2023-24 Student Handbook

This 2023-2024 Student/Parent Handbook is designed to provide you with information on matters that may arise during your time at Ursuline. 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. Any updates and/or edits will be communicated via email to students and parents. Students and parents are deemed to have read and understood this handbook.

The Ursuline School will follow all health and emergency guidelines and protocols outlined on the federal, state or local levels. If masks are ever required all school members will have to comply. No messaging or emblems other than Ursuline related words/symbols are permitted on any face masks.

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

This handbook serves as an official source of school policies and requirements. It is especially important that parents read and become familiar with the material contained within this handbook to support their daughters’ efforts at Ursuline. Please note that, the President/Principal may waive any rule in this handbook and reserves the right to amend the handbook at any time. Parents and students will be given prompt notice of any such updates. Any changes will be communicated via email to the school community.

ThesignedStudent-ParentHandbooksignaturesheetfortheschoolyear2023-24atteststo anunderstandingofandcompliancewiththerulesandregulationsofTheUrsuline School.

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

Guided by our Catholic faith and the spirit of St. Angela Merici, The Ursuline School educates, inspires and empowers young women to become wise, active, globally-minded leaders by cultivating lifelong learning, spiritual growth, integrity, respect for all and dedication to 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.

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 ofJesus Christ, the school community tries to develop a sense of personal worth and self-discipline in each student, enabling her to become effective ethical decision-making members of today's

complex society. Each student is encouraged to discover and realize her many talents and gifts that should be exercised with 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. CORE VALUES OF THE URSULINE SCHOOL

The Ursuline School strives to foster a community emphasizing these Core Values:

 Academic Excellence

 Faith & Spiritual Development

 Development of the Whole Person

 Respect for All

 Serviam and Social Justice

 Global Citizenship

V. 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 her 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 characterizedby 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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VI. ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE INFORMATION

The official start of the regular school day is 8 a.m., except on Wednesdays, which is 9:30 a.m. The school day ends at 3 p.m. unless a student has a PM class.

On occasion, (the date announced, posted, and emailed ahead of time) the 9:30 a.m. start of day, on a Wednesday, may change. This change in time may be for grade level(s) meetings or presentations that need to be held on a Wednesday (8:15 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.) before the start of classes. Students/parents are responsible for reading and staying up to date with any communications related to the schedule/school calendar.

The school building opens to students at 7 a.m. Students will not be admitted before that time. Security staff is in the building 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. when school is in session. Students should arrive to school with their ID and print card every day. Detention may be issued if a student does not have her ID. For students with an early AM class, the day begins at 7:15 a.m.

A. ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL: If a student will, unexpectedly, be absent from school, a parent/guardian should email the attendance officer at attendance@ursulinenewrochelle.org and or telephone the school’s dedicated attendance number 914-500-6393 before 8:15 a.m. regarding any issues with absences or any other related requests.

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 classes or 5 school 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.

B. 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 normally a 9:30 a.m. start of day. Again, please note that on occasion, on a Wednesday, an 8 a.m. start for a speaker/presentation may be needed and a change in the school staffing time will be communicated via email. For AM classes (choir, orchestra) students are considered tardy, if they are not in their class within 10 minutes of starting.

Any time there is an “adjusted schedule” (delayed opening or inclement weather), and students are not present at school by the time announced or indicated onthe schedule, they will be marked tardy. When district buses are delayed or not running, students are marked as excused tardy/absence. Students arriving late to school must report to the security/main office, and scan in with their ID card. If the parent/guardian of the student arriving late, has not called the attendance line and/or emailed the attendance officer by noon, on the day of the lateness, it will be recorded on the student's record

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as unexcused tardiness. We understand that a student may be late on occasion, but we must receive notification from a parent/guardian. After 5 consecutive or 5 unexcused tardies (in a quarter), detention may be issued and/or academic penalties (in Section C) can be imposed for missed class time. Please note that being punctual and in the class 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.

Students who arrive after 8 a.m., or 9:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, are considered tardy even if they have first period free. After senior privileges have been granted, in late September, seniors who have a free first period, may arrive to school by 8:40 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. On Wednesdays, if there are no morning scheduled events for seniors and there is no special schedule, seniors with a free first period, may arrive at school by 10:45 a.m. It is the senior’s responsibility to check the school calendar and emails regarding special schedules/liturgies and other mandatory events that impact the privilege of arriving late to school. If a teacher is absent for a scheduled class, seniors are required to be on time for school and still be in attendance for the class. Students are responsible for checking and knowing any changes relative to the regular schedule.

C. ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL: Students are expected to be on time and to attend their full day of classes. 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 may merit a detention and/or academic or other penalty. A medical note, or other documentation, may be requested for any type of absence.

If marked “present” for the day, a student’s absence from class, because of illness, will not be excused unless the student was given permission by the nurse to go home because of illness. A classshould 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 subject in a quarter may lose credit in that subject for the quarter. Again, a doctor’s note may be required and documentation requested for excessive tardies/absences/early dismissals. 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

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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.

D. DISMISSAL: Students who are free last period, with the exception of seniors, must not leave school grounds without valid authorization from an administrator. It is imperative that each student attends all of her classes, all school liturgies, presentations, and events. A repeated pattern of early dismissals and therefore missing “special school events” may result in detention and other consequences. Seniors who are finished for the day, with classes and all school liturgies or events may leave before 3 p.m. but they must sign out at the frontoffice. The official end of the regular school day is 3 p.m. After dismissal, students should not be in classrooms unless supervised. After 5 p.m. students who do not have a supervised activity or are present at an athletic event, must wait in the front lobby to be picked up.

E. EARLY DISMISSAL: Doctor, dentist, and other appointments should be made outside of school hours or during vacations. If this is impossible, the student’s parent/guardian must email the attendance officer at attendance@ursulinenewrochelle.org and state the time of the request to leave early and whenever possible a valid reason for this early dismissal. If a student has a pattern of leaving early, the Assistant Principal of Student Life may need to approve future early dismissal requests. The subject teacher may also be required to approve these requests before early dismissal is authorized by the Assistant Principal of Student Life. When leaving early, unless it is noted in the parent/guardian email that the student has permission to drive home, a student must be signed out at the main office by the parent/guardian; otherwise, the absence will be considered a cut.

F. LEAVING EARLY DUE TO ILLNESS: Students who starttofeelill while in a scheduled class should get a pass to the nurse from their subject teacher with the date and time listed. If a student is not in class and feels ill, the student should report directly to the nurse’s office. The nurse will notify the attendance officer. If the nurse deems it necessary for the student to go home, the nurse will telephone a parent/guardian and request arrangements for someone to pick up the student. A student who is too ill to attend class should not drive home. Parents, only in an extreme case, may send an email request that their daughter may drive home. Once the nurse has contacted a parent/guardian, The Ursuline School is not responsible or liable if a parent requests and gives written consent for a student to drive home. Again, this is only in an emergency. Once the nurse contacts the parent, the parent designated person comes to school, and they must sign the student out at the front security office. ID may be required. It is important that students who feel ill, while at school, do 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 cocurricular events, games, trips, proms, etc. on that day.

G. TRANSPORTATION: We offer, at an extra charge and first come basis, bus and van service from two locations, Crestwood and Larchmont train stations. Students must comply with all school regulations, expectations and as applicable, any health

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regulations. Please review the website for charges and pick up times.

H. LEAVING SCHOOL WITHOUT PERMISSION: When students are expected to be on campus, students, including seniors, may not leave school grounds. Leaving campus without permission from an administrator is considered truancy and a serious disciplinary infraction and will be dealt with accordingly. Any student who arrives early to school may not leave campus, even if it is before the start of the schoolday.

I. GOING TO CARS: Unless permission is given by an administrator, students are not permitted to go to their cars during the school day. If the reason is due to an emergency and the student is parked off campus, a security guard/facilities staff member should accompany the student.

J. COLLEGE VISITS: Seniors and juniors will be allowed up to three excused absences for college visits. Parents should email the attendance officer at attendance@ursulinenewrochelle.org. 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 Again, please refer to section C, Attendance at School.

K. SCHOOL CLOSINGS: Emergency school closings will also be announced on:

a. School Messenger

b. School website

c. News 12 network, whenever possible

Closing or emergency announcements conveyed through an automated calling service, School Notify, and whenever possible a recorded message may be available on the school’s message system. Closings due to inclement weather are usually announced by 6 a.m. but at times may be 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. Students are expected to attend and be ready for any scheduled remote learning, and this message will be communicated with an announcement of school closing due to weather/emergency.

L. WEATHER RELATED SCHOOL DELAY/EARLY DISMISSAL: Notification about weather related delays and/or early dismissals will be relayed in the same manner as school closings (see K above). On days when school has been delayed due to weather, students should arrive no earlier than 45 minutes prior to the delayed opening and they should depart no later than 45 minutes after the early closure due to weather. Please note that remote learning may be offered on snow days, or at the school’s discretion.

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M. TEACHER ABSENCE: Students should expect classes to meet even if a teacher is absent. If the teacher/sub is not present when a class is scheduled to begin, the students are to remain quietly in the classroom. If the teacher has not arrived after ten minutes, a student from the class should first report to the department office to inquire about the subject teacher or sub and, if necessary, to the main office for further instructions, while the rest of the students wait quietly in the classroom. No class may dismiss itself.

VII. ACADEMIC GUIDELINES REGARDING TECHNOLOGY

The Ursuline School reserves the right to change modalities of instruction, and implement specific guidelines/protocols, due to a global pandemic or any unforeseen catastrophic event. Tuition reimbursement/adjustment will not be considered regardless of the modality of instruction offered by The Ursuline School.

Recording

In order to protect privacy, class/sessions may not be photographed, filmed, or recorded in any way. These include, but are 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.

During all technology-based interactions and any online instruction, students/parents are reminded of the importance of adhering to the guidelines outlined in this 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.

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

C. Students need to be prepared to participate and dressed appropriately for any technology-based school session, meeting, class, event, presentation, etc. Sunglasses and hats may not be worn, and only one’s name may be listed.

D. When using technology platforms, 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.

E. Do not post or share with others any inappropriate materials. Parents/guardians, 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. Parents/guardians, we seek your assistance with the oversight and

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responsibility for your daughter’s appropriate usage regarding social media and all platforms. Please refer to Sections XI-XII.

VIII. ACADEMICS AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND GUIDELINES

A. ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS AND COURSE OFFERINGS: Are posted on the school’s website under the heading Academics. Parents/guardians 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 students throughout the school year, monitor their academic progress, and guide the student in planning their academic program. Requests for change of advisor should be submitted to the registrar.

C. ACADEMIC PROGRAM: Students must take a minimum of the equivalent of 6 full year classes in addition to the required physical education classes. Courses offered at Ursuline, should be taken at Ursuline. Courses are posted on the website and the curriculum guide on Schoology 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 must 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.

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. Cheating includes, but is not limited to:

 Giving or receiving information about the content of a quiz, test, exam, or other assessment.

 Giving or receiving answers during a quiz, test, or exam.

 Consulting with others or outside resources when instructed not to do so.

 Manufacturing or changing data, inventing outside sources, falsely attributing quotations, or making up quotations and crediting them to a real or fictitious source.

 Doing someone else’s work or claiming ownership of someone else’s work.

 Submitting the same paper, or largely the same paper, in more than one course unless authorized by the teachers for which the paper is required

 Referring to notes, outlines, timelines, calculators, or translators during quizzes, tests, essays, and exams, unless told to do so by the teacher.

 Using a calculator or any other electronic device in a manner inconsistent with guidelines provided by the teacher.

Plagiarism includes but is not limited to:

 Intentionally or unintentionally using words, images, or ideas without proper citation.

 Paraphrasing a source without proper citation.

 Misrepresenting in any way someone else’s intellectual property.

F. ELECTRONICS/INTERNET USE/RECORDING: The Ursuline School provides students with access to the Internet and a school issued 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 some of a 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 reservesthe rightto revoke any student’s use of the Internet at school and other penalties could apply for inappropriate online behavior At the start of each school year, a Computer Network Acceptable Use policy is provided and both students and parent/guardian must sign this contract.

It must be emphasized again, that any student (or parent/guardian) who texts/posts material/messaging on the Internet or on any social media platform/site 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.

The Ursuline School has contracted with Local Live Network Inc. to livestream and/or record many of our school events/special presentations and athletic JV and Varsity team competitions. No student/parent/guardian should record/videotape or take pictures of any class, session, or a presentation without the permission of the teacher or an administrator.

G. USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: One of The Ursuline School’s goals is to recognize and help students understand the growing field of technology and the appropriate use of resources for educational purposes. To ensure the responsible and ethical use of these resources, all students must abide by the following AI Usage Policy:

 Respect for Privacy and Confidentiality: All students must respect the privacy and confidentiality of their own data and the data of others, and are advised to never provide confidential information or sensitive data to any unauthorized party,

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including AI tools or resources. This is to ensure the privacy of everyone and that their data is protected at all times.

 Ethical Use of AI: Students must use AI tools and resources in an ethical and responsible manner, following all relevant laws, regulations, and school policies, and avoiding any actions that may cause harm or offense to others.

 Accurate Representation of Information: When using AI tools and resources to create or share information, students must ensure that the information is accurate and represents their own work and ideas.

 Appropriate Use of AI: AI tools and resources must only be used for educational purposes, and not for any commercial, illegal, or malicious activities.

 Responsibility for Use of AI: Students are responsible for their own use of AI tools and resources, and for ensuring that their use complies with this AI Usage Policy.

 Course Usage of AI: Teachers have discretion as to when and how AI tools are used in their courses.

 Plagiarism and Proper Citation: AI generated content must be properly cited and referenced in accordance with the school’s guidelines on plagiarism. Students must not present AI generated content as their own original work or use it to plagiarize the work of others. Please refer to Section VIII, Letter E for guidelines on plagiarism.

H. 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.

I. HOMEWORK POLICY: Students in grades 6-12 will be expected do homework commensurate with the appropriate grade level and weight of work. Students enrolled in honors and/or AP courses should expect to be assigned more homework. Any changes to assignments due the next day will be posted on Schoology by 5 p.m. Work due on Monday, must be posted by 5 p.m. Friday. If specific work has not been assigned, students should work on long-range assignments andreview.

J. TESTING CENTER: Students must show a photo ID in order to take a test. Students who fail to bring an ID will not be permitted to take the test. The testing center’s location and hours of operation will be posted on the Schoology home page.

K. SCHOOLOGY: Schoology is a password-secure Internet site used by Ursuline School faculty to post announcements, grades, and assignments in addition to specific course expectations. Students should check Schoology daily. Student/teacher email communication will be done via Ursuline email exclusively. Students are encouraged to check their SCHOOLOGY grade books on a regular basis.

Faculty email addresses are available through the school’s website. Parents/guardians should feel free to contact faculty members via email at any time during the year. Please allow 48 hours for response.

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

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L. TUTORING PROGRAM: Although it is recommended that students experiencing difficulty with a particular subject talk to their teachers first, the National Junior Honor Society (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 (NHS). Members who are juniors and seniors volunteer their time to tutor students in the school. Any student (or parent/guardian) interested in peer tutoring should speak to the student’s current subject teacher and that teacher can make a referral. 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.

M. EXAMS: Exams will be given on the day indicated on Schoology. 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 make up any AP or semester exam, which counts for 15% of the semester grade. No make-up exams will be given without administrative approval. If a late AP exam administration is approved, the family is responsible for covering the late fee.

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

Uniforms are to be worn for all exams. Students should be picked up promptly after their exams are concluded.

N. 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.

O. 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. 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/guardians/students are encouraged to refer to Channels of Communication (last page of the handbook) regarding questions or concerns about grades.

P. Grade Scale The Ursuline School transcripts list a weighted yearly and cumulative grade point average (GPA). Only year-end grades for courses taken at The Ursuline School are used in computation. In order not to disrupt college planning and athletic recruiting

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already underway, the Classes of 2024 & 2025 will remain on the 5.0 scale. For the Classes of 2026 & beyond, The Ursuline School has adopted a 4.0 scale. The transition to a 4.0 scale was made in consultation with various college admission professionals, and will provide greater transparency and consistency for the college application process.

WEIGHTED GRADE POINT AVERAGES (GPA) are recorded on the student’s transcript. Grades are weighted as follows, according to a proportional formula:

Grade Scale (FOR CLASSES OF 2024 & 2025)

Grade Scale (For CLASSES OF 2026 & Beyond)

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.

CALCULATING GPA:

 ParticularYear'sGPA:All “weighted courses” for that particular year are included. If the weight is 0 or non-existent, the course is not included.

 CumulativeGPA:(1) All weighted courses are included (2) and courses repeated in summerschoolforcredit. Note:theinitial,failinggradebecomes a D in order to move the student onto the next course. The summer school transcript is attached to The Ursuline School’s transcript.

 NotIncludedinCalculatingGPA: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.

Q. ACADEMIC HONORS: The Honor Roll is posted on Schoology two times during the school year based upon the student’s unweighted averages at the completion of the 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 may lose any academic scholarship(s) and jeopardize continued placement in Honors level courses.

R. 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.

S. NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED HONOR SOCIETIES:

 The National Honor Societies: The National 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.

 The National English Honor Society: (NEHS) is the only international organization

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exclusively for secondary students who, in the field of English, merit special note for past and current accomplishments. The NEHS motto, “gelast sceal mid are,” is Old English for: “duty goes with honor.” Service to peers, school, and community is part and parcel of the NEHS mission.

 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.

T. ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE & ATHLETICS: Ursuline is committed to developing the scholar athlete. Any student participating on an athletic team is expected to maintain good grades. As per The Ursuline School’s academic guidelines, any student who is placed on academic probation, who is also in an athletic program, may be suspended for a minimum of 10 school days from participation at any athletic event. This time is allocated in order to bring grades up to an acceptable level. Athletic participation includes, but is not limited to, attendance and participation at games and practices. Reinstatement will be made based upon school attendance as well as grade improvement and consultation with the Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction, the subject area teacher(s), and the Director of Athletics.

U. ACADEMIC PROBATION: Any student who earns 2 F’s or a combination of more than 1 D and/or F in a quarter may be placed on academic probation. The status of these students will be reviewed each quarter. Additionally, final registration for the following school year may be withheld for review.

V. 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.

W. WITHDRAWALS: Parents/guardians should inform the school, in writing when a decision to withdraw a student and enroll her in 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.

X. 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.

IX. STUDENT EXPECTATIONS/STUDENT LIFE INFORMATION

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,

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B.

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 that respects and is respectful to the setting. No physical contact with another individual is acceptable. (i.e., pushing, hitting, touching another’s hair or body parts, etc.). In order to maintain high standards of conduct, all must refrain from public displays of affection when on campus and at any sponsored events. Any such contact should be limited to a supportive, congratulatory, or quick hug. Vulgarity, profanity, any insensitive or undignified behavior or any form of harassment toward another is not acceptable and may 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, which is deemed detrimental to the safety and/or reputation of The Ursuline School. This includes but is not limited to inappropriate behavior, on or off campus, in which a student is identifiable by words, clothing or other means as affiliated with The Ursuline School. Please refer to Sections XI-XV.

: 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 off campus 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 noncriminal behavior, particularly when such incidents have implications for Ursuline community members’ safety and well-being or reflects poorly on the reputation or operation of Ursuline. Please refer to Sections XI-XV.

In order to protect its standards of scholarship, discipline, deportment, and character, the school reserves the right to expel and/or require the withdrawal of any student at any time, for any reason deemed sufficient at the sole discretion of the school and its administrators. The parent/guardian’s signing of the Student/Parent Handbook signature sheet, the student and parent/guardian acknowledge the important obligations and restrictions contained in this handbook and agree to be bound by the terms of this handbook.

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OFF-CAMPUS BEHAVIOR

When a student applies for entrance to Ursuline, she and her parents/guardians thereby understands and agrees that the school reserves the right to exclude her at any time if her conduct, attitude, or academic standing is regarded by the administration as undesirable.

C. ID CARDS/PRINT CARDS: Every student is issued a school ID card and an individualized print card, which the student 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. Detention and additional fees may be applied if a tentative ID is not returned at the end of the day it was issued.

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. 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.

SCHOOL BUILDING/SCHOOL GROUNDS/LOCKERS: 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 outside senior lounge as well as the designated outside area during their free and lunch periods as long as they do not disrupt classes. In warm weather, students may go outside during their unscheduled time but only to the designated approved areas. Students should not stretch out on the lawn or benches to sunbathe.

Students should not be in classrooms without a teacher. At the start of day, students may be in their assigned room 10 minutes before school begins. Lockers are assigned at the start of each year by a front office staff designee. Only a school issued lock is to be used. Do not share locker combinations with others.

FOOD/EATING SPACES: Students have several designated areas to eat. These areas include: the designated space outside (weather permitting), the JB Commons (when seniors have lunch, this is the senior eating area), the cafeteria, and the Christina Jun Murphy ’22 Commons. Please note that Ursuline is not a peanut free school but does provide a peanut free table in the cafeteria for students. Students should take responsibility in disposing of any garbage, and they should recycle accordingly. The dining hall will provide a wide range of both breakfast and lunch offerings. A separate email regarding dining services and offerings is sent during the summer.

E. ELEVATORS: Elevators are restricted to use by faculty and staff. Students who have a health condition or injury must get an elevator pass from the Assistant Principal of Student Life. Documentation will be required. Elevators may not be

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used if the fire alarm sounds.

F. LAPTOPS/TABLETS/ALL ELECTRONIC DEVICES: The student is responsible for maintaining laptops/tablets/electronic devices at all times. Laptops/tablets that are found unattended will be brought to the front office and left with security After the first offense, the device may be kept for an appropriate amount of time, or the parent required to come pick up.

G. CELLPHONES /ELECTRONIC DEVICES: Cell phone usefornon-emergencysituations is not permitted during school hours. Phones must be turned off and may not be visible at any time during school hours. If a student has a phone out and visible during school hours, the phone may be taken from the student and detention issued. Phones will be turned into the office of the Assistant Principal of Student Life to be picked up at dismissal. Repeat offenders may be required to have a parent/guardian pick up the phone at the end of the day and additional detention/consequences could be imposed. The school is not responsible for lost or damaged cell phones and/or other electronic devices. Students may request use the office phone in the event of any urgent matter. Students should not record, videotape, or photograph anything or anyone with an electronic device during school hours. Any post/picture/video taken at school on any platform must represent and be in line with the Ursuline mission expectations and Social Media Policy.

Additionally, at all times and notably, before and/or after school, cell phone/electronic usage must be in compliance with Ursuline’s expectations, and the Computer Network Acceptable Use and Responsibility contract. Violations of this cell phone/electronic policy are considered serious disciplinary infractions (Refer to Sections XI-XV).

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

I. 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 School 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 to determine if any lost items that may be covered.

J. LOST & FOUND: Found articles and claims for lost property should be brought to a cafeteria monitor. A designated area for lost items will be located near or at the back hallway the cafeteria. 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

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redeem lost articles. At the end of the semester, all unclaimed lost & found articles will be discarded ordonated.

K. MESSAGES: Students will be contacted via email with any non urgent messages sent from a parent/guardian. In cases of emergency only, the students will have a message brought to them directly.

L. DELIVERIES: Flowers, balloons, and other gifts/items may not be delivered to school. Parents are not to bring lunch, uniforms, assignments, items, etc. to school. 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. Please do not bring lunch or other items to school once the school day has begun.

M. TEXTBOOKS & LIBRARY BOOKS: Some workbooks and textbooks are distributed without charge to students. Some of the funding for books is under the provisions of the New York State Textbook Loan (NYSTL). Parents/guardians within specific school districts may be required to place book orders directly with their school district. Books loaned from these districts should be returned to these districts at the end of each school year. Parents/guardians should be aware of any and all of these NYSTL expectations and 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 loaned from Ursuline in good condition at the end of the semester/school year; otherwise, the student may be fined and/or transcript held or the class schedule for next year held until the book(s) or payment for any non-returned book is received.

Students must return library books on time and in good condition or they will incur fines, and students must pay for lost books. Report cards/transcripts will be withheld unless textbooks have been returned, sports uniforms turned in, and library records are clear. Disregarding library rules and regulations may result in temporary revocation of library privileges.

N. CLASS FIELD TRIPS: Each year a variety of school sponsored trips are offered at Ursuline. Students may not attend or participate on a field trip unless the required Request to Participate and Permission slip is signed in advance by a parent/guardian. Both parents/guardians, whenever possible, are encouraged to sign the slip.Tripleaderstypicallypost/email permissionslipstoparents/students. The permission slip(s) can also be downloaded from the Koala Weekly Bulletin or will be made available by the trip leader via email and/or a hard copy posted on Schoology. Students are expected to behave appropriately and to follow the instructions of chaperones. Students must adhere to all expectations and regulations outlined in this handbook and on the trip Request to Participate and Permission form. Some off campus school sponsored trips may utilize the GroupMe App so that chaperones and trip leaders can communicate with those students on the trip. Appropriate usage is expected. Please refer to Off-Campus Behavior in Section IX(B) of this handbook. Students must make up any class

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work or tests missed while on a trip/retreat. Parents/guardians accept and assume all liability and responsibility for possible risks/accidents that may occur on various kinds of trips/physical activities, when they request and give permission that their daughter be allowed to participate in a specific event, day/overnight school sponsored trip

O. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Participation in all school activities including field trips, retreats, athletic teams, special assemblies, dances, proms, sports, and other school events, is a privilege, not a right. If a student is on academic probation or one is not in good standing (financial, attendance, discipline, or pattern of early dismissals, lates, absences, missed events, liturgies, etc.), the student may not be eligible to participate in any extra-curricular event, concert, play, club activity, trip, dance, prom, athletic event, game, etc. Additionally, if a student is not in school and/or not present for at least 75% of her scheduled classes, she may not be eligible to participate or attend a school sponsored event/game/activity, etc. Only an administrator may, in extraordinary circumstances, waive this eligibility for participation. If a student leaves school ill she may not return to participate in an extra-curricular activity.

P. STUDENT COUNCIL/ELECTIONS: Students are encouraged to become involved in Student Council. In addition to open membership for all students, there are elected offices for student council. These include Student Body President(s) held by a senior(s), and elected President(s) for each grade level. The Class President election for rising seniors, takes place in the spring before senior year. All students vote for the Student Body President(s). Student Body President(s) election and the election for grade level Class President(s) grades 6-11 takes place in the 1st quarter. Eligibility requirements are posted on Schoology.

Q. CLUBS AND CO-CURRICULAR ORGANIZATIONS: Ursuline offers a wide variety of clubs and different organizations. These clubs/organizationsare student initiated and student led. Faculty moderators oversee each club/organization. In September, students may propose a “new” club which should be a new club idea and not one that is similar to an existing club/organization. The proposal for any new club should be emailed to the Assistant Principal of Student Life. The proposal should include club/organization goals, objectives, possible events, meeting day(s) and time(s), and the name of a faculty moderator who has tentatively agreed to possibly moderate the club/organization. A serviam activity/event, if applicable, should be included in any club proposal.

R. DANCES:

Dances for grades 9-12. An on campus high school dance is usually held from 7:00 pm-10:00pm. Doors for admittance will close at 7:45 pm. Students/Guests may not leave the dance before 9:45 pm unless the parent/guardian comes to pick up the student. Once a person leaves the dance they may not re-enter the building. The Ursuline School reserves the right to charge admission for the dance and also may limit the number of those in attendance. Attendees at a dance may be limited to Ursuline students and to other students who are

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enrolled at another private and/or Catholic school. Valid high school ID (listing the student grade) may be required for admittance to the dance.

Dances for grades 7-8. Any on campus dance for grades 7 and 8 is usually from 6:30 pm-9 pm. Doors for admittance will close at 7:15 pm. Students/guests may not leave the dance before 8:45 pm unless a parent/guardian comes to pick the student up. Once a person leaves the dance they should not re-enter the building. The Ursuline School reserves the right to charge admission for the dance and may limit the number of those in attendance. Attendees at the dance may be limited to Ursuline students and to those students who are currently enrolled at another Catholic and/or private school. Valid ID (grade 7 and 8) may be required for admittance to the dance.

S. ATHLETICS: There are a number of athletic teams offered at The Ursuline School. Information regarding the sports teams and athletics is posted on the website. Student-athletes and parents/guardians are expected to abide by the Student/Parent Athletic Handbook and the Student/Parent Handbook. Studentathletesandtheir parents/guardians must acknowledge and sign off regarding the handbooks.

T. CARS: On campus parking spaces are not guaranteed, but they will be offered to seniors by lottery. Seniors, who are afforded a space via the lottery, park in designated spaces and must 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. Parking spaces for seniors via the lottery are limited and not guaranteed.

Seniors who are awarded a parking spot via the lottery may lend, without charge, their parking spot to a senior and/or 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 to follow all parking regulations and to respect the property and rights of others. The reputation of the school is at stake when parking regulations are violated, and the property and rights of others are not respected. Students may not go to their cars during the school day, unless it is an emergency, and only if accompanied by a staff member with the permission of an administrator.

U. DRIVING ON CAMPUS: There will be no parking, stopping, or extended waiting in front of the school building 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9:00a.m. – 9:30 a.m. onWednesdays,and additionally,on all days from 2 p.m. – 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

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off in the morning and picked up in the circle in front of the school after 3:15 p.m. Please note, school buses have priority in the circle at all times. Private cars add to 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.

V. UNIFORMS: Proper, acceptable clothing, neatness, and cleanliness are essential to creating and maintaining the desired school atmosphere. It is important that students take individual responsibility for their appearance. The uniform also serves to promote self-respect and pride in being identifiable as an Ursuline community member. 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 approved dress down days and schoolsponsored clubs and athletic activities that have been cleared ahead of time by an administrator. Detention may be issued for dress code violations.

The uniform sweaters, skirts, skorts and pants must be purchased from Flynn O’Hara. Some of these items are optional but if worn, must be uniform in style and therefore only purchased from Flynn O’Hara. Special Note Regarding Uniforms:

 All students must have an Ursuline NAVY sweater required for monthly school liturgies/special occasions in the Fall/Spring.

 Students must have an Ursuline sweater in their class color to wear at designated liturgies and at special occasions when 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

Flynn O’Hara brown plaid kilt/or Flynn O’Hara khaki or navy pants

Flynn O’Hara blue corded skirt

White or navy collared polo shirt

Navy Ursuline monogrammed sweater – All students will need the 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

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Approved Ursuline navy or white fleece, pullover zip-up with Ursuline logo

Turtleneck, navy or white (winter uniform only)

Ursuline crewneck sweatshirt, navy or white –may wear with winter and spring uniform.

During the month of October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month) the crewneck

TUS Sweatshirt with pink lettering may be worn.

Fall/Spring Standard/Regular Uniform:

Worn Fall: September Orientation to the last school day before October Ring Day

Spring: After Easter vacation to last day of final exams

Flynn O’Hara blue corded skirt or Flynn O’Hara uniform pants, khaki or navy

Short sleeved polo, navy or white (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

Fall/Spring Uniform Options:

Flynn O’Hara skort, khaki or navy (light blue/Khaki for Seniors)

Flynn O’Hara uniform pants, khaki or navy

Approved Ursuline crewneck sweatshirt, white or navy

Approved Ursuline fleece and quarter zip, navy/white

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 the Senior Class Sweatshirt

During October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness month, students may wear the Ursuline white/pink sweatshirt that is available to purchase in the school bookstore

Fall/Spring DRESS Uniform:

Collared polo or button-down shirt, white

Ursuline navy sweater, requiredtobewornbyallgradelevels

Flynn O’Hara blue corded skirt or the Flynn O’Hara uniform pants, khaki or navy

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

Flynn O’Hara brown plaid kilt or the Flynn O’Hara uniform pants, navy or khaki

Navy or white collared polo shirt or turtleneck – no emblems from other schools/stores

Any color Ursuline monogrammed sweater

Solid footless tights, ankle-length leggings or opaque tights, navy, black or white No athletic tights/legwear

Sneakers

Winter Uniform Options:

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Flynn O’Hara skort, khaki or navy

Flynn O’Hara uniform pants, navy or khaki

Ursuline approved crewneck navy/white sweatshirt

Approved Ursuline navy or white fleece, pullover zip-up with Ursuline logo

Cream Ursuline crew neck sweater

Only seniors may wear the grade level – class of 2024 Senior Sweatshirt or the Ursuline crewneck sweatshirts

Winter DRESS Uniform:

Flynn O’Hara brown wool plaid kilt or the Flynn O’Hara uniform pants, navy or khaki

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, 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 or team sweatshirts or fleeces, etc. unless approved by administration.

 Bookstore apparel can be worn on dress down days. Unless noted as an option for the school uniform, it may not be worn with the uniform Bookstore items that are uniform options include navy or white pullover and/or zip-up jacket with the Ursuline logo, and white/navy fleece with the Ursuline logo.

 Sweatshirts, legwear, shirts or fleeces with logos and/or with other schools’ embelem 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 unless approved by the administration.

 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.

 Theuniformistobewornallday,withtheexceptionofphysicaleducationclasses.

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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. These items should be left in the Assistant Principal of Student Life’s office and a post it with the student’s name. Teachers should issue detention if a student is not in uniform or not compliant with the non-uniform day dress code.

 A student out of uniform or whose skirt/skort 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 the student wearing any part of the uniform or special footwear, a note should be presented to the Assistant Principal of Student Life. Any violation of these policies may result in a detention or otheraction. Students may borrow /purchase ($10) items from the uniform closet with permission from the Assistant Principal of Student Life or front office staff.

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)

W. 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 approved 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 approved by administration.

 Sweatshirts (clean, uncut, unripped with 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 and appearance 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.

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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.

X. SMOKING/VAPING/DRUGS/ALCOHOL

A. SMOKING/VAPING: Because tobacco/vaping use presents both a safety and 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.

B. 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:

 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 any school organization, team, club, and/or The Ursuline School. Refer to Sections XI and XV.

 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.

XI. DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS

A. DETENTION: Students who violate school regulations may be required to serve detention.

 Detention notice will be emailed and/or mailed home. If there is a question regarding the detention, the student or parent/guardian should contact the teacher/staff or administrator that issued the detention. This information and the reason for the detention is listed on the form that is emailed and/or mailed home.

 The first contact from a student/parent/guardian, inquiring about a detention notice, should be made with the individual who issued the detention.

 A one hour supervised detention will be required if a student receives detention.

 This one-hour detention date will be listed on the detention slip and/or email

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sent to the parent. If there is no Professional Development for faculty detention may be held on Wednesday morning from 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. or on Tuesday or Wednesday afternoons from 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday detention may be issued for repeated infractions or serious infractions, or not serving detention within 5 school days of being issued and the detention date listed on the form mailed home.

 On occasion, a day of offense may lead to a detention that must be served the same day as determined by the Assistant Principal of Student Life.

 Students are not allowed to do homework and may be required to assist the Assistant Principal of Student Life during detention. Depending on the violation, students may be required to complete a written assignment.

 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.

*Please note that when a student receives detention, a copy of the detention will, in most cases, be emailed and/or mailed home and a copy will be provided as well to the advisor.

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

 Threatening, inflammatory remarks or any abusive behavior directed to any member of Ursuline.

 Any violation of the Social Media Policy as outlined in section XII of this handbook.

 Any violation of the Sexual Misconduct Policy as outlined in Section XIII of this handbook.

 Any harassment, bullying/cyberbullying/hazing and discrimination as outlined in this handbook and Section XIV.

 Any racial, ethnic epithets or derogatory jokes or comments.

 On or off campus behavior that is not in line with the mission and values of the school and also as outlined in Section IX A and B of this handbook.

 Chronic and incorrigible misbehavior or disrespect.

 Persistent or serious defiance of authority.

 Any posting text or messaging on any social media platform that is 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/hazing.

 Any action that could be construed as a threat of force or violence

 Inappropriate physical contact.

 Using any electronic device to videotape, photograph, or record image of others during a class or a special schedule event

 Any use of force or violence.

 Any act of theft or vandalism of school.

 Any misconduct that necessitates the presence of law enforcement.

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 Any use/possession of drugs, alcohol, vaping, tobacco products.

 Any action or misconduct that jeopardizes the health and safety of our school building/community.

 Any reported retaliation towards another person as a result of filing a complaint or one being part of an investigation - ex. witness

XII. SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

The Ursuline School does not permit or tolerate any language or conduct on ANY social media platform that has the purpose or the effect of demeaning or threatening a community member or members or reflects poorly on The Ursuline School. Behavior/posts, whether they be intended as “private” (between one person and/or group) or public, on any social media that may constitute a breach of this policy, based on its full circumstances and especially the severity of its impact, may include, but is not limited to, the following examples:

 Speech/language that could be considered insulting or contrary to mission, values, and commitment to the inherent rights of each communitymember.

 Using speech/language that discriminates and implies inferiority especially of the Protected Classes.

 Protected Classes are defined and based on identifiers, including but not limited to race, sex, religion, skin color, national origin, age, ancestry, sexual orientation, mental and physical ability/disability, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, or status in any group protected by federal, state, or local laws.

 Using culturally insensitive or derogatory epithets, slurs, phrases, “jokes,” or stereotyping.

 Posting a culturally insensitive image/video that creates a hostile or offensive environment

XIII. SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY AND MANDATED REPORTING Sexual Misconduct Policy and Complaint Procedure

Founded in 1897 by the Order of St. Ursula, Eastern Province of the United States (“the Order”), The Ursuline School (“Ursuline”) is a Catholic, all-girls preparatory school. Ursuline continues to be controlled by the Catholic religious Order Ursuline has enacted this Sexual Misconduct Policy and Reporting Procedures (“Policy”) to reflect and maintain its institutional values, to provide fair and equitable procedures for determining when sex-based discrimination or harassment has occurred and to provide recourse for individuals who are victims of sex-based discrimination or harassment.

Scope of this Policy

The health, safety, and well-being of all members of the school community are Ursuline’s primary concerns. Ursuline will not tolerate any form of sexual misconduct in its educational program or activities. Sexual misconduct is a broad term that

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encompasses a wide range of prohibited behaviors of a sexual nature that is committed without consent or by intimidation, coercion, threat, or force. Sexual misconduct can occur between strangers, acquaintances, or people who know each other well

(“Prohibited Conduct”).

This Policy applies to any Prohibited Conduct by students, employees, faculty, coaches, parents, and third parties, including visitors/guests, volunteers, vendors, and contractors. Ursuline may be limited in what actions it may take when investigating or responding to a report if an accused individual is not affiliated with Ursuline or is no longer affiliated with Ursuline at the time the report is made. In such cases, Ursuline will still, to the best of its ability, conduct an investigation, take steps to prevent the recurrence of misconduct to the extent it is able, and remedy the effects, if appropriate.

This policy covers conduct which occurs both on and off of school grounds including but not limited to school-sponsored programs or activities such as field trips, athletic activities, and events for school clubs. This includes but is not limited to in person conduct as well as actions taken virtually, electronically, and through social media. Even misconduct that occurs outside of Ursuline , during “personal time,” could have continuing effects in the school, and therefore is covered by this policy.

Definitions of Sexual Misconduct

ResponsibleEmployee:Any employee who has the authority to take action to redress sexual harassment/misconduct; who has been given the duty of reporting incidents of sexual harassment/misconduct or any other misconduct by students to the Principal or appropriate designee; or who a student reasonably believes has this authority or duty.

Harassment:Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including but not limited to unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; or other verbal or nonverbal conduct of a sexual nature, including rape, sexual assault and sexual exploitation. Sexual harassment specifically includes conduct of a sexual nature which is either explicitly or implicitly made a term or condition of a student’s success in school.

UnwelcomeConduct:Conduct is considered “unwelcome” if the individual did not request or invite it and considered the conduct to be undesirable or offensive. Unwelcome conduct may take various forms, including, name-calling, graphic or written statements (including the use of cell phones or the Internet) or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful or humiliating. Unwelcome conduct does not have to include intent to harm, be directed at a specific target or involve repeated incidents.

Unwelcome conduct can involve persons of the same or opposite sex. Participation in the conduct or the failure to complain does not always mean that the conduct was welcome. The fact that a student may have welcomed some conduct does not necessarily

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mean that a student welcomed other conduct. Also, the fact that a student requested or invited conduct on one occasion does not mean that the conduct is welcome on a subsequent occasion.

Hostile Environment : A hostile environment exists when sex-based harassment is sufficiently serious to deny or limit the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from Ursuline’s programs or activities. The more severe the sex-based harassment, the less need there is to show a repetitive series of incidents to find a hostile environment. Indeed, a single instance of sexual harassment may be sufficient to create a hostile environment. Likewise, a series of incidents may be sufficient even if the sex-based harassment is not particularly severe.

Consent:Consent must be informed, voluntary, and mutual, and can be withdrawn at any time. There is no consent when there is force, expressed or implied, or when coercion, intimidation, threats, or duress is used. Whether a person has taken advantage of a position of influence over another person will be a factor in determining consent. Silence or absence of resistance does not imply consent. Past consent to sexual activity with another person does not imply ongoing future consent with that person or consent to that same sexual activity with another person. Note that because of the age of the students at Ursuline and the position of authority that employees hold over students, Ursuline will never consider a student to have consented to sexual contact with any employee.

Incapacitation: Includes, but is not limited to, lack of consciousness, being asleep, being involuntarily restrained, or otherwise being unable to consent. Indicators of incapacitation include slurred speech, bloodshot or unfocused eyes, unsteady gait (needing assistance walking or standing), vomiting, concern expressed by others about the individual, expressed memory loss, or disorientation.

Sexual Assault: Sexual assault is actual or attempted sexual contact with another person without that person’s consent. Sexual assault includes but is not limited to: intentional touching of another person’s intimate parts without that person’s consent; or other intentional sexual contact with another person without that person’s consent; or coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force a person to touch another person’s intimate parts without that person’s consent.

Sexual Contact: The intentional touching, either directly or through the clothing, of any body parts of any person with an intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, or arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person.

Sexual Exploitation: Non-consensual sexual abuse or exploitation of another when such behavior does not otherwise constitute another specifically defined behavior. Examples of sexual exploitation include, but are not limited to, non-consensual use of electronics to capture, reproduce or share images of a sexual nature without consent of parties involved, public indecency or exposing intimate parts to others without

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consent, or engaging in ‘peeping’ (observing another when privacy would be reasonably expected) without consent

XIV. POLICY AND PROCEDURES REGARDING INCIDENTS OF HARASSMENT, BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING, HAZING, 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 interferes 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 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, 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, discriminatory, or racist 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.

Hazing is any conduct or method of initiation into any club, organization, team, etc. whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the

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physical or mental health of any student or demeans or embarrasses any student. Hazing is considered a crime in New York State and a Serious Disciplinary Infraction as per this Student/Parent Handbook. Any student who is alleged to have hazed another individual or organized hazing perpetrated by others is subject to a disciplinary investigation and possible consequences outlined in Section XV of this handbook. Note: Where activity amounts to hazing, a person’s express or implied consent to the activity is not a defense.

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:

 Interfering with, destroying, or damaging a person’s work, or otherwise interfering with the individual.

 Sabotaging an individual’s work.

 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.

 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.

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Zero Tolerance:

Zero tolerance means that students who discriminate, harass, or bully others may be disciplined, NOT that they are going to always be expelled. The kind of infraction as well as the age and past disciplinary incidences may always be taken into consideration. School is a place to learn, and we often learn from making mistakes after being afforded opportunities to correct them.

Incidents of meanness that are sometimes age appropriate but still not acceptable may be referred to the Director of Personal Development for conflict resolution or 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.

XV. REPORTING SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS, PROCEDURES AND CONSEQUENCES

Members of the Ursuline community should report any serious disciplinary infractions to any of the school officials listed below. This includes, but is not limited to violation of our social media policy, discrimination, discriminatory harassment and/or harassment, bullying, cyberbullying, sexual misconduct policy, etc.

 Any member of the administration/leadership team

 Teacher

 Coach

 Advisor

 Department chairperson

 Member of the counseling department

 RLD/504 coordinator

Any school employee who is notified about a serious disciplinary infraction, including discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or harassment, bullying sexual/ misconduct or cyberbullying, etc. must contact the Assistant Principal of Student Life, in writing, who will then notify members of the administration accordingly.1

Filing False Reports

False reports of a severe disciplinary infraction or other report that are filed with the intent to damage, coerce, or embarrass an individual or that are filed as a joke, in response to a dare, or for any other reason or for no reason, will be considered a serious disciplinary.

Prohibition on Retaliation

Ursuline will not tolerate retaliation. An individual reporting Prohibited Conduct is entitled to protection from any form of retaliation following a report that is made in

1 All Ursuline employee who witness or receive an oral or written report of such conduct must promptly notify the Principal, or their designee not later than one school day after such employee witnesses or receives a report of discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or harassment/bullying/cyberbullying, and file a written report with the Principal or their designee no later than two school days after making such a report

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good faith, even if the report is later not proven to be true. In addition, retaliation is prohibited against individuals participating in an investigation under this Policy (such as a witness). Ursuline will take immediate and responsive action to any report of retaliation or additional harassment and will pursue disciplinary action as listed and appropriate.

Child Protection/Student-Adult Boundaries Reporting

Should any student and/or parent/guardian have any concerns about a situation and/or the boundaries of any Ursuline Employee. It is important to immediately contact the School’s President and/or Principal and report it. If the concern is about the President, they should immediately contact the Chair of the Board of Trustees

Procedures for Addressing Incidents

Any reported incident will be promptly investigated by member(s) of (the “Designated Team”).

This Designated Team may consist of:

 President

 Principal

 Assistant Principal of Student Life

 Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction

 Director of Counseling

 Any other person as appointed by the Principal

At least one member of theDesignated Team will investigate any alleged incident and will be deemed the “Investigator(s)”. The Principal may assign a substitute to take the place of a member of the Designated Team or Investigator(s). The Investigator(s) will gather all of the information related to the alleged incident. Serious disruption to the school day(s) due to an “alleged” incident may result in immediate dismissal of any student(s) involved. A parent/guardian may be contacted to come to take the students home (for a period of time while the investigation is underway.) This takes place so that the serious allegations can be fully investigated.

It is important for the Investigator(s) 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(s) 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. After all of the pertinent information has been completed, the Designated Team will convene to determine the appropriate next steps and action(s). Parent(s) of the student(s)involved will be notified and when applicable, the student andparent maybe required to attend a meeting with representative(s) of the Designated Team.

Once an incident has been reported, it is important that steps are taken to ensure the emotional, physical, and overall well-being of any targeted victim. Parent(s) will be notified by a member of the Designated Team.

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Consequences of Serious Disciplinary Infractions:

After following the procedures stated above, the Designated Team will then adjudicate and may 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

 Mediation as mutually agreed to by all parties involved

 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.

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 their daughter’s immunization records.

 Any threatening, verbally abusive, or inappropriate behavior directed towards any member of The Ursuline School community.

XVI. CHILD PROTECTION/MANDATORY REPORTING

Mandatory Reporting to the New York State Hotline

Under Section 413 of the New York State Social Services Law, all school officials, including, but not limited to, administrators, faculty, counselors, coaches, and health care professionals employed by The Ursuline School (collectively, “employees”) are “mandated reporters” and have an affirmative duty to report when they have “reasonable cause to suspect” that a student has been abused or maltreated by a parent or legal guardian or someone else legally responsible for their care and such information has come to the school official’s attention in the course of his or her official or professional capacity.

Mandated reporters, as defined above, must call the New York State Central Registry (SCR) at 1-800-635-1522 upon having such “reasonable cause.” This is the personal duty of the person who has such reasonable cause and is not satisfied by telling a supervisor at Ursuline. Consulting with a supervisor before making such a call, however, is allowable, and indeed advisable, but the consent or approval of such

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supervisor is never a requirement for making a call to the SCR. This reporting duty applies to knowledge obtained during the course of any out-of-school activity, as well as when on school premises, and indeed to any knowledge of abuse or maltreatment of a student “coming before them in their official or professional capacity” at any time or place. Thus, even if an Ursuline employee learns of reportable abuse or maltreatment while on a retreat or a trip, or anywhere else outside of the school, a report must be made to the SCR.

Penalties for Failure to Report

Failure to report a suspected case of child abuse or maltreatment perpetrated upon a student by a parent, legal guardian, or someone else legally responsible for the student’s care, as defined in the New York State Family Court Act above, is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and/or a fine of $1,000. In addition, it is a violation of Ursuline policy and is therefore an offense for which an employee may be terminated.

Immunity from Liability for Mandated Reporters

Under New York State Social Services Law, any school employee who in good faith makes a report to the State hotline has immunity from liability, civil or criminal, which might otherwise result by reason of such action.

Ursuline Reporting Requirements

In addition to the requirements of New York State law, as set out above, all employees have a duty to report immediately their suspicions of child abuse or maltreatment committed by anyone (not just a parent, guardian, or other person legally responsible for the student’s care) to the President or Principal. This internal report must be made regardless of whether a call has already been made to the State Hotline listed above.

Reporting to State or Local Law Enforcement

While recognizing that Ursuline is under no legal duty to do so, if the President or the Principal has reasonable cause to suspect that an Ursuline employee or an employee of a contracted service provider, or any other adult at Ursuline has committed a physical or sexual assault, as defined by the New York State Penal Law, against an Ursuline student, the President or Principal will report this information to State or Local law enforcement authorities.

XVII. PREVENTATIVE EDUCATIONAL STRATEGIES TO FOSTER A CULTURE OF EMPATHY, RESPECT AND EQUITY

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.

 The Student/Parent Handbook is posted each school year and outlines our mission, philosophy, goals, and acceptable policies.

 Personal Development classes are offered to 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 offer opportunities to meet with students. This allows for ongoing opportunities to address policy and areas of concern that may arise during the year and to offer support as applicable, next steps.

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

 Student Leaders (Ursuline Connections) meet with the middle school students to provide mentoring and support for building healthy and positive relationships.

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

 Intent vs. Impact Session encourage and solicit students to continue to reinforce a culture of inclusion and respect.

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

 Clubs/Organizations (“Diversity Alliance Club”, “Students Against Destructive Decisions”, Digital Citizen sessions, and a number of other clubs offered) include programs dedicated to raising awareness and intervention activities that promote a culture of respect and empathy.

 Student/Parent Athletic Handbook outlines expectations and appropriate behaviors for student-athletes and parents

 Visible expectations that promote a safe and inclusive environment are evident around the school building. Examples 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, monitoring student behavior toward one another, and The Ursuline School’s expectations and code of conduct.

 The school periodically hosts student and parent assemblies.

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

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

XVIII. BUILDING SAFETY

A. SECURITY: Once the school day begins, all outside doors are locked. For security reasons, 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“InHouse”

All emergency procedures will be reviewed with the students and the procedures are posted in every classroom and are around the building.

XIX. COUNSELING SERVICES

For families affected by a serious illness, any mental health situation, death in the family, etc.,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.

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.

XX. SCHOOL NURSE/HEALTH & INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

A. SCHOOL NURSE: The City of New Rochelle provides Ursuline with the services of a registered nurse from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

B. PHYSICAL &DENTAL EXAMINATIONS:ThefollowingarerequiredbyNewYork

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State law:

 Physical examinations are required for students trying out for athletic teams. Please refer to the website under Athletics for more information. In addition, 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 schoolyear.

 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 athletic teams must submit an Athletic Health History Form , and an updated annual physical form completed and signed by the physician and a parent/guardian.

 Screenings and athletic physicals with the school doctor may 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

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 athletics must carry their own medical insurance coverage in addition to the school's accident insurance.

XXI. 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.

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,

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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 for the 2023 - 24 school year is $21,575 for grades 6 through 11. Graduation fee and tuition for grade 12 is $22,125. 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) 6362405.

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.

XXII. CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION

From time to time, parents and students may have questions, concerns, or suggestion regarding a student’s academics 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. Faculty advisors can be the first point of contact who will refer, as necessary, the appropriate support parties to take appropriate action.

For academic matters, such as course, course placement, teaching, or grade related matters:

Contact the student’s teacher and faculty advisor followed by

 the Department Head followed by

 the Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction followed by

 the Principal

For information regarding the college process and/or graduation requirements:

Contact the student’s academic and college counselor followed by

 the Director of College and Academic Counseling

For disciplinary infraction regarding detention

Contact the teacher who issued the detention followed by

 the Assistant Principal of Student Life followed by the Principal

For serious disciplinary matters:

Contact the Assistant Principal for Student Life followed by

 the Principal or any designee listed on page 34

For sports-related matters:

Contact the coach followed by

 the Director of Athletics & Asst. Director of Athletics followed by

 the Assistant Principal of Student Life followed by the Principal

For extracurricular matters:

Contact the faculty/club moderator followed by

 the Assistant Principal of 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 or schedule 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 attendance@ursulinenewrochelle.org. For extenuating circumstances- prolonged absences, contact the

 The Assistant Principal of Student Life

For concussion matters: Contact with ALL of the following:

 School Nurse

 Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction

 Assistant Athletic Director

 Director of Athletics

For issues of stress mental health related concerns: 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 issues regarding 504/IEP: Contact the Chairperson of RLD