Holy Martyrs Parish Religious Education Program Parent & Participant Handbook
Level 1-3 Sunday: 8:50-10:15
Level 4-6 Tuesday: 6:45- 8:00
Level 7 Confirmation "Chosen" Tuesday 6:45-8:00 Level 7/8 Handprints Tuesday 6:45-8:00
Handprints will combine junior high youth post Confirmation (8th grade) and pre-Confirmation 7th grade youth on December 2, 2014. This trial program for Handprints will be under the leadership of Mr. Mike Breen. " Chosen" is a new Confirmation program that has received its imprimatur from Archbishop Charles Chaput. The Chosen Program will begin in September for 7th grade youth. Since the majority of the parishes in the US celebrate Confirmation, when students are in high school, this program gears itself to teens. The Holy Martyrs program will be adapted for Junior High teens.
Coordinator of Religious Education: Mrs. Carole Galante, CRE
Office number 215-887- 4285 (leave message)
E-mail: [email protected]
Holy Martyrs PREP Website: holymartyrsprep.weebly.com
Weekly Parish Bulletin: Holy Martyrs Church.net
PREP Bulletin Board: main entrance – next to CYO Bulletin Board
Snow closing number: # 1058
In Appreciation:
HM PREP students are served by nearly 50 adults and youth volunteers each year. We are the largest ministry in the parish. Share Your Faith… Come Join Us!
HM Catechetical Forum is a small group of catechetical leaders. This forum is an advisory board to review policy and procedure for PREP. The Forum supports diocesan and parish level policy and procedures and is instrumental in providing this handbook for parents, catechists and students. Updated: February, 2014
Holy Martyrs Parish Religious Education Program
Parent & Participant Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Parish Mission Statement- Parent Partnership ……………………….. Page 2
Parent Participation- About the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 2-3 Religious Education
Sacramental Preparation Program …………………………………… Page 4
Unbaptized Children/Children for Full Communion…………………… Page 4
Home Based Catechesis ……………………………………………… Page 4
Children with Special Needs ……… Page 3 & 5
Other (such as Liturgy of the Word for Children)
Program Policies & Procedures Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 5
Lateness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6
Arrival & Dismissal Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6
Enrollment & Attendance – CYO Sports – Weekday School Conflicts . . . . . . . Page 7/8
Non-Custodial Parents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9
Discipline- Dress Code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9/10
Contraband . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 11
Cell Phones, Pagers & Special Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 11
Homework Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ………… Page 11
Program Development and Curriculum- Privacy Rights for youth-Exams Page 12
Youth Ministry-Service Initiatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12
Student Workbook- Sadlier Publishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12
Sacraments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13
Tuition, Sacrament Fees and Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .Page 14
Snow Emergency & Cancellations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14
Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15
Keeping God’s Children Safe – Safe Environment ……………………… Page 15
Transportation by Catechists …………………………………………… Page 16
Road Trips and Retreats ………………………………………………… Page 16
Final Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16
Addendum –January 3, 2013 …………………… Page 17
Religion Guidelines …………………………………………………………….. Page 18
Policy on Inappropriate Behaviors …………………………………………….. Page 19
Gratitude from Holy Martyrs Parish, Catechetical Staff and Fr. Michael Ryan Page 20
To The Catechists… few excerpts from Pope Francis Homily to Catechists Page 20
The purpose of the handbook is set forth the guidelines for those that participate in the Holy Martyrs Parish Religious Education Program. By enrolling your child into our program, you agree to support and abide by the provisions outlined in this handbook. Parents are therefore encouraged to discuss these provisions with their children to ensure that all parties understand the requirements and obligations of their participation in the Parish Religious Education Program.
Parish Mission Statement
Holy Martyrs Parish is a Catholic faith community.
Inspired by the Martyrs and nourished by God's Word and Sacrament, we bear witness to Jesus Christ.
We light the way to God's kingdom through stewardship.
We the parish family of Holy Martyrs Roman Catholic Church, respecting our tradition, affirming our strong family ties, and valuing our diverse community, are called by Baptism to commit ourselves to:
Liturgy that gives glory to God which unites and strengthens the community of faith;
Build a church community that welcomes all, encouraging each home to be a domestic church;
Listen to the Gospel of Jesus, live it in our daily lives, and share it with one another; and
Serve others as Jesus did, especially the poor and those in need
I. PROGRAM - Partnership
Holy Martyrs Religious Education for Children is dedicated to the spiritual and moral development of children. Recognizing the role of parents as primary teachers of the faith, PREP/CCD supports this faith formation by providing opportunities to study the Catholic beliefs and traditions in a classroom setting as well as to expose the children to communal and individual prayer experiences. Together, PREP and the home foster within the child a personal recognition of God’s love for them while they study the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
PARENT PARTICIPATION
Faith Seeking Understanding: Holy Martyrs Parish Community affirms the teaching of the Church which states that parents are as the first teacher of faith of their children. Catechists teach the theology of the Catholic Church which supports the parents in the faith formation of their children. With your help in the following areas, together we can make your child’s religion experience positive and productive:
About The Program: Parish Based Religious Education
I. ATTENDANCE
Each session builds upon the previous session. Therefore, it is imperative that children attend their program sessions regularly. Special Masses, rituals and prayer services are a required part of the program and students will be marked absent for failure to attend. This includes the Saints Festival (grades: 1-3), May Procession/Closing Ceremony grades: 4-7, Forty Hours (grades 4-7) and the Lenten Service (grades 4-7).
If your child is unable to attend a session for any reason, a parent completes the following procedures:
Sessions begin promptly at their designated times. Therefore, any participant arriving after the designated starting time will be considered late. Lateness will be noted on Progress Reports. Chronic lateness will require a conference with a parent and might interfere with your child's promotion and reception of sacraments. Children who arrive after the prayer gatherings need to be brought directly to the office. The children will be escorted to their classes by office staff.
III. ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
Sunday Arrival: Sunday Participants are to enter the church each week, prayers and formulas for grades 1-3 will be reviewed and memorized. Children should not be dropped off in the parking lot by car to enter alone or enter the building without an adult to supervise.
Sunday Dismissal: Parents go to their child’s classroom to pick up their children. The doors to the teaching areas will open at 10:15. A bell will sound to notify teachers of dismissal.
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Dismissal and Arrival times are not appropriate times for parents to meet with catechists/staff. Some catechists need to pick up their own children at another classroom. Please ask for a meeting by sending a note with your child, e-mail or a phone call. Parent-catechist meetings if scheduled on a class day must be completed 15 minute prior to children’s arrival and begin no sooner than 15 minutes following dismissal. Sunday catechists will bring students to the office if their parents are late for dismissal.
For safety reasons, the educational areas of the school will be locked during PREP times. In rare instances, when children need to leave before dismissal, parents will go to the PREP office located on the 3rd floor and the child will be sent for. Please let your child’s catechist know ahead of time by writing an email to the catechist prior to the Friday before class. If children are arriving late (after the children have gone to their classrooms) please bring your child directly to the PREP office at the top of the stairs. Do not leave your child alone in the stairwell if the children and teachers have already gone to their classrooms.
Arrival: Tuesday Evening Participants are dropped off by car at the doors to the main entrance of the church. A volunteer will be at the door to greet the students. Cars will follow the traffic flow out of the parking lot. Students arrive by 6:45 and enter the church for a prayer service.
Contemplative Prayer: if a child arrives late on Tuesday evenings, and the church doors are closed, the students are to remain quietly in the foyer until the guided meditation prayer is completed and the church doors are opened. Doors are locked at 7:00 PM. Parents are welcome to attend any of the prayer services or speaker events that are held throughout the year.
Parish Group Representatives who intend to distribute flyers must reproduce their flyers and have them dropped off at the rectory PREP mailbox the Monday prior to distribution. An e-mail or phone call to notify the director is necessary in order to insure timely distribution. No one is permitted entry to visit the classrooms during class time.
Tuesday Evening Dismissal: This is a new procedure. Each catechist will accompany their class to the main doors and will remain with their students until their parents come for them. For the safety of all: Parents who park in the lot are to walk to the doors to pick up their students. Parents who park in the streets. All students will be directed to the intersection and will cross only at the intersession with a crossing guard. The parking area located in front of the main doors will be blocked off and no traffic may enter. Please pick up on time. To ease the flow of traffic, catechists need to have all their students at the door by 8:00 PM
Late Arrival-Early Dismissal
Late Arrival: If a student arrives after 7:00 PM, the outside doors are locked and the students can only enter by using the buzzer. Do not leave your child alone at the door. Students are to go directly to the office, sign in and will then be directed to their classroom.
Early Dismissal: In rare instances, when children need to leave before dismissal, parents will go to the office to pick up the child and the child will be sent for. Please let your child’s catechist know ahead of time in writing so the catechist can be aware. (Please refer to diocesan and parish policies regarding sports and religious education classes)
IV. ENROLLMENT & ATTENDANCE
The faith formation provided in our programs involves incremental learning. That is, each year builds upon the learning of the previous year. Therefore, it is essential that participants remain enrolled in the program consistently from year-to-year.
Students will not be given permission to leave early or arrive late for practices or games. On occasion, play-offs are scheduled and some students may have a conflict. Please have athletes notify the director and also write a note for an excused absence/lateness explaining the given situation.
V. NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS
It is the responsibility of both biological parents to provide the Parish with the latest, most up to date Custodial Order or Custody Agreement. Holy Martyrs Parish will request these documents in the beginning of the year. If either the Custody Order or Custody Agreement changes during the course of the year, it remains the responsibility of both biological parents to provide that document to the Parish immediately.
Our program abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, our program will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the records and other program related information regarding the child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the program director with an official and latest copy of the court order.
If a court order prohibits our releasing a child into the custody of a non-custodial parent, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the program director with an official copy of the court order or custody section of the divorce decree.
VI. DISCIPLINE-Dress Code
DRESS CODE: Girls and boys need to dress modestly for class each week. No short-shorts, short skirts, revealing tops, and no visible boxers should be worn to PREP classes. T-shirts with logos must be appropriate, non-demeaning and coincide with Catholic teaching. Students may not wear wheelies or cleats. During events that include Mass or those events that are held in church require students to dress appropriately for church. (Example: Forty Hours/May Procession/Graduation) Sports uniform attire is discouraged.
Church Behavior: A Zero Tolerance Policy is in effect for inappropriate behavior in church. This includes but is not limited to: talking, inappropriate laughing, disruption, persistent noise and disrespect.
The Parish Religious Education Program offered by Holy Martyrs Parish is designed to assist parents with the faith formation of their children, as well as foster values and behavior that are in accord with Catholic Church teaching. The program has NO TOLERANCE for behaviors that are contrary to Catholic faith and morals, including but not limited to ongoing acts of obstinacy, improper language, fighting, physical, emotional or psychological intimidation, vandalism, demeaning behavior such as name-calling, obscene language or gestures, and harassment. Such behaviors violate the central teaching of our faith and will not be tolerated in any form.
These categories do not cover every possible situation. The parish determines appropriate and inappropriate behavior both in and out of the classroom; in the school community generally, and outside the school community where such improper behavior affects the school community.
Conduct by children or parents/guardians, or anyone acting on their behalf, incompatible with the educational and religious mission of the parish is grounds for disciplinary action, including but not limited to, immediate dismissal of the student, as well as reporting the incident to the appropriate legal authorities where appropriate.
In addition, in the case of threats of violence or harassment, in any form, including oral, written, or electronic, by a child against any member of the school community, the child, if suspended but not dismissed, may be required to have psychological or psychiatric clearance before returning to school.
In the event a participant engages in any of the above listed behaviors or any other inappropriate conduct, and has failed to respond to a catechist’s attempt to stop or correct the behavior, the following action may be taken and at the discretion of the Pastor or Director of Religious Education:
BRINGING CONTRABAND TO PROGRAM SESSIONS IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND WILL BE CONFISCATED AND RETURNED TO PARENTS ONLY! Depending on the contraband confiscated, the proper legal authorities could be notified.
VIIb. CELL PHONES, PAGERS, & SPECIAL NOTES:
We realize that devices such as cell phones have become a necessary tool in keeping communications open with children, especially for working parents. However, it is the policy of this program that such devices may not be turned on or handled in church or during catechetical sessions. If a student violates this rule, he/she will lose the privilege of bringing a cell phone to class.
VIII. Homework ASSIGNMENTS
Catechists assign work on a weekly basis in the form of written work, activities, or study. It is expected that parents will supervise the completion of these assignments. Parents are not to complete the pages in their handwriting for their child unless this has been indicated on an IEP and is in PREP records.
Although PREP is mainly academic, faith must also be experienced, witnessed, and lived. Children are expected to attend Mass weekly and celebrate the sacraments.
Program Development and Curriculum
Over the past 10 years, the PREP program has been strengthened from within its very core. The parish works closely with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to foster a solid religious education program for its members. The parish and the diocese have seen a significant rise in participants and every effort is being made to offer a solid program for religious educators to and to keep up with the fast pace of growth in a changing church and world.
Program Mapping Since there are generally 30 chapters in each textbook, it is nearly impossible to cover every chapter every year within the allotted time. Using the guidelines of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Holy Martyrs have mapped out a seamless program of catechesis using selected chapters for each grade that cover required materials. To aide in completing missed work by an absence, a Pacing Chart has been developed for each grade to inform parents, students and catechists which chapters are being introduced in each grade on every class day. Example: If an emergency causes a catechist not be able to cover a class, the children can either be placed in another class or an emergency volunteer can come in and simply turn to the pacing chart to see what chapter needs to be taught in class.
A Pacing Chart is stapled in the back of each child’s textbook. This chart lists the dates for class and the chapters that are covered each week in class. It also lists prayers and formulas that need to be studied for a particular grade level. Liturgical Events are part of the program. If a child is absent, the student is to complete the chapter at home.
Mid Term and End of Year Exams are issued by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia for grades 1-6. Students who miss or fail the final exam will be offered a retake. If a student does not pass the exam, or consistently fails in each category of evaluation/assessment he/she may not advance to the next grade. Individual verbal prayer evaluations are completed each year. Parents are asked to assist children in the learning of prayers.
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Privacy Rights for Children: Parents that have children who are diagnosed with allergies, medical or learning needs are to indicate this on the registration form each year. Accommodations can be made for test taking. The registration forms are considered private and do not leave the office. Please respect the privacy of all children in the program by not discussing any child that is not your own with catechists or other parents.
VIII. Youth Ministry -SERVICE INITIATIVES-
During the school year, there are opportunities for students to be involved in service opportunities with CYO and other parish based programs. Please look for announcements in the Parish Bulletin and flyers which are sent home in the student folders. Confirmation Candidates in grade 6 need 10 hours of community service and 10 hours of liturgical or catechetical ministry. Parish youth are encouraged to participate as altar servers through their 8th grade year.
X. WORKBOOKS - Folder
Every participant is assigned a workbook/textbook at the beginning of the year and is required to bring the workbook to EVERY program session. Failure to bring a workbook to a session will result in the following actions: Student may share a book or a copy of the pages will be offered to the student. If a student loses a textbook, a 2nd book is purchased and the extra cost is charged to the parents. Folders are brought home each week with program and classroom updates
XI. SACRAMENTS
All children seeking First Communion, First Reconciliation and Confirmation need to have a copy of their baptism record in the rectory files. Sponsors for Confirmation must provide a letter from their pastor validating their active participation in their respective parish. Failure to provide this information when required will prevent our child’s name or sponsors name from being printed in the sacrament program.
PARTICIPANTS EXHIBITING CHRONIC ABSENCES (3 or more unexcused absences), LATENESS, OR WHO ARE A PERSISTENT DISCIPLINE PROBLEM MAY HAVE THEIR RECEPTION OF BAPTISM, RECONCILIATION, FIRST HOLY COMMUNION, AND/OR CONFIRMATION DEFERRED UNTIL THE FOLLOWING YEAR OR LATER.
Preparation for the reception of a sacrament is a time of prayerful reflection and discernment. A participant's desire to receive the sacrament is reflected in his or her positive attitude toward the preparation process. Thus proper attendance and behavior are expected.
Required Activities/Meetings: Sacrament Meetings for Parents
Grade 2, 3 and 7 Parent Theology Updates are required meetings for parents of children who are receiving sacraments. Professional speakers are contracted by Holy Martyrs Parish each year to engage parents into a deeper dialogue and understanding of the sacraments their children are celebrating. It is the policy of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and of Holy Martyrs Parish that parents are required to attend these meetings as part of the Sacrament Programs for their children. If a parent misses the parent meeting at Holy Martyrs Parish, they will be required to attend a meeting at another parish. Additional fees may be incurred if a parent needs to attend another parish.
Children preparing for First Holy Communion must attend the retreat and rehearsal and participate regularly in Sunday Mass.
Parish youth preparing for Confirmation will attend the 6th grade Confirmation Kick Off, 6th/ 7th grade Road Trips to catholic sites, Confirmation Ritual and Workshops, Retreat, Pastoral Interview, Evening of Reconciliation and rehearsal with sponsors. Confirmation Retreats are important events and are a vital component of the Confirmation Programs within the parish and the diocese. Failure of a candidate to attend the Holy Martyrs Confirmation Retreat will result in the candidate attending another parish Confirmation Retreat at additional costs. The parent or an adult sponsor attends the retreat to supervise their child. Failure to attend the retreat may delay the sacrament.
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Archdiocesan policy requires that a child receive the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation) in the parish where their family is registered. Adult (18 or older) children (parents of PREP children) of parishioners who have children attending PREP need to register in the parish under their own name and not the grandparents name
XII. TUITION-Sacrament Fees and Registration
Tuition is a necessary and required part of the religious education program to ensure the most current and best catechetical resources.
Re-registration: Registration forms are mailed to registered PREP families. Parents are asked to register their returning students each spring by May 1st so that textbooks can be ordered at a discounted rate. Registration closes on August 15th to allow enough time for processing and class assignments. Children registered after August 1st are put on a wait list until classes and catechists can be established. Class sizes are limited to 12 students per class. Please don’t skip areas for emergency contact, parental custody and sections for special medical and learning needs of the children.
Level 1: Students entering level 1 prep should be registered by June 1st. This will assist in planning classroom space and recruitment of teachers. Classes are filled as the students are registered and adults step forward to teach. In the event that enough volunteer catechists are not available, a wait list for the next class is established until another catechist steps forward to take a class. The cut off for all new registrations for the current year is August 1st. All students need to begin class on the first day of class.
Update Information: Parents are asked by the catechist to update their phone number and email addresses on index cards at the parent/teacher sessions on the first day of class.
XIII. SNOW EMERGENCY & CANCELLATIONS (KYW #1058)
In the event of severe inclement weather or dangerous road condition, contact KYW for weather related closing. It is the option of the catechist to notify parents by e-mail/phone. Some catechists will not have an opportunity to contact families of closings. A message concerning the cancellation of PREP class will be left on the PREP phone line 215-887-4285 and will be placed on the parish website. Please do not call the rectory. On Tuesday a decision to close may not be made until 3:00 PM. If you need to contact the director regarding class closure, please e-mail [email protected] and we will do our best to respond.
XIV. COMMUNICATION
Mrs, Carole Galante, CRE
215-884-8575
[email protected]
prep website: holymartyrsprep.weebly.com
Please remember that catechists are volunteers and many are not professional teachers. Sharing the teacher’s phone numbers or email addresses is entirely up to the individual teacher. Parents are encouraged to send a note to their child’s catechist to discuss any concerns or information that will enhance the learning experience. Parents may call the program director to make arrangements to meet or speak with their child’s catechist.
Director of Religious Education/Catechist [weekly] Communication
Please check children’s folders each week for communications regarding: homework, tests, activities, flyers, updates and notes from catechists, director and parish organizations.
Keeping God’s Children Safe Program: The Archdiocese of Philadelphia requires that each parish provide an age-appropriate program for children which reviews safe touch. This program is scheduled once each year on Tuesday and Sunday. The lesson plans for these sessions can be viewed at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Parents who do not want their children to attend the program, need to indicate this is writing in September, 2010 on the registration form or by letter. Students are not excused from class on the date of the KGCS program.
Please refer to : http://archphila.org/catechetical/resources/lessons.htm for more information.
Safe Environment- Parent Behavior: In providing a safe environment for the children and staff at Holy Martyrs, inappropriate parent behavior on parish property or at parish events will result in an incident report and follow up by the parish administration, the diocese and a possible report to Childline if the inappropriateness is in front of children.
Transportation: It has been strongly recommended to catechists that they are not to provide transportation to religion classes and PREP events for children other than their own. If a catechist is providing transportation, a release form must be signed by both the catechist and parent. This form must be kept on file at the parish PREP office. Please contact the PREP office for the necessary forms.
ROAD TRIPS: As part of the Confirmation Program, 6th and 7th grade students participate in road trips to a local catholic site (local shrine or Cathedral) each year. All students need to attend and parents are very welcome. This is normally scheduled on a Sunday in December. All paperwork and permission slips must be turned in on time and students must adhere to proper dress for church.
Sacrament Retreats: Confirmation (grade7) and First Holy Communion (grade 3) retreats are mandated sacramental preparation components by the parish and diocese. These are scheduled on Sundays in winter as to avoid interference with fall and spring sports.
FINAL NOTE
Each catechist comes to your child with a different faith background and spirituality. All have answered a call from God to share their faith with your child. They all love God and are faithful to the mission of Jesus Christ and the evangelization mission of the church. Some are trained educators, but many are not. Some are working parents with a very full schedule. Each one is planted in a family and/or has friends that give them up Tuesday nights or Sunday mornings: just so they can be with your child. On Tuesday evening, some will not eat dinner until 9:00 PM or later and others will miss Sunday morning breakfast with their loved ones. Some travel a distance and have other people watching their children, so they can be with your child. Often, spouses are watching the younger children at home. Some are career professionals who lead very busy lives but show up prepared to teach your child. Some are full time students with part time or full time jobs. Some are younger and some are older, some arrive earlier and some later. Each catechist needs to be respected with gratitude and none deserve to be slandered or diminished by word or action in the presence of children, parents or in the local social/educational community. Finally, please include our catechists in your family prayers each week at the altar of God and in your homes.
The program director reserves the right to amend this handbook. In the event of any such amendment, parents will be given notification of the changes made.
Parents may view the diocesan guidelines and exam reviews for each grade at: http://archphila.org/catechetical/resources/resources.htm (Updated 2010)
Addendum from the Catechetical Forum Jan, 3, 2013 Meeting
At HM Catechetical Forum Meeting important discussion regarding the response to recommendations of the BRC and Archbishop Chaput’s letter to pastors from Dec 2013 were addressed. The diocesan policy for First Communion to be celebrated in grade 2 has now been left to the pastors to determine. In 2012-13, HM had lowered FHC to grade 2 as recommended and approved by the diocese. The following has been decided for the Holy Martyrs Program:
Beginning 2013-14, the celebration of First Reconciliation will return to spring of grade 2 after Easter. This will allow more preparation time and focus for both First Reconciliation and First Communion.
Beginning 2013-14, First Holy Communion will return to the spring of grade 3 beginning in the school year 2014-15. There will not be a First Holy Communion celebration for spring 2014 for students in the traditional path. When the number of candidates is over 30 a special First Communion Mass may be scheduled.
Confirmation will continue to be celebrated in the fall of grade 8. Candidates will return to class in September of level 8 for interviews and review of Confirmation Q and A. In grade 7, a final exam will be administered to students. Graduation will happen in the spring of grade 7.
The celebration of Confirmation will be requested for Sunday celebration for small groups and weekdays for larger groups of candidates.
Ministry will continue in grade 6: the number of required hours will be shortened to 10. Candidates will track their community service hours and be asked to participate in parish events that need young people to help.
Special Programs: This year, 2 programs to accommodate students in the non-traditional path were tried. Both will be discontinued because of absences and incompletion of assigned work. Students who start religion classes after grade 1 will be assigned the following grades: A child starting in their grade 2 year will go to level 1 and follow the courses in the curriculum through Confirmation. A child starting in grade 3/4 will enter one grade level below their grade and follow the curriculum through the years celebrating FP/FHC sacraments in fall of grade 6. A child starting in grade 5/ 6 will go to level 4 and celebrate FP/FHC in the fall of grade 6. There will no longer be special programs for advancement for children entering religion classes after grade 1. This will mean that level 1 religion classes are geared for children in grades 1 and 2, etc.
Music: The development of a liturgical music program for PREP children will be a focus for the purpose of bringing the children to full and active participation in the Mass and PREP celebrations. The leadership will develop a song list that will include easy-to-learn, spirited songs and one Mass Setting that the children will have planted in their hearts. The music program should include both Sunday and Tuesday classes. There will be 2 Masses each year that will include all PREP children and families. There should be an opening Prayer Service/Mass and graduation/prayer service. The songs that are taught to PREP children should be realized at sacraments and Masses for children.
Safety: To insure the safety of the children, public events like the Red Cross Blood Drive will not be held during PREP hours. If a situation arises that the building needs to be used on PREP nights, we will cancel classes. I ask all catechists to have email addresses for their students so that they can notify parents of such a situation and cancellation. The doors will continue to be locked at 7:00 PM. We will ask for volunteers to greet students at the door on Tuesday for opening and closing. We would also like to have a volunteer adult at the doors on Sunday for the whole PREP time.
Sunday classrooms will all be held on the 3rd floor (when possible) where the doors to the education areas can be locked. Children of Sunday catechists will be able to audit (no program homework/tests or exams) grade 1 for the purpose of allowing their parents to teach. The child would return to grade 1 for year 2 with a different teacher.
Appendix 1
RELIGION GUIDELINES
The religion guidelines for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia were revised and approved for use beginning September 2000 and again in Spring 2010. Below is a synopsis of the core content guidelines for each grade level.
Level One
God the Father, Creation, Living in God’s World, God the
Son- Jesus Christ, God the Holy Spirit, Sacraments of Initiation, Mary, Liturgical Year Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Our Father
Level Two
Holy Trinity, Sacraments of Initiation and Healing, The Mass: Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist, Topics related to Mass, Mary, Liturgical Year (as well as preparation for Sacrament of Penance) and Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Our Father, Act of Contrition
Level Three
The Trinity, Sacraments, God’s Law, Christian Community, Mary, Liturgical Year, preparation for the Sacrament of First Communion. Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Act of Contrition, Apostle’s Creed
Level Four
God the Father, Commandments, Grace, Sin, Conscience, Jesus Christ our Redeemer, The Beatitudes, Works of Mercy, Virtue, Mary, Liturgical Year. Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Our Father, Act of Contrition, Apostle’s Creed, The Rosary
Level Five
Sacraments of Initiation, Sacraments of Healing, The Sacraments of Service, Mary, Liturgical Year. Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Our Father, Act of Contrition, Apostle’s Creed, The Rosary all 4th grade formulas reviewed.
Level Six
The Bible, Old Testament-Choosing a Special People, Moses, Exodus, Covenant, Joshua, Judges, Kings, Important Queens, Prophets, Biblical Women, Mary, Liturgical Year (as well as preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation)
Level Seven/Eight
New Testament, Jesus, Mary in the Gospels, Liturgy & Worship, the Liturgical Year, Morality: Ten Commandments, Social Justice Prayer
Appendix 2
Policy or INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIORS
Prohibiting Harassment, Intimidation, Hazing, Intentional Isolation, or Bullying, etc. A safe, secure and respectful educational environment is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards and build appropriate relationships with others.
The Holy Martyrs Religious Education environment refuses to accept any such behaviors named above . Therefore, acts of harassment, hazing, intentional isolation, intimidation and bullying (including cyber bullying and the like) are unacceptable behaviors and are prohibited in our religious education program. The religious education program personnel cannot monitor the activities of students at all times and eliminate all incidents of bullying between students, particularly when students are not under their direct supervision. However, to the extent such conduct affects the educational environment of the religious education program and the rights and welfare of the students and is within the control of the religious education program in its normal operations, it is the Holy Martyrs Religious Education Program’s intent to prevent bullying and thus, must take action to investigate, respond, discipline and remediate those acts of bullying. Administration and the catechetical staff are to demonstrate appropriate behavior by treating others with civility and respect, and being aware of and not tolerating harassment, intimidation, hazing and bullying, etc. If incidents do occur, students should be able to report and know that the inappropriate behavior will be dealt with promptly and effectively. There will be no retaliation against a victim, reporter or witness.
Policy
Bullying involves actions or words against another for the purpose of inflicting physical or emotional harm or discomfort or damage to a person’s reputation that is intimidating or threatening and affects the learning and school environments. The following describes types of bullying but is not an exhaustive list.
Level 1-3 Sunday: 8:50-10:15
Level 4-6 Tuesday: 6:45- 8:00
Level 7 Confirmation "Chosen" Tuesday 6:45-8:00 Level 7/8 Handprints Tuesday 6:45-8:00
Handprints will combine junior high youth post Confirmation (8th grade) and pre-Confirmation 7th grade youth on December 2, 2014. This trial program for Handprints will be under the leadership of Mr. Mike Breen. " Chosen" is a new Confirmation program that has received its imprimatur from Archbishop Charles Chaput. The Chosen Program will begin in September for 7th grade youth. Since the majority of the parishes in the US celebrate Confirmation, when students are in high school, this program gears itself to teens. The Holy Martyrs program will be adapted for Junior High teens.
Coordinator of Religious Education: Mrs. Carole Galante, CRE
Office number 215-887- 4285 (leave message)
E-mail: [email protected]
Holy Martyrs PREP Website: holymartyrsprep.weebly.com
Weekly Parish Bulletin: Holy Martyrs Church.net
PREP Bulletin Board: main entrance – next to CYO Bulletin Board
Snow closing number: # 1058
In Appreciation:
HM PREP students are served by nearly 50 adults and youth volunteers each year. We are the largest ministry in the parish. Share Your Faith… Come Join Us!
HM Catechetical Forum is a small group of catechetical leaders. This forum is an advisory board to review policy and procedure for PREP. The Forum supports diocesan and parish level policy and procedures and is instrumental in providing this handbook for parents, catechists and students. Updated: February, 2014
Holy Martyrs Parish Religious Education Program
Parent & Participant Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Parish Mission Statement- Parent Partnership ……………………….. Page 2
Parent Participation- About the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 2-3 Religious Education
Sacramental Preparation Program …………………………………… Page 4
Unbaptized Children/Children for Full Communion…………………… Page 4
Home Based Catechesis ……………………………………………… Page 4
Children with Special Needs ……… Page 3 & 5
Other (such as Liturgy of the Word for Children)
Program Policies & Procedures Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 5
Lateness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6
Arrival & Dismissal Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6
Enrollment & Attendance – CYO Sports – Weekday School Conflicts . . . . . . . Page 7/8
Non-Custodial Parents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9
Discipline- Dress Code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9/10
Contraband . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 11
Cell Phones, Pagers & Special Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 11
Homework Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ………… Page 11
Program Development and Curriculum- Privacy Rights for youth-Exams Page 12
Youth Ministry-Service Initiatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12
Student Workbook- Sadlier Publishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12
Sacraments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13
Tuition, Sacrament Fees and Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .Page 14
Snow Emergency & Cancellations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14
Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15
Keeping God’s Children Safe – Safe Environment ……………………… Page 15
Transportation by Catechists …………………………………………… Page 16
Road Trips and Retreats ………………………………………………… Page 16
Final Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16
Addendum –January 3, 2013 …………………… Page 17
Religion Guidelines …………………………………………………………….. Page 18
Policy on Inappropriate Behaviors …………………………………………….. Page 19
Gratitude from Holy Martyrs Parish, Catechetical Staff and Fr. Michael Ryan Page 20
To The Catechists… few excerpts from Pope Francis Homily to Catechists Page 20
The purpose of the handbook is set forth the guidelines for those that participate in the Holy Martyrs Parish Religious Education Program. By enrolling your child into our program, you agree to support and abide by the provisions outlined in this handbook. Parents are therefore encouraged to discuss these provisions with their children to ensure that all parties understand the requirements and obligations of their participation in the Parish Religious Education Program.
Parish Mission Statement
Holy Martyrs Parish is a Catholic faith community.
Inspired by the Martyrs and nourished by God's Word and Sacrament, we bear witness to Jesus Christ.
We light the way to God's kingdom through stewardship.
We the parish family of Holy Martyrs Roman Catholic Church, respecting our tradition, affirming our strong family ties, and valuing our diverse community, are called by Baptism to commit ourselves to:
Liturgy that gives glory to God which unites and strengthens the community of faith;
Build a church community that welcomes all, encouraging each home to be a domestic church;
Listen to the Gospel of Jesus, live it in our daily lives, and share it with one another; and
Serve others as Jesus did, especially the poor and those in need
I. PROGRAM - Partnership
Holy Martyrs Religious Education for Children is dedicated to the spiritual and moral development of children. Recognizing the role of parents as primary teachers of the faith, PREP/CCD supports this faith formation by providing opportunities to study the Catholic beliefs and traditions in a classroom setting as well as to expose the children to communal and individual prayer experiences. Together, PREP and the home foster within the child a personal recognition of God’s love for them while they study the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
PARENT PARTICIPATION
Faith Seeking Understanding: Holy Martyrs Parish Community affirms the teaching of the Church which states that parents are as the first teacher of faith of their children. Catechists teach the theology of the Catholic Church which supports the parents in the faith formation of their children. With your help in the following areas, together we can make your child’s religion experience positive and productive:
- Attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days.
- Teach your child to pray in their own words as well as to learn the prayers required at their level (as well as review previously learned prayers).
- Review with child quiz packets; help prepare for tests, study prayers and formulas weekly according to their grade level.
- Make sure your child completes assignments and masters study homework.
- In the event that a teacher/aide needs to miss a class, be willing to substitute.
About The Program: Parish Based Religious Education
- Holy Martyrs Parish Religious Education Program (PREP) serves over 200 parish youth in grades 1 through 7 in the development of their faith formation and spirituality. An 8th grade youth program (Handprints) meets weekly for post Confirmation youth. These teens gather for prayer, dialogue, games, snacks and an occasional road trip.
- Holy Martyrs PREP provides a seamless program of catechesis that engages students in theological study which is scoped and sequenced in the curriculum throughout the years.
Students with Special Needs: PLEASE INDENTIFY
Accommodations for children with special needs are regarded, only if it is documented on the registration form and is recorded in our office system. If a child is not identified with special needs and it comes to pass that a classroom has multiple unidentified special needs children, the unidentified student may have their classroom changed for the benefit of the class and catechist.
For your privacy-Please know that the registration forms are only handled in the rectory by office staff and not by volunteers. If your child needs alternate testing or seating please let the director and teacher know.
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“Life according to the Spirit, whose fruit is holiness (cf. Rom 6:22 Gal 5:22), stirs up every baptized person and requires each to follow and imitate Jesus Christ in embracing the Beatitudes; in listening and meditating on the Word of God; in conscious and active participation in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church; in personal prayer, in family or in community; in the hunger and thirst for justice; in the practice of the commandment of love in all circumstances of life and service to the brethren, especially the least, the poor and suffering.” John Paul ll
Sacramental Preparation
- Reconciliation: A pastoral decision has been made that children formally prepare and celebrate the sacrament of First Reconciliation with their family, peers during the spring in level 2.
- First Holy Communion: Children formally prepare and celebrate the sacrament of First Holy Communion with their family, peers and parish community during the Easter Season of their grade three year. Candidates preparing for First Communion will attend a retreat and a rehearsal prior to the celebration of First Holy Communion. The date for this celebration will be announced in September of the level 3 year
- Confirmation: Parish Youth formally begin their formal preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation in their level 6 grade year. This includes a year of youth parish ministry. Confirmation Workshops begin in grade 7 with formal study that centers on the Rite of Confirmation. Students graduate in 7th grade and are welcomed into Handprints for 8th grade. The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated during Ordinary Time in the early fall of level 8.
It is the policy of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and of Holy Martyrs Parish that children must be enrolled in PREP classes for two consecutive years prior to beginning a sacramental program. A child who begins PREP classes in grade two in their weekday school will be placed in grade 1PREP and will progress through their years with this group.
- Unbaptized Children: Unbaptized children who have reached the age of reason (7) will celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation) following the Church’s model for RCIA.
- Unbaptized children who have not reached the age of reason will celebrate Baptism and will follow the model for the celebration of sacraments for baptized children who are not fully initiated.
- Children baptized in Byzantine Rite have celebrated the initiation sacraments at baptism. The religious education classes offered to students in sacramental years at Holy Martyrs is grade level material. The formal study/preparation for First Holy Communion is offered in level three PREP.
- Children entering Holy Martyrs PREP in Grade 3, who have already celebrated First Holy Communion will study with their grade level partners for Sunday PREP classes that cover grade level topics. These children may attend the retreat with their classmates.
Home Based Catechesis: Refer to Parish Religious Education Policy Book for children with special needs. All children preparing for sacraments must participate to their best ability in the sacramental preparation classes with their peers.
Liturgy of the Word for Children is offered at the 10:30 Sunday Mass. No sign up is necessary- no fees.
I. ATTENDANCE
Each session builds upon the previous session. Therefore, it is imperative that children attend their program sessions regularly. Special Masses, rituals and prayer services are a required part of the program and students will be marked absent for failure to attend. This includes the Saints Festival (grades: 1-3), May Procession/Closing Ceremony grades: 4-7, Forty Hours (grades 4-7) and the Lenten Service (grades 4-7).
If your child is unable to attend a session for any reason, a parent completes the following procedures:
- Call 215-887-4285 PREP line to report the absence. Please be sure to leave your child's name, grade level, teachers name and reason for the absence.
- If your child will be attending the session late, you must call and notify us at 215-887-4285 PREP line as described in 1 above.
- If your child fails to report to a session and no phone call is received, then the absence will be recorded as unexcused unless a doctor's note is provided upon returning to the program.
- After the third unexcused absence the program director will contact the parents by (e-mail or phone to notify parents that the child may be required to repeat the grade level and that dismissal from the program could result should unexcused absences continue.
- ANY PARTICIPANT ACCUMULATING FIVE UNEXCUSED ABSENCES WILL BE DISMISSED FROM THE PROGRAM. The participant may re-enroll the following school year. Upon re-enrollment the participant will be required to repeat the previous grade level that was not completed. This proceeding may delay the reception of sacraments.
- Extended absences due to illness require a doctor's note upon return to the program. In addition, parents should be in regular contact with their child’s catechist in an effort to obtain assignments and keep their child’s formation up-to-date when possible.
Sessions begin promptly at their designated times. Therefore, any participant arriving after the designated starting time will be considered late. Lateness will be noted on Progress Reports. Chronic lateness will require a conference with a parent and might interfere with your child's promotion and reception of sacraments. Children who arrive after the prayer gatherings need to be brought directly to the office. The children will be escorted to their classes by office staff.
III. ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
Sunday Arrival: Sunday Participants are to enter the church each week, prayers and formulas for grades 1-3 will be reviewed and memorized. Children should not be dropped off in the parking lot by car to enter alone or enter the building without an adult to supervise.
Sunday Dismissal: Parents go to their child’s classroom to pick up their children. The doors to the teaching areas will open at 10:15. A bell will sound to notify teachers of dismissal.
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Dismissal and Arrival times are not appropriate times for parents to meet with catechists/staff. Some catechists need to pick up their own children at another classroom. Please ask for a meeting by sending a note with your child, e-mail or a phone call. Parent-catechist meetings if scheduled on a class day must be completed 15 minute prior to children’s arrival and begin no sooner than 15 minutes following dismissal. Sunday catechists will bring students to the office if their parents are late for dismissal.
For safety reasons, the educational areas of the school will be locked during PREP times. In rare instances, when children need to leave before dismissal, parents will go to the PREP office located on the 3rd floor and the child will be sent for. Please let your child’s catechist know ahead of time by writing an email to the catechist prior to the Friday before class. If children are arriving late (after the children have gone to their classrooms) please bring your child directly to the PREP office at the top of the stairs. Do not leave your child alone in the stairwell if the children and teachers have already gone to their classrooms.
Arrival: Tuesday Evening Participants are dropped off by car at the doors to the main entrance of the church. A volunteer will be at the door to greet the students. Cars will follow the traffic flow out of the parking lot. Students arrive by 6:45 and enter the church for a prayer service.
Contemplative Prayer: if a child arrives late on Tuesday evenings, and the church doors are closed, the students are to remain quietly in the foyer until the guided meditation prayer is completed and the church doors are opened. Doors are locked at 7:00 PM. Parents are welcome to attend any of the prayer services or speaker events that are held throughout the year.
Parish Group Representatives who intend to distribute flyers must reproduce their flyers and have them dropped off at the rectory PREP mailbox the Monday prior to distribution. An e-mail or phone call to notify the director is necessary in order to insure timely distribution. No one is permitted entry to visit the classrooms during class time.
Tuesday Evening Dismissal: This is a new procedure. Each catechist will accompany their class to the main doors and will remain with their students until their parents come for them. For the safety of all: Parents who park in the lot are to walk to the doors to pick up their students. Parents who park in the streets. All students will be directed to the intersection and will cross only at the intersession with a crossing guard. The parking area located in front of the main doors will be blocked off and no traffic may enter. Please pick up on time. To ease the flow of traffic, catechists need to have all their students at the door by 8:00 PM
Late Arrival-Early Dismissal
Late Arrival: If a student arrives after 7:00 PM, the outside doors are locked and the students can only enter by using the buzzer. Do not leave your child alone at the door. Students are to go directly to the office, sign in and will then be directed to their classroom.
Early Dismissal: In rare instances, when children need to leave before dismissal, parents will go to the office to pick up the child and the child will be sent for. Please let your child’s catechist know ahead of time in writing so the catechist can be aware. (Please refer to diocesan and parish policies regarding sports and religious education classes)
IV. ENROLLMENT & ATTENDANCE
The faith formation provided in our programs involves incremental learning. That is, each year builds upon the learning of the previous year. Therefore, it is essential that participants remain enrolled in the program consistently from year-to-year.
- Children who have left Catholic school or another PREP program mid-year must enroll into PREP that same semester.
Policy for children who have left the PREP program:
Any participant who voluntarily leaves the program for a period of one year will be required to make-up the missed year upon re-enrollment into the program. (e.g., a student who leaves the program for a period of one year after completing level 3 and re-enrolls in the program when they are in grade 5 will be placed into the 4th level.)
Any participant who voluntarily leaves the program for two or more consecutive years must fulfill the following two requirements:
- The participant will be placed into a grade level that is one below their current day school grade level.
- For example, a student who leaves the program after completing level 3 and re-enrolls when he is in 6th grade:
- The parent is required to provide home based catechesis for level 4.
- Upon completion of level 4, the child is accepted into level 5 to continue his/her faith formation.
CYO Sports-School Scheduling Conflicts
CYO Athletes must attend PREP classes or catholic school in order to be eligible as CYO athletes. CYO and township coaches have been asked by the diocese, pastors and directors of religious education to respect the Tuesday evening/Sunday morning time scheduled for the children’s Religious Education Program. The request has been respected in the Oreland/Flourtown area over the past few years. If students and parents are aware of scheduling conflicts with sports teams (Penn Relays) and required educational student events please contact the Religious Education Office and the child’s catechist. If a parent sees a scheduling conflict with a date on the school yearly calendar that involves PREP families, please contact director. In some instances, we can adjust our special events.
- The parent is required to provide home based catechesis for level 4.
Students will not be given permission to leave early or arrive late for practices or games. On occasion, play-offs are scheduled and some students may have a conflict. Please have athletes notify the director and also write a note for an excused absence/lateness explaining the given situation.
V. NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS
It is the responsibility of both biological parents to provide the Parish with the latest, most up to date Custodial Order or Custody Agreement. Holy Martyrs Parish will request these documents in the beginning of the year. If either the Custody Order or Custody Agreement changes during the course of the year, it remains the responsibility of both biological parents to provide that document to the Parish immediately.
Our program abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, our program will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the records and other program related information regarding the child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the program director with an official and latest copy of the court order.
If a court order prohibits our releasing a child into the custody of a non-custodial parent, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the program director with an official copy of the court order or custody section of the divorce decree.
VI. DISCIPLINE-Dress Code
DRESS CODE: Girls and boys need to dress modestly for class each week. No short-shorts, short skirts, revealing tops, and no visible boxers should be worn to PREP classes. T-shirts with logos must be appropriate, non-demeaning and coincide with Catholic teaching. Students may not wear wheelies or cleats. During events that include Mass or those events that are held in church require students to dress appropriately for church. (Example: Forty Hours/May Procession/Graduation) Sports uniform attire is discouraged.
Church Behavior: A Zero Tolerance Policy is in effect for inappropriate behavior in church. This includes but is not limited to: talking, inappropriate laughing, disruption, persistent noise and disrespect.
- First Time Offense: The child will be reminded of the need to respect the rules.
- Second Time Offense: Student will be removed from church/class and director will contact parents.
- Third Offense: Parents will attend with student until the behavior is changed.
The Parish Religious Education Program offered by Holy Martyrs Parish is designed to assist parents with the faith formation of their children, as well as foster values and behavior that are in accord with Catholic Church teaching. The program has NO TOLERANCE for behaviors that are contrary to Catholic faith and morals, including but not limited to ongoing acts of obstinacy, improper language, fighting, physical, emotional or psychological intimidation, vandalism, demeaning behavior such as name-calling, obscene language or gestures, and harassment. Such behaviors violate the central teaching of our faith and will not be tolerated in any form.
These categories do not cover every possible situation. The parish determines appropriate and inappropriate behavior both in and out of the classroom; in the school community generally, and outside the school community where such improper behavior affects the school community.
Conduct by children or parents/guardians, or anyone acting on their behalf, incompatible with the educational and religious mission of the parish is grounds for disciplinary action, including but not limited to, immediate dismissal of the student, as well as reporting the incident to the appropriate legal authorities where appropriate.
In addition, in the case of threats of violence or harassment, in any form, including oral, written, or electronic, by a child against any member of the school community, the child, if suspended but not dismissed, may be required to have psychological or psychiatric clearance before returning to school.
In the event a participant engages in any of the above listed behaviors or any other inappropriate conduct, and has failed to respond to a catechist’s attempt to stop or correct the behavior, the following action may be taken and at the discretion of the Pastor or Director of Religious Education:
- First Incident: The student will be removed from the session and the parent or guardian will be immediately notified by phone by the program director. The program director will schedule a conference with the parents/guardians, student, and catechist to discuss the matter.
- Second Incident: The student will be removed from the session and be suspended from the program for a period of one session. The parents/guardians will be immediately notified by the program director and required to pick up their child. Prior to returning to the program the program director will schedule a conference with the parents, student, and catechist to further discuss the matter.
- Third Incident: The student will be removed from the session and dismissed from the program. The parents or guardians will be immediately notified by the program director and required to pick up their child. Following a conference with the program director, parents, student, and catechist, the parents will be provided with the option of having their child repeat his or her current grade level the following school year or opting to complete the current year’s material by home-schooling their child. In either case, no refund of tuition or material fees will be made. However, Holy Martyrs Parish reserves the right to supersede the forgoing course of action depending on the particular circumstances of any given situation.
DRESS CODE: Girls and boys need to dress modestly for class each week. No short-shorts, short skirts, revealing tops, and no visible boxers should be worn to PREP classes. T-shirts with logos must be appropriate, non-demeaning and coincide with Catholic teaching. Students may not wear wheelies or cleats. During events that include Mass or those events that are held in church require students to dress appropriately for church. (Example: Forty Hours/May Procession/Graduation) Sports uniform attire is discouraged.
Holy Martyrs Parish may issue an incident report for any situation where policy and respect is disregarded by participants of the program.
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Snack Free Zone: Snacking and eating food in the classrooms is no longer permitted. This is for the safety of all students.
BRINGING CONTRABAND TO PROGRAM SESSIONS IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND WILL BE CONFISCATED AND RETURNED TO PARENTS ONLY! Depending on the contraband confiscated, the proper legal authorities could be notified.
- Students may not bring the following to PREP: gum, candy (excepting classroom parties), toys, electronic games, beepers, weapons, drugs, & alcohol and tobacco products.
- It is unlawful for minors to be in the possession of alcohol or tobacco products. Participants found to be in the possession of illegal products may be immediately suspended from the program. Depending on the contraband confiscated, the proper legal authorities could be notified.
- Students may not bring the following to PREP: gum, candy (excepting classroom parties), toys, electronic games, beepers, weapons, drugs, & alcohol and tobacco products.
VIIb. CELL PHONES, PAGERS, & SPECIAL NOTES:
We realize that devices such as cell phones have become a necessary tool in keeping communications open with children, especially for working parents. However, it is the policy of this program that such devices may not be turned on or handled in church or during catechetical sessions. If a student violates this rule, he/she will lose the privilege of bringing a cell phone to class.
VIII. Homework ASSIGNMENTS
Catechists assign work on a weekly basis in the form of written work, activities, or study. It is expected that parents will supervise the completion of these assignments. Parents are not to complete the pages in their handwriting for their child unless this has been indicated on an IEP and is in PREP records.
Although PREP is mainly academic, faith must also be experienced, witnessed, and lived. Children are expected to attend Mass weekly and celebrate the sacraments.
Program Development and Curriculum
Over the past 10 years, the PREP program has been strengthened from within its very core. The parish works closely with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to foster a solid religious education program for its members. The parish and the diocese have seen a significant rise in participants and every effort is being made to offer a solid program for religious educators to and to keep up with the fast pace of growth in a changing church and world.
Program Mapping Since there are generally 30 chapters in each textbook, it is nearly impossible to cover every chapter every year within the allotted time. Using the guidelines of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Holy Martyrs have mapped out a seamless program of catechesis using selected chapters for each grade that cover required materials. To aide in completing missed work by an absence, a Pacing Chart has been developed for each grade to inform parents, students and catechists which chapters are being introduced in each grade on every class day. Example: If an emergency causes a catechist not be able to cover a class, the children can either be placed in another class or an emergency volunteer can come in and simply turn to the pacing chart to see what chapter needs to be taught in class.
A Pacing Chart is stapled in the back of each child’s textbook. This chart lists the dates for class and the chapters that are covered each week in class. It also lists prayers and formulas that need to be studied for a particular grade level. Liturgical Events are part of the program. If a child is absent, the student is to complete the chapter at home.
Mid Term and End of Year Exams are issued by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia for grades 1-6. Students who miss or fail the final exam will be offered a retake. If a student does not pass the exam, or consistently fails in each category of evaluation/assessment he/she may not advance to the next grade. Individual verbal prayer evaluations are completed each year. Parents are asked to assist children in the learning of prayers.
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Privacy Rights for Children: Parents that have children who are diagnosed with allergies, medical or learning needs are to indicate this on the registration form each year. Accommodations can be made for test taking. The registration forms are considered private and do not leave the office. Please respect the privacy of all children in the program by not discussing any child that is not your own with catechists or other parents.
VIII. Youth Ministry -SERVICE INITIATIVES-
During the school year, there are opportunities for students to be involved in service opportunities with CYO and other parish based programs. Please look for announcements in the Parish Bulletin and flyers which are sent home in the student folders. Confirmation Candidates in grade 6 need 10 hours of community service and 10 hours of liturgical or catechetical ministry. Parish youth are encouraged to participate as altar servers through their 8th grade year.
X. WORKBOOKS - Folder
Every participant is assigned a workbook/textbook at the beginning of the year and is required to bring the workbook to EVERY program session. Failure to bring a workbook to a session will result in the following actions: Student may share a book or a copy of the pages will be offered to the student. If a student loses a textbook, a 2nd book is purchased and the extra cost is charged to the parents. Folders are brought home each week with program and classroom updates
XI. SACRAMENTS
All children seeking First Communion, First Reconciliation and Confirmation need to have a copy of their baptism record in the rectory files. Sponsors for Confirmation must provide a letter from their pastor validating their active participation in their respective parish. Failure to provide this information when required will prevent our child’s name or sponsors name from being printed in the sacrament program.
PARTICIPANTS EXHIBITING CHRONIC ABSENCES (3 or more unexcused absences), LATENESS, OR WHO ARE A PERSISTENT DISCIPLINE PROBLEM MAY HAVE THEIR RECEPTION OF BAPTISM, RECONCILIATION, FIRST HOLY COMMUNION, AND/OR CONFIRMATION DEFERRED UNTIL THE FOLLOWING YEAR OR LATER.
Preparation for the reception of a sacrament is a time of prayerful reflection and discernment. A participant's desire to receive the sacrament is reflected in his or her positive attitude toward the preparation process. Thus proper attendance and behavior are expected.
Required Activities/Meetings: Sacrament Meetings for Parents
Grade 2, 3 and 7 Parent Theology Updates are required meetings for parents of children who are receiving sacraments. Professional speakers are contracted by Holy Martyrs Parish each year to engage parents into a deeper dialogue and understanding of the sacraments their children are celebrating. It is the policy of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and of Holy Martyrs Parish that parents are required to attend these meetings as part of the Sacrament Programs for their children. If a parent misses the parent meeting at Holy Martyrs Parish, they will be required to attend a meeting at another parish. Additional fees may be incurred if a parent needs to attend another parish.
Children preparing for First Holy Communion must attend the retreat and rehearsal and participate regularly in Sunday Mass.
Parish youth preparing for Confirmation will attend the 6th grade Confirmation Kick Off, 6th/ 7th grade Road Trips to catholic sites, Confirmation Ritual and Workshops, Retreat, Pastoral Interview, Evening of Reconciliation and rehearsal with sponsors. Confirmation Retreats are important events and are a vital component of the Confirmation Programs within the parish and the diocese. Failure of a candidate to attend the Holy Martyrs Confirmation Retreat will result in the candidate attending another parish Confirmation Retreat at additional costs. The parent or an adult sponsor attends the retreat to supervise their child. Failure to attend the retreat may delay the sacrament.
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Archdiocesan policy requires that a child receive the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation) in the parish where their family is registered. Adult (18 or older) children (parents of PREP children) of parishioners who have children attending PREP need to register in the parish under their own name and not the grandparents name
XII. TUITION-Sacrament Fees and Registration
Tuition is a necessary and required part of the religious education program to ensure the most current and best catechetical resources.
- Tuition is paid directly to Holy Martyrs Parish rectory office with the family Prep registration form. Do not send the registration form without payment as it does not get processed without payment. The payment along with the Fee Form are mailed or dropped off at the parish rectory office. PREP registration forms and Fee Forms are sent out each spring.
- 7th grade fee is rated lower than other grades. The PREP fee for a single 7th grade student is rated separately and the family is not charged as “one child”. In a family with two or more children are attending PREP and student is in 7th grade, the family fee is the lesser rate and that would be the proper fee.
- Sacrament fees are due in grades 2, 3, and 6 for the 2012 school year. All sacrament fees are to be paid at the same time as PREP fees as listed on the Fee Form.
- *When proper payment and registration are not sent together to the parish office, it generates a follow up procedure of letters and mailings that is very time consuming and costly to the parish. Beginning September 2011, as $ 5.00 service fee will be added to your PREP each time a reminder letter needs to be generated and mailed.
- A late fee is incurred for payment after May 1st 2011
- In the event that your child is dismissed from the program due to excessive absences, lateness, problem behavior, or for any other reason for dismissal, no refund of tuition or material fees will be made to the family.
Re-registration: Registration forms are mailed to registered PREP families. Parents are asked to register their returning students each spring by May 1st so that textbooks can be ordered at a discounted rate. Registration closes on August 15th to allow enough time for processing and class assignments. Children registered after August 1st are put on a wait list until classes and catechists can be established. Class sizes are limited to 12 students per class. Please don’t skip areas for emergency contact, parental custody and sections for special medical and learning needs of the children.
Level 1: Students entering level 1 prep should be registered by June 1st. This will assist in planning classroom space and recruitment of teachers. Classes are filled as the students are registered and adults step forward to teach. In the event that enough volunteer catechists are not available, a wait list for the next class is established until another catechist steps forward to take a class. The cut off for all new registrations for the current year is August 1st. All students need to begin class on the first day of class.
Update Information: Parents are asked by the catechist to update their phone number and email addresses on index cards at the parent/teacher sessions on the first day of class.
XIII. SNOW EMERGENCY & CANCELLATIONS (KYW #1058)
In the event of severe inclement weather or dangerous road condition, contact KYW for weather related closing. It is the option of the catechist to notify parents by e-mail/phone. Some catechists will not have an opportunity to contact families of closings. A message concerning the cancellation of PREP class will be left on the PREP phone line 215-887-4285 and will be placed on the parish website. Please do not call the rectory. On Tuesday a decision to close may not be made until 3:00 PM. If you need to contact the director regarding class closure, please e-mail [email protected] and we will do our best to respond.
XIV. COMMUNICATION
- Calendar
Parents are provided with a yearly schedule at the beginning of the program year. This schedule is subject to change during the course of the year. Parents will be notified of changes as soon as possible. PREP events are also listed in the Holy Martyrs Monthly Calendar that is inserted in Parish Bulletin on the first Sunday of the Month. PREP Monthly Updates are sent home in the children’s folders. The PREP (oholymartyrs.tripod.com) website is no longer functioning. A PREP Bulletin Board in the main entrance stairwell of the church posts updated information.
Mrs, Carole Galante, CRE
215-884-8575
[email protected]
prep website: holymartyrsprep.weebly.com
Please remember that catechists are volunteers and many are not professional teachers. Sharing the teacher’s phone numbers or email addresses is entirely up to the individual teacher. Parents are encouraged to send a note to their child’s catechist to discuss any concerns or information that will enhance the learning experience. Parents may call the program director to make arrangements to meet or speak with their child’s catechist.
Director of Religious Education/Catechist [weekly] Communication
Please check children’s folders each week for communications regarding: homework, tests, activities, flyers, updates and notes from catechists, director and parish organizations.
Keeping God’s Children Safe Program: The Archdiocese of Philadelphia requires that each parish provide an age-appropriate program for children which reviews safe touch. This program is scheduled once each year on Tuesday and Sunday. The lesson plans for these sessions can be viewed at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Parents who do not want their children to attend the program, need to indicate this is writing in September, 2010 on the registration form or by letter. Students are not excused from class on the date of the KGCS program.
Please refer to : http://archphila.org/catechetical/resources/lessons.htm for more information.
Safe Environment- Parent Behavior: In providing a safe environment for the children and staff at Holy Martyrs, inappropriate parent behavior on parish property or at parish events will result in an incident report and follow up by the parish administration, the diocese and a possible report to Childline if the inappropriateness is in front of children.
Transportation: It has been strongly recommended to catechists that they are not to provide transportation to religion classes and PREP events for children other than their own. If a catechist is providing transportation, a release form must be signed by both the catechist and parent. This form must be kept on file at the parish PREP office. Please contact the PREP office for the necessary forms.
ROAD TRIPS: As part of the Confirmation Program, 6th and 7th grade students participate in road trips to a local catholic site (local shrine or Cathedral) each year. All students need to attend and parents are very welcome. This is normally scheduled on a Sunday in December. All paperwork and permission slips must be turned in on time and students must adhere to proper dress for church.
Sacrament Retreats: Confirmation (grade7) and First Holy Communion (grade 3) retreats are mandated sacramental preparation components by the parish and diocese. These are scheduled on Sundays in winter as to avoid interference with fall and spring sports.
FINAL NOTE
Each catechist comes to your child with a different faith background and spirituality. All have answered a call from God to share their faith with your child. They all love God and are faithful to the mission of Jesus Christ and the evangelization mission of the church. Some are trained educators, but many are not. Some are working parents with a very full schedule. Each one is planted in a family and/or has friends that give them up Tuesday nights or Sunday mornings: just so they can be with your child. On Tuesday evening, some will not eat dinner until 9:00 PM or later and others will miss Sunday morning breakfast with their loved ones. Some travel a distance and have other people watching their children, so they can be with your child. Often, spouses are watching the younger children at home. Some are career professionals who lead very busy lives but show up prepared to teach your child. Some are full time students with part time or full time jobs. Some are younger and some are older, some arrive earlier and some later. Each catechist needs to be respected with gratitude and none deserve to be slandered or diminished by word or action in the presence of children, parents or in the local social/educational community. Finally, please include our catechists in your family prayers each week at the altar of God and in your homes.
The program director reserves the right to amend this handbook. In the event of any such amendment, parents will be given notification of the changes made.
Parents may view the diocesan guidelines and exam reviews for each grade at: http://archphila.org/catechetical/resources/resources.htm (Updated 2010)
Addendum from the Catechetical Forum Jan, 3, 2013 Meeting
At HM Catechetical Forum Meeting important discussion regarding the response to recommendations of the BRC and Archbishop Chaput’s letter to pastors from Dec 2013 were addressed. The diocesan policy for First Communion to be celebrated in grade 2 has now been left to the pastors to determine. In 2012-13, HM had lowered FHC to grade 2 as recommended and approved by the diocese. The following has been decided for the Holy Martyrs Program:
Beginning 2013-14, the celebration of First Reconciliation will return to spring of grade 2 after Easter. This will allow more preparation time and focus for both First Reconciliation and First Communion.
Beginning 2013-14, First Holy Communion will return to the spring of grade 3 beginning in the school year 2014-15. There will not be a First Holy Communion celebration for spring 2014 for students in the traditional path. When the number of candidates is over 30 a special First Communion Mass may be scheduled.
Confirmation will continue to be celebrated in the fall of grade 8. Candidates will return to class in September of level 8 for interviews and review of Confirmation Q and A. In grade 7, a final exam will be administered to students. Graduation will happen in the spring of grade 7.
The celebration of Confirmation will be requested for Sunday celebration for small groups and weekdays for larger groups of candidates.
Ministry will continue in grade 6: the number of required hours will be shortened to 10. Candidates will track their community service hours and be asked to participate in parish events that need young people to help.
Special Programs: This year, 2 programs to accommodate students in the non-traditional path were tried. Both will be discontinued because of absences and incompletion of assigned work. Students who start religion classes after grade 1 will be assigned the following grades: A child starting in their grade 2 year will go to level 1 and follow the courses in the curriculum through Confirmation. A child starting in grade 3/4 will enter one grade level below their grade and follow the curriculum through the years celebrating FP/FHC sacraments in fall of grade 6. A child starting in grade 5/ 6 will go to level 4 and celebrate FP/FHC in the fall of grade 6. There will no longer be special programs for advancement for children entering religion classes after grade 1. This will mean that level 1 religion classes are geared for children in grades 1 and 2, etc.
Music: The development of a liturgical music program for PREP children will be a focus for the purpose of bringing the children to full and active participation in the Mass and PREP celebrations. The leadership will develop a song list that will include easy-to-learn, spirited songs and one Mass Setting that the children will have planted in their hearts. The music program should include both Sunday and Tuesday classes. There will be 2 Masses each year that will include all PREP children and families. There should be an opening Prayer Service/Mass and graduation/prayer service. The songs that are taught to PREP children should be realized at sacraments and Masses for children.
Safety: To insure the safety of the children, public events like the Red Cross Blood Drive will not be held during PREP hours. If a situation arises that the building needs to be used on PREP nights, we will cancel classes. I ask all catechists to have email addresses for their students so that they can notify parents of such a situation and cancellation. The doors will continue to be locked at 7:00 PM. We will ask for volunteers to greet students at the door on Tuesday for opening and closing. We would also like to have a volunteer adult at the doors on Sunday for the whole PREP time.
Sunday classrooms will all be held on the 3rd floor (when possible) where the doors to the education areas can be locked. Children of Sunday catechists will be able to audit (no program homework/tests or exams) grade 1 for the purpose of allowing their parents to teach. The child would return to grade 1 for year 2 with a different teacher.
Appendix 1
RELIGION GUIDELINES
The religion guidelines for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia were revised and approved for use beginning September 2000 and again in Spring 2010. Below is a synopsis of the core content guidelines for each grade level.
Level One
God the Father, Creation, Living in God’s World, God the
Son- Jesus Christ, God the Holy Spirit, Sacraments of Initiation, Mary, Liturgical Year Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Our Father
Level Two
Holy Trinity, Sacraments of Initiation and Healing, The Mass: Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist, Topics related to Mass, Mary, Liturgical Year (as well as preparation for Sacrament of Penance) and Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Our Father, Act of Contrition
Level Three
The Trinity, Sacraments, God’s Law, Christian Community, Mary, Liturgical Year, preparation for the Sacrament of First Communion. Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Act of Contrition, Apostle’s Creed
Level Four
God the Father, Commandments, Grace, Sin, Conscience, Jesus Christ our Redeemer, The Beatitudes, Works of Mercy, Virtue, Mary, Liturgical Year. Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Our Father, Act of Contrition, Apostle’s Creed, The Rosary
Level Five
Sacraments of Initiation, Sacraments of Healing, The Sacraments of Service, Mary, Liturgical Year. Prayers: Sign of the Cross, Grace at meals, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Our Father, Act of Contrition, Apostle’s Creed, The Rosary all 4th grade formulas reviewed.
Level Six
The Bible, Old Testament-Choosing a Special People, Moses, Exodus, Covenant, Joshua, Judges, Kings, Important Queens, Prophets, Biblical Women, Mary, Liturgical Year (as well as preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation)
Level Seven/Eight
New Testament, Jesus, Mary in the Gospels, Liturgy & Worship, the Liturgical Year, Morality: Ten Commandments, Social Justice Prayer
Appendix 2
Policy or INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIORS
Prohibiting Harassment, Intimidation, Hazing, Intentional Isolation, or Bullying, etc. A safe, secure and respectful educational environment is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards and build appropriate relationships with others.
The Holy Martyrs Religious Education environment refuses to accept any such behaviors named above . Therefore, acts of harassment, hazing, intentional isolation, intimidation and bullying (including cyber bullying and the like) are unacceptable behaviors and are prohibited in our religious education program. The religious education program personnel cannot monitor the activities of students at all times and eliminate all incidents of bullying between students, particularly when students are not under their direct supervision. However, to the extent such conduct affects the educational environment of the religious education program and the rights and welfare of the students and is within the control of the religious education program in its normal operations, it is the Holy Martyrs Religious Education Program’s intent to prevent bullying and thus, must take action to investigate, respond, discipline and remediate those acts of bullying. Administration and the catechetical staff are to demonstrate appropriate behavior by treating others with civility and respect, and being aware of and not tolerating harassment, intimidation, hazing and bullying, etc. If incidents do occur, students should be able to report and know that the inappropriate behavior will be dealt with promptly and effectively. There will be no retaliation against a victim, reporter or witness.
Policy
Bullying involves actions or words against another for the purpose of inflicting physical or emotional harm or discomfort or damage to a person’s reputation that is intimidating or threatening and affects the learning and school environments. The following describes types of bullying but is not an exhaustive list.
- Hitting, kicking, shoving, spitting, hair pulling, or throwing something
- Getting another person to hit or harm student
- Teasing, name-calling, making critical remarks or threatening in person or other means.
- Demeaning and making another the victim of jokes
- Making rude and/or threatening gestures
- Excluding or rejecting the student
- Intimidating (bullying), extorting or exploiting
- Spreading harmful rumors or gossip
- Deliberate rejection and isolation of a student from the class or group.
If the bully is threatening harm, a student should tell a catechist, adult volunteers and/or the Director of Religious Education immediately.
The Holy Martyrs Religious Education Program must:
- Complete and Incident Report
- Have investigation procedure-oral/written statements, witnesses to those statements with signatures.
- A plan for removal of students involved for safety/investigation, if necessary
- In writing, state facts of findings (the nature of the bullying and its causes)
- Notify the Pastor
- Notify law enforcement immediately if there are terrorist threats/acts involving weapons
- Document all steps taken (Incident Report)
- Notify parents/guardians of the alleged offender and victim’s parents/guardians.
- Apply disciplinary sanctions according to PREP Handbook Provide staff/parent/student education on bullying.
Parent Handbook: Handbooks should be distributed to grade 1 students each year.