Student Handbook - St. Joan Antida High School

Overview

Saint Joan Antida High School promotes a culture of caring and mutual respect within a diverse community. The goal of Saint Joan Antida High School’s behavioral and disciplinary guidelines and policies is to carry out the SJA philosophy of developing young women in the light of sound Catholic principles. The rules and regulations of the school are designed to:

Help students develop a concern for the needs and respect of others
Establish sound procedures that prevent or stop disrespect and misbehavior
Ensure that students are aware of the consequences of inappropriate behavior and understand how/why such behavior must be improved.
Help students develop a proper regard for and care of the material goods of others

The school will not allow disruptive or other misbehavior, and will take corrective action as required. All school personnel have the responsibility to uphold behavioral standards and take corrective action in accordance with the policies of the school. SJAHS reserves the right to interpret and implement this policy at its sole discretion.

Admissions

Students must apply to St. Joan Antida High School through the Department of Admissions and Enrollment. Appropriate class selection will be determined holistically through a review of student grades, standardized test scores, and teacher recommendation. If a student comes with a significant academic delay, they may be required to meet with the Student Services Team (SST) prior to being enrolled to SJA. It is important that SJA be able to serve the needs of all of our students.

Admissions and Enrollment are two separate and distinct processes at St. Joan Antida High School. Students may be admitted under the Parental Choice Program, but may not be suitable for enrollment if the school cannot meet the needs of the student with minor adjustment to the curriculum. This decision will be made collaboratively with the parent. The SST decision will determine enrollment conditions for these students.

Parental Choice Programs

Students applying under a parental choice program will be admitted to the Parental Choice Program at SJA if they meet the income and residency requirements.

Enrollment

Attendance

Age of Student

Arrival at School

The school building is open each day at 7:10 a.m. Students must enter via the cafeteria doors on Ogden Ave. A student is not considered present at school until they enter the SJA building. Upon entering the school, due to liability concerns, students may not leave for any reason. Students must wait in the cafeteria until 7:30 a.m. At that time, students may leave the cafeteria to go to their lockers and/or the gym for Daily Gathering. No student will be permitted at their lockers before 7:30 a.m. Students must be in the cafeteria by 7:55 a.m. for Daily Gathering.

When students arrive from the buses, they will enter the school on Ogden Ave. and go directly to the gym for Daily Gathering or to their lockers to retrieve materials. All students are expected to be in the gym by 8 a.m. for Daily Gathering.

Tardy to School

Students arriving at school between 8:00 and 8:10 a.m. will receive a Tardy pass before entering the gym for Daily Gathering. This pass should be given to their Connection Circle Faculty moderator. After 8:10 a.m., students must report to the school office to obtain a tardy pass. Students will have 5 minutes from the time of the pass to enter class their class. Students arriving tardy must present the tardy pass to their teacher upon entering the room. Tardiness to school will have the following consequences:

Three days tardy to school will result in a meeting with the Social Worker to discuss attendance.
Five times tardy will result in a parent meeting with the Assistant Principal/Dean of Students to discuss attendance.
Ten times tardy will result in a one day suspension and will require a parent meeting before the SJA expulsion team to develop an attendance contract.
On the fifteenth through nineteenth day of tardiness, both student and parent must meet with the Assistant Principal/Dean of Students (AP) to review the recommendation of the expulsion team and discuss the tardiness issue.
Upon the twentieth day of tardiness, the student may be dismissed from St. Joan Antida High School.

Tardy to Class

Tardiness to class is not allowed.

Students have 5 minutes to change classes and are expected to pass to and from class within this allotted time and to be inside their classrooms when the bell rings. Students reporting to class tardy excessively will be reported to the administration.

Three times tardy to a class during a quarter may result in disciplinary action as determined by the Dean of students..

Late Yellow Bus Admittance

Hall Passes

Dismissal from School

Regular dismissal time is 3:25 p.m. Students must leave the building by 3:30 p.m. unless they are supervised by a staff member (athletics, tutoring, club meetings, etc).

Students remaining in the building unsupervised will be referred to the Dean of Students for disciplinary action.

Parents and students need to make proper arrangements for transportation to avoid students having to wait outside for long periods of time after dismissal; students are not permitted to “wait for rides” inside the building after 3:30 p.m.

Absence Rate

Habitual absences/Truancy

A habitual absences/truancy is a student who is absent from school without an acceptable excuse for part or all of five (5) or more days on which school is held during a school semester under Wisconsin State Statute section 118.15.

Wisconsin State Statute section 118.15 holds the parent or guardian who has the child under their control, a child who is between the ages of six (6) and 18 years, responsible for causing the child to attend school regularly, fulltime, whenever the school is in session until the end of the school term, quarter or session of the year in which the child becomes 18 years of age.

Parents will be notified by letter (non-certified) upon three (3) and five (5) days of absence. Upon the 10^thday of absence, a certified letter with a return receipt will be mailed to parents.

After the 5^th day of absence, the student and parent will be required to attend a meeting with the SJA Student Services Team (SST) to develop an attendance contract.
After the 10^th day of absence, both student and parent must meet with the Assistant Principal/Dean of Students (AP) to review the attendance contract discuss the attendance issue.
Upon the 16^thday of absence, the student will be dismissed from St. Joan Antida High School as a student as a matter of course.

Reporting an Absense

When a student is absent, parents must call:

274-4766 PRIOR to 8:30 a.m. to excuse the absence.

You must give your student’s name, grade level, and reason for the absence. PARENTS MAY ONLY EXCUSE THEIR CHILD FROM SCHOOL FOR UP TO FOUR (4) DAYS PER SEMESTER. Once these days are exhausted, the student will be considered truant without documentation from a doctor, court, or other related service that the student was present for during school hours.

Excused (Legal) Absences Procedure

Students who must be absent from school must have a parent/guardian call school before 8:30 A.M. on the day of the absence. Upon return to school, students are also required to submit a written excuse signed by the parent/guardian to the general office, within three days of the absence to obtain an excused absence form. Students will not be allowed to make up homework or tests without valid excuses and this form. Any absence for which an excuse has not been turned in will be considered an unexcused absence.

Legal absences defined as follows: personal illness, medical appointments, family emergency, funerals, driver’s examinations, required legal appearances, designated religious holidays, approved educational activities, and suspension.

Unacceptable reasons for absences include: vacation, deer hunting, fishing trip, personal business, working, babysitting, shopping, etc.

A parent may excuse a child for up to 4 days per semester for any reason, but an excuse must be submitted before the absence. Refusing to disclose the nature of the absence will also result in the absence being counted as unexcused.

Students and parents are strongly urged to schedule dental/doctor appointments, job interviews, etc. outside of regular school hours. Every effort should be made to have the student attend as much of the school day as possible. If the student will miss a portion of the school day due to an appoint, the parent/guardian must inform the school via a written note or over the phone requesting early dismissal. This should be done prior to 8 a.m. A student is not permitted to leave school unless s/he is officially excused. Failure to check out will be considered truancy and will be treated as such.

Virtual or Hybrid Learning

College Visits

Juniors may have one college day to visit a college campus. Seniors may have one college day to visit and one day to allow for required testing if necessary. Juniors and seniors must arrange for a college day pass from their guidance counselor.

A parent’s signature is required at least one week prior to the college visit. Work due on the day of the college visit will be due the day BEFORE the visit.

Students will have one extra day to make up work assigned during the absence (unless negotiated otherwise with the teacher). This is an excused absence if a student brings back signed documentation from their visit.

Field Trips

Field trips are a privilege and therefore students may not attend a field trip unless they have received parental permission and all of the student’s teachers have agreed that the student can miss class on the

day of the trip. All class work must be turned in early or made up per the direction of the teachers whose classes were missed. Field trips are considered an exempt absence and do not count in accumulated days of absence from school if it is a school sponsored event.

Illness at School

Medical Appointments

Vacations

Vacations are not allowed during the school year on school days.

Vacations should be planned during normal breaks (i.e. Christmas Break, Easter Break, Summer time vacation). Parents may only excuse their student from school for four days per semester. All other days will be considered unexcused and will be counted in the total days outlined in the truancy policy. We encourage parents who have family commitments out of town during the holidays to plan them during the time allotted.

Extended Absenses

Students who need to be out of school for more than 20 days due to medical concerns must make up missed credits through credit recovery program or through attendance at summer school.

Students missing more than four weeks of class in a quarter will not be eligible to pass that quarter.

The student will have the opportunity to take an Incomplete (I) for the quarter grade and complete an alternative credit recovery program online or at MATC to make up these credits.

If this is not done before the beginning of the next school year, the Incomplete (I) will automatically be changed to a failing grade for the quarter and the semester grade will be calculated accordingly.

Student Identification

All students receive a picture ID card they must carry at all times while under the jurisdiction of the school. A student must produce or surrender the ID card at a staff member’s request. Refusal to do so will result in a disciplinary conversation with the Dean of Students.

If a student loses his/her ID card, the student is to report the loss to the main office. Arrangements will be made to provide the student with another picture ID card.

Replacing an ID costs $5.

After School Activities

Students must exit the building by 3:30 p.m. each day.

At 3:30 p.m., students staying for after school activities must be with their program supervisor. No students will be permitted to re-enter the building or be unsupervised in the building after 3:30 p.m.

If a student exits the building and tries to return after 3:30 p.m. for an after-school activity, they will be denied access and also denied any transportation normally provided for after school activities.

When the after-school program has concluded for the day, students must exit the building immediately. There will be no ability for students to wait for rides inside the building, regardless of weather conditions, so families should plan accordingly. Students may not go to their lockers after attending an after-school activity. Students should go to their lockers before 3:30 p.m.

Fundraising/Personal Sales

Electronics Usage in School

St. Joan Antida High School supports the use of technology for the purpose of teaching and learning. Nevertheless, this policy has been created to ensure the academic integrity and safety of all students while attending SJA.

Cell phones may be in school but cannot be seen or heard during the regular school day. When a student enters the building each morning, cell phones must be immediately silenced and put in a backpack. Cell phones may not be used again until 3:10 p.m. (dismissal) unless with the express permission, and in the presence of, a school administrator or faculty member. Cell phone during the school day is discouraged including for the following reasons: calling home, texting, using the calculator, communicating with a parent or friend during the school day, or any other reason.

Electronic devices including headphones, iPod, and cameras are also prohibited. Taking pictures or videos during the school day is strictly prohibited. If a student does not put the electronic device away at the request of an SJA faculty member or administrator, it may be confiscated and given to the Principal.

Students may use private laptops, e-readers, iPads, or tablets ONLY if approved by the classroom teacher. They may only be used in the class for which permission was granted. These items may not be used at breakfast or lunch times in the cafeteria.

If school personnel confiscate any electronic items, they will be given to the Principal. A parent/guardian must retrieve the item from the Principal by 3:30 p.m. on that day. If a parent cannot retrieve the item by that time, they must wait until the following day; a student cannot retrieve her own electronic device. If a student develops a repeated habit of electronics usage, a parent conference may be required.

Bullying and Cyberbullying

Bullying is a deliberate or intentional behavior using words or actions, intended to cause fear, humiliation, intimidation, harm, or social exclusion. Bullying may be repeated behavior and involves an imbalance of power. Bullying may be motivated by an actual or perceived distinguishing characteristic, such as, but not limited to age, national origin, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, and social, economic, or family status.

Bullying and Cyberbullying behavior can be, but is not limited to:

physical (assault, hitting, kicking, theft, etc.);
verbal (threatening or intimidating language, name-calling, cruel rumors, racist remarks, etc.);
indirect (spreading rumors, social exclusion or isolations, using technology in a hurtful manner – cyber bullying) Cyber bullying includes, but is not limited to, use of email, instant messaging, text messages, digital pictures or images, cell phones, or website postings, Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms which has the effect of:
- Physically, emotionally, or mentally harming a student or staff member.
- Placing a student or staff member in reasonable fear of physical, emotional, or mental harm
- Placing a student or staff member in reasonable fear of damage to or loss of personal property.
- Creating an intimidating or hostile environment that environment that substantially interferes with a student’s or staff member's safety and comfort or a student’s educational opportunities.
Bullying by proxy (i.e., someone engaging in bullying through another or on behalf of another person; or
Between students and students, students and adults, or adults and adults.

Bullying and Cyberbullying is strictly prohibited. All bullying activity, without regard to the physical location of the act, will be considered grounds for dismissal from St. Joan Antida High School. Due to the nature of bullying, students will not be mediated, and restorative justice practices are not appropriate interventions for this behavior. If an allegation of bullying is substantiated, the student will be put on the Bullying and harassment procedure policy. The student may be suspended for three days and referred to the SJA Expulsion Team. The team will determine if the charge of Bullying has been substantiated. If so, the accused student will be expelled for St. Joan Antida High School.

Making a false claim of bullying will also be considered a very serious offense. Students making false claims of bullying will be referred to the SJA Administration where a behavior contract may be written. If the team determines that the false allegation rises to the level of bullying behavior, the student will be dismissed as a student at St. Joan Antida High School.

Students of SJA, are required to follow student handbook guidelines, even though an event may happen off school property and/or outside of school hours. Attending SJA is a privilege. Students are held in the highest regard and are seen as role models in the community and have the responsibility to portray themselves, their families and the school in a positive manner at all times. Social network sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and other digital platforms and distribution mechanisms facilitate students’ communication.

Participation in such networks has a positive appeal but can be extremely detrimental to a student’s future if not used in the appropriate fashion. It is important that all students fully understand the consequences of the misuse of social media. All students are to exercise extreme caution if they choose to use social media.

Students are not restricted from using any online social network sites or digital platforms. However, students must understand that any content they make public via online social networks or digital platforms is expected to follow acceptable social behaviors and also to comply with the federal government, State of Wisconsin, SJA, Archdiocese of Milwaukee, WIAA, and NCAA laws/regulations. Students must be aware of the SJA Parent/Student Handbook regulations. Ignorance of these regulations does not excuse students from obeying these rules.

All and anything posted online is public record. Users should always be sensitive to how others might perceive their profiles. Limited access to a student’s site does not protect her information. Once a photo or comment is posted on a social networking site, that photo or comment(s) becomes the property of the site and may be searchable even after it has been removed. Students must refrain from posting any inappropriate pictures or comments. Many college admissions officers or potential employers regulate and check these sites to measure a person’s character and discretion. Students must consider how this may jeopardize their athletic or academic future.

All students must follow the rules listed below. The listed consequences below have been put in place by SJA administration and athletic department. Students are forbidden to do any of the following while on social media sites:

Post derogatory language or remarks about other students, student-athletes, teachers, coaches, alumni, administrators, or representatives of SJA and/or other schools.
Make defaming or demeaning statements about or threats to anyone.
Post incriminating photos or statements depicting violence, bullying, racism, hazing, sexual harassment, vandalism, stalking, underage drinking, selling, possessing, or using controlled substances, insinuating or encouraging the use of controlled substances, or any other inappropriate behaviors.
Create a danger to the safety of another person or make a credible threat of physical or emotional injury to another person.
Indicate knowledge of an unreported felony theft or felony criminal damage to property.
Indicate knowledge of an unreported school or team violation-whether the violation was unintentional or intentional.
Engage in any actions that depict inappropriate, embarrassing, or dangerous behaviors contrary to Christian/Catholic beliefs.

SJA students must be very careful when using online social networking sites and keep in mind that sanctions may be imposed if these sites are used improperly or depict any of the situations. Those sanctions can include, but are not limited to public or private reprimand, suspension from practice or competition, dismissal from the program, and loss of financial aid, if applicable. Any student found in violation will face the penalties found in the Parent/ Student Handbook.

Note: Any person wishing to report a potential violation of this code should contact the Principal, Director of Student Services, Dean of Students or Athletic Director, giving their name and all pertinent information regarding the alleged violation. They need to be prepared to put the information regarding the alleged violation. They need to be prepared to put the information in writing and provide a screen shot of the incident if requested to do so. SJA reserves the right to amend this policy from time to time in our judgment to address issues that may arise and changes in our operations or the law.

SJA reserves the right to amend this policy in our judgement to address issues that may arise and changes in our operations or the law.

Procedure for Reporting and Obtaining Relief from Harassment:

The following steps should be taken when dealing with an incident that involves harassment or any form of bullying:

The harassment or bullying should be reported to a faculty/staff member or an administrator as soon as possible.
Those involved in the act of harassment or bullying will be interviewed by the Administrator.
Parents/ Guardians will be advised of the incident.
Appropriate consequences will be issued to the offending individual(s).

Acts of harassment, bullying, and cyberbullying will result in the student receiving disciplinary sanctions including, but not limited to, suspension, expulsion, and where appropriate, these actions will be reported to the proper authorities including the police.

To the extent a complaint of sexual harassment involves sexual contact or the apparent infliction of physical or emotional damage on the student, the appropriate authorities will be notified pursuant to Section 48.981 of the Wisconsin Statutes. No retaliation against a student or adult for reporting harassment will be tolerated and will result in immediate termination of enrollment.

Student Conduct

Overview

St. Joan Antida High School behavioral expectations apply to student behavior including, but not limited to, the following situations:

In the school building
On the bus to/from school and at bus stops
On school field trips
At school-sponsored events off campus
In the community when the behavior brings negative attention to SJA.

Violation of these behavioral expectations will be addressed using the Step Discipline Policy stated below if they occur in any of the above locations and settings. School administration reserves the right to make discretionary decisions related to level of infraction. At any time, higher level consequences may be imposed if a student displays behavioral patterns that consistently violate behavior expectations of an SJA student.

Step Discipline Process

Teacher will attempt to correct behavior without escalation in the classroom.
If a student does not correct behavior a take home (Google form sent by Dean including a phone call home) will be given depending on if the situation is considered major or minor issue.
The student can receive up to three take homes. After the third take home, a phone call home with a detention will be served.
The take home process can happen up to three times before a suspension is given.
If a suspension is warranted, a parent meeting with the Dean and Director of Student Services will be mandatory in order for the student to be reinstated.
A behavior contract will be filled out and the student will not be allowed any more take homes.
If another behavior issue arises the student referred to administration.
Referral to administration. Expulsion could be the immediate action, but other possible actions could be:
1. Counsel and Warn
2. Administrative detention
3. Saturday Detention
4. Out of School Suspension (1-3 days)
5. Expulsion Recommendation (5–15-day suspension pending investigation)

Take Home Procedure for minor behavior issues- (e.g. Out of uniform, no tardy slips, skipping class, swearing, cellphone use):

Take Home>Take Home> Take Home>Detention> Take Home> Take Home> Take Home> Detention>Take home> Take home>Take Home> Detention> Suspension> Behavior Contract> Expulsion Hearing.

Administrative Intervention Levels

Level 1 - CONFERENCE / INTERVENTION:

At this level, the Dean of Students or their designee conducts a conference with any combination of students, parents/guardians, teachers, and staff. The conference may result in a behavior contract with the student, a warning to the student and/or parent/guardian or other action that is in keeping with school policy like issuing a detention, Saturday detention, or other affirmative action required by the student to repair the breach of behavior. The student may also be referred to the Student Services team for continued support.

Level 2 – SUSPENSION:

Suspension is defined as a temporary exclusion from the school building including: classes and all school-related activities held during school, after school, or on weekends. Parents/guardians are notified of the suspension and are expected to meet with an administrator and/or a school counselor before the student returns to school. Suspensions shall not be for more than 3-days unless being referred to an expulsion team. Expulsion Team referrals receive a 5-day suspension which could extend to 15 days if a longer investigation is required. During a suspension, it is the responsibility of the student to speak with the teachers to determine the work missed during the suspension.

Level 3 - REFERRAL TO EXPULSION HEARING:

Serious breaches of discipline are referred for expulsion. The student receives an initial 5-day suspension that can be extended for up to 15 days pending the completion of an investigation. A hearing with the student, parent/guardian, and administrator will be conducted. A hearing panel composed of an administrator and two teaching faculty will oversee the hearing. The resulting disciplinary action may range from intervention to a recommendation for expulsion. The family will have the right to appeal his/her decision to the President or her designee if there is a specific grievance regarding the investigation, hearing or a substantial disagreement of fact. The President or her designee will review the decision, speak to the parties involved if necessary and make a decision. The decision of the President or her designee is final.

Discipline Chart

Code of School/Classroom Conduct and Discipline Chart
Examples of Conduct that Violate Expectations or Code of Conduct		Definition	Action Levels
			Minimum minor	Maximum serious/ repeated
Attendance/ Punctuality	Tardiness	Failure to be in place of instruction at the assigned time without a valid excuse	1	3
	Truancy	Failure to report to school or class without prior permission, knowledge, or excuse by school/parent	1	3

Code of School/Classroom Conduct and Discipline Chart
Examples of Conduct that Violate Expectations or Code of Conduct		Definition	Action Levels
		Definition	Minimum minor	Maximum serious/ repeated
Learning Environment	Inappropriate dress	Dressing or grooming in a manner that disrupts the teaching and learning of others and/or is in violation of the SJA uniform code.	1	1
	Chronic lack of supplies	Repeatedly reporting to class lacking necessary materials such as books, physical education attire, calculators. etc.	1	1
	Academic dishonesty	Copying the work of another student or allowing a student to copy one’s own work. Using non approved paper or electronic devices to provide answers during a quiz/test. See Academic Dishonesty Policy for full details.	1	2
	Inappropriate personal property	Possession of personal property prohibited by school rules and otherwise disruptive to the teaching and learning of others such as food, beverages, laser pointers, electronic and communication devices	1	3
	Leaving the classroom without permission	Leaving the classroom learning environment without permission from staff members in charge	1	2
	Refusal to work or follow instructions	Failing to comply with proper and authorized directions or instructions of a staff member	1	2
	Repeated classroom disruption	Confronting staff argumentatively, throwing objects, refusing to follow directions, or making loud noises	1	3
	Chronic disruption or violation of school rules	Behavior that disrupts the educational process of others by involvement in misconduct that recurs on a regular basis over a period of time	2	3
	Gang activity	Displaying of gang symbols or colors on materials, jewelry, or clothing	2	3
	Gang activity	Gang posturing which provokes an altercation	2	3
	Gang activity	Involvement in a gang fight – exchange of blows	2	3
	Gang activity	Gang initiation or recruitment	2	3
	Other similar offenses	Engaging in other similar conduct that disrupts the educational process or interfere with teaching and learning	1	3

Code of School/Classroom Conduct and Discipline Chart
Examples of Conduct that Violate Expectations or Code of Conduct		Definition	Action Levels
		Definition	Minimum minor	Maximum serious/ repeated
Physical Safety/Mental Wellbeing	Profanity	Use of language, either written or spoken, or conduct or gestures, which are obscene, lewd, profane, vulgar, or sexually suggestive	1	3
	Verbal abuse, harassment	Disturbing by pestering, tormenting, or threatening	1	3
	Sexual harassment	Unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical contact, or other verbal conduct or communication of a sexual nature	1	3
	Personal threat	Indirect (through another party), verbal, or written statement of intent to do bodily harm directed towards others	1	3
	Bullying	Repetitive, deliberate, unfair, one-sided behavior that involves unequal power, done with the intention of harming others	1	3
	Fighting	Pushing and shoving and/or exchange of physical blows	1	3
	Other similar offenses	Engaging in other similar conduct that disrupts the educational process or interferes with teaching and learning	1	3

Code of School/Classroom Conduct and Discipline Chart
Examples of Conduct that Violate Expectations or Code of Conduct		Definition	Action Levels
		Definition	Minimum minor	Maximum serious/ repeated
Physical Safety/Mental Well-being (criminal acts)	Loitering	Remaining around or lingering about a school building without a lawful purpose for being there	1	2
	Trespassing	Entering any school property or into any school facilities without proper authority. Includes any school entry during a period of suspension or expulsion	1	2
	Gambling	Playing any game of skill or chance for money or anything of value	1	3
	Possession or use of fireworks	Using or possessing any explosive amusement device	1	3
	Assault	Aggressive behavior exhibited in an attempt to do immediate bodily harm, or to threaten to do immediate bodily harm to others, or to put others in fear of immediate bodily injury	3	3
	Hazing	Intentional or reckless acts which endanger the physical health or safety of others for the purposes of initiation/admission/affiliation with an organization	2	3
	Reckless vehicle use	Using any motorized or self-propelled vehicle on or near school grounds in a reckless manner, or as a threat to health and safety, or as a disruption to the educational process	1	3
	Disorderly conduct	Behaving in a violent or seriously inappropriate manner that disrupts the educational process	2	3
	Battery	Unprovoked/unanswered intentional physical contact without consent causing bodily harm	3	3
	Extortion	Forcing other persons to act against their will, under threat of physical harm, such as the demand for money	2	3
	Robbery	Taking property from a person by force or threat of aggression	2	3
	Sexual assault	Intentional bodily contact for sexual gratification or pleasure	3	3
	False fire alarms	Reporting a fire to school or fire officials, or setting off a fire alarm without a reasonable belief that a fire exists	2	3
	Possession/ownership/ use of a weapon other than a gun	Possessing, having under one’s control, using or threatening with a knife, razor, karate stick, metal knuckle, box cutter, laser pointers used to do bodily harm, pepper spray, or any other object that by the way it is used or intended to be used is capable of inflicting bodily harm	3	3
	Bomb threats	Reporting to school, police, or fire officials the presence of a bomb on or near school property without a reasonable belief that a bomb is present on school property	3	3
	Possession/ownership/ use of a gun	Possessing, having under one’s control, using, or threatening with a gun (pistol, BB, pellet, rifle, starter, replica, or toy gun)	3	3
	Other similar offenses	Engaging in other similar acts that endanger the physical safety or mental well-being of others	1	3

Code of School/Classroom Conduct and Discipline Chart
Examples of Conduct that Violate Expectations or Code of Conduct		Definition	Action Levels
		Definition	Minimum minor	Maximum serious/ repeated
Property (criminal acts)	Vandalism	Maliciously and intentionally causing damage to school property or the property of others. Includes situations in which minor damage can be repaired or replaced at no cost to the district	1	3
	Possession of stolen property	Having in one’s possession property obtained without permission of the owner	1	3
	Theft	Taking property belonging to the school or to any individual or group without prior permission with specific intent to permanently deprive	1	3
	Burglary	Unauthorized entry into a school district building for the purpose of committing a crime when the building is closed to the students and public	2	3
	Arson	Intentionally starting any fire or combustion on school property	3	3
	Other similar offenses	Engaging in any other similar actions which threaten or result in the loss or destruction of property	1	3

Code of School/Classroom Conduct and Discipline Chart
Examples of Conduct that Violate Expectations or Code of Conduct		Definition	Action Levels
		Definition	Minimum minor	Maximum serious/ repeated
Controlled Substances	Possession/ownership and use of alcohol	Possessing, having under one’s control, or using any alcoholic beverages	3	3
	Possession/ownership and use of illegal drugs	Possessing, having under one’s control, or using any controlled substances	3	3
	Use of tobacco, including chewing	Using any tobacco product by student	1	2
	Possession with intent to distribute illegal drugs/ alcohol/ prescribed medications	Selling, giving away, or otherwise transferring to another person any controlled substance or alcohol, including any transfer of a prescription drug or any substance alleged to be a drug regardless of its actual content	3	3
	Other substances/ materials	Possessing, using, or having under one’s control any substances, materials, or related paraphernalia (including vaping) that are dangerous to health or safety or that disrupt the educational process	3	3

School Violence Threat

Wisconsin Act 143 requires reporting of school violence threats by certain individuals, including teachers, school administrators, school counselors, other school employees, physicians, and other medical and mental health professionals. Specifically, an identified individual must report if the person believes in good faith, based on a threat made by an individual seen in the course of professional duties regarding violence in or targeted at a school, that there is a serious and imminent threat to the health and safety of a student, school employee, or the public. These individuals must immediately inform a law enforcement agency of the facts and circumstances contributing to the belief that there is a serious and imminent threat.

Mediation

St. Joan Antida offers a mediation program to allow students the opportunity to resolve any inter-personal differences that they may be experiencing with their classmates. This program is a collaboration between school counselors and specific designated peer mediators to assist students in resolving differences before they become a disruption to the learning environment or a risk to personal safety. Students who are interested in mediation services may self-refer, refer a classmate, or ask an adult to assist them with a referral. Any student who is experiencing disagreement with a peer is encouraged to consider mediation as an option for resolution.

Search & Seizure

SJAHS reserves the right to search anything brought onto school property. This includes, but is not limited to backpacks, purses, coats, and pockets.

Lockers, desks, textbooks, and other materials or supplies loaned by the school to students remain the property of the school, and may be opened by personnel for cleaning, maintenance, or emergencies. When prohibited items are found in the course of routine cleaning or maintenance, or in the case of emergency, they will be confiscated, and a report will be made to the school administrator who will determine whether further investigation is warranted.

The school administrator shall have the right to access any content, including text messages, photos, or address books on cell phones or other electronic devices confiscated from students.

Illegal or contraband materials found during a search shall be turned over to law enforcement officials.

Officers of the law, appearing with duly processed search warrants, will be accorded the right to inspect as per the court's order.

Police Questioning & Apprehension

Law enforcement officers may not remove a student from the school building for questioning while the student is properly in attendance without permission of the student's parent, regardless of the student's age. A law enforcement officer has the right to question a student, even without a warrant. The school administrator is not required to notify the parents before allowing a pupil to be questioned by law enforcement.

A law enforcement officer may remove a child when possessing a warrant for the student's arrest or an order signed by the judge of the children's court.

Regardless of parental permission, the school administrator should not attempt to interfere with the police investigation.

Disciplinary Sanctions

Probationary Status

All students new to SJAHS are placed on probationary status for the first year of their enrollment.

Any student may be placed on probationary status at the discretion of the expulsion hearing panel, Principal, or actions that violate the student handbook.

When a student is placed on probation, a conference is held and the student and parents sign a Probationary Contract, including the following:

Time period: length of time status will be in effect
Course of action: behaviors or conditions that will be considered appropriate or inappropriate ∙ The impact of later infractions: subsequent infractions will be viewed more seriously (even a single violation may result in a disciplinary hearing)
Plan for re-evaluation: conditions under which the warning status may be terminated, renewed or extended School administration will review probationary status on a bi-weekly basis.

Suspension Policy

Being suspended from school is a serious consequence and should be treated as such. Suspensions are used to allow administration to conduct investigations, separate the student from a situation that may reoccur before a resolution has been achieved, or to remove a student that has created a situation that has detracted from the learning environment of other students. A maximum of three days can be imposed unless written notice is given that a disciplinary hearing has been scheduled (notice of a disciplinary hearing shall be given within this three day period).

The guidelines for suspension are as follows:

The student will be advised of the reason for the suspension
The parent/guardian of the student will be given immediate notice of the suspension and the reasons for the action
Suspension may be issued by the Principal or Assistant Principal/Dean of Students immediately following a serious disciplinary offense
Before a student may return to school after a suspension, a conference will be held with the student, parents/guardians, school counselor, and academic administrator.

Expulsion Policy

Expulsion is considered a termination of enrollment. Expulsion results from repeated refusal to obey school rules, or from conduct that endangers the health and safety of others or endangers property and is deemed to be in the best interest of the school. An extremely serious single offense may also be cause for expulsion.

Expulsion Procedure:

During the investigation, the student and parent/guardian shall be notified of being suspended from classes
In addition to attempted immediate contact via phone, a written notice of the impending expulsion hearing will be sent through the U.S. mail to the parents/guardians to the address on file with the school within 1 working day after the decision to hold a hearing has been made.
The hearing notice will provide for a hearing date and time within 5 school days after the decision to hold a hearing has been made. If the school notifies the family of need for extended investigation prior to hearing, a suspension can be extended for a maximum of 15 days.
The hearing will be held at a time designated by the school. If the family fails to attend the assigned hearing time, the hearing shall go forth without the student and parent/guardian present.
A hearing with the student and parent/guardian will be conducted. Both the student (including parent/legal guardian) and the presenting administrator are allowed to present their respective positions through their own statements, statements of witnesses, and any supporting documentation. School administration has the right to question the parties and their witnesses and to call additional witnesses as needed.
The Dean of Student Affairs or Principal will act on behalf of the school as the presenting administrator to present the case for expulsion.
A hearing panel composed of a non-presenting administrator and two faculty will oversee the hearing. The presenting administrator is not a voting member of the expulsion committee.
The parties have the right to present a closing statement limited to 5 minutes each.
At the conclusion of the hearing, the hearing committee will consider all of the evidence and make a decision regarding expulsion. Decisions may include:
1. Retain the student (with/without disciplinary sanctions
2. Allow the student to voluntarily withdraw (in lieu of expulsion)
3. Expel the student
The presenting administrator shall inform the parent/legal guardian verbal of the decision within one business day of the hearing’s conclusion, followed by a letter detailing the decision. Said letter shall also be provided to the President.
If the decision is to expel the student, a date and time by which the expulsion becomes effective shall be indicated in the letter. A student may withdraw at any time prior to the effective date of the expulsion. If the decision provides for a disciplinary action other than expulsion, a meeting will be scheduled with the student and her parent/guardian. At that time, a disciplinary contract between SJA, the student, and her parent/guardian will be executed with the expectations and consequences clearly set forth. It shall be signed by all parties to the contract.
The decision of the committee may be appealed in writing to the President or her designee. The appeal must include a specific grievance regarding the investigation, hearing, or a substantial disagreement of the fact. The President or her designee will review the decision, speak to the parties involved if necessary and make a decision. The decision of the President or her designee is final.

School's Rights

Saint Joan Antida High School reserves the right to terminate a student’s enrollment at any time, for any action or behavior on or off school premises that is considered to be unethical or contrary to acceptable moral standards of behavior.

This action on the part of the school is at the discretion of the St. Joan Antida administration and supersedes any other disciplinary procedure or action as outlined in this student handbook.

Child Abuse & Neglect

All SJA staff are considered Mandatory Reporters by the State of Wisconsin.

Within 24 hours after receiving a report of abuse or neglect, the county CPS shall initiate an investigation to determine if the child is in need of protection or services. Elements of the investigation may include observation or interview with the child, visiting the child's home, or interviewing the parents/guardian. CPS can meet with the child in any public place without the parent/guardian's permission but may not enter the home without permission.

Should CPS request to meet with a child on school premises, school staff may permit those meeting without parental consent as the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (Article 4) requires cooperation with the investigation of allegations of sexual abuse.

The school will also cooperate in the investigation of other forms of suspected child abuse. Student safety is of the utmost importance to the school and the school will act as appropriate to ensure student safety.

Non-Harassment Policy

Respect for the dignity of each person is essential to Catholic tradition, and SJA is committed to providing an environment for all members of its community that is totally free from physical, psychological, sexual, and verbal harassment.

Harassment encompasses a broad range of physical, verbal, nonverbal, or electronic/social media behavior that can include but is not limited to:

threatening and intimidating behavior
racial insults
derogatory comments (e.g. ethnicity, physical attributes, sexual orientation)
unwelcome sexual advances or touching
questioning of one’s sexual orientation
sexual comments, or sexual jokes

If any member of the SJA community feels harassed in any way, that person should report the incident immediately. A student should report the incident to any adult on the staff. The person who has been notified of the incident must immediately report this information to the administration. An investigation shall be conducted immediately. If the allegation is confirmed, appropriate action will be taken against the harasser.

Non-Violence Policy

Because the safety of the entire community is of utmost importance, the school has adopted the following policy: Students involved in a fight will be subject to immediate suspension. An investigation will be conducted possibly followed by the initiation of the expulsion procedure and possible referral to legal authorities.

If a student feels there is a threat of a fight she should report it to a staff member immediately. Staff will then report to the Assistant Principal/Dean of Students immediately. Self-defense will not be considered a valid excuse for fighting. It is the student’s responsibility to report any situation that may lead to a fight to the Dean of Students before a fight occurs.

Violence toward staff or the use, possession or distribution of weapons at any time is grounds for expulsion and subject to referral to legal authorities.

Verbal arguments/threats will not be tolerated and could result in immediate suspension of students involved. The student and parent/guardian will be required to attend a conference with the Principal or Assistant Principal/Dean of students. If the Principal allows involved parties to return to school, they will be required to attend a mediation session. The involved parties will also be placed on disciplinary probation.

Any affiliation with gangs or gang-related activity, such as displaying gang signs, (e.g. graffiti, hand-gestures, etc.), tattoos, dress or behavior, is grounds for a disciplinary hearing and possible expulsion.

Students who call or text any person (including parents) to SJA for the purpose of coming to school to participate in a physical or verbal altercation shall be immediately suspended and referred to the expulsion hearing panel.

Public Displays of Affection

Suicide Prevention & Awareness

When any school staff has reason to believe, either by virtue of direct knowledge or a report from another person, that a student is in any danger of harming him/herself through an attempted suicide, or has attempted suicide, that person is to report this situation to the school administrator and the student’s parents, even if the student denies suicidal ideation. If the student’s life is in imminent danger, emergency personnel (911) will be summoned to transport the student to the nearest hospital emergency room. 

If there are repeated calls to parents with concerns of suicidality and the parents are not responding, this will be considered medical neglect and will be reported to Child Protective Services.

Substance Abuse Policy

Theft and Vandalism Policy

Stealing is defined as deliberately taking that which is not yours and/or having in your possession property which does not belong to you. (Books, articles of clothing, etc. which are found and not turned in to the office fall into this category.) Substantiated cases of stealing or vandalism will be reported to the police and the student will be suspended and/or recommended for expulsion.

If a student vandalizes school property, the parent(s)/guardian will be charged the cost of repairing or replacing the vandalized property. If a student finds such damage done to their property or to an area that is their responsibility, such as a locker or desk, she should report the damage immediately to a staff member or assume responsibility for payment.

The school assumes no responsibility for money or personal belongings of students. Students should never leave belongings unattended. Students are provided with a school locker and lock but should never leave items of value in the locker. It is strongly recommended that students do not bring items of value with them to school. Students are responsible for ensuring their lock is on the locker and locked while not in use. Students are encouraged never to share their locker combination with other students.

Academic Policies

Graduation Requirements

Requirements to be considered on track for high school graduation

To be promoted to the next grade, and remain on track for graduation, students must attain the minimum credits as indicated by the table below by the end of each academic year. 

Academic Standing	Freshman	Sophomore	Junior	Senior
Minimum Credits Required for Promotion	5 credits	11 credits	17 credits	24 credits

*If you are unsure about your credit count, please check your Powerschool.  If you are unable to check Powerschool please contact the front office or the school counselor. 

Graduation Requirements

English: 4.0 Credits

Theology: 4.0 Credits

Social Studies: 3.0 Credits

Mathematics: 3.0 Credits

Science: 3.0 Credits

World Languages: 1.0 Credits

Physical Education: 1.5 Credits

Fine Arts: 1.0 Credit

Health: 0.5 Credit

Electives: 3.0 Credits

Total: 24.0 credits*

SJA Grading Scale

A	4.0	95-100
A-	3.7	90-94
B+	3.3	88-89
B	3.0	83-87
B-	2.7	80-82
C+	2.3	78-79
C	2.0	73-77
C-	1.7	70-72
D+	1.3	68-69
D	1.0	63-67
D-	0.7	60-62
F	0.0	0

In addition to these graduation requirements, colleges look for students whose GPA increases over four years and who take increasingly difficult courses. They generally prefer to see that students have completed four credits of English, math, social studies and science.

Parent Teacher Conferences & Report Cards

Report cards are given out at the end of each quarter, four times each school year. There are two parent/teacher conference events where parents are encouraged to pick report cards and meet with the teachers.

There are additional opportunities for parent/student/teacher conferences if interventions are needed at the request of the student, parent/guardian or SJA faculty member.

Course Failures

Students who fail a subject at the semester may be required to attend summer school or enroll in an independent credit recovery course approved by the school.

Students may only earn a maximum of 3 outside credits over their 4 years at SJA. If a student requires more than 3 outside credits, they will not be allowed to continue enrollment.

SJA is not responsible for costs of make-up credits/courses.

Academic Dishonesty

Given the mission and core values of the school, students are expected to pursue their education with a commitment to honesty and integrity. The following examples of academic dishonesty and plagiarism will not be tolerated:

Copying any part of a peer’s work: homework, quiz, test, project, essay, or any other work designated as individual work (regardless of the assignment’s point value)
Allowing another student access to one’s work such as emailing work to another student, granting another student access to a Google doc, or letting another student review an assignment that has already been completed or is in the process of being completed
Allowing access to work and copying someone’s else work are viewed as equal offenses and both offenses will be subject to the same course of action listed below

The above information applies to all assignments regardless of point value.

Copying any part of a published author’s work
Using direct phrasing from another text without quotes and without proper citation
Paraphrasing another text without using appropriate citation
Piecing together an essay using several different sources without appropriate citation
Using published statistical data, charts, maps, infographics, etc. without appropriate citation
Creating work in another student’s name (for example, writing another student’s essay)
Submitting work created by another student
Collaborating with other student(s)on an assignment without prior permission from the teacher
Submitting work previously or simultaneously done for another course for credit without prior permission from both teachers
Violating a teacher’s stated policy or expectation for an assignment
Using an internet translator to produce work in another language
Attempting to cheat during an assessment (for example, the use of unauthorized notes during a test)
Stealing any assignment or assessment belonging to another student or teacher
Falsifying grades/attempting to alter a graded assignment with the intention of resubmitting the work for an improved grade
Allowing yourself or another student to achieve an unfair academic advantage

All students are taught appropriate MLA citation in English class and this knowledge is reinforced in other courses. Students should discuss proper documentation with their instructor prior to submitting work.

Incidents of academic dishonesty will be dealt with in the following manner:

Offense #1: Student receives a zero for the assignment. Teacher has a conference with the student and contacts the parent.

Offense #2: Student receives a zero for the assignment and is referred to the Principal. The Principal meets with the student and contacts the parent, warning both of suspension in the event of another offense.

Offense #3: Student receives a zero for the assignment and is referred to the Principal. The student is informed of her suspension from school and the Principal will schedule a parent meeting prior to the student’s reinstatement.

Offense #4: Student receives a zero for the assignment and is referred to Principal. The student is informed of her suspension from school and the Principal will schedule a parent meeting prior to the student’s reinstatement.

Offense #5: Student receives a zero for the assignment and is referred to the Principal. The Principal then considers the student’s chronic violation of school policy and may recommend that the student proceed to a disciplinary hearing for possible expulsion.

Homework Policy

Homework is essential to successful performance in high school. Students will be given homework in their classes on a regular basis. Students are expected to complete this homework within the guidelines outlined by the teacher in their course syllabus.

If a student fails to meet course homework requirements, the teacher may refer her to the Student Services Team for an intervention meeting with the parent, student and academic team members.

Theology Opt-Out

Transfer Credits Policy

If a student wishes to transfer to St. Joan Antida from another high school, the following process will be followed:

Complete an admission application
(For those interested in School Choice): Complete a Choice program application within a designated Choice enrollment period, including all required supporting documentation as required by Department of Public Instruction regulations
Submit an official transcript of academic credit from the previous high school(s)
Schedule a transfer credit evaluation meeting with the SJA Admissions Office. At this meeting, the SJA Director of Admissions will review the graduation requirements (see above) and outline which of the previous credits can be applied to an SJA diploma.

Prior to the transfer credit evaluation meeting, the SJA Admissions Director and Guidance counselor will review the student’s academic credit and evaluate which classes can be counted for academic credit at SJA. Credits are accepted from all accredited high schools in the city of Milwaukee as long as the student has received a passing grade from that high school. Transfer of credits from a non-accredited high school will be at the discretion of the St. Joan Antida administration.

Technology Policies

Overview

Our e-mail, computer, and Internet systems are school property and are solely for educational purposes. Any personal use is prohibited.

Anything produced in the computer lab should be school or classroom related. Offensive or sexually-graphic information produced or in files is prohibited and offenders will face consequences.

Students and families will be asked to sign the “Acceptable Use Policy” for computers and telecommunications. We may intercept, monitor, copy, review, or delete any files created or maintained on our systems.

The school has a laptop lab which can be used by classes of students under the direction of the classroom teacher. Food and beverages or anything else which could potentially damage computers are not allowed in the lab, library, or any other classrooms with computers. Vandalism to any computer equipment will be dealt with per the Vandalism Policy.

1:1 Device Usage

Computer use to assist learning has become an important part of our school’s instructional program. To prepare our students to live and work in the 21st century, and to provide the students of St. Joan Antida High School the necessary tools to better their future, the school will be issuing a Chromebook device for instructional use to every student at St. Joan Antida High School.

With this program, each student will be provided the opportunity to apply technology effectively to gain knowledge, develop skills, and extend her current capabilities. Students will use this device on a daily basis to support and guide their learning.

The following guidelines are necessary to protect the students, the devices, and the school’s network and must be followed to ensure this technology serves as an effective instructional tool. Failure to comply with the guidelines may result in disciplinary and/or legal action. Students must agree to the following guidelines and policies.

Appropriate Usage

The student is responsible at all times for the care and appropriate use of the issued device and must adhere to these terms each time the device is used, including when it is not on school grounds.

Device may only be used for academic purposes related to: research, accessing school email, participation in virtual learning, and completing course assignments.

Use of the school device for social media, accessing inappropriate websites, cyberbullying, or other violations of the school discipline policy will result in disciplinary action and revocation of device usage.

Only the student to whom the device is issued (and their parent/guardian) may access the assigned device. Students may not allow others to use their school device at any time.

St. Joan Antida High School administration reserves the right to make final determination on what constitutes appropriate device usage and take any necessary disciplinary action if the device is deemed to be used for non-academic purposes.

Device Maintainance

The student shall not remove or alter any St. Joan Antida High School identification labels attached to or displayed on the device.

Students will not deface the device or adhere stickers or other marking that cannot be completely removed by the student when returning the device.

The student agrees to ensure the device is secure and safe. The student agrees to handle the device carefully and protect it from potential sources of damage.

The student must report theft (or suspected theft), loss, damage, or malfunctioning of the device to school personnel immediately.

Upon request, the student agrees to deliver the issued device to St. Joan Antida High School staff for technical inspection or to verify inventory or other information.

Students will make available at any time for inspection by any school administrator or teacher any messages, communication, or files sent or received on all school devices

The device is the property of St. Joan Antida High School. All such issued devices shall be returned to the school upon requested dates throughout the year. Failure to return the device will result in appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action.

The student is aware that this program may be revoked for students who fail to act in accordance with the guidelines stated in the St. Joan Antida student handbook

The student will assume the risk of loss by theft, destruction, vandalism, or damage. Devices reported as stolen outside of school require that parents notify police and provide a copy of an official police report to the school administration.

At collection, a $10 cleaning fee may be charged for dirty devices or sticker removal, or the device may be cleaned under the supervision of technology staff.

Accidental Damage

Intentional Damage & Lost or Stolen Devices

Overview

The Student Services Team (SST) meets as needed in order to examine services that we can offer at SJA to help students be successful in the SJA learning environment. The team is made up of the Principal, Assistant Principal, Social Worker, and the School Counselors. The team reviews all information that has been provided and may make the following determinations:

A student’s needs can be met with accommodations that require only minor adjustment to the curriculum. In this instance, the student will be placed on an accommodations contract and will need to follow through with implementation of the contract. Failure to complete the required tasks will result in potential expulsion from SJA. This plan will be reviewed after 4 weeks and then once per marking period after that. The parent and student must attend each of these meetings. Failure to attend the meetings will result in withdrawal from SJA and a referral to a more appropriate learning environment for the student.
A student's needs cannot be met with minor adjustment to the curriculum. In this instance, the student will not be enrolled after admissions OR if a current student will be unenrolled, the parent can place their student in a more appropriate setting so they get the educational assistance that they need.

SJA does not offer any special education services to students. Students with emotional, behavioral, severe cognitive disabilities, or severe mental health disabilities should not enroll in St. Joan Antida High School.

Our goal is for every child to succeed. Parents should choose the placement that best suits their child’s learning needs. SJA cannot offer a program that will lead to graduation for students who have needs that are severe or unmanaged successfully by another educational entity.

Milwaukee Public Schools is the Local Education Authority (LEA) for all students with disabilities.

Response to Academic Concerns

In any school setting, there will be students who encounter challenges in meeting the academic expectations of their respective institution. St. Joan Antida High School believes in a collaborative model that is based on a foundation of shared responsibility and will follow the procedures outlined below to better serve its student population:

Level 1

Level 1: Teacher-driven response

When a teacher has identified a student that is not successfully meeting the goals of the course and is not developing the necessary skills, the teacher will:

Communicate the concerns and document these communication efforts:
To the student in a private setting
To the parents/guardians of the student
To the student’s school counselor
Implement appropriate academic interventions in response to the concern
Interventions will be specific to the student

Level 2

Level 2: Counselor-driven response

When a teacher’s efforts to intervene have proven unsuccessful, the teacher will:

Complete a referral and submit it to the student’s guidance counselor
Upon receiving the referral form, the guidance counselor of the student will:
Meet with the student to communicate the concern and outline next steps of the CST process
Schedule a meeting that includes:
- Parent(s)/guardian(s)
- The student
- The teacher who completed the referral (additional teachers may be invited if they have similar concerns)
- An administrator

At the meeting, the school counselor will:

Review the concerns
Ask the student about her strategies/approaches
Discuss other factors which may be limiting the student’s success
Create an action plan that outlines the student’s responsibility
Establish an appropriate time frame (typically 4 weeks) for a student to consistently fulfill the action plan as documented by the guidance counselor
Explain that failure to achieve the expectations in the action plan will result in a referral to the Student Accommodations Team to discuss whether the student’s learning needs can be met with minor adjustment to the curriculum and to evaluate the student’s continued enrollment.

NOTE: The following documented situations would automatically trigger a meeting with the Student Services Team:

The parent does not respond to three attempts at contact over a two week period.
The parent does not attend at the scheduled time and does not reschedule within two weeks.
The parent cancels or does not show up to a rescheduled meeting (the parent has missed two scheduled meetings).

After the meeting, the school counselor will:

Document the outcomes of the action plan
Share the information with the Assistant Principal/Dean of Students
Schedule a follow-up meeting with the student after the time period agreed upon in the meeting and determine a particular course of action:
- Ending the action plan
- Continuing the expectations of the action plan
- Referral to the Student Services Team
- Team for failure to meet expectations of action plan

Level 3

Uniform Policy

The required SJA uniform will consist of:

either a burgundy and gray plaid skirt OR khaki or navy pants;
white, pointed-collar shirt embroidered with the school logo;
and a navy blue blazer embroidered with the school logo.

There will also be the option of wearing the following additional items: an embroidered burgundy cardigan, embroidered burgundy vest or embroidered white polo shirt with the school logo.

If a student arrives at school out of uniform, parents will be notified and the student will be given a change of clothes that is approved by the uniform policy. ALL of the above uniform items must be purchased through large retailers like Walmart or Target as well as the school's designated uniform provider.

Tanks/Camisoles

The tank / camisole may not be visible under the uniform shirt. Uniform shirts must be buttoned over the tank/camisole.

Shoes/Socks/Leggings

Socks must be worn. The following solid colors are acceptable: white, burgundy, or navy blue. Athletic socks and must be one of the following colors: white, burgundy, or navy blue. All tights must be solid (no patterns). Leggings are not permitted as part of the school uniform.

Shoes must be close-toed. No Athletic Slides, Flip-flops, heels over 2 inches, or slippers may be worn. Dress shoes and casual wear shoes that fit the uniform are acceptable.

Head Coverings

Hats, sunglasses, scarves, head rags, hair bonnets, sweatbands, and curlers are NOT permitted to be worn during the school day. The only exception to this rule is the wearing of a SOLID cover hijab or head wrap. Headbands of 1” wide or less in a single color are permitted.

Not allowed in the uniform:

Leggings of any kind; tights with patterns on them
Non-uniform sweaters or sweatshirts
Bedroom slippers
Flip-flops/athletic slides
Extreme high heels (2” or higher)
Inappropriate language on jewelry∙
No dangerous jewelry (spikes, bar rings, etc.)
Outside jackets
Colored tank tops/camisoles
No cleavage or low-riding pants

Extra-Curriculars

Athletics

SJA offers competitive tennis, cross-country, and volleyball in the fall and basketball, soccer and track in the spring. Athletes must have on file a proper WIAA Physical/Alternate Card and be in acceptable academic standing. A $30 fee per sport is required for participation along with a signed Parent Contract of Agreement. Student athletes may be asked to purchase their own uniforms.

Club/Activities

Each club may have its own unique set of expectations and by-laws. Members are expected to follow the by-laws and expectations of the club. Students must limit their club and activity involvement, so academics do not suffer. Clubs offered include, but may not be limited to:

Campus Ministry
Art Club
Student Government
Mock Trial
National Honor Society
Robotics
SMART Team
Yearbook

Tuition & Fees

Payment Schedule

Tuition and other fees are to be paid directly to the school. It is necessary for you to make regular payments on your daughter’s tuition and to pay any incidental fees that arise during the year. We will closely monitor payment on a monthly basis, and will send you a statement which will indicate (a) your tuition balance, (b) any payments you have made directly to SJA and (c) fees your daughter might have charged to her account. Please examine these statements carefully. If anything is unclear call our Business Office.

Please see the admissions page for current tuition costs.

If financial obligations are not paid by the due date, the school reserves the right to terminate a student for non-payment of cost of education and fees at the end of a semester. The school also reserves the right to withhold grade reports and transcripts while any tuition balance due to the school remains unpaid.

There is a $30 fee attached to all checks returned to us from any financial institution for non- sufficient funds or any other reasons. The school WILL NOT accept any personal checks after May 1^stfor payment to any tuition accounts. All payments must be made in the General Office with cash, a money order or a cashier’s check.

Seniors with outstanding balances may not take part in any graduation activities (Honors Day, etc.)

Duplicate Copies of Records

Report cards, progress reports and exam permits should be kept in a safe place for future reference. Duplicate copies of any of these items will cost $4 to process. (This needs to be done from the General Office during regular school hours and requires a day’s notice.) If the school mails or distributes such items, any request for another copy will be considered “duplicate” even if the claim is made that the item was not received.)

Fundraising/Parent Volunteer Hours

The actual cost of educating one student at SJA for this school year is almost twice the amount of tuition. The school must make up the difference through various fundraising activities. Your help and good will are expected.

You will be asked to volunteer time or talent for the Spaghetti with the Sisters event, SJAHS Gala, athletic events, etc. There are also a number of other volunteer opportunities open to you. We appreciate these volunteer efforts as a positive response to SJA and its educational programs which the fundraising efforts support.

Withdrawal from SJA

Withdrawal:

If student status is terminated during the school year because of parental withdrawal, a Withdrawal Form must be completed by a parent or guardian. Upon withdrawal, any outstanding tuition balance is payable through the marking period during which the withdrawal takes place. Books must be returned, or the student will be billed for them.

St. Joan Antida High School has expenses which must be contracted for on an annual basis. Therefore, if a student withdraws after the school year has begun; the family is liable for the return of books, fees, and cost of education as indicated below. Keep in mind, that if the student is getting credit for the semester, you must pay for the entire semester. The cost of education due will be calculated based on the number of marking periods the student was enrolled. A student enrolled for any part of a marking period will be considered enrolled for that entire marking period. Until a formal Withdrawal Form is completed, the student is considered to be enrolled.

If a student leaves school during or at the end of a marking period, the amount owed is as follows: First Quarter-25%, Second Quarter-50%, Third Quarter-750%, Fourth Quarter-100%. (The school reserves the right to withhold transcripts, records, etc., until all financial obligations are met, and books returned.)

Address/Phone Change

School Dances

Emergency Contact Card

Food Service Program

SJA offers a breakfast program between 7:10 and 7:55 a.m. in the cafeteria each school day. A nutritious lunch program is an important part of SJA. The program is computerized for full, reduced and free status.

Fast foods or catered food are not allowed and should not be delivered to the school by students or parents/visitors. Food that is delivered during the school day will be confiscated and given to the student at the end of the day.

Immunization

All SJA students are required by Wisconsin Statute 252.04 to have the necessary immunization shots. By the time a student enters high school, she should have had polio, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, measles, mumps, rubella, and hepatitis shots.

Students who do not have the required shots may be excluded from school. Parents may also be fined $25 per day for violating the law.

Lockers

Every student may have a locker if she wishes. All Freshwomen are required to have a locker. The only locker the student is to use is the one assigned to her. Students MAY NOT share lockers with one another or give out their locker combination. Materials are safe as long as students close and lock their lockers after each use and they keep their combinations to themselves. Only authorized padlocks provided by the school may be put on lockers. Use of a non-authorized padlock or sharing of one’s locker combination with another student may result in disciplinary action.

Students are not to attach anything to the inside or outside of the locker which is difficult to remove. The school cannot and will not assume any responsibility for theft from lockers. Opened bags or containers of food or beverage are NOT to be in the locker at any time. The locker assigned to each student is the property of the school and may be opened and inspected by school authorities at any time.

In-School Messages

To prevent interruption of an entire class or the entire school, students will not be called out of class nor messages relayed, except in the case of an emergency if contact is made by a parent or legal guardian.

All arrangements for rides, etc. should be made before arriving at school each day. Parents are not to text-message or call students on their cell phones during the day. Parents are encouraged to contact the office with necessary messages and SJAHS will make every effort to relay a message to a student in between classes.

Use of cell phones by students is prohibited during the school day.

Probationary Status

Students may be put on probation for academics, attendance, or behavior. Generally, the student probation period lasts for one semester followed by a review by the Academic Leadership Team. Failure to live up to the terms of the probation contract may be reason for dismissal from SJA, or non-acceptance of that student for the following school year.

EXCEPTION: All 9^thgraders, and transfer students are automatically on probation for the first year of their enrollment at SJA.

School Closing Policy

Smoking

The Milwaukee Fire Department forbids smoking in school buildings. Students are NOT to smoke in the school building at any time. There is no need for students to carry smoking materials to class since smoking is not permitted in school.

Any student apprehended smoking in or near school will receive an incident report and receive a $25 fine. The holding of smoking material shall be considered smoking. Being with someone who is smoking also shall be considered smoking. Smoking is not permitted within two blocks of the school building or at any school-sponsored activity.

Traffic/Dismissal Safety

Visitors to SJA

Because space is limited in many classes, shadow visitor passes will be given to only those girls who are interested in attending SJA in the upcoming school year. Students should bring the name, address, and phone number of the visitor to the Admissions Director. Visitors will spend part of the day with an Ambassador selected by the Admissions Director. Arrangements for the shadow visitor should be made 4-5 days prior to the visit. Any exceptions to the above policy will be made at the discretion of the Principal.

Adult visitors may only be in the building with permission of the school office and for a defined purpose. ALL visitors, including parents/guardians must check into the main school office and obtain a visitor pass before proceeding to any other location in the building.

Guest Behavior

SJA students will be held accountable for the aggressive behavior of non-SJA students whom they have invited on to school property or to attend a school-related activity. Appropriate disciplinary action will be administered to the SJA student in this regard. Any action taken by a guest of an SJA student can result in action as severe as expulsion for the SJA student.

Photo/Video Policy

It is the policy of St. Joan Antida High School to allow photographs and video footage of students to be used in school-produced materials including but not limited to the school website, social media, printed materials, news media, and television programming.

Photos and video footage of students are value-added content as it relates to the promotion and marketing of the school. It is also the school’s desire to share the achievements and recognition earned by students with the broader community. Any and all use of photographs and video footage featuring students must comply with all legal requirements, including, but not limited to, the Family Education Rights to Privacy Act (FERPA).

Unless notified in writing of an objection by a parent, legal guardian, or student of age 18, photographs and video footage of students and/or names (ex: athletics team roster) may be posted in SJA-produced materials including printed publications, television productions, and websites.

If parents, legal guardians, or students of age 18 do not wish photographs or videos be used in these materials, they should complete a Photo/Video Opt-Out form available at school offices or via the school website. Please be aware that opt-out requests are valid for the current school year and must be renewed at the start of the next school year.

If an opt-out form is filed, school staff members will ALSO request news media not interview your student or film/photograph your student in our buildings. While local news media typically honor such requests, the school does not have legal authority to prevent the media from filming or talking to a student while on public property (ex: At a sporting event at a public school). You are encouraged to have a discussion with your student about your wishes should members of the news media request to interview them.

If photos or videos of students or staff are going to be created, maintained or displayed by a third party where the SJA will not have direct control of the materials, then a written release form is required from the third party giving students/families the right to consent.

Find the Opt-Out Form here.