.

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STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 I. URSULINE PRAYER ....................................................................................................2 II. MISSION STATEMENT ...............................................................................................2 III. PHILOSOPHY ...............................................................................................................2 IV. GOALS ...........................................................................................................................3 V. SAFETY PROTOCOLS, POLICIES FOR COVID-19 AND NON-COVID-19 ........4 VI. ACADEMIC AFFAIRS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC ....................................13 VII. ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS & RELEVANT INFORMATION .......................15 VIII. STUDENT REGULATIONS/INFRACTIONS ........................................................21 IX. BEHAVIOR / SAFETY ...............................................................................................30 X. DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS ..............................................................................32 XI. POLICY AND PROCEDURES REGARDING INCIDENTS OF HARASSMENT, BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING, DISCRIMINATION, DISCRIMINATORY HARASSMENT .........................................................................................................................33 XII. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY ARCHDIOCESE OF NEW YORK...............34 XIII. REPORTING SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS/PROCEDURES AND CONSEQUENCES ...................................................................................................................36 XIV. PREVENTATIVE EDUCATIONAL STRATEGIES TO FOSTER A CULTURE OF EMPATHY...........................................................................................................................38 XV. BUILDING SAFETY ...................................................................................................39 XVI. COUNSELING SERVICES ........................................................................................40 XVII. SCHOOL NURSE/HEALTH & INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS ......................40 XVIII. TUITION & TUITION SCHEDULES .....................................................................41 XIX. CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION ....................................................................42

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I. URSULINE PRAYER Gracious God let us remain in harmony, united together all of one heart and one will.

Let us be bound to one another by the bond of love, respecting each other, helping each other, and bearing with each other in Jesus Christ. For if we try to be like this, without any doubt, the Lord God will be in our midst. Amen.

St. Angela, watch over us all our days.

St. Ursula, protect our future.

II. MISSION STATEMENT Founded in 1897 by the Order of St. Ursula, The Ursuline School (“Ursuline” or the “School”) is a Catholic, college preparatory school dedicated to the intellectual, spiritual, and moral development of young women. Rooted in the counsels of St. Angela, founder of the Ursuline Sisters, the mission of the school community is to educate, inspire, and empower young women to learn, to lead, and to serve.

Committed to academic excellence and the value of every individual, the school challenges each student to develop and share her unique gifts within the school and within the wider community. In a student-centered atmosphere devoted to caring and concern, our young women are encouraged to celebrate the richness of their diverse ethnic, socio-economic, and religious backgrounds, uniting them as students and as Ursuline alumnae. Seeking to model the teachings of St. Angela, the dedicated, talented, and caring faculty, administration, and staff inspire our students not only to learn, but also to question, to reflect, and to challenge.

An Ursuline education prepares young women to be women of faith and integrity, lifelong learners and wise, responsible, global leaders committed to the Ursuline tradition of Serviam – I will serve.

III. PHILOSOPHY Central to the philosophy of The Ursuline School is a concern for the student as an individual and a commitment to the education of the whole person. The school seeks to implement these values in every aspect of school life.

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The mission of the school is to provide young women, grades 6 through 12, with a challenging, intellectually stimulating, student-centered environment in which academic and personal achievements are expected. In accord with its tradition of academic excellence, the school provides a variety of learning experiences designed to develop each student’s intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and creative problem solving, and foster a life-long commitment to learning. With a diverse faculty and student population, the Ursuline community promotes a respect for the multi-cultural world and provides a range of opportunities through which students develop a global perspective. Rooted in the truth and values of the teachings of Jesus Christ, the school community tries to develop a sense of personal worth and self-discipline in each student, enabling her to become an effective ethical decision-making member of today's complex society. Each student is encouraged to discover and realize her talents so that she may exercise responsible leadership in ever widening circles.

Ursuline has traditionally been marked by a special spirit in which every effort is made to elicit the best from each young woman. By providing an atmosphere of warmth, trust and encouragement, relationships are fostered among students, families, faculty, administration, and staff. The care and nurturing of the individual are evident throughout the school.

Ursuline prepares young women to live as independent, creative, and unique individuals engaged in the pursuit of knowledge and moral integrity while remaining faithful to the Ursuline tradition of Serviam—I will serve.

IV. GOALS Consistent with its Mission Statement and Philosophy, The Ursuline School strives to: ♦ Develop the intellectual, spiritual, aesthetic, and physical potential of each student in an environment that conveys the values of the Christian tradition. ♦ Provide a challenging college preparatory curriculum. ♦ Encourage critical and independent thinking. ♦ Interrelate various course disciplines and connect the curriculum to life's experiences. ♦ Integrate the most advanced technologies seamlessly into the learning process. ♦ Educate for future academic and career opportunities. ♦ Foster in each student a sense of personal worth and of her giftedness as a woman. ♦ Engender in each student the wisdom and strength to make responsible choices. ♦ Provide opportunities and encouragement for each student to exercise effective leadership. ♦ Involve the families of students in appropriate areas of school life. ♦ Foster a sense of community among students, faculty, staff, and families characterized by mutual respect, openness, and celebration of each other’s diversity. ♦ Awaken in each student an awareness of and responsiveness to the needs of others in accordance with the Ursuline tradition of Serviam – I will serve.

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V.

SAFETY PROTOCOLS, POLICIES FOR COVID-19 AND NON-COVID-19

In March 2020, the novel coronavirus “COVID-19” was declared a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organization. The policies, regulations and expectations stated in this handbook are based upon a typical school year with some exceptions due to the global pandemic. The global pandemic COVID-19 continues to be an evolving situation. Policies listed in this handbook will be subject to change and/or modified accordingly. Updates on policies will be reflected in the online version of this handbook and if applicable on Plus Portal and MOODLE. It is the students’ and parents’ responsibility to know and follow current requirements and procedures at Ursuline. Parents and students will be notified via email regarding any updates to the handbook.

Ursuline has been working toward reopening its facilities and resuming operations using New York State guidelines, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and department of health recommendations, as well as state and federal requirements and public health guidelines. In preparing for the fall, the health and safety of the Ursuline community is paramount. Creating a safe campus environment is all of our responsibility, and Ursuline will not tolerate any actions by students, faculty, or staff that jeopardize the health of our community or any non-compliance with the Safe Community Pledge. Violation of the Pledge will result with a student having to produce a negative COVID-19 test or quarantine for 14 days. Ursuline reserves the right to deny admission, re-admission, registration, or reregistration and to remove, dismiss or suspend any student who is unable to meet Ursuline’s academic or health and safety standards, or whose behavior is not in accord with the rules and regulations of Ursuline.

In September 2020, Ursuline will return to school using a hybrid schedule, one that combines in person and online remote learning. Our schedule will divide the student body into two cohorts that will attend school on different days. Our Blue Cohort, whose last names begin with A-J, will be in school Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during week 1, while our Gold Cohort (Last names K-Z) will attend on Thursday and Friday. Then, in Week 2, Blue will attend on Monday and Tuesday, and Gold on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

For those who are students in the building on Wednesdays, the day will be devoted to academic check-ins, with teachers, along with advisor meetings, counseling, Physical Education and Personal Development, Academic Guidance, Digital Citizenship, etc. We are cognizant that science, public health guidelines, and local, state and federal requirements may shift due to the nature of the global COVID-19 pandemic. As knowledge and understanding of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, Ursuline’s policies, plans and learning modalities may be subject to change and updated as appropriate.

All individuals who are physically present at the school are required to wear appropriate face coverings at all times. Masks/appropriate face coverings may not have any messages, emblems, or logos other than those provided by The Ursuline School. Masks/face coverings may be removed while eating or drinking. Students must wear appropriate face coverings at [4]

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all times, even during instruction, during the days on which they are at Ursuline attending classes in-person. Students who take the bus must wear a face covering at all times while on the bus (e.g., entering, exiting, and seated), as well as maintain appropriate social distancing, unless they are members of the same household. Acceptable face coverings include but are not limited to cloth-based face covering (e.g., homemade sewn, quick cut, bandana), and surgical masks that cover both the mouth and nose. Face coverings should be cleaned or replaced after use and must not be shared. Students and parents should take responsibility for maintaining their face coverings. Please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) guidance and the New York State Department of Health guidance for additional information on cloth face coverings and other types of personal protective equipment (“PPE”), as well as instructions on use and cleaning.

Once on campus, students are expected to comply with social distancing protocols and procedures, including maintain a distance of at least 6 feet between other individuals, where possible. Parents are required to drop-off and pick-up students at designated areas for such student drop-off and pick-up. The contact and entry of parents into the building is limited to the greatest extent possible. Students should not share any objects with any other student or individual.

Students must also comply with Ursuline’s mandatory health screenings, including temperature checks. Students must have their temperature checked each day they are expected to attend in-person class at Ursuline. Temperature checks must be conducted at home, prior to departing to Ursuline. Parent/guardian must complete and then submit the health prescreening questionnaire (RUVNA). When students arrive on campus, faculty/staff who have been assigned to entrances, will check that the all clear “RUVNA” has been completed.

Students who have not shown completed “RUVNA” will be directed to call their parent/guardian to complete the questionnaire. If there are any technical difficulties with completing this questionnaire, an administrator must speak with the parent to review and complete the questionnaire. The parent/guardian will then follow up with an email confirming no symptoms. Ursuline will conduct temperature checks on all individuals entering its facilities, before any such individual enters. Students who present a temperature greater than 100.0°F will be denied entry. The school nurse will be contacted, and the student will be escorted to the dedicated isolation area. The school nurse will contact the parent/guardian. Students who are being sent home (e.g., onset of possible COVID-19 symptoms) will be instructed on next steps by our school nurse in accordance with the DOH protocol. Individuals who have come into close or proximate contact with a person with COVID-19 will be notified by the school nurse and/or school designated contact tracers. to such exposure. Ursuline may conduct periodic screening questionnaires for all students.

Students or their parents are required to complete such questionnaires whenever they are requested by Ursuline.

Students will be trained on proper hand and respiratory hygiene, including how to adequately put on, take off, clean (as applicable), and discard PPE, including but not limited [5]

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to, appropriate face coverings. Students should stay home if they feel sick. Students who develop symptoms of COVID-19 while in school will be safely cared for and isolated from the Ursuline community until they are picked-up or safely transported home or elsewhere. In the event an individual is confirmed to have COVID-19, Ursuline will provide for the cleaning and disinfection of exposed areas, including all heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces.

Students who test positive for COVID-19 or come into contact with the virus are expected to notify Ursuline, in order for Ursuline to take appropriate measures and attempt to contain any spread of the virus to members of the Ursuline community, including other students.

Students must comply with Ursuline’s protocols, procedures and the Safe Community Pledge.

Students who screened positive for COVID-19 symptoms, can return to the in-person learning environment at Ursuline after protocols and procedures which include, at a minimum, documentation from a health care provider following evaluation, negative COVID19 diagnostic test result, and symptom resolution, or if COVID-19 positive, release from isolation (Refer to Section F Early Dismissal for Suspected COVID-19). It is imperative that students who have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus follow COVID-19 guidelines as per the region and New York State before returning to in-person learning.

Students and their parents are strongly encouraged to adhere to CDC and the New York State Department of Health guidance regarding the use of PPE, specifically acceptable face coverings when a social distance cannot be maintained.

A. PRE-SCHOOL ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE: As previously stated, all members of The Ursuline School community must adhere to the steps and guidelines outlined in the Safe Community Pledge. Parents must take their daughter’s temperature each morning. Any student/employee who has a temperature or presents with symptoms of illness or any COVID-19 symptoms/positive COVID-19 test must stay home.

Parent/guardian must notify the school nurse. 1 The official start of the regular school day is 8 a.m., except on Wednesdays which is 9:30 a.m. If a student has an early AM class, her official day begins at 7:15 a.m. The school day ends at 3 p.m. on a regular schedule unless a student has a PM class.

Students must leave the building by 3:15 p.m. The only exceptions are a school sponsored event, PM class or with the permission from an Administrator. Please note that arrival and departures during the pandemic will be based upon days students are expected to attend school and subject to change accordingly. ♦

The school building opens to students at 7 a.m. Students will not be admitted before

1

Please note that Ursuline must notify the state and local health department immediately upon being informed of any positive COVID-19 diagnostic test result by an individual within Ursuline facilities or on Ursuline grounds, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors. In accordance with federal and state law and regulations, Ursuline will maintain confidentiality.

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♦

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that time. From 7 a.m.-7:30 a.m. students should only enter through the front doors.

Students should report to the assigned areas listed below. If a gathering place for students changes, an administrator will notify students via email. From 7:30 a.m.8:00a.m. students should enter by the designated entrances assigned to each grade level. Temperatures will be checked as students arrive.

From 7:30 a.m.-8 a.m. students in: o Grades 6—8 – enter by the theater doors and gather in the theater. o Grade 9 – enter through the front doors and gather in the new Christina Jun Murphy ’22 Student Commons or the library. o Grades 10 and 11 – enter though the gym door and gather in the gym. o Grade 12 – enter through the doors near the loading dock and gather in the cafeteria.

The Ursuline School personnel, wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (face covering/mask, gloves, a gown, and face shield) also will do daily touchless temperature screenings each morning for everyone before entering the building.

Only faculty, staff, and students will be allowed in the building except in extraordinary circumstances when visitors may be required to be there.

Be advised that if a student presents a temperature greater than 100.0 F, the student will be sent to a dedicated, contained area until their parent/legal guardian or emergency contact person can retrieve them from school. The school nurse will provide the student or their families with information on health care and testing resources.

Announcements starting at 7:45 a.m., 7:50 a.m. and 7:55 a.m. will be made each morning to stagger students by grade level to get to their first period classes.

B. ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL: If a student will, unexpectedly, be absent from school, a parent/guardian should telephone the school’s dedicated attendance number at 914-500-6393 before 8:15 a.m. (See also COLLEGE VISITS) or at the very least, email the main office (mainoffice@ursulinenewrochelle.org) regarding an absence.

If the student is absent for five (5) consecutive school days or more, the parent/guardian should contact the school periodically and, if the absence is prolonged, notify the faculty advisor and make arrangements to obtain books and assignments.

If a student is absent for more than 5 days in a quarter, a doctor's note may be required.

By state law, all absences, incidents of tardiness, and early dismissals, whether excused or not, are recorded on the student’s permanent record. Please note that The Ursuline School must attest to the physical presence of any/all students during school hours.

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C. TARDINESS: Students are considered “tardy” (late to school) if they are not in class by 8 a.m. on a regular school day with the exception of Wednesday, which is 9:30 a.m.

On “special schedule” days, if students are not present by the time announced (delayed opening inclement weather) or indicated on the schedule, which appears on the front page of this handbook, they will be marked tardy. District buses that are delayed or not running are marked excused tardies/absences. For AM classes, students are considered tardy if they are not in their assigned room by 7:15 a.m., when regularly scheduled attendance is taken.

Students arriving late to school should report to the office and scan in with their ID card. If the student does not have a satisfactory excuse from their parent/guardian explaining the tardiness, it will be recorded on the student's record as unexcused tardiness. Detention may be issued after 5 consecutive or 5 unexcused tardies. Please note that being punctual and in the classroom by the start of the school day is the student’s responsibility. Sometimes a student is in the building but not in class on time and will therefore be marked tardy.

If a student, having come to school late, is marked present for the day but is then absent from or late to a class without a valid excuse, her absence or tardiness may be considered a “cut.”

Students who arrive after 8 a.m., or 9:30 a.m., on Wednesdays are considered tardy even if they have first period free. During the COVID-19 pandemic, students are expected to arrive to class on time whether in school or as a remote learner.

Remote/distant learners who are more than 10 minutes late to class may be denied entry.

D. ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL: Students are expected to be on time and to attend their full day of classes. As we continue with the hybrid schedule it is important that a student scheduled for in person instruction come to school. Students cannot automatically opt to be remote and Zoom in for classes. A parent prior to 8:00 a.m. must email the front office at mainoffice@ursulinenewrochelle.org and request this accommodation. Only in rare instances, such as having to isolate, quarantine due to COVID-19 or a family emergency, will this be permitted. Students are expected to attend curriculum related trips, retreats, and special events held on specific school days. These are mandatory and important. Any tardiness or unexcused absence from school may merit a detention and/or academic penalty and a medical note or other documentation may be requested.

Seniors who do not have a scheduled first period class will be permitted to arrive at school by 8:40 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. On Wednesday seniors who do not have a scheduled first period class may arrive at school by 9:45 a.m. Seniors must sign in at the front office.

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not be excused unless the student was given permission by the nurse to go home because of illness. A class should not be missed for any other reason without permission from an administrator as class time is extremely important.

Any student marked present for the day who is subsequently absent from or late to a class without a valid excuse from the nurse or Administration will be considered as “cutting class.� Any student who cuts a class will receive a detention in addition to repercussions as deemed appropriate by the subject teacher.

A student who is absent from more than 20% of the classes in any given subject in a quarter may lose credit for the quarter. Chronic absences may require a student to withdraw from the course and re-enroll in an approved summer or online program to recover credit.

Responsibility, accountability, and time management are crucial if one is to be successful in school. It is imperative that students inform their respective teacher(s), typically ahead of time, if they will be absent from class, leave early, or arrive late to school. On a day when an assignment or test is scheduled, it is extremely important that the student contact the subject teacher(s) to discuss how to proceed. Students who miss class(es) because of absences, tardiness, or early dismissal, may be required to hand in/email a completed assignment, take a quiz/test on the day of, or endure other repercussions if the subject teacher has not been consulted.

E. DISMISSAL: The official end of the regular school day is 3 p.m. Students should leave the building by 3:15 p.m. unless they are involved in an approved school activity, team or have the permission of an administrator to remain past 3:15 p.m. Students who are free last period must not leave school grounds without valid authorization from an administrator. It is imperative that students attend all of their classes. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, seniors have the privilege of leaving after their last scheduled class. Seniors must sign out at the front office.

F. EARLY DISMISSAL: Doctor, dentist, and other appointments should be made outside of school hours or during vacations. If this is impossible, the student must deliver a note from her parent/guardian to an assistant principal before the first class begins.

Emails or parent contact regarding requests for dismissal are also acceptable but advance notice is necessary for accurate attendance. The subject teacher may also be required to sign the note before early dismissal is authorized by the Assistant Principal for Student Life. Whenever a student leaves early, she must be signed out at the main office; otherwise, her absence will be considered a cut. Please refer to the last paragraph in section D, Attendance at School page 8. A pattern of early dismissals may lead to non-approval for early release and a conference with the parent as well as academic repercussions.

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G. LEAVING EARLY DUE TO ILLNESS: If a student is not feeling well, the student should report to the designated seating area outside the nurse’s office. The student should not enter the nurse’s office but remain outside in the immediate area until evaluated by the nurse. Students who are ill and in a scheduled class should get a pass to the nurse from their subject teacher. If a student is not in class and feels ill, she should report to the designated seating area outside of the health office. The nurse will notify the attendance officer so that the student is not assumed to be missing a class. unable to attend class must report to the Health Office. If the nurse deems it necessary for the student to go home, she will telephone a parent/guardian and make arrangements for the student to be picked up from school. If a student is too ill to attend class, she should not drive home; a parent/guardian or designated adult should pick the student up. Parents only in an extreme case, may send an email request that their daughter drive home. For non-COVID-19 symptoms (physical injury, cramps, eye/ear pain, etc.) the nurse will contact the parent and then notify the main office, that the parent/guardian is coming to pick up the student. Parents or designated adults should sign the student out at the front office. Students who feel ill while at school should not call home requesting permission to leave school before seeing the nurse or a member of the administration. Students leaving early due to illness may not participate in any co-curricular events, games, etc.

EARLY DISMISSAL PROCEDURES FOR SUSPECTED COVID-19 SYMPTOMS: A student, faculty or staff member who develops COVID-19 symptoms during the school day should report to the designated seating area outside the nurse’s office, the following protocols will be followed: ♦

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Anyone who presents with symptoms of COVID- 19 will be directed to the isolation area until they can go home or to a healthcare facility, depending on the severity of illness.

The school nurse will follow procedures for any students with asthma.

Provisions for inhalers and the safe use of nebulizers will be adhered to since these are aerosol generating products.

Students who are waiting in the isolation area will be supervised. The person waiting with the student will be provided with PPE. All precautions and safety measures will be followed.

Classrooms and all other areas potentially contaminated will be cleaned and disinfected.

If COVID-19 cases are discovered at school, the response will include closing off the affected area and engaging in a process of “deep cleaning” that portion of the school, or more broadly the entire school, as determined in the DOH guidelines. We may choose to modify operations prior to instituting schoolwide closures to help mitigate a rise in cases.

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Contact Tracing Support ♦ In the case of an individual testing positive, The Ursuline School is required by New York State to support the DOH in tracing all contacts of the individual, in accordance with the protocols, training, and tools provided through the New York State Contact Tracing Program. Confidentiality will be maintained as required by federal and state law and regulations. Ursuline is also required by law to cooperate with state and local health department ♦ Some members of the faculty/staff have been trained in contact screening. ♦ Whereas state and local health departments will implement monitoring and movement restrictions of COVID-19 infected or exposed persons, Ursuline is responsible for notifying faculty or families of students that they have come into close or proximate contact with a person with COVID-19. Please note that medical privacy laws explicitly prohibit Ursuline from revealing the name of the individual who has tested positive for COVID-19. We may only reveal that the student or faculty member has come in close or proximate contact with an unnamed person, and how we came to know this information (school tracking systems,).

Returning to School After Leaving Early for Suspected COVID-19 Symptoms ♦ Anyone who has left school early due to suspected COVID-19 may return only after: o A negative COVID-19 test and documentation has been submitted to the school o nurse. A COVID-19 PCR test is the only acceptable test. OR o If a healthcare provider has diagnosed an individual with another health condition, and documentation is provided to the school, you can return to school.

If a person is diagnosed with COVID-19 they may not return to school until a doctor has provided appropriate documentation.

Social and Emotional Well Being For families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, our Personal Counseling team will continue to offer services and outreach to ensure self- care, promote good mental health, and assist with reducing anxiety and stress.

H. TRANSPORTATION DURING PANDEMIC: Ursuline strongly encourages parents, legal guardians or carpooling partners to drop off students to school. We also will continue the bus and van service from two locations, Crestwood and Larchmont train stations, and follow the appropriate DOH guidelines for using the shuttle services.

I.

LEAVING SCHOOL WITHOUT PERMISSION: Students, including seniors, may not leave school grounds. Leaving school without permission from an administrator is [11]

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considered truancy and a serious disciplinary infraction and will be dealt with accordingly. Any student who arrives early to school should not leave campus, even if it is before the start of the school day.

J.

GOING TO CARS: Unless permission is given by an Administrator, students are not permitted to go to their cars during the school day.

K. COLLEGE VISITS: Seniors and juniors will be allowed up to three excused absences for college visits. Parents should email the attendance officer and the Assistant Principal for Student Life. Students are responsible for contacting a subject teacher in advance if an assignment, test, or other is due on the day of a scheduled college visit. A note from the college documenting the visit is encouraged. Students must quarantine and/or follow all procedures to be in compliance with the most current state DOH guidelines. Again, please refer to the last paragraph in section D, Attendance at School page 8.

L. SCHOOL CLOSINGS: Emergency school closings will also be announced on: ♦ School Notify ♦ School website ♦ News 12 network Closing or emergency announcements will be delivered to students’ homes through an automated calling service, and a recorded message will be available on the school’s message system. Closings due to inclement weather are, usually, announced by 6:30 a.m. If it becomes necessary to close school during the day, the same media will carry the message and bus companies will be notified. Please note that remote, distance learning may be offered on snow days, or at the school’s discretion. Teachers will communicate when this may occur. Students are expected to attend and be ready for any scheduled remote learning.

M. WEATHER RELATED SCHOOL DELAY/EARLY DISMISSALS: Notification about weather related delays and/or early dismissals will be relayed in the same manner as school closings (see J above). On those days, students should arrive no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the opening and they should depart no later than 30 minutes after the closing.

N. TEACHER ABSENCE: Students should expect classes to meet even if a teacher is absent. For students who have an “in person” class, if the teacher is not present when a class is scheduled to begin, the students are to remain quietly in the classroom for ten minutes. If the teacher has not arrived after ten minutes, a student from the class should first report to the department office to inquire and, if

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necessary, to the main office for further instructions, while the rest of the students wait quietly in the classroom. No class may dismiss itself.

VI.

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

As we begin the 2020-21 school year, The Ursuline School plans to utilize hybrid instruction, a combination of in person and online remote learning. All academic classes will meet in 45-minute periods 4 days per week, and students will be assigned cohorts to be in School 2 or 3 days per week and attending classes from home 2 days per week. All significant assignments for the upcoming week as well as Zoom invites will be posted for students at the top of the course MOODLE page by 4:00 p.m. Sunday. Ursuline reserves the right to restructure the schedule to add asynchronous learning.

During these remote learning sessions, students will be visible to teachers and other members of the class/group as well as the possibility of being visible to others in a teacher or peers’ household. Please make sure that whenever possible a quiet and separate “work area” for screen time is utilized during these classes. Ursuline is exploring the possibility of providing all remote/distant learners with a standard background with the school logo.

If prevailing health directives prevent us from continuing with the hybrid schedule, we may have to switch to online instruction only. The Ursuline School is prepared to enact the full distance learning model that we successfully used this past spring. Tuition reimbursement/adjustment will not be considered regardless of the modality of instruction.

Recording In order to protect privacy, class/sessions may not be photographed, filmed or recorded in any way including, but not limited to, phone calls, conferences, meetings, and virtual classroom interactions. The only exception is if a teacher/administrator has approved, in advance via email, that the class session may be recorded.

Expectations and Etiquette No one is permitted to be in a virtual class except students and their teacher. If parents, guardians or anyone else is with a student in the Zoom class, the student may be asked to refrain from participating. During all phone and/or technology-based interactions, students/parents are reminded of the importance of adhering to the guidelines outlined in the Student/Parent handbook and the following expectations: A. Treat each other with courtesy, kindness, and respect. It is easy for written text/chat to be misread and misunderstood. If you would not say something to someone in person, do not “say it or chat it “in online class forums. Tip: Read everything out loud before you send it.

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B. It is important that students read emails daily for any updates/changes to the schedule by 5:00 p.m. daily.

C. Students should attend each scheduled remote learning class and log in on time with the necessary materials. During remote learning and Zoom sessions students must have their cameras turned on.

D. Assignments must be submitted on time and as posted on MOODLE. Teachers will deduct points for any late submissions.

E. Students need to be prepared to participate and dress appropriately (no sunglasses, no cell phones, hats, or revealing clothing). Remote/distant learners must wear a school approved top when Zooming into class.

F. A parent must contact/email the Main Office at mainoffice@ursulinenewrochelle.org. by 8:00 a.m. if their daughter will be absent or from ANY scheduled class in person or remote class. The student’s name will be listed on the daily attendance bulletin shared by all teachers.

G. It is extremely important that a parent email the teacher(s) directly and cc the Main Office if they have NOT contacted the Main Office at mainoffice@ursulinenewrochelle.org by 8:00 a.m. regarding any kind of absence.

H. For any remote learning session, it is important that students keep the environment quiet and distraction free so that one can focus on the remote teaching and task at hand. Turn off music, the television, and other technology during individual and group sessions. The use of cell phones is not permitted during the class.

I.

Keep any passwords and invitations to meetings, classes, and events secure. Do not share them with anyone or forward them to others as this is a violation of policy and guidelines for remote learning. Students or parents should email the teacher directly for problems related to logging in to a scheduled class session.

J.

Do not post or share with others any inappropriate materials. Parents/Guardians, at this challenging time especially, it is important that you partner with us and emphasize with your daughter the responsibility and expectation of her appropriate computer usage and acceptable communications. We seek your assistance with the oversight and responsibility for your daughter’s appropriate usage regarding social media and all platforms.

K. Students should be patient with others and with themselves. This is still new to everyone, including teachers, and we are all learning as we go. Reach out to advisors, [14]

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counselors, teachers and email to ask for help! We are all in this together.

Requirements and Expectations During In-Person Instruction Students must comply with the policies and procedures set forth in the “POLICIES & 20202021 COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENT” section set forth above, including all health and safety standards and the Safe Community Pledge.

VII.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS & RELEVANT INFORMATION

A

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS AND COURSE OFFERINGS: are posted on the school’s website under the heading Academics. Parents and students should first contact the advisor, teacher, department chair, college counselor, and finally administration with any academic concerns.

B. ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT: Each student has a faculty advisor. Faculty advisors meet with the student regularly, monitor the student’s academic progress, and guide the student in planning her academic program. Requests for change of advisor should be submitted with registration materials.

C. ACADEMIC PROGRAM: Ordinarily, students must take a minimum of the equivalent of 6 full year classes in addition to the required physical education classes. If a course is offered at Ursuline, a student should ordinarily take that course at Ursuline.

Courses are posted on the website and the curriculum guide on MOODLE in the spring.

D. READING & LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT (RLD) PROGRAM: Parents/guardians of students in the RLD program will be provided with additional details concerning school policies and procedures. Any request for accommodations for a disability 504/IEP should be raised with the Director of RLD. E. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: Using another person’s work without proper attribution, as though it were one’s own, is dishonest and illegal. Whether the work comes from online or print publications, friends, family, a teacher, or another student, students must always cite their sources. The penalty for any kind of cheating or plagiarism violation, typically, is an F on the assignment or test and notification made to honor societies. Subsequent offenses may have additional penalties.

For independent assignments, students should not give, lend, share, or let another student see their work; as, in doing so, they are contributing to cheating. Regardless of their intent, students doing so will be in violation of the school’s rules against cheating and will be subject to penalties.

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For group assignments, students’ work must contain the names of all involved in order to avoid receiving a grade of F and other penalties for academic dishonesty.

F. INTERNET USE: The Ursuline School provides students with access to the Internet and email. Many students use the Internet as part of the curriculum and during free time. Because of the associated dangers, Ursuline has the ability to monitor students’ use of the Internet and has installed blocks to control students’ access to certain sites. Unfortunately, though, the school is not able to simultaneously monitor and supervise every student’s use of the Internet. The school expects that students’ behavior when using the Internet, including web cams and any platform utilized for distance learning both on and off school grounds, will conform to and be in furtherance of the school policies and mission. Ursuline reserves the right to revoke any student’s use of the Internet at school and other penalties could apply.

Please refer to section IX- Disciplinary Infractions specifically under part B. Any student (or parent) who posts material on the Internet that is damaging to a member of the school community, or to the reputation of the school itself, may face serious disciplinary action, up to, and including expulsion from the school community. At no time should a student record/videotape or take pictures in class/session without the permission of the teacher or an administrator.

G. LAPTOP/TABLET POLICY: The Ursuline School has recognized that technology is a critical component in education, and each faculty member has the authority to require work to be computer generated. No student may videotape or take pictures in any class or session without the permission of the teacher or an administrator. Serious consequences for violations of this policy may be implemented. Parents and students at The Ursuline School must read, sign, and comply with the Computer Network Acceptable Use Policy and Responsibility Contract distributed at orientation in September.

H. HOMEWORK POLICY: Students in grades 6 through 8 will be expected to do 2 to 2.5 hours of homework a night and students in grades 9-12 will be expected to do 3 to 3.5 hours of homework a night with more for honors or AP level courses. Any changes to assignments due the next day will be posted on MOODLE by 5:00 p.m. If specific work has not been assigned, students should work on long-range assignments and review.

I.

TESTING CENTER: Students must show a photo ID in order to take a test. If the student fails to bring an ID, she will not be permitted to take the test. The Testing Center hours and days will be posted on the Moodle page. The Testing Center is located in the Library.

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J.

MOODLE: MOODLE is a password-secure Internet site used by Ursuline School faculty to post announcements, grades, and assignments in addition to specific course expectations. In order to remain as eco-conscious as possible, all communication will be electronic, via MOODLE. As a result, students should check MOODLE daily.

Student/teacher email communication will be done via Ursuline email exclusively.

Students are encouraged to check their MOODLE grade books on a regular basis. The on time grading site will updated bi-weekly.

Faculty email addresses are available through MOODLE and through the school’s website. Parents/guardian(s) should feel free to contact faculty members via email at any time during the year. Please allow 48 hours for follow up during the regular school day.

It is the responsibility of the student to keep current with assignments.

K. TUTORING PROGRAM: Although it is recommended that students experiencing difficulty with a particular subject talk to their teachers first, the NJHS peer tutoring program is available to middle school students in need of more formal extra help.

For students in grades 9-12, in school peer tutoring is available through the National Honor Society. Members who are juniors and seniors volunteer their time to tutor students in the school. Any student (or parent) interested in peer tutoring should speak to her current subject teacher and that teacher can make a referral on her behalf.

NHS does not pair students with tutors for high school math. Any high school student in need of math tutoring must contact her current math teacher or the math chairperson.

L. SEMESTER EXAMS: Exams will be given on the day indicated on MOODLE. Only the most serious reason should prevent a student from reporting for a quarterly or semester exam. In such instances, the student’s parent/guardian must call the office at least one hour prior to the start of the exam. A doctor’s note will be required to makeup a semester exam which counts for 15% of the semester grade. No make-up exams will be given without administrative approval.

If school is cancelled on the day of an exam, students will be notified via MOODLE of the rescheduled exam date.

Uniforms are to be worn for all exams and students should be picked up promptly when their exams are concluded.

M. WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE: Students have until JUNE 1 to request changes in their course selections for next year. After June 1, students may not withdraw from registered courses unless extraordinary circumstances exist, such as a serious health problem. No credit is given for a course that is dropped, and the withdrawal is noted on the student’s record.

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N. REPORT CARD GRADES: The report card grades are based on the total performance of the student during the marking period. The subject teacher may evaluate the student on the basis of homework, class participation, written reports and projects, laboratory work, quizzes and tests. Failure to submit coursework or to make up tests, quizzes, or other assessments by a date deemed acceptable by the teacher will result in a grade of zero (0) %. Excessive absences or lateness may result in lower grades. A student who is absent from more than 20% of a particular subject’s classes, in a quarter, may lose credit for that quarter. Any two F's in a course on a report card may result in failure of that course. Semester exams/Final assessments are equivalent to 15% of the semester grade. Report cards will be sent electronically. Parents/students are encouraged to refer to channels of communication (last page of the handbook) to advocate regarding questions or concerns about grades.

O. QUARTERLY / SEMESTER / FINAL UNWEIGHTED AVERAGES: Subject grades will be expressed by letter marks and averages computed in a grade point system, as follows: GRADE A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD F I WP WF

EXPLANATION Superior Excellent

EQUIVALENT 5.0 4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Very Good Good Very Satisfactory Satisfactory Passing Failure Incomplete Withdrew Passing Withdrew Failing

Physical education grades are not included in computing the student’s overall average.

Pass-Fail grades are included in calculating the average only if the grade is an F. If a student receives an incomplete due to extraordinary circumstances that are subsequently excused, the teacher may, with administrative approval, grant the student up to two weeks from the last day of the quarter to complete the missing work for a grade.

P. ACADEMIC HONORS: The Honor Roll is posted on MOODLE two times during the school year based upon the student’s unweighted averages at the completion of the [18]

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first and second semesters. A student must have a B+ average (3.5), have no grades lower than a B-, have no incompletes, and carry the minimum requirement of classes.

If a student falls below this standard, she will lose her academic scholarship(s) and jeopardize her continued placement in Honors-level courses.

Q. THE GLOBAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM: The Ursuline Education Network (UEN) offers The Ursuline Global Scholars designation to graduating seniors who have demonstrated a strong interest in global empathy and service. These students have performed service and exceeded the traditional academic requirements, including a final Capstone project/presentation, setting themselves apart in a curriculum focused on international studies.

R. WEIGHTED GRADE POINT AVERAGES (GPA) are recorded on the student’s transcript. Grades are weighted as follows, according to a proportional formula: GRADE A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD F

1.4 5.0 4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.0

1.5 5.30 4.77 4.24 3.71 3.18 2.65 2.12 1.59 1.06 0.53 0.00

1.6 5.70 5.13 4.56 3.99 3.42 2.85 2.28 1.71 1.14 0.57 0.00

1.8 6.40 5.76 5.12 4.48 3.84 3.20 2.56 1.92 1.28 0.64 0.00

S. CALCULATING GPA: ♦

♦

Particular Year's GPA: All “weighted courses” for that particular year are included. If the weight is 0 or non-existent, the course is not included.

Cumulative GPA: (1) All weighted courses are included; (2) Courses repeated in summer school for credit. Note: the initial, failing grade is still included, regardless of the grade earned in repeating the course.

♦

Not Included in Calculating GPA: College courses; courses taken at other high schools while enrolled at Ursuline; enrichment, online, or summer programs; summer school, except (2) above; grades/credits earned solely as a result of outside examination. This list is not exhaustive.

T. NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED HONOR SOCIETIES: Please refer to MOODLE/website for membership requirements.

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♦

♦

The National Honor Societies: The National Junior Honor Society (NHS) and National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) are the nation’s premier organizations established to recognize outstanding school students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. The National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society are under the auspices of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

The National Art Honor Society: The National Art Honor Society (NAHS) recognizes students who have shown an outstanding ability and interest in art.

Members attain the highest standards in art scholarship, character, and service and bring art education to the attention of the school and community.

Tri-M Music Honor Society: The Tri-M Music Honor Society is a high school and middle school honor society. The society recognizes students for their academic and musical achievements and provides leadership and service opportunities to young musicians.

U. ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE & ATHLETICS: A student participating on an athletic team is expected to maintain her grades. Should she receive any D's or F's, her athletic participation may be suspended until her grades are re-evaluated at the next report card.

V. ACADEMIC PROBATION: Any student who earns 2 F’s or a combination of 4 C’s, D’s and/or F’s in a quarter may be placed on academic probation. The status of these students will be reviewed each quarter. Final registration for the following year may be withheld until a determination is made concerning the student’s return to Ursuline.

W. ACADEMIC DISMISSAL: A student who ends the year with any combination of three D’s / F’s or who has been on probation repeatedly may not be invited to return for the next school year.

X. WITHDRAWALS: Parents/guardians should inform the school in writing as soon as a decision to withdraw to another school has been made. In all cases, tuition and fees must be up to date. Textbooks, library books and ID/print cards must be returned or paid for or charges may be incurred. Copies of the student’s records are sent directly to the receiving school only when all financial obligations are met. In the event that the withdrawal is made after August 1, a fee may be charged to cover administrative costs.

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Y. TRANSCRIPTS: Students should request transcripts at least one week in advance of the due date in order to account for processing time. Official transcripts are never given to the student but are mailed directly to the institution concerned.

VIII.

STUDENT REGULATIONS/INFRACTIONS

A. GENERAL BEHAVIOR: Proper school decorum exists when students use their time and energy in an educationally desirable way and the general atmosphere enables all to work effectively together. School rules are designed for this purpose. Students are expected to be cooperative in classes and respectful to one another, the faculty and staff, and all whom they encounter. Inappropriate behavior such as losing one’s temper, shouting, threatening, or harassing another person, and/or using racial/ethnic/sexual or other demeaning slurs is not accepted. All members of The Ursuline School community are expected to be actively considerate and polite to each other at all times and at all events. Sensitivity toward and good manners with others is a priority. Voices should be kept at a moderate level. All members of the school community are expected to conduct themselves in a manner which respects and is respectful to the setting. Vulgarity, profanity, any insensitive or undignified behavior or any form of harassment toward another is not acceptable and will lead to disciplinary consequences.

The administration and faculty have authority over all students and any visitors who are on campus or present at school sanctioned events held off school grounds.

Ursuline also reserves the right to take disciplinary action against students who are involved in any off-campus incidents of criminal activity and/or any inappropriate and unacceptable noncriminal behavior, that occurs off school grounds, that is deemed detrimental to the safety and/or reputation of The Ursuline School.

B. OFF-CAMPUS BEHAVIOR: The school reserves the right to enforce policies contained herein for any inappropriate action or behavior on/off school grounds. Students are expected to represent the values and mission of The Ursuline School. This applies to any off-campus school sanctioned event; athletic competitions, proms, dances, competitions, school trips, etc. Furthermore, a student involved in non-sanctioned offcampus conduct prejudicial to the reputation of Ursuline and as described above, is subject to severe disciplinary consequences. Additionally, Ursuline reserves the right to take disciplinary action against students who are involved in any off-campus incidents (not school sanctioned) of criminal activity or otherwise inappropriate, unbecoming non-criminal behavior, particularly when such incidents have implications for Ursuline community members’ safety and wellbeing, or reflects poorly on the reputation or operation of Ursuline. Refer to section X(B) Disciplinary Infractions and information.

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C. ID CARDS/PRINT CARDS: Every student is issued a school ID card and an individualized print card, which she is required to wear at all times. ID cards are for attendance, the testing center, the cafeteria, the library, for dances, and for other school activities. There is a $5 replacement fee for lost cards which may be obtained in the front office. Students may “rent” an ID for $3 per day. Print cards may not be rented and the cost to replace them is $5.

D. UNSCHEDULED TIME: When not in class, students should be in a place designated for student use in the school building or on the school grounds. As we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, students must comply with “building” assignments and report to their specific locations to maintain social distancing. Students should not loiter in halls or bathrooms, nor conduct themselves in a disruptive manner. After school, students should be in a supervised club or other activity, or in the library until it closes and, after that, in the cafeteria or front foyer. Students should not linger in the school building or on school grounds. At 5 p.m., any student still in the building or on school grounds and not involved in a special activity/event should report to the front lobby or another area designated for pickup.

E. SCHOOL BUILDING/SCHOOL GROUNDS: Students are not permitted to be in the area along the wall and steps to North Avenue, nor behind the gym or cafeteria. Students are never to use the roofs of the buildings. Seniors may use the senior lounge as well as the designated outside area near the south building and eating outside during their lunch period as long as they do not disrupt classes and maintain social distancing. In warm weather, students may go outside during their unscheduled time but only to the designated areas. Students should not stretch out on the lawn or benches to sunbathe.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, students should maintain social distancing. Students are to remain in uniform until dismissal. ♦

♦

♦

♦

Classrooms have been physically re-arranged to meet all appropriate social distancing requirements. Desks will face in one direction and all students will be seated at least 6 feet apart.

Lockers will NOT be used until further notice, to eliminate the gathering of students getting books and other material.

In order to minimize the use of shared resources, all students taking art courses will be required to obtain their own supplies as needed for their courses.

Teachers will supply lists for them.

Most staircases are designated to move in one direction, either up or down but not both.

FOOD/EATING SPACES: Students will be assigned designated areas to eat their lunch, such as the cafeteria and the new dining space, gym or other assigned area which have both been reconfigured to comply with social distancing requirements. Students may [22]

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not share food or beverages with other individuals, unless students are members of the same household.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students will be permitted to bring food and beverages to the designated outside the eating areas of eating in the designated outdoor area. Students may not have food delivered to the school.

Please note that Ursuline is not a peanut free school but does provide a peanut free table in the cafeteria for students to sit. Students should take responsibility in disposing of any garbage, and they should recycle accordingly. Masks may be removed when eating or drinking.

F. LOCKERS/ELEVATORS: Our task force has recommended that lockers will not be used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ursuline will explore the possibility of using some lockers at a later date. Elevators are restricted to use by faculty and staff. Students who have a heath condition or injury must get an elevator pass from the assistant principal of student life. Documentation will be required.

G. LAPTOPS/TABLETS/ALL ELECTRONIC DEVICES: The student is responsible for her laptop/tablet/electronic devices at all times. Laptops/tablets that are found unattended will be brought to the principal’s office. After the first offense, the device may be kept for an appropriate amount of time or the parent required to come pick up.

H. CELL PHONES / ELECTRONIC DEVICES: Cell phones may not be used by students during the school day. High school students may only use cell phones during their free period and/or lunch and only in their assigned eating area. Cell phones used during the school day outside of the cafeteria will be taken from the student, turned into the office, and detention may be issued. Repeat offenders may be required to have a parent/guardian pick up the phone at the end of the day. The school is not responsible for lost or damaged cell phones and/or other electronic devices. Students may not be out of an assigned class using their phone.

Phones, headphones, and “AirPods” may not be used outside of the cafeteria during school hours except when an “assignment” is explicitly given by a teacher and they are needed. Cell phone usage at school, in the cafeteria especially, must be in compliance with Ursuline’s acceptable use of technology requirement. Furthermore, at no time may a student photograph, videotape or record a class/session without the permission of the teacher or an administrator. Serious disciplinary consequences may be implemented for a recording of another person in school that is used or posted inappropriately. Please see Section IX.

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I.

OTHER STORAGE: Sports bags and musical instruments too large for lockers should be stored in the designated storage areas, in the back of stage area before a class begins.

J.

BELONGINGS/VALUABLES: The school reserves the right to search anything brought onto the property or at school sanctioned events held off campus including but not limited to lockers, purses, backpacks, cell phones, cars and any electronic devices. The Ursuline will not assume responsibility for the loss/disappearance of a student’s property on or off the school grounds. Any found property should be brought to the front office where it will be kept in a secure location. Parents/guardians are urged to reinforce with their daughters the importance of being mindful of their items. Parents/guardians are also encouraged to check their homeowner’s policy for any lost items that may be covered.

K. LOST & FOUND: Found articles and claims for lost property should be brought to a cafeteria monitor. All students are urged to put their names on their belongings. If a student repeatedly has lost items, a $2 fee can be charged to redeem lost articles. At the end of the semester, all unclaimed lost & found articles will be discarded or donated.

L. MESSAGES: Students will be contacted via email with any messages sent from home.

In cases of emergency only, the student will have a message brought to her directly.

M. DELIVERIES: Flowers, balloons and other gifts/items are not permitted to be delivered to school. Due to security/safety COVID-19 concerns, parents are not to bring lunch, uniforms, assignments, items, etc. to school. Please note that lunches should not be delivered as students can charge food to their Mealpay account. Food will always be made available even if a student forgot lunch or if the lunch account has been depleted.

N. TEXTBOOKS & LIBRARY BOOKS: Some textbooks are distributed without charge to students under the provisions of the New York State Textbook Loan. Some New York State school districts purchase and loan books to students each year. Parents within these specific school districts may be required to place book orders with their school district. Books loaned from these districts should be returned at the end of each school year. Parents should be aware of any and all of these NYSTL procedures. Students who receive books directly loaned from Ursuline are responsible for returning these books to Ursuline at the end of the year.

Students must return all books in good condition at the end of the school year; otherwise, the student may be fined.

Students must return library books on time and in good condition or they will incur [24]

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fines. Students must pay for lost books. Students will not receive report cards unless textbooks have been returned (or payment), sports uniforms turned in, and library records are clear. Disregarding library rules and regulations may result in temporary revocation of a student's library privileges.

O. CLASS FIELD TRIPS: Trips for the 2020-21 year are on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Students may not participate in a field trip unless the required permission slip is signed by their parent/guardian and submitted. Both parent(s)/guardians, when applicable, are encouraged to sign the student’s class trip permission slip. At least two (2) weeks prior to a trip, permission slips can be downloaded from The Ursuline School website and/or the Koala Weekly Bulletin. Students are expected to behave appropriately and to follow the instructions of chaperones and expectations and regulations outlined in this handbook and on the trip permission slip. Please refer to Sections IX and X of this handbook. Students will make up any class work or tests they miss while on a trip/retreat. Parent(s)/Guardian(s) accept and assume the responsibility of possible risks for various kinds of trips/physical activities involved when they request that their daughter be allowed to participate on a specific trip.

P. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Co-curricular activities may be altered or cancelled during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participation in all school activities including field trips, retreats, special assemblies, dances, proms, sports, and other school events, is a privilege, not a right. Students not in good standing (financial, attendance, discipline, etc.) or not present for at least 50% of the scheduled classes or absent altogether may not be eligible to participate in any extra-curricular activity, trip, game, etc. If a student is not in school, she may not participate or attend a school sponsored event/game/activity. Any early dismissal request must be approved by the Assistant Principal for Student Life or a member of the administration and may also require teacher verification for class(es) and assignment(s) missed. Only an administrator may, in extraordinary circumstances, waive this eligibility for participation.

Q. STUDENT ELECTIONS: Offices that are elected include Student Government President(s) and Class President(s). The Student Government Election is held in the spring, and students in grades 6-11 vote. The Class President Election is in the spring for rising 12. The election for the other grade level class presidents takes place in the 1st quarter. Eligibility requirements are posted on MOODLE. R. CLUBS AND CO-CURRICULAR ORGANIZATIONS: Ursuline offers a wide variety of clubs and different organizations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, clubs or cocurriculars may be altered or cancelled. These clubs are student led and have a faculty moderator. Each September, students may propose a new club. The club organization proposal should be new club ideas and not one that is similar to a club already offered.

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The proposal for a new club with goals, objectives and events should be submitted to the Assistant Principal for Student Life with a description of the proposal for the club along with meeting times and with the name of a faculty moderator who has agreed to possibly moderate the club.

S. CARS: Campus parking spaces are not guaranteed to any student, but they will be offered to seniors by lottery. These students may park in designated areas of the school parking lot, provided they have been selected via the lottery, display the school parking decal. Students are not permitted to park in the circle or in the area reserved for faculty and staff at any time during the school day. Cars may never be parked in the Province Center driveway. If a parking space is left vacant more than it is occupied, the student may forfeit the space. Again, spaces for seniors via the lottery are limited and not guaranteed.

Seniors who are awarded a parking spot, via the lottery, may “loan�, without charge, their parking spot to a junior on a day(s) when they do not need the parking spot.

Juniors should fill out the parking information form provided on the table outside the cafeteria any time a senior parking spot is loaned.

Those who park off school grounds are reminded of the respect they owe the property and rights of others and that the reputation of the school is at stake when they abuse these. Students may not go to their cars during the school day, unless it is an emergency, and only if accompanied by a teacher/staff member with the permission of an administrator.

T. DRIVING ON CAMPUS: There will be no parking, stopping or waiting anywhere in front of the school between 2 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. This includes the fire lane along the front circle and back guardrail (where buses park). Accommodations will be made for students using crutches or wheelchairs. Parents/guardians and students are urged to drive with extreme caution at all times on the campus. Students may be dropped off and picked up in the circle in front of the school after 3:15 p.m. Please note, school buses have priority in using the circle at all times. Private cars add to the potential dangers and delays. Parents/guardians should wait until 3:15 p.m. before entering the circle for afternoon pick-up.

Fire regulations prohibit parking in the fire lanes at any time. Similarly, handicapped spaces should only be used by those with handicapped authorization. Drivers should be courteous and careful and not impede the departure of other cars in the parking lot.

U. UNIFORMS: Proper, acceptable clothing, neatness, and cleanliness are essential to creating and maintaining the desired school atmosphere. It is important that each student take individual responsibility for her appearance. The uniform also serves to [26]

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promote self-respect and pride in being identifiable as an Ursuline student. Students are to be in the correct and appropriate school uniform from the time they arrive on campus until they leave at the end of the day. Exceptions are allowed only for school sponsored club and athletic activities that have been cleared ahead of time by an administrator.

Special Note Regarding Uniforms: ♦ Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students must wear masks once they arrive on campus. Masks may not have any messages, emblems or logos unless provided by Ursuline. Students must wear masks at all times, unless eating or drinking. ♦ All Students must have an Ursuline NAVY sweater required for monthly school liturgies/special occasions in the Fall/Spring. ♦ Students should also have an Ursuline sweater in their class color to wear at liturgy and special occasions in full dress uniform. (The Administration will announce/post when any grade level sweaters may be substituted.) ♦ Skirt/skort may not be more than three (3) inches above the knee.

Required Items Masks/approved face coverings: Masks may not have any messages, emblems, logos other than those provided by The Ursuline School.

Brown plaid kilt Blue corded skirt White or navy collared polo shirt Navy Ursuline monogrammed sweater – All students will need a navy sweater with the Fall/Spring Dress Uniform Ursuline monogrammed sweater in class level color 6-7-8th, brown; 9th burgundy; 10th navy; 11th yellow; 12th green Navy, white, or black opaque tights, footless tights or ankle length leggings, solid ankle crew socks.

Uniform Options: Flynn O’Hara uniform skort, khaki or navy Flynn O’Hara uniform pants, khaki or navy Long sleeved Ursuline polo, navy or white Approved Ursuline navy fleece, pullover or as of Sept. 2018, zipper up WITH Ursuline logo Turtleneck, navy or white (winter uniform only) Ursuline crewneck sweatshirt, navy or white – Seniors may wear with winter and spring uniform. Grades 6-11 may wear navy blue and white crew sweatshirt with the spring uniform only.

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Fall/Spring Standard/Regular Uniform: Worn Fall: September Orientation to the Last school day before October Ring Day Spring: After Easter vacation - last day of final exams Blue corded skirt Short sleeved polo, navy or white, with Ursuline monogram or solid color. No other shirts with logos should be worn.

Solid ankle or crew socks white, navy, black or gray Solid footless tights or ankle-length opaque white, navy, or black leggings acceptable in cool weather and as announced by administration. No athletic tights/legwear Sneakers Spring Uniform Options: Flynn O’Hara skort, khaki or navy Approved Ursuline crewneck sweatshirt, white or navy Approved Ursuline fleece, navy Ursuline V-neck sweater, navy. (*Please note that it must be worn with Spring/Fall Dress uniform by all grade levels.)

Only Seniors may wear their Senior Class Sweatshirt.

During October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness month, students may wear the Ursuline white/pink sweatshirt.

Fall/Spring DRESS Uniform: Collared polo or button-down shirt, white Ursuline navy sweater, required to be worn by all grade levels Blue corded skirt Opaque hosiery/tights, white or navy (no leggings or footless tights) Shoes must be worn. (Sneakers, boots, slippers, and moccasins are not permitted.)

Winter Standard/Regular Uniform: Worn from Ring Day to Easter Vacation Brown plaid kilt Navy or white collared polo shirt or turtleneck Ursuline polo shirt, navy or white – no emblems from other schools/stores Any color Ursuline monogrammed sweater Administration may waive the sweater on warm days Solid footless tights, ankle-length leggings or opaque tights, navy, black or white No athletic tights/legwear Sneakers

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Winter Uniform Options: Flynn O’Hara skort, khaki or navy Approved Ursuline navy fleece, pullover or as of Sept. 2018, zipper up WITH Ursuline logo Cream Ursuline crew neck sweater Only Seniors may wear their Senior Sweatshirt or the Ursuline crewneck sweatshirts Winter DRESS Uniform: Brown wool plaid kilt Collared navy or white polo or white long sleeve button down shirt Grade level sweater color unless another color sweater is specified/approved by administration Opaque tights, white, navy, brown or black Flat shoes must be worn. (Sneakers, boots, slippers, and moccasins are not permitted.)

Items NOT permitted with the Uniform: ♦ Leggings that are too short or to mid-calf – must be worn to the ankle ♦ Athletic tights or legwear ♦ Leg warmers ♦ Ursuline athletic sweatshirts or class attire unless approved by administration ♦ Club, team sweatshirts or fleeces, etc. unless there is Administration approval ahead of time ♦ Sweatshirts, shirts or fleeces with logos or other schools’ names on them ♦ Moccasins/boots/slippers, etc. ♦ Any headgear not deemed appropriate – hats, scarves, bandanas, etc.

Uniform Expectations and Infractions: ♦ No part of the uniform is to be decorated, mutilated or worn in an inappropriate way. ♦ Blouses and shirts may not be layered and should not be ripped or altered, especially Ursuline wear. ♦ Any other apparel a student wears may not be visible, including t-shirts. ♦ Hats, scarves and sunglasses may not be worn inside the building except during Spirit Week/Days. No head gear at any other time. ♦ Excessive make-up and jewelry, tattoos, and extreme hair styles are inappropriate.

Students may be asked to remove body jewelry considered to present a health risk or to be distracting. ♦ The uniform is to be worn all day, with the exception of physical education classes.

Students should change for physical education class and put on the school uniform at the end of class. ♦ Teachers may use their discretion about confiscating non-uniform apparel.

Teachers should issue detention if a student is not in uniform or not compliant with the non-uniform day dress code.

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A student who is out of uniform or her skirt is not at an inappropriate length may receive a detention and/or be requested to purchase a uniform item to wear.

If an injury, documented by the student’s physician, precludes her wearing any part of the uniform or special footwear, a note must be presented to the Assistant Principal for Student Life. Any violation of these policies may result in a detention or other action. Students may borrow ($5)/purchase ($10) items from the uniform closet with permission from the Assistant Principal for Student Life.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM ♦ Any Ursuline t-shirt from the bookstore or any Ursuline team t-shirt ♦ Solid navy or black shorts that are an appropriate length – no more than 3 inches above the knee (no Sofi shorts and NO SPANDEX) ♦ Sneakers with laces (no exceptions) V. DRESS-DOWN DAYS: On days when students have permission to be out of uniform, the following Dress Code applies: ♦ Students may not “mix” and wear both the Ursuline uniform and dress down – one or the other should be worn for dress down days. ♦ Shorts no higher than 3 inches above the knee. No boxer/track/running style shorts allowed unless waived by administration. ♦ Clean jeans (no excessive holes, rips, patches, etc.) ♦ Baggy, clean sweatpants (no holes, rips, patches, etc.) ♦ No pajamas or pajama-like clothing unless cleared by administration ♦ Sweatshirts (clean, uncut, unripped--all hems intact) ♦ No spandex, lycra, skin-tight garments ♦ No halters, tank tops, bare midriffs, etc. ♦ Sneakers or flat shoes may be worn ♦ Slippers should not be worn for safety reasons. Footwear with backs is advised. ♦ Seniors will have some Fridays as “dress down” days as a senior privilege. The senior class presidents and administration will decide on these days and give notice.

All clothes should be neat, clean and in good taste. This is your "place of business."

Dress code for field trips will be determined by the administration, faculty, or lead chaperone.

IX. BEHAVIOR / SAFETY A. DANCES: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, dances have been postponed until further notice.

When dances are held, they are school-sponsored activities and all applicable school regulations, including dress code, are in effect. Dress code “themes” for dances will be [30]

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announced at time of ticket sales. Students not dressed appropriately may be given clothing to wear or asked to leave the dance via a parent pick-up. Inappropriate conduct by a student or her guest, including dancing that simulates sexual activity or suggestive direct physical conduct, the use of foul language, or disrespect towards chaperones, will result in the student and her guest being asked to leave after her/his parents/guardians are contacted. (See also SMOKING; VAPING; DRUGS, ALCOHOL) Students asked to leave will not be permitted to return and may face additional discipline.

Dances for grades 9-12: Hours are usually from 7:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. Doors close at 8:15 p.m. Students/guests may not leave the dance before 10 p.m. Once a person leaves, s/he may not reenter. Any Ursuline student may purchase a ticket in advance or at the door. An Ursuline student may also purchase a ticket in advance for a male or female guest from another school. The Ursuline student is responsible for the behavior of that guest. Any student attending a Catholic high school may purchase a ticket the night of the dance providing they show a valid Catholic high school ID card.

Dances for grades 7-8: Hours are usually from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Doors close at 7:30 p.m. No one may leave the dance before 9 p.m. unless s/he is picked up by a parents/guardian or authorized adult. An Ursuline student may purchase ticket in advance or at the door. She may also purchase a ticket in advance for a guest(s) and is responsible for that guest(s). Students from area Catholic schools may purchase their tickets at the door providing they have identification.

B. ATHLETICS: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Athletics may be altered or cancelled.

Families are expected to abide by the Athletes’ Code of Conduct and the regulations outlined in the Athletic Handbook. This handbook can be found on the school webpage under Athletics. A contract must be signed by the student athlete and parent/guardian for each sport season that an athlete participates.

C. SMOKING/VAPING: Because tobacco/vaping use presents a major health hazard for users and non-users alike and to comply with State and Federal law, The Ursuline School building and grounds are designated tobacco and vape free. The school attempts, through special programs, to make students aware of the dangers associated with smoking and vaping. Students, parents, and guests are not permitted to smoke/vape within the school building/event or anywhere on school grounds before, during, or after school. Students smoking/vaping in or around the school campus may be subject to serious disciplinary consequences.

D. DRUGS, ALCOHOL: Any student who is found to be under the influence, in possession (self, locker, car, etc.), or involved in the distribution of any illegal drug or alcohol, or whose appearance or behavior leads school personnel to reasonably suspect the same, will be [31]

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Brought to the attention of the administration and possibly tested (breathalyzer) Brought to the attention of the student’s parents/guardians Subject to serious disciplinary consequences including but not limited to probation, suspension and/or dismissal either from an organization, team, club, and/or The Ursuline School. Please refer to Section X(B) under Serious Disciplinary Infractions.

Referred to a professional counselor for mandated testing and/or treatment if indicated.

In appropriate cases, a student’s conduct may be brought to the attention of the proper law enforcement officials.

Note: Students will also be held accountable for any of their guests’ violations of these rules (e.g., at school sponsored events).

The student may seek confidential and professional help for these or any other problems.

X. DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS A. DETENTION: Students who violate school regulations may be required to serve detention. ♦ Detention notice will be mailed home. ♦ A one hour supervised detention will be required if a student receives detention.

This one-hour detention will be held on Wednesday morning from 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. or on Wednesday afternoon from 3 p.m.-4 p.m. The Assistant Principal of Student Life will indicate the detention on the notice that is mailed home. If other arrangements/dates are needed in order to serve the detention, please email the Assistant Principal of Student Life. ♦ On occasion, a day of offense may lead to a detention required to be served that day as determined by the Assistant Principal for Student Life. ♦ Students are not allowed to do homework and may be required to assist the Assistant Principal for Student Life during detention and, depending on the violation, may be required to complete a written assignment. ♦ If a student does not serve her detention by the date listed on the detention form, she may be required to serve an additional detention or a Saturday detention. ♦ Lack of cooperation, or the accumulation of an excessive number of detentions, may lead to in-school suspension or other penalties. ♦ Teachers are not required to give a warning before a detention is issued. ♦ The first contact from a student/parent inquiring about a detention notice should be made first with the individual who issued the detention. *Please note that when a student receives detention, a copy of the detention will, in most cases, be mailed home and a copy will be given to the advisor. Sometimes “informal” detentions for minor infractions are issued to the student but not mailed home.

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B. SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS: A serious disciplinary infraction or misconduct on or off school property includes, but is not limited to: ♦

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XI.

Threatening, inflammatory remarks or any abusive behavior directed to any member of Ursuline Any racial, ethnic epithets or derogatory jokes or comments Any violation of the harassment, bullying/cyberbullying and discrimination policies outlined in Sections X(B), XI and XII of this handbook Any incident of sexual misconduct, sexual discrimination including sexual harassment under Title IX Chronic and incorrigible misbehavior or disrespect Persistent or serious defiance of authority Any posting not in line with the mission and values of Ursuline Submitting a false report or providing misleading information about another individual Egregious or a pattern of harassment/bullying/cyberbullying Any action that could be construed as a threat of force or violence Any use of force or violence Any act of theft or vandalism of school Any misconduct that necessitates the presence of law enforcement Any use/possession of drugs and/or alcohol Any action or misconduct that jeopardizes the health and safety of our school building/community including any noncompliance with the Safe Community Pledge related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

POLICY AND PROCEDURES REGARDING INCIDENTS OF HARASSMENT, BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING, DISCRIMINATION, DISCRIMINATORY HARASSMENT

Ursuline reserves the right to address any: harassment, bullying/cyberbullying, discrimination and discriminatory harassment. Members of the Ursuline community may not engage in harassment and other forms of unacceptable conduct, which, in purpose or effect, creates such an environment or interfere with another’s experience at school.

"Harassment" and "bullying" mean the creation of a hostile environment by conduct or by threats, intimidation or abuse, including cyberbullying,* that (a) has or would have the effect of unreasonably and substantially interfering with a student's educational performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional or physical well-being; or (b) reasonably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause a student to fear for his or her physical safety; or (c) reasonably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause physical injury or emotional harm to a student; or (d) occurs off school property and creates or would foreseeably create a risk of substantial disruption within the school environment, [33]

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where it is foreseeable that the conduct, threats, intimidation or abuse might reach school property. Acts of harassment and bullying shall include, but not be limited to, those acts based on a person's actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation or sex. For the purposes of this definition the term "threats, intimidation or abuse" shall include verbal and non-verbal actions. *Cyberbullying includes all behaviors described above where harassment or bullying occurs through any form of electronic communication. Cyberbullying can be a single or series of related incidences that take place on or off school property using digital devices, online social media, forums, or gaming. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting or sharing negative, harmful, false, discriminative, racists content about someone. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else to cause embarrassment or humiliation. Cyberbullying creates an environment that interferes with a student’s education, well-being or fear for safety. In addition, cyberbullying is detrimental as: ♦ Targets may not know who the bully is or why they are being targeted. ♦ Perpetrators can maintain anonymity, which can foster a loss of inhibition or sense of invincibility. ♦ Cyberbullying can often be viewed by strangers as well as acquaintances. ♦ Cyberbullying can be done from a physically distant location. ♦ Cyberbullying can reach an unlimited audience versus traditional bullying incidents that are witnessed by a limited number of people.

XII.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY ARCHDIOCESE OF NEW YORK

Roman Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New York do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status or citizenship in the administration of their educational, personnel, admissions, financial aid, athletic and other school-administrated programs.

This policy does not preclude the existence of single sex schools, nor does it conflict with the priority given to Catholics for admission as students. This policy also does not preclude the ability of schools within he Archdiocese of New York to undertake and/or enforce appropriate actions with respect to applicants or students who teach or advocate on school property or at school functions any practices or doctrines which are inconsistent with the religious tenets of the Catholic faith.

The Ursuline School’s commitment to our mission and community is not only to assemble a diverse population of students and adults, but to teach the skills, model the behaviors, provide the resources, and cultivate an environment of equity and inclusion that affirm all perspectives and backgrounds within our community. Only when we engage our [34]

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differences will we find a greater understanding of the world and how we can serve it. Our ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion work aims to give every member of our community a voice.

Ursuline adheres to non-discrimination and anti-harassment federal laws. These laws include: (1) Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and its implementing regulations; (2) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; and (3) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Additionally, please note that Ursuline is subject to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).

Discrimination occurs when an individual or group is excluded from participation in or denied the benefits of any Ursuline program or activity. It is adverse treatment of any individual based on the individual’s actual or perceived membership in a protected class or category of persons to whom they belong, rather than on the basis of their individual merit. If the acts of a member of the Ursuline community deny, deprive, or limit the educational or employment access, benefits, and/or opportunities of an individual on the basis of that individual’s actual or perceived membership in a protected class, that member of the Ursuline community is in violation of this handbook. Members of the Ursuline community have a responsibility to maintain an environment that is free from all forms of harassment, bullying/cyberbullying and discrimination.

Discriminatory harassment is unwelcome verbal or physical conduct toward, or differential treatment of, an individual because of their membership or perceived membership in any legally protected class. Ursuline does not tolerate any discriminatory harassment of any student, employee, visitor or guest. Some examples of harassment include, but are not limited to: ♦ Epithets, derogatory comments, slurs or name-calling, racial or ethnic slurs, threats, offensive jokes. ♦ Offensive or degrading remarks, verbal abuse, or other hostile behavior such as insulting, teasing, mocking, degrading, or ridiculing another person or group based on a protected class. ♦ Hostile actions taken against an individual because of a protected characteristic, such as: o Interfering with, destroying or damaging a person’s work, or otherwise interfering with the individual. o Sabotaging an individual’s work. o Bullying, yelling, name calling. ♦ Derogatory or offensive posters, cartoons or drawings, displaying offensive pictures, writings, symbols or objects based on a protected class. ♦ Making negative comments about an individual’s personal religious beliefs or trying to convert them to a certain religious ideology. ♦ Offensively talking about negative racial, ethnic, or religious stereotypes.

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Making derogatory age-related comments.

Making an offensive reference to an individual's mental or physical disability.

Assault or other inappropriate physical contact.

Any action, comment or post that makes a student feel unwelcome or unsafe.

Zero Tolerance: Zero tolerance means that students who discriminate, harass, or bully others will be disciplined, NOT that they are going to always be expelled. Age and past disciplinary incidences are important. School is a place to learn and we often learn from making mistakes after being afforded opportunities to correct mistakes.

Incidents of meanness that are sometimes age appropriate but still not acceptable may be referred to the Director of Personal Development/conflict resolution, peer mediation, and/or the Counseling Department. Students who are made aware that their own behavior is mean or inappropriate must refrain from engaging in such behavior or face disciplinary consequences.

XIII.

REPORTING SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS/PROCEDURES AND CONSEQUENCES

Members of the Ursuline community should report any serious disciplinary infraction including but not limited to discrimination, discriminatory harassment and/or harassment, bullying, cyberbullying or any violation listed in Section X B should be reported to any of the following school officials: ♦ Teacher ♦ Coach ♦ Advisor ♦ Department chairperson ♦ Member of the counseling department ♦ RLD/504 coordinator ♦ Any member of the administration Any school employee who is notified about a serious disciplinary infraction, including discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or harassment, bullying or cyberbullying must contact the Assistant Principal for Student Life , in writing, who will then notify members of the Administration accordingly. 2 2

All Ursuline employees who witness or receive an oral or written report of such conduct must promptly notify the principal, or

their designee not later than 1 school day after such employee witness or receives a report of discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or harassment/bullying/cyberbullying, and file a written report with the principal or their designee not later than 2 school days after making such oral report.

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Procedures for Addressing Incidents Any reported incident will be promptly investigated by a member of the Designated Team.

This team consists of administration and a representative from the counseling department.

The member of the Designated Team who will investigate an incident will be deemed the “Investigator”. The Investigator will gather all of the information related to the alleged incident. If there is a serious disruption to the school day due to an “alleged” incident, immediate dismissal of any student(s) involved could be implemented. A parent/guardian will be contacted to come to take the student home. This takes place so that the serious allegations can be investigated.

It is important for the Investigator to gather all information. The gathering of information/interviews should be prompt, discreet, thorough and serious in manner. This may include evidence of online comments, texts, posts, etc. in addition to conversations and follow up with any individual alleged to be involved. If the Investigator has found the incident reported to be credible, all of the information and names of those involved will be reported to members of the Designated Team. They will determine the appropriate next steps and action(s). Parents of the students involved will be notified. As applicable, it is important that steps are taken to ensure the emotional, physical and overall, well-being of any targeted victim.

Consequences of Serious Disciplinary Infractions: After following the procedures stated above, the Designated Team will then adjudicate and impose but not limited to, any of the following: ♦ Detention ♦ Disciplinary probation ♦ Removal/forfeiture from: societies, leadership programs, teams, special events, school trips, prom, etc. ♦ In school suspension ♦ At home suspension ♦ Restorative justice – important to address the needs of the victim ♦ Expulsion The decision adjudicated by the Designated Team is final. The primary intent of these consequences is focused on creating and sustaining an empathetic and safe educational environment. The Ursuline School recognizes the importance of responding to incidents.

Responses to any violation of the policy will vary in method and severity based on the age of the student(s) offender(s) and the past history of student(s) involved.

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Parental Misconduct Parental behavior that could lead to a student/parent being suspended or expelled includes, but is not limited to, the following: ♦ Failure to pay/habitual lateness in tuition payments ♦ Failure to complete required forms including the child’s immunization records ♦ Any threatening, verbally abusive, or inappropriate behavior directed towards any member of The Ursuline School community.

XIV.

PREVENTATIVE EDUCATIONAL STRATEGIES TO FOSTER A CULTURE OF EMPATHY

In light of its Mission, Philosophy and Goals, The Ursuline School strives to foster, create and nurture a safe educational environment and culture of Christian empathy among the Ursuline community. ♦

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Student/Parent Handbooks are distributed each school year which outline our mission, philosophy, goals and acceptable policies.

Personal Development classes are required for all middle school students. This program emphasizes inclusion and respect among all school members. Additionally, students learn how to improve communication and incorporate successful strategies related to conflict resolution, relational aggression and establishing appropriate boundaries.

School counselors and faculty advisors meet formally and informally with students.

This allows for ongoing opportunities to address policy and areas of concern that may arise during the year.

An off-site orientation for all 9th grade students is held in September in addition to scheduled Peer Leadership sessions throughout the year.

Peer Mediators meet regularly with the middle school students to provide mentoring and support for building healthy and positive relationships.

There is a Personal Development Day for all 10th grade students.

School wide and/or grade level educational programs regarding antibias, digital citizenship, racism, etc.

Peer Mediation, Peer Leadership and Intent vs. Impact Programs encourage and solicit students to continue to reinforce a culture of inclusion and respect.

Grade level discussions are conducted that identify and determine student concerns.

Clubs/Organizations (“Friends of Rachel,” “Students Against Destructive Decisions” and “Teen Angels”) include programs dedicated to raising awareness and intervention activities that promote a culture of respect and empathy.

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Student/Parent Athletic Handbooks and Codes of Behavior outline expectations and appropriate behaviors.

Visible expectations that promote a safe and inclusive environment are evident around the school building. Examples will include postings of expected classroom behavior that promote inclusion, respect and acceptance and visuals that promote the expectation for a positive, safe and friendly environment.

Professional Development for faculty and staff addresses the importance of inclusion, respect and monitoring student behavior toward one another. Prior to each sport season, coaches attend a meeting outlining mission, philosophy and The Ursuline School expectations and code of conduct for all involved.

The school periodically hosts Student and Parent Assemblies.

Intentional placement of staff in the cafeteria assists with the supervision, monitoring and support of an inclusive and safe environment.

Cameras in certain hallways monitor and also discourage inappropriate/unsafe behavior.

XV.

BUILDING SAFETY

A. SECURITY: All outside doors are locked. For reasons of security, no member of the school community should open doors for outsiders.

B. VISITORS: All visitors during school hours must sign in at the main office to be issued a pass identifying them as such. No visitors are permitted on the school grounds, in the building or in classes without prior authorization from the administration.

Anyone encountering a visitor who is not wearing a visitor’s pass should direct the visitor to the office. Upon leaving, all visitors must sign out at the main office.

FIRE & EMERGENCY DRILLS: ♦ Fire Drill ♦ Evacuations on-site and off-site ♦ Lockdown ♦ Lockout ♦ Safe Shelter “In House” All of the emergency procedures will be reviewed with the students and the procedures are posted in every classroom and are around the building. During the COVID -19 pandemic, social distancing will be maintained whenever applicable.

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XVI.

COUNSELING SERVICES

All new students, including transfer students, will be interviewed by a counselor within their first semester of enrollment.

The Counseling Department is available to collaborate with faculty, administration and families to provide short-term, individual and group counseling for students. Students will be issued passes for counseling appointments.

XVII. SCHOOL NURSE/HEALTH & INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS A. SCHOOL NURSE: The City of New Rochelle provides Ursuline with the services of a registered nurse from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily unless adjusted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

B. PHYSICAL & DENTAL EXAMINATIONS: The following are required by New York State law: ♦ Physical examinations are required for all new students and (rising) 6th, 7th, 9th, and 11th graders. Health forms, completed and signed by a physician, must be returned to the school Health Office by orientation, before classes begin, in the first week of September. ♦ All immunizations must be up to date and verified. ♦ Any student not returning the completed health form may be examined by a school physician before being allowed to attend classes. ♦ Annual health screenings by the Health Office are required for all students.

According to New York State Education Department guidelines, vision tests, hearing tests, scoliosis screening and updating of mandated physicals and immunizations should be on-going, for all students, throughout the school year. ♦ In order to keep students' health records updated, parents/guardians should notify the Health Office of any accident, hospitalization or illness occurring during the school year. ♦ All students trying out for sports teams must submit an Athletic Health History Form "Appendix A," and an updated annual physical form completed and signed by the physician and a parent/guardian. Students participating in sports for more than one season should have a follow-up sports interview with the nurse after the original physical, and may have to have their parents/guardians complete an Interval Health History Form to ensure that no new injuries or illnesses have occurred. ♦ Screenings and sports physicals with the school doctor take place as follows: o Fall sports - May, June, and a day in September o Winter sports - late October / early November o Spring sports - February

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C. INSURANCE: The school carries supplemental accident insurance for students. It is imperative that any accident be reported, immediately, to the school nurse in order to ensure coverage. For any updates, questions or concerns, please contact the school nurse.

Note: Parents/guardians of students who participate in sports must carry their own medical insurance coverage in addition to the school's accident insurance.

XVIII. TUITION & TUITION SCHEDULES Tuition is the primary income of The Ursuline School. Without regular and consistent payment, the school is unable to fulfill its obligations and continue to provide quality education. *Refer to Section VI Academic Affairs During COVID-19 Pandemic regarding non tuition reimbursement/adjustment.

No student will be admitted to class in September unless all previous accounts are paid in full. Additionally, the school may withhold report cards and registration materials for the following year if payments are not current. A late fee of $100 will be added to any balances not paid by April 1st. Unpaid balances may result in the student not being permitted to participate in certain school activities. For seniors, prom tickets, diplomas, final report cards and transcripts as well as parking privileges will be held and released only when balances are paid in full.

For the monthly payment option, we accept Visa or MasterCard credit cards only, checks or automatic withdrawals from a checking account (ACH). A $25.00 fee will be charged for a check returned, for any reason, from a bank to the school. Should checks be returned twice, only cash, credit card, or money order will be accepted for future payments.

The tuition, fees and books for the 2020-21 school year is $19,725.00 for grades 6 through 11. Graduation fee and tuition for grade 12 is $20,275.00. In the spring, a deposit will be due for the next school year.

In mid-June, bills are sent from the Finance Office. This bill will reflect any payments made to date, as well as any scholarships or grants that the student will be receiving through The Ursuline School. If you have any questions concerning tuition payments, please call the Finance Office at (914) 636-2405.

Monthly invoices, reflecting the minimum amount due will be sent prior to the due dates of July 1st through April 1st. Additional payments will be applied to future invoices.

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XIX.

CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION

From time to time, parents may have questions, concerns or suggestion regarding their student’s academic and extracurricular activities at school. In the interest of obtaining resolutions for these matters in a timely fashion, we have developed the channels of communication we encourage you to follow. Except for emergencies, we ask that your please allow 48 hours during regular school days for follow-up. You may access a complete list of faculty and staff members’ names, voicemail extensions. And email addresses via our website. Your daughter’s faculty advisor can be the first point of contact who will refer, as necessary, the appropriate support parties to take appropriate action.

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For course, course placement, teaching, or grade related matters: Contact the student’s teacher, as well as the student’s faculty advisor followed by ♦ the Department Head followed by ♦ the Assistant Principal for Academics followed by ♦ the Principal For other academic performance student matters, such as scheduling: Contact the student’s academic and college counselor followed by ♦ the Director of Academic Guidance followed by ♦ the Assistant Principal for Academics followed by ♦ the Principal For disciplinary infraction regarding Detention Contact the teacher who issued the detention followed by the Assistant Principal for Student Life followed by the Principal For SERIOUS disciplinary matters: Contact the Assistant for Student Life followed by ♦ the Principal For sports-related matters: Contact the coach followed by ♦ the Director of Athletics & Asst. Director of Athletics followed by ♦ the Assistant Principal for Student Life followed by the Principal For extracurricular matters: Contact the faculty/club moderator followed by ♦ the Assistant Principal for Student Life followed by ♦ the Principal followed by ♦ the President For health matters: Contact the school nurse who will advise administration, as necessary. It is also recommended that the student’s faculty advisor be notified.

For student records or transcript matters: Contact the Registrar

For business or financial matters: Contact the business office followed by ♦ the CFO followed by ♦ the President For admissions matters: Contact the Director of Admissions followed by ♦ the Principal For general, facility, operational matters: Contact the Main Office who will forward concerns to: ♦ Facility Manager followed by ♦ The CFO For attendance matters: Contact the Attendance Officer at mainoffice@ursulinenewrochelle.org for extenuating circumstances- prolonged absences ♦ The Assistant Principal for Student Life For concussion matters: Contact with ALL of the following: ♦ School Nurse ♦ Assistant Principal for Academics ♦ Assistant Athletic Director ♦ Director of Athletics For issues of stress in high school: Contact the Counseling Department For issues relating to 6-7-8 transitions to school or issues with friends: Contact the Director of Personal Development To add another email to the E-Newsletter Distribution: Contact the Director of Communications To update your contact information: Contact the Registrar For concerns/questions regarding COVID-19: Contact the School Nurse/COVID-19 Safety Coordinator TBD For issues regarding Title IX: Contact the Title IX Coordinator TBD For issues regarding 504/IEP: Contact the Chairperson of RLD [42]