Once students have met the necessary admission requirements and have been accepted into La Salle Academy, the school warmly welcomes these students for the coming school year and will strive to provide them with a solid Catholic spiritual and academic education in a supportive learning environment. Students and parents must always be mindful that attendance at La Salle Academy is by invitation. It is not a "right" because this is a private school. Admission to and continued enrollment in this school include responsibilities regarding conduct, both inside and outside the classroom and school, and students are expecting to conduct themselves in such a manner as to be a credit both to themselves and their school.

In order to protect its standards of scholarship, discipline, and character, La Salle Academy reserves the right, and students and parents or guardians concede to the school the right to require the withdrawal of any student at any time, for any reason deemed sufficient in the sole discretion of the school and its administrators. By the student’s attendance at the school, a student and his or her parents or guardians acknowledge the important obligations and restrictions contained in this handbook and agree to be bound by the terms of this handbook.

Students attending La Salle Academy relinquish certain rights they might otherwise be entitled to if they were attending a public school. For example, a student’s freedom of speech is limited in many important respects here at our school. Speech, either written or oral, contrary to the Roman Catholic faith, the teaching of the church or the directives of the local Bishop or Ordinary is prohibited, as is any other speech which is contrary or disruptive to the philosophy and purposes of our school. Another important right all students at La Salle Academy surrender involves searches and seizures. School administrators may search a student’s person and belongings if there is a reasonable belief, in the sole opinion of the school administrator, that contraband, illegal substances or inappropriate objects are being concealed. Any unauthorized items found may be seized. Additionally, students desks and lockers, which are at all times under the joint control of the school and the student to whom the desk or locker has been assigned, may be searched by school administrators at any time, for any reason or for no reason at all. Students should have absolutely no expectation of privacy with regard to any item in their desks or lockers.

Another important right that a student and his parents or guardians relinquish when they decide to have a student attend this school is the right to sue the school, the parish, or the Archdiocese of New York, and/or any individuals acting on behalf of the school, such as the school administrators, teachers, staff or any of their agents for any matter relating to academic or disciplinary decisions or other matters covered within this handbook. Each student and his parents or guardians, accept the school’s rule and policy that students, and guardians may not bring any civil action into any local, state, or federal court or in any administrative agency or body to challenge any regulations, procedures, or programs covered within this handbook. Students and parents or guardians agree that any challenge to any school academic or disciplinary action or relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered in this handbook may only be challenged or appealed within the hierarchy of the school, subject to the limitations contained in this handbook. This includes any decision relation to a student’s enrollment at the school or termination of that enrollment.

The mission of La Salle Academy is to educate young men of diverse cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds with special outreach to those most in need. We provide a nurturing environment, which fosters spiritual, moral, intellectual, emotional, and physical growth in the Roman Catholic tradition and the Lasallian spirit, as embodied in St. John Baptist de La Salle.

We create experiences of community within the school and encourage each student to develop his gifts and talents for his own growth, as well as to engage in the caring service of others.

La Salle Academy and all Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York base their educational purposes and all their activities on the Christian teaching of the essential equality of individuals as rooted in God’s goodness, Christ’s love, and one’s supernatural destiny.

Thus, with discrimination so opposite to their nature and mission, Catholic schools in this Arch-diocese have not and shall NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, NATIONALITY, OR ETHNIC ORIGIN in the administration of education policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic, and other administered programs.

This policy is subscribed to by all Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the Archdiocese of New York, whether owned or operated by the Archdiocese or religious communities within the archdiocese.

Academic Affairs

Grauation

Every student is required to take the following courses to earn a La Salle Academy diploma: 4 credits of Religion, 4 credits of Social Studies, 4 credits of English, 4 credits of Mathematics, 3 credits of Science, 2 credits of Foreign Language, 2 credits of Physical Education, 1 credit of Fine Arts, ½ credit of Health, ½ credit of Computer Education, and 2 elective credits: a minimum of 26.5 credits. In addition, every student must do 10 hours of community service during each year of attendance at La Salle Academy.

Students are required by the State of NewYork to pass certain examinations in order to graduate. The passing grade on Regents exams is 65%.

• Comprehensive English
• Integrated Algebra or Math A
• Global Studies and Geopraphy
• US History
• One Lab Science

The N. Y. State Regents with Advanced Designation Diploma is awarded to students who successfully complete the above 5 Regents, and the following:

• Math B Regents
• Language Regents (and 3 years of the language)
• A 2nd Science Regents

Academic Honors

Academic Honors are awarded each semester to students who achieve:

• First Honors:90% average with no failures
• Second Honors:85% average with no failures
• Third Honors:80% average with no failures

The National Honor Society is the most prestigious honor society on the high school level. The La Salle Academy Chapter of the National Honor Society holds an induction ceremony to recognize students who meet the following criteria:

• a minimum cumulative average of 90%
• outstanding character and leadership
• service to the school and community
• involvement in school activities

Decisions on membership are made by the Faculty Council.

Rank in Class

The rank in each year is based on the weighted final average. The rank in class will appear on the student’s permanent record card. Advanced Placement courses, which by their nature are more difficult and demanding than similar ones in a given department, are assigned a greater weight in grade reporting. This added weight will affect the total final average only and will permit a just arrangement for the assignment of rank in class.

Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege granted by the school to students in good standing both academically and behaviorally. In order to participate in extracurricular activities at La Salle Academy, students must maintain certain academic standards. Any student who fails two or more courses in a marking period will not be allowed to participate in any afterschool activity until he has improved his academic standing. His eligibility status will not be reviewed by the Assistant Principal for Academics until at least four weeks into the next marking period. Any appeal due to special circumstances must be made directly to the Principal whose decision will be final.

Students who experience academic difficulty will be required to attend an afterschool study center to receive help from teachers. All students who are academically ineligible for extracurricular activities are expected in this center Monday through Thursday for assistance with homework.

Academic dishonesty is considered a serious matter. Dishonesty violates both the ethical and moral standards of La Salle Academy. Judgment of a violation is based on observable behavior.

Cheating is defined as giving aid to another student or receiving aid from an external source during the course of an examination. This could include, but is not restricted to, verbal communication with another student or outside agency or having written material in one’s possession. If a student is cheating on a test or any other assignment, a teacher may take the paper away from the student.

Honesty is primarily the responsibility of each student. La Salle Academy considers cheating to be a voluntary act for which there is no acceptable excuse. Students cheating during the regular school schedule commit an act of academic dishonesty, and will receive a zero (0) for the homework, quiz, exam, or project. The zero received on work which is involved in a case of cheating is not part of the punishment; it is merely the assessment of the work of the work. The student will be recommended to the Dean of Students for detention. Repeat offenders may be subject to suspension and/or expulsion.

If a student is cheating on a Semester Examination, the examination proctor will take the paper away from the student. The student will then be escorted to the office of the Assistant Principal for Administration after the proctor dismisses him from the room. He will finish the examination under the supervision of the Assistant Principal for Academics. The student may receive a maximum grade of 50% on the Semester Examination. However, the final decision is reserved for the Assistant Principal for Academics.

The State of New York Education Law regards fraud as the use of unfair means to pass an examination, such as giving aid to another person during an examination. If, in the judgment of the Principal, a student has been found guilty of committing or of attempting to commit fraud during an examination, the Principal is authorized to cancel the pupil’s examination.

A student’s schedule will be changed in case of a computer error or the improper placement of a student in a class. La Salle Academy cannot and will not accommodate requests from either a parent/guardian or student for placement in a particular instructor’s class or to accommodate an earlier dismissal time for the student.

The last day for course changes is September 24.

The La Salle Academy Christian Service Program strives to develop individual hearts and minds committed to the service of others as taught by Jesus Christ. Christian service is an ongoing process of learning to give of oneself. Each year of high school, a student is expected to see out service opportunities for at least 10 hours of Christian service. Service projects can be selected to benefit one’s school, Church, and the civic community at large. Some examples would be service to charitable organizations, tutoring of others in an afterschool program, helping in a religious education program, work with a senior citizen, etc. It is the student’s obligation to be sure his project is approved by the Campus Minister or the person designated by the school to coordinate the Christian Service Program. Direct service to the poor, “the least of my brethren” (Matthew 25:40-46) is expected.

All hours must be documented by the student on the official “Community Service” Form. These hours must be completed by the last day of class indicated in the school calendar. Students who do not fulfill this requirement may not return to La Salle Academy until this obligation has been satisfied. A Senior will not receive his diploma unless all hours are completed. Work-Study hours do not apply towards the completion of Community Service hours.

Any student who misses a midterm, final exam, and the make-up, and does not supply a doctor’s note will receive a zero (0) for the exam grade. If a student misses the midterm or final exam and wishes to take the make-up exam, the student must supply a doctor’s note or a note from home detailing the reasons for the absence. The eligibility for a make-up exam is subject to approval of the Assistant Principal for Academics. Because they are New York State examinations, any student who misses a Regents examination, or arrives late for one, cannot make up that examination. If the Regents examination was the mid-term or final examination for a course, the final exam grade will either be a zero (0) or left blank, depending whether the student’s absence was excused with a doctor’s note.

Students with three or more failures for the year generally must withdraw from La Salle Academy. Students with one or two failures must earn passing grades in those subjects during the summer. Students who fail a Regents examination that is required for graduation will also be required to attend Summer School and retake the Regents examinations in August. Any student who has reached the end of his Junior year without having passed the necessary New York State examinations for graduation must attend summer school and retake those examinations in August. Seniors may not have any failures on their permanent record card.

The passing grade at La Salle Academy is 65%. The semester grade is calculated from two marking periods and a final exam. The year end grade is the average of the two semester grades that make up that year.

Graduation is traditionally held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. In order to participate in the graduation ceremony, a senior must have fulfilled all obligations to the school. A senior who is carrying three or more failures, either from his senior year or pervious years, may not participate in the graduation ceremony. Diplomas are distributed by the Principal after graduation to those seniors who have fulfilled all the requirements.

Parents may make appointments with a teacher or administrator by calling the school at (212) 475-8940. They may make an appointment with a School Counselor by calling (212) 475-8776. As much advance notice as possible is appreciated.

Participation in Physical Education class is required of all students. Physical disability will exempt a student ONLY if he presents a doctor’s certificate. Students are to be properly prepared with gym uniform and sneakers, for each class. Failure to come prepared for gym class will result in loss of class points and possibly detention. If a student wishes to be excused from a single gym class for a temporary ailment, he must present a note from his parents or doctor to the Dean of Students.

At the start of the school year, each student will purchase two locks through the school bookstore. One of these locks is to be used during gym period on the gym lockers. The student is responsible for the security of his personal belongings and school materials while he is in gym class.

Student Progress Reports and Deficiency Reports will be mailed home on October 9th and March 11th. Teachers will send Deficiency Reports to all parents whose sons are experiencing academic difficulty or are in danger of failing the marking period.

All interscholastic athletes are required by New York State to have a physical examination, dated no earlier than July 1, 2006 which gives approval for their participation in athletic activities. All athletes must maintain good standing in their studies and in their behavior. Grades are re-viewed after each marking period. If a student fails two or more courses in a marking period, he will be ineligible for athletic participation during the next marking period until his academic status improves.

Any student who is absent or arrives at school after 10:00 AM may not engage in either practice or competition that day. Students who participate in athletic events are expected ad encouraged to be in school and on time the day after the event. Both athletes and spectators are expected to act in a sportsmanlike fashion at all times. They are expected to remember that they represent the school and that “They are La Salle” wherever they are. All rules pertaining to behavior in school apply at sporting events.

The Bookstore is a convenient place where students may buy school supplies, book bags, sweaters, and jackets at reasonable prices. The store is located between the first and second floors on the First Avenue Staircase. It is open before homeroom and after school each day.

The New York City Department of Education provides breakfast and lunch which is served daily in the cafeteria. Lunch is a period of relaxation for all students. Students must always remember that they are in school and that all rules of courteous behavior must be observed. Teachers are present to ensure good order. All directions concerning behavior, seating, and maintaining cleanliness are to be followed. A lunch application must be on file, each year, for every student.

Report cards are distributed four times each year. Distribution of the report cards occurs in November, February, April, and June. The first and second report cards will be distributed to parents directly at the November and February Report Card Nights. The third report card will be mailed home in April. The fourth and final report card will be mailed at the end of June. For specific dates consult the school calendar.

The hard cover textbooks used at La Salle Academy are the property of the New York City School District. Each student borrows those books for the duration of the school year, and has the responsibility to keep them covered and in good condition. At the end of the year, he is required to return the books that he was issued at the start of the school year or pay for the replacement of any book that he was issued and does not return.

The parent of a student transferring from La Salle to another school must notify the Principal in writing, giving the date of departure and the school to which the student is moving. Upon official request from that school, the student’s records will be sent. Records will be released ONLY after all books and school materials have been returned, and all financial obligations have been met.

School trips, regardless of length or distance, are extensions of the school day. Any disciplinary infractions will be handled according to the school regulations given in this handbook upon the return to school. Major infractions will result in a student leaving the trip immediately. Participation in any school trip is a privilege, not a right. It is clearly subject to the approval of the school administration. Any decision made by the administration to not allow any student to go on a school trip will be final. The school dress code is in effect during field trips. Exceptions to this are made only with administrative approval. Any student who is going on a field tip must have a permission slip for that trip signed by a parent and/or guardian submitted to his teacher the day before the trip.

Students may not eat or drink in the school corridors. Students should pick up after themselves and place litter in the receptacles located in all of the hallways. Students should not loiter in the hallways or stairwells while classes are in session.

The homeroom period is a time of preparation for the school day. Students who are not in homeroom on time will be marked late and required to get a late pass. Students should be attentive to the opening prayer and the announcements. Students may not leave homeroom without the written consent of the homeroom teacher.

The library is open every day until 3:30 PM. It is a quiet study area used for reading and research. Students will observe all regulation and procedures as developed by the School Librarian. Any student who uses the library during a lunch or study period must have a pass.

Every effort is made to respond to the spiritual needs of the students. The Campus Minister coordinates school liturgies, special liturgical services, and retreats. The Campus Minister also organizes and oversees peer ministry groups. Spiritual counseling is available to all students as well as preparation for the sacraments.

La Salle Academy provides students and faculty with access to the Internet. The Internet is a rich resource of information and fundamental to the preparation of citizens and future employees. Access to the Internet enables students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, bulletin boards, and other resources. Students will be provided with guidelines and lists of resources particularly suited to the curriculum and the learning objectives. Students will conduct their Internet work in a supervised environment in their classes and the school library. Access to the Internet has the potential to be abused and be inappropriate for a learning community. Just as students are responsible for their behavior away from a computer, they are responsible for their behavior while working with one. Violations may result in school suspension or revocation of network access and privileges. All students must have on file in the main office a signed Acceptable Use of the Computer/Internet Contract before they may use any school computers.

The school has an Internet Acceptable Use Policy which each student, along with a parent or guardian must sign before a student can access the Internet at school. The Internet Acceptable Use Policy governs the conduct and responsibilities of each student while they are at school and/or utilizing school computer facilities, codes, or sites. It is the expectation of this school, however, that student behavior when using the Internet will be exemplary both on and off school grounds. A Catholic school student always represents his school and the school community. Accordingly, students will be subject to disciplinary action by the school for acts such as, but not limited to, harassment or any other type of threatening, sexual, or otherwise inappropriate communication that is conveyed via the Internet (or other technological medium or device) regardless of the time of day or the student’s location. Such misconduct could result in any number of punishments including the possibility of suspension or expulsion. Additionally, any student who is found to have authored or contributed to a website or blog that is of a nature which is threatening, profane, obscene, sexual, illegal, or contrary to the Catholic mission of the school, will be subject to disciplinary action by the school.

If school is canceled because of an emergency, it will be announced over the radio stations WCBS-880 and 1010-WINS on the AM dial. Please listen to the radio. School closing information will also be available on the internet, at www.WOR710.com. Please do not call the school.

Any “found” articles should be brought to the Dean’s office. Students who have lost an item should contact the Dean of Students to claim lost items. A bit of advice would be to check more than once if the item has not been found yet. Any unclaimed goods will be held for no longer than one month before they are donated to charity.

The school’s Main Office is open every day from 7:15 AM until 4:00 PM. Students having business in the office must attend to it before or after school hours. This may include such items as turning in absentee notes, getting applications for working papers, and obtaining transcripts and letters. Otherwise, students should not be on the floor of the Main Office unless they are summoned or sent by a teacher.

School Counseling at La Salle Academy is a four-year process with Counselors sharing departmental responsibilities. A Social Worker is also on staff. The department seeks to assist each student in developing his full potential and in identifying central concerns in his life. Through individual interviews, faculty referrals, and group counseling, the department assists students with academic, attendance difficulties, social and family problems, personal crises, career and vocational education, job placement, testing, and psychological referral.

Counselors will schedule appointments with students during the course of the school day. Students are expected to be on time for theses appointments, and to notify the School Counselor if unable to make the appointment because of a test or quiz. In addition, students are strongly encouraged to initiate an appointment with their Counselor if needed. The student can see the Counselor directly before school or leave a note requesting an appointment in the Counselor’s mailbox. Students should not go to the Counselor’s office during the school day without an appointment.

Seniors are allowed to leave the school for lunch during the 4th through 6th periods if they have written permission from their parents on file in the office of the Dean of Students. If a senior leaves the school for lunch he must be dressed according to the dress code. He may bring a lunch back to the school and eat it in La Salle Hall. He most not be late for his next class. Failure to follow this regulation will result in the loss of this privilege. Seniors may also be dismissed early if they have attended their last scheduled class of the day. During this time seniors should not wander around the school building nor should they loiter in front of the school.

During the school day, the west (Second Avenue) stairway is designated as the “UP” stairway, while the east (First Avenue) stairway is designated the “DOWN” stairway.

Prompt and regular attendance is expected of all students unless there is an important and legitimate reason to be absent. La Salle Academy is a Catholic school and does not follow the calendar governing NYC’s public schools. Parents and students are advised to refer to the La Salle Academy school calendar provided to determine school holidays and early dismissals.

The following procedures must ALWAYS be followed:

1. On the day of absence, a PARENT/GUARDIAN must report the absence and the reason for the absence to the school’s Attendance Office by 9:00 AM. The school phone number is (212) 475-8940 extension 400. This call can be made the night before or at any time during the morning. Calls from the student of his brother or sister are NOT acceptable.
2. On returning to school, the student must bring a note written and signed by a parent or guardian stating the reason for his absence and the dates of the absence. The student must present this note to the Attendance Officer before school begins. He may not enter homeroom or any other class without a pass from the Attendance Officer.

PLEASE NOTE:

If a student is absent and the school does not receive a phone call, an attempt will be made to contact his parents at home. If there is no answer, the student can be considered truant for the day. In order for the student to be considered legitimately absent, a parent must call the school with an explanation and must send a not on the student’s return.

Finding out about missed assignments due to an absence is a student responsibility. School policy does not require teachers to permit students to make up exams. Teachers will inform students at the beginning of the year of their policy regarding make-up exams.

1. If parents anticipate an absence in advance, they should write a note to the school to give the reasons and dates of the absence. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain assignments from the teachers. A second note is still required on the student’s return. (As in Absence Procedures above).
2. Advance dates for vacations and holidays are clearly listed in the calendar. Such vacations should not be anticipated or prolonged. Civic celebrations not mentioned in this Handbook may not be taken as holidays from school.

Any Unexcused absence from a class period is regarded as a truancy. If a student is truant from a class, there will be the following consequences:

1. The parent/guardian will be notified of the truancy and its consequences:
2. The student may be suspended.
3. The parent/guardian must make an appointment with the Dean of Students.
4. The student will receive two (2) demerits.

Because they result in a loss of instruction time for the student, requests for medical/dental appointments during the school day are discouraged. They should be arranged OUTSIDE of school hours. Early dismissals will normally be granted only if the following procedure is followed:

1. A letter clearly stating the reason for the request and the proposed time of dismissal must be submitted to the Dean of Students at least ONE DAY IN ADVANCE.
2. A telephone call from the parent, to confirm the note, must be received by the school by 9:30 AM on the day of the early dismissal.
3. A student who has an early dismissal at or before 9:00 AM will be considered ABSENT FOR THAT DAY.

1. If a student is absent five (5) times in a semester, a warning letter will be sent to his parent/guardian.
2. If a student is absent ten (10) times in a semester, a letter will be sent informing the parent/guardian that an appointment must be made with the Dean of Students for a conference.
3. Credit is awarded in New York State for the number of hours a student has spent in a class-room. La Salle Academy reserves the right to award credit only to those students who have completed the time requirement. Excessive absences could result in a student not receiving credit for a course. This would also apply for a student who is absent from his first period class due to chronic lateness.
4. A student who has been absent from school or from a single class more than 10 days during the school year without medical verification will not be allowed to make up any homework, tests, or assignments for credit that are due on, or given on the days of the absence. A student who has been absent 20 or more times for the year will be required to pass each subject with a final average of 70%. The final decision in this matter rests with the Assistant Principal for Academics.
5. If a problem with attendance persists beyond this point, the School Administration will meet to discuss the status of the student and will determine the future course of action, which may include dismissal from La Salle Academy. The decision of the Principal is final.

The administration and staff of La Salle Academy believe that punctuality is one of the cornerstones of successful people. We also believe that if a student is not in school/class on time, the continuity of the learning process is interrupted. A student arriving late to school/class interrupts a teacher from teaching as well as the learning process for the rest of his classmates. Therefore, in order to maximize student learning and to provide school security, the following tardy policy will be consistently and strictly enforced. All students are required to be in homeroom no later than 8:00 AM. If a student is not in home-room by 8:00 AM, the student is late. Students that arrive to school between 8:00 AM and 8:10 AM will report directly homeroom. The homeroom teacher will note the time the student arrived on the attendance log. Students that arrive to school after 8:10 AM will not be allowed into class unless they have an excused admit pass from the main office. Students with an unexcused tardy must report to the cafeteria and remain there for the rest of the period. If a student is in the tardy room, it will be treated as an unexcused absence from class. Students are responsible to make up all class work that was missed and if he misses a quiz or test due to lateness, he may receive a zero (0) for that quiz or test with no possibility of a make-up. The student’s name must appear on the tardy list for that day to be eligible for make-up work.

If a student arrives at school after 9:00 AM he may not be allowed to participate in any afterschool athletic or social activities. Students who are late more than 15 times during the school year will be suspended and considered for dismissal from La Salle Academy.

Excused tardies include a major breakdown in transportation; these are not to be confused with bus and train delays, which happen routinely in the NYC transit system. Students must give themselves sufficient time to allow for these delays and still get to school on time. Other excused tardies include doctor and dentist visits, sickness, or family emergencies, all of which must be documented in writing or by a phone call from a parents/guardian.

Unexcused tardies include, but are not limited to, oversleeping, the car ran out of gas, alarm clock didn’t work, no one told me to get up, laziness, and a variety of other excuses that are not valid reasons to be late for school.

1st tardy - Student must report to the cafeteria for the period
3rd tardy - Report to the cafeteria and a call home
5th tardy - Report to the cafeteria and a letter sent home

Students who refuse to report to the cafeteria or verbally abuse staff will immediately receive a one-day in school suspension.

All students are required to be on time for all classes during the day. A student who is late for class will suffer academically. If a student has a reason for his lateness to class, he should have it in writing form the teacher or staff member with whom he was detained. A pattern of lateness to class will result in a demerit and a call home.

Students are not permitted to leave the school buildings with the sole exception of seniors who have been allowed this privilege for use during their lunch period. If a student is sick, or if he has forgotten to bring his lunch from home, or if he has some other problem, he should come to the Main Office for help. No student may leave the school without checking out at the Main Office and obtaining administrative approval.

A student absent without a legitimate reason is considered truant. If a student is truant, the following will happen:

1. The parent/guardian will be notified immediately.
2. The parent/guardian must make an appointment with the Dean of Students.
3. The student may be suspended and will receive demerits.

A student will not receive credit for any work missed due to cutting or truancy. Any work missed during this time cannot be made up. If a student develops a pattern of cutting and/or truancy, the school administration will meet to determine whether it is in the best interest of all concerned for the student to remain at La Salle Academy. The decision of the Principal is final.

By choosing to attend La Salle Academy, you have selected a Catholic, college preparatory school with particular programs, rules, customs, and traditions. It shall be an expressed condition of enrollment that the student behave in a manner, both on and off campus, that is consistent with the Christian principles of the school as determined b the school in its discretion. It shall be an expressed condition that the parents/guardians of a student shall also conform them-selves to standards of conduct that are consistent with the Christian principles of the school as determined by La Salle Academy. While at La Salle Academy, students are expected to behave responsible, with attention to and respect for the rights and needs of others.

Teachers may assign after school classroom detention for violations that take place within the classroom. Teacher detentions may affect the student’s academic grade. The teacher will give the student a day’s notice about the detention.

The range of classroom violations is as follows, but not limited to:

1. Chewing gum and/or eating/drinking in the classroom
2. Tardy to class
3. Behavior that hinders/distracts the teacher from teaching or other students from learning
4. Not having all necessary books and supplies
5. Not keeping their hands, feet, and other objects to themselves
6. Inappropriate/immature behavior or language
7. Rude/disrespectful behavior
8. Sleeping in class
9. Dress code violations

If a student fails to attend the assigned teacher detention, a demerit may be issued.

PLEASE NOTE: It is the responsibility of the student to inform their parents that they have a teacher’s detention.

Demerits are imposed for more serious behavior infractions of the Christian principles of the school. Any administrator of La Salle Academy can assign students demerits. After repeated Teacher Detentions or a serious behavior infraction, the teacher will complete a “Corrective Action” form and forward it to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students will make the determination of whether the “Corrective Action” warrants a Demerit.

The following infractions, but not limited to, constitute a demerit:

• Failure to serve a Teacher Detention
• Leaving school grounds without signing out and receiving legitimate school or parental permission
• Physical or verbal harassment
• Bias-motivated harassment, other harassment, and hazing, bullying, intimidation, threatening students or school faculty or staff
• Cutting school
• Fighting
• Persistent violation of school and/or classroom rules
• Continued disrespect toward school personnel and/or other students
• Causing or provoking a major disturbance anywhere in the school, instigating or provoking others to fight
• Defacing school property

NOTE: La Salle Academy reserves the right to assign demerits for infractions not listed above. The Dean of Students makes the final determination.

Students accumulate demerits whenever they are assigned for disciplinary consequences. Demerits are accumulated as follows:

Total number of Demerits assigned will be shown on the student’s report card. Demerits will roll over to the next academic year. At the end of the school year Demerits may be reduced by community service arranged with the Dean of Students.

La Salle Academy is committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education. As such, we are committed to providing programs free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin. Similarly, we are committed to making the educational environment free from sexual harassment, which includes, but is not limited to, unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of sexual nature made by someone from or in the educational setting. We also prohibit conduct that has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact upon an individual’s work or academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or educational environment. Students should report any sexual harassment to the Principal, the Dean of Students, the Assistant Principal for Academics, a counselor or teacher. Anyone who violates the policy on Discrimination and Sexual Harassment shall be disciplined appropriately.

1. Suspension may be either out of school or in-school. The student is responsible for all work due in the classes he misses. However, he will not get an opportunity to make up quizzes, exams, or tests.
2. During the period of suspension, a student shall not attend any classes or participate in any school activities, extracurricular activities, or functions, and shall not be present on the school grounds without the express advance consent of the Dean of Students.
3. The student is suspended until his parent/guardian meets with the Dean of Students.
4. The student who is suspended will be given expectations to follow his reinstatement to the school. As well as the consequences which will follow if he does not comply.
5. After meeting with the parent/guardian, the Dean of Students will set the date for reinstatement. Probation and detention are usually assigned by the Dean of Students as consequences of the suspension.

1. Serious and/or repeated violations of school policy.
2. Disruption of class.
3. Intimidating or fighting with other students.
4. Willful destruction of school property or vandalism; in addition, the student will make restitution for damage.
5. All forms of gambling.
6. Cheating or plagiarizing, including copying of another student’s homework.
7. Defiant, discourteous, or disrespectful behavior toward a teacher or staff member.
8. Leaving the school property without permission.
9. Other serious infractions.

The Principal reserves the right to expel at any time a student whose conduct, influence, or academic work is judged as undesirable or unsatisfactory. If a student is in danger of expulsion, his parents will receive a phone call informing them of the incident and that he is suspended. They may request a conference which would include the Principal, the Dean of Students, the students and his parents during which the student will be allowed to explain his actions.

1. The distribution, sale, possession, or use of any drug or alcohol in or around the school or at any school sponsored activity.
2. Disrespectful behavior towards a teacher or any member of the school community.
3. Behavior detrimental to the reputation of the school.
4. Behavior potentially harmful to the safety of oneself or others.
5. Possession of a weapon.
6. Repeated conduct not consistent with good order or discipline.
7. Sexual harassment.
8. Excessive absence or lateness
9. Theft of either a classmates’ belongings or school property
10. Violation of the school’s policy on the use of controlled substances.
11. Repeated interference with the school’s ability to provide educational opportunities for all students.

Students whose behavior, academic performance, or attendance are not satisfactory in one year will be placed on probation for the next year. The conditions for the various probations are listed below. Any student accepted as a transfer student, and all freshmen, are automatically on probation for one year. He is monitored in terms of behavior, academic performance, and attendance. He must perform in a satisfactory manner in each of these areas.

Students who have been suspended have expectations with which they have to comply. These vary according to the reasons for suspension. Students who have been suspended will be on disciplinary (or attendance/lateness) probation for one year from the time of the suspension. If the conditions for probation are not met, a conference will be arranged with the Principal. The student who does not meet these conditions may be expelled. Students who are on probation will have their academic, attendance, and disciplinary performance evaluated at the end of each marking period.

Students on probation whose performance has not been consistent with the expectations of La Salle Academy for two marking periods may be asked to withdraw from the school.

• Any disciplinary situation that carries with it a consequence on the level of a suspension as outlined in the Student Handbook will be grounds for an expulsion hearing which may result in dismissal.
• An accumulation of five disciplinary referrals on the level of a disciplinary detention as out-lined in the Student Handbook will result in an automatic suspension and an expulsion hearing.
• The student must at all times conduct himself with the utmost respect and high regard for all of the school’s rules and regulations. If at any time the student’s attitude suggests an unwillingness to meet with these conditions, a hearing may be held.

• If a student is absent five times in a semester, a warning letter will be sent to his parent/guardian.
• If a student is absent ten times in a semester, the parent/guardian will be required to make an appointment with the Dean of Students to discuss the attendance problem.
• If a student is truant, he will be suspended and the parent/guardian will be required to meet with the Dean of Students prior to reinstatement to La Salle Academy. This meeting may also include the Principal for the purpose of determining whether expulsion is necessary.

The student must work with his School Counselor and follow the directives of his Counselor. These may include more frequent progress reports, extra classes during and after school, and attendance at afterschool tutoring and homework sessions. The first time a student fails to follow a School Counselor’s directive, a notice will be sent to his parents. The second time will require a conference with the parent, the student, and the Counselor. If there is a third time, the parents must make an appointment to see the Assistant Principal of Academics.

At this point, a decision will be made to determine whether the academic environment at La Salle Academy is the best one for the student, and he may be asked to withdraw to seek a more appropriate school.

No electronic devices, except cell phones, are permitted in the school building at any time. Electronic devices, including, but not limited to, Sidekicks, PSPs, I-Pods, handheld games, or music player, are distracting and disruptive to the educational process and are NOT allowed at La Salle Academy. It is strongly recommended that students do not carry any electronic devices to school, as these items are costly and are prime targets for theft and endangering your child’s safety in and outside of school. If any of these items are used during instructional time, they will be confiscated and the parent/guardian will be asked to come to La Salle to pick up the item. If they are brought to school again, they will be held until the end of the school year. La Salle Academy is not responsible should any of the above items be lost, stolen, or damaged.

Cell/Camera phones are allowed in the building, but must be turned OFF and placed in the student’s locker or stowed unseen upon arrival at school. Cell phones are not to be seen clipped to clothing. Cell/camera phones visible or activated during school hours and/or causing disruptions to the educational process will be confiscated.

La Salle Academy students are very visible in the local community. They are required to exhibit proper conduct both before and after school, particularly on the street in the front of the school and in the adjoining streets near the school. Students in public are often well known and highly regarded by many people. Therefore, students have definite responsibilities for their personal conduct and appearance. Unbecoming behavior in public areas or on private property have very negative reflections on our students, their families, and our school. Misconduct of this nature will be considered serious by the school and will be handled accordingly.

At athletic events, La Salle Academy students are expected to conduct themselves in a sports-manlike manner at all times. This means that spectators and participants are to treat player, coaches, cheerleaders, officials, and all fans with courtesy and respect. The use of profanity will not be tolerated. Any violation of these guidelines will result in removal from the event and may result in further disciplinary action.

A student must notify the Main Office if he has a change of address or new telephone number and a letter must be followed from the parent.

Because of the lack of parking spaces, students are discouraged from driving to school. Parking for students is not allowed on 2nd Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues.

Each person on the campus of La Salle Academy can expect a safe and supportive environment. To accomplish this, we have established a zero tolerance for physical violence and weapons. Any student involved in a fight on or off school premises before, during, or after school will automatically be suspended, with a recommendation for expulsion. Parents will be notified. The students will be sent home and the parent/guardian will have to make an appointment with an Administrator to obtain readmission of the student to La Salle Academy.

If a student becomes involved in a situation that could lead to a fight, it is his responsibility to come to an Administrator or Counselor for help in avoiding or resolving the problem.

Fire drills are an important safety measure and are required by law. They are held to prepare for a safe evacuation in case of an actual fire. Exit routes and procedures are posted in each room. All students should be familiar with them. During the drill, students should follow all the directions of the teachers. Walk briskly, while keeping absolute silence. Failure to comply is regarded as a serious offense which will lead to detention or suspension.

Students at La Salle Academy should not be members of any gang. No external signs of gang membership may be worn in or near the school. If a student wears beads, scarves, headgear, colors, or any sign of gang membership, or participates in any gang activity on or near the school, he may be expelled from school without warning.

Chewing of gum is prohibited at all times and all places within the school. This includes the lunch periods.

1. Sneakers must always be worn by anyone using the gym floor.
2. Food, soda, and gum are absolutely forbidden anywhere in the gym.
3. NO student may use the gym, for any purpose, without the supervisory presence of a faculty member or coach.

Each student must carry his I.D. card with him at all times while in school. It must be presented to any teacher or staff member upon request. If a card is taken by any teacher during the school day, it must be claimed at dismissal that same day from the Dean of Students. If a student transfers from La Salle Academy, he must return the I.D. card to the Main Office.

1. School lockers are assigned by the Dean of Students for a student’s personal clothing, text-books, and other material.
2. At the start of the school year, the student will purchase two (2) combination locks from the school bookstore, one of these locks is to be used on the school locker and the other on the gym locker. Only combination locks purchased in the La Salle Academy bookstore are permitted to be used on school or gym lockers.
3. Students are not to change clothing other than jackets and shoes at the lockers.
4. A student is to use only the locker assigned to him.
5. Students may go to their locker three times during the day: before homeroom, before lunch, and at dismissal. The only exception to this is gym class.
6. It is the student’s responsibility to keep his locker secure at all times. Combinations must NEVER be given to another student.
7. The student must immediately report any damage or problem with his locker to the Dean of Students.
8. Anyone who tampers with the locker of another student may be suspended or expelled.
9. In accordance with State Law, lockers are property of the school, and are subject at any time to inspection by the School Administration.

1. Gym lockers are to be used only while a student is in his scheduled gym class. He cannot store material there or keep his personal lock on the locker at any other time.
2. Any valuables (watches, rings, etc.) should be left with the physical education teacher during class time and not stored in the lockers. La Salle Academy is NOT RESPONSIBLE for any loss of personal property or school texts.
3. These lockers must be secured with combination locks purchased only in the school book-store.

These lockers are assigned by team coaches to be used ONLY during the seasons of the respective sports. Students should not use them during the school day as an “extra” locker. The athletic locker rooms are off limits to students except when supervised by a coach after school.

Any student found to be using, to be under the influence of, and/or possessing any drugs or alcoholic beverages in the school or immediate vicinity of the school, or at any school sponsored activity will be subject to suspension or expulsion. If the student is allowed to remain enrolled at La Salle Academy, he must agree to be evaluated by the School Counseling Department and/or any agency they might designate and to work cooperatively with whatever program is recommended. Any student found to be profiting from the sale of drugs or alcohol will be expelled from La Salle Academy.

Any student who feels ill should first report to his teacher and, if necessary, obtain a pass to the Main Office. It will then be determined if he should return to class, rest in the office, or be sent home. No student may go home on his own. If it is absolutely necessary that the student be sent home, he will be dismissed only after a parent is contacted and consent is given. No student may leave without permission. When he arrives home, the school must be called by the parent. State Law prohibits the school from granting a student early dismissal without the consent of his parent or guardian.

Use of tobacco products by students while in or on school properties, or under the school’s jurisdiction, or while participating in a school-sponsored event is prohibited. Use of tobacco products is not permitted anywhere on the school premises, on 2nd Street or on the school side of 2nd Avenue between 1st Street and the North End of Nativity Church. Tobacco products include cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco, and all other kinds and forms of tobacco prepared in such a manner as to be suitable for chewing, smoking, or both. The prohibition on tobacco use includes lighting, chewing, inhaling, or smoking any tobacco product.

Any student found in possession of any weapon at school or any school sponsored event will be expelled. Weapons include, but are not limited to, knives (any size, shape, style), guns tasers, brass knuckles, martial arts apparatus, sticks, batons, mace, pepper spray, etc. While such items as sticks, bats, screwdrivers or very small knives may not be defined under law as weapons, the rule of thumb is if it can be used to hurt someone, do not bring it to school or to any school sponsored event.

La Salle Academy views the dress code as an important aspect of our program. The nature of such a code is that it develops a sense of personal pride and responsibility. It reinforces the attitude that school is a serious place in which to work and learn. The dress code was also established to pro-mote appropriate grooming and hygiene, prevent disruption to the educational process, learning environment, activity or performance and avoid safety hazards. Dress and grooming shall be clean and appropriate for a high school environment. Moreover, as a preparation for professional life La Salle Academy feels that it is important for students to become accustomed to certain standards of dress.
The dress code includes the following:

1. Dress Pants: Either blue, black, khaki, or brown, worn at the waist with a belt. The following are unacceptable: all jeans, patch pockets (cargo pants), work pants, warmup pants, or extremely rumpled, oversized, baggy pants, flagging belts, or visible boxer shorts.
2. Dress Shirt and Tie: The shirt is to be a blue or white dress shirt with long or short sleeves and must be made for a tie to be worn with it. It must be tucked in and with the collar but-toned. Turtlenecks and knit polo shirts are not acceptable even if they have a collar. The students will purchase and wear a black or red school tie.
3. La Salle Sweater/Vest: (obtained through the school bookstore) in red or black must be worn at all times. No sweatshirts of any type are allowed. All students may wear a suit/sport jacket in lieu of the sweater or vest.
4. Leather Dress Shoes and Socks that are either brown or black in color. The following are unacceptable: Athletic shoes of any type, including the black leather Adidas, Reebok, Nike, etc. Boots, canvas hiking shoes, and sandals are also unacceptable. Sneakers are to be worn ONLY in gym class.

During the warm weather students are not required to wear their suit jacket or sweater and tie. Students may wear a La Salle polo shirt (obtained through the school bookstore) or a blue or white dress shirt. Long sleeve shirts are not to be worn under the polo shirt.

1. "Dress Clothing" refers to that clothing which is suitable for working in a professional office. The Dean of Students will make the final interpretation.
2. Students are to be in dress code when they arrive at school and at dismissal. Changing clothing at the lockers or in the lavatories is prohibited.
3. Appropriate undergarments are to be worn but may not be exposed.
4. Hats, earring of any kind, and sunglasses are NOT permitted.
5. Jewelry should be limited to a watch or ring. Medals, chains, etc., should be worn UNDERNEATH the shirt. La Salle Academy is not responsible for the loss of any valuables. Those items should be left at home. Earrings are not allowed. No piercings will be allowed.
6. Students are to be in dress code in all parts of the school building, including the cafeteria. Gym clothes are to be worn only in gym class.
7. Clothing or items of clothing that are worn for the purpose of establishing and/or identifying gang membership is prohibited.
8. The Dean of Students is the final judge on whether or not a student is dressed properly. Hats worn in the building will be confiscated. If an extreme Dress Code violation exists, students may be sent home.
9. Facial hair must be well trimmed. Full beards are not permitted. Students may wear moustaches and a small, well-trimmed beard on the chin. This may not extend to the cheek.
10. Students are to avoid extremes in hairstyles, The Dean of Students will make the final interpretation of appropriate facial hair and hairstyle. Students must always have their hair neatly arranged.

Dress Code Infractions

• Following the accumulation of 5 Dress Code Passes a student will receive 2 days of detention.
• Following the accumulation of 10 Dress Code Passes a student will receive 2 consecutive weeks of detention.
• Following the accumulation of 20 Dress Code Passes a parent conference with the Assistant Principal will be required.
• If a student fails to attend an assigned detention an Administrator has the right to suspend the student from school.

Please note: Detention will begin at 2:20p.m. and end at 3:20p.m. on school days designated by the Administration.

Photo Disclosure

As the parent or guardian of a La Salle Academy student, I understand that my son's photo and/or likeness may be reproduced in La Salle Academy publications, marketing tools, and/or on the La Salle Academy website. I am aware that I have the right to disallow such publication by completing the online form entitled “Photo Disclosure.”

* La Salle Academy Administration reserves the right to modify, at any time, the rules and regulations found in this handbook.