Student Handbook

CALENDAR – ACADEMIC YEAR 1999-2000
HOLY CROSS HIGH SCHOOL

JULY
31 Physical Exams

AUGUST
Faculty Inservice begins
8 Ring Ceremony, Seniors
9 Classes begin
PAC Meeting
19 Classes Fundraiser Begins
20 Faculty Meeting: Early Dismissal

SEPTEMBER
3 Faculty Meeting: Early Dismissal
6 Labor Day-No Classes
PAC Meeting
10 Classes Fundraiser Ends
15 Progress Reports Issued
24 Faculty Inservice-No Classes

OCTOBER
1 Faculty Meeting: Early Dismissal
2 Marathon for Catholic Schools
Principals Meeting
12 High School Standardized Testing
14 Nine weeks tests
Nine weeks tests
Homecoming
21 Report Cards & Teacher Conferences
28 PTC Meeting
Faculty Meeting: Early Dismissal
Knights of Olde Dance

NOVEMBER
Catholic Education Institute-No Classes
Wellness Fair
17 Progress Reports Issued
20 Cheerleader Competition
24 Faculty Meeting: Early Dismissal
25 Thanksgiving Holiday
Thanksgiving Holiday
Alumni Holiday Dance

DECEMBER
HS Placement Exam
8 Band Christmas Concert
16 Semester Exams: Early Dismissal
17 Semester Exams: Early Dismissal

SECOND SEMESTER
JANUARY
4 Classes resume
6 Report Cards & Teacher Conferences
Standardized Testing begins
13 PTC Meeting; Classes Fundraiser Begins
14 Faculty Inservice-No Classes
MLK Day – No Classes
22 PTC Scholarship Dance
29 Catholic Schools Parents Rally
Catholic Schools Week Begins with Liturgy at San Fernando
Classes Fundraiser Ends

FEBRUARY
2 Progress Reports Issued
Catholic School Leaders Banquet
12 5-K Run
18 Faculty Meeting: Early Dismissal
21 Presidents Day-No Classes

MARCH
2 Nine weeks tests
Nine weeks tests
Faculty Inservice: No Classes
Golf Tournament
7 Standardized Jr High Testing Begins
13 Spring break begins
23 PTC Meeting

APRIL
8 Blue & Gold Gala
Progress Reports Issued
15 Jr-Sr Prom
20 Faculty Inservice-No Classes
Good Friday-No Classes
25 Classes resume
28 Battle of Flowers – No Classes

MAY
2 & 3 Acceptance Banquet
Band Concert
Exams: Grades 8 & 12
Exams: Grades 8 &12
18 Athletic Banquet
21 High school graduation
22 Junior school graduation
23 Academic Convocation
24 Semester Exams
25 Semester Exams
26 Faculty Inservice
29 Faculty Inservice
31 Report cards Issued
Registration for summer school

JUNE
1 Summer school begins

CLASS FUNDRAISERS
The senior trip has become a most popular tradition at Holy Cross High School. As the cost of such an activity has continued rising it is necessary to assist students in meeting this expense. On the other hand, multiple and concurrent fund raisers have not been successful in many instances, and the often repeated appeal for funds is annoying and distressing to many. Therefore, the plan to assist students raise funds for their senior trip is outlined below.
There will be two school wide fund raisers each school year, at the time approved by the Principal prior to the start of the school year.
Funds raised by each student will be deposited to that student’s senior trip account.
These funds will be kept until time for the senior trip.
At the time of the senior trip, each student will receive what he has raised during the previous years.
Funds will go to the senior for his senior trip expenses and for no other purpose.
Funds linked to students who leave Holy Cross High School, regardless of the reason, will become part of the school treasury to support the student work program.
Funds linked to students who do not participate in the senior trip, regardless of the reason, will become part of the school treasury to support the student work program.
A student’s portion of the funds will be that raised by the student and only that portion raised by the student and will not be accorded any interest for these funds.
One student’s funds may not be transferred to another student.
These funds may not be transferred to a student’s tuition or financial account.
A student entering the 7th or 8th grade at Holy Cross may accumulate funds until time for his senior class trip.

SERVICE CREDITS
An essential ingredient in a student’s success in school is the involvement, interest and support of that student’s parents. Encouragement and reinforcement by a parent have no equal in a student’s life. At Holy Cross, students are required to do service hours. One of the primary reasons for this requisite is to expose students to situations which they might not voluntarily encounter. And through this encounter the student learns to give of his time and of himself, and to develop a habit of generosity. Likewise, parents can develop a similar attitude.
Service credits are activities or tasks performed by parents so that Holy Cross will not have to pay for these services. They are offered as a means for parents to use their talents in place of out of pocket expenses. These activities or tasks become financially beneficial to both parents and to Holy Cross.
When a parent volunteers in one of many ways possible at Holy Cross High School, the students are the primary beneficiaries. Through the generosity of volunteers, Holy Cross is able to provide benefits, services, and facilities that it would not be able to purchase. And most of the benefits derived can be enjoyed by students in future years as well as this year.

So that the Service Credits program at Holy Cross High School will work effectively and smoothly, the following guidelines will be in effect.
A family may choose to perform 20 service credits each year and obtain $200 reduction in tuition.
Service credits must serve a financial benefit to Holy Cross High School.
Each family which chooses to obtain tuition credit via service credits must also volunteer two hours at the Annual Festival. This is in addition to the 20 service credits.
Families which do not volunteer these two hours will be charged $25.00 for each hour not served.
Service credits can be earned at Holy Cross in the following ways.
Performing maintenance projects.
Performing secretarial/office clerk services.
Performing custodial services.
Performing yard/landscaping services.
Volunteering at the Marathon for Catholic Schools.
Volunteering at the Festival/Alumni Softball Tournament.
Volunteering in the concession stand.
Full year service in the following positions satisfies the requirements for service credits.
PTC offices
Class representatives
Athletic Booster chairperson
Band Booster chairperson
Hospitality chairperson
Chairpersons of approved special events
Chairpersons of standing committees
Times to perform service credits must be prearranged with the respective chairpersons.
The chairperson of each event will verify and authorize services performed.
Needed information, clarification or disputes regarding service credits should be addressed to the chairperson of the Service Credit Committee.
If you have a special ability and would like to use that ability to fulfil your service credits, then please contact the chairperson of the Service Credit Committee.


DISCIPLINE POLICIES

CODE OF CONDUCT
The code of conduct and discipline procedures are contained in this handbook. All parents or guardians are required to sign the statement included at the back of this handbook, that they agree to abide by the rules and regulations of the school. Within the first week of school, this handbook is distributed to students and parents for the purpose of communicating all school policies and procedures. Parents and students must sign this letter indicating that they have received the handbook and agree to be bound by the provisions it contains. The deadline for returning this signed statement is the end of the second week of the beginning of classes. Student who do not return this signed statement by that deadline will no be permitted to attend classes until it is signed and returned. Absences will be counted.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
Classrooms are primarily places of learning. All activities, procedures and regulations must be directed to that one goal. Fundamentally, this means that each day, students will be present, will possess the required materials, and will have satisfied the requirements of all assignments. Students who in anyway interfere with or interrupt the learning process either for himself or for others are subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal from school.

COURTESIES
Rules of discipline in many instances outline common courtesies. Some of these courtesies are delineated below to remind students that Holy Cross men are always courteous.

Whenever a guest, faculty member or adult enters the classroom, students should stand in silence and remain standing until acknowledged and told to be seated.
At all assemblies, rallies, Masses or other large gatherings, whenever the speaker approaches the microphone, students should stand in silence and remain so until told to be seated.
When answering in class, students should stand and deliver the response so that all present may hear.
When responding to a faculty member or other adult, students should say “yes sir” or “no sir” or “no Brother” or “no Sister,” and the like.
Students should cover their mouths or noses when sneezing or coughing.

WARNING
Any student who is involved in a single minor disciplinary infraction may be corrected verbally or asked to discuss the situation with the teacher outside of class time.

Written Assignment
A written assignment may be required by a teacher as a penalty for minor classroom disruptions. This assignment is to be completed and turned in to the teacher before the beginning of class on the next school day. Such an assignment is intended as a notice to the student that his behavior is unacceptable and unless improved will be met with more punitive responses.

DETENTION
A teacher may assign a student to serve a detention period for repeated disruptions of class time. Any student receiving a detention will report to the Director of Discipline at the end of the last period on that same day. Only the Director of Discipline or the Principal may excuse a student from serving a detention. Failure to serve a detention is a serious offense and will result in additional action by the Director of Discipline.

DISCIPLINARY REFERRAL
A disciplinary referral is a written statement by a teacher to the Director of Discipline that a student has failed to respond to expected behavior. Students assigned a referral are to report to the Director of Discipline after school. The Director of Discipline is empowered by the principal to assign the student one or more detentions, to request a conference with the student's parents, or to levy a more severe penalty.

DISMISSAL FROM A CLASSROOM
A student dismissed from a classroom by a teacher will report immediately to the Director of Discipline's office. If the Director of Discipline is not available, he will report to the school secretary and follow directions. Failure to observe this procedure may result in immediate suspension.

EXCEPTIONAL CASES
In exceptional cases resulting from a single major offense, Holy Cross High School reserves the right to expel, suspend or place a student on Disciplinary Probation. The severity of response in such cases will be determined by the Director of Discipline in consultation with the Principal.
Single major offenses which are subject to this special action include, but are not limited to: drugs (see Archdiocesan Policy), theft of school or personal property, the sale or acceptance of stolen property, vandalism, possession of weapons, fighting, insubordination; insults to faculty, staff or students; possession of fireworks, and gang–related activity. Rather than test the system or hope for a favorable ruling, it is better to anticipate expulsion for any of the above or similar offenses.

IMMUNIZATION RECORD
By Texas State Law, to attend classes a student must be up to date with immunizations and also provide the school with verification that he is up to date.

SUSPENSION
For repeated disregard of school regulations or a serious violation of a school policy, a student may be suspended from attending classes until his parents are interviewed by the Director of Discipline, the Principal or another school administrator. The administration wishes to keep the time a student is removed from classes to a minimum and, therefore, parents should take the earliest opportunity to respond to the call for a conference with school authorities. Holy Cross will document the violation and the reasons for suspension. In general, suspension will last no longer than three days, and the days of suspension are absences. The parental conference may result in the student being placed on probation or expelled.

PROBATION
At Holy Cross, probation is intended to be part of a constructive process directly involving parents with school administrators in supervising the performance of their son.
Notification that a student has been placed on probation will require a conference with a school administrator to review the reasons for the probation status, to formulate the conditions under which the student will be allowed to remain at Holy Cross and to determine the length of the probation period. Failure to abide by the terms of probation will require both the student and his parent(s) to appear before the Probation Review Board. The Probation Review Board may recommend to the principal an extension of the probation status or expulsion.
It is hoped that the early involvement of parents in monitoring their son's behavior will be a positive influence and of benefit to all parties concerned.

CONDITIONS OF PROBATION
The conditions of disciplinary probation are intended to set attainable goals that will help the student change his behavior within a specific time frame and not to punish or discourage him. The conditions and duration of probation will be shared with each of the student's teachers and their cooperation will be sought in assisting the student to adjust to the demands of the probation. If the student fails to conform to the conditions of his probation, at the discretion of the Director of Discipline, he and his parents may be required to appear before the Probation Review Board.

PROBATION REVIEW BOARD
The Probation Review Board, composed of the Director of Discipline and five faculty members, will meet with the student, his parents and other concerned parties to review the circumstances which led to the student's appearance before the board. The Probation Review Board will then meet privately to evaluate any mitigating circumstances. They will then recommend to the principal conditions of probation or the dismissal of the student from school. The principal will make the final decision.

EXPULSION
A student may be expelled when other means of discipline have failed. A student may be expelled immediately for certain very serious reasons and/or after a single violation if, despite his previous disciplinary history, the student’s continued presence in the school would seriously hamper the school in fulfilling its obligation to other students.

IMMEDIATE EXPULSION
A student may be subject to immediate expulsion when he:
participates in disruptive activities by a group such as a gang.
Possesses, uses or delivers narcotics, dangerous drugs or alcohol on school campus or school sponsored activities.
Smokes or uses any tobacco product on school property or at a school-related activity.
Possesses, uses or conceals a weapon (a weapon is any instrument which may produce bddoily harm or death) on school property or at a school-related activity.
Threats of bodily injury or harm to a student or school personnel.
Assaults a student, parent or any school personnel.
Vandalizes school property or the property of others.
Engages in chronic or repeated behavior which disrupts the learning environment.

HARASSMENT – FREE ENVIRONMENT FOR STUDENTS
Holy Cross High School does not condone harassment of any kind. All students are to be treated with dignity and respect. Harassment in any form is prohibited. This prohibition against acts of harassment applies to all people engaged in all school related activities.
Sexual harassment must be defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, when:
Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a student’s academic success or achievement of any other nature.
Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for decision affecting the student.
Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonable interference with a student’s school performance or of creating an intimidating ,hostile, or offensive school environment.
Verbal harassment includes derogatory remarks, jokes, or slurs, and can include belligerent or threatening words spoken to another.
Physical harassment included unwarranted physical touching, contact, assault, deliberate impeding or blocking movements, or any intimidating interference with normal school work or movement.
Holy Cross High School:
Implements this policy through meetings with administrators, ensuring that they understand the policy and its importance.
Makes all staff members, student and parents aware of this policy and the commitment of the school toward its strict enforcement.
Remains watchful for conditions that create or may lead to a hostile or offensive environment.
Establishes practices designed to create an environment free from discrimination, intimidation or harassment.
Each student has the responsibility to:
Conduct himself in a manner which contributes to a positive school environment;
Avoid any activity that may be considered discriminatory, intimidating, or harassing;
Consider immediately informing anyone harassing him that the behavior is offensive and unwelcome;
Report all incidents of discrimination or harassment to the Principal or Director of Discipline. If either is not available, report incidents to another school personnel;
If informed he is perceived in engaging in discriminatory, intimidating, harassing ro unwelcome conduct, to discontinue that conduct immediately.

COMPLAINT FILING AND INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES
The following procedures must be followed for filing and investigating a harassment claim.
The person may first choose to tell the individual causing the harassment that eh conduct is offensive and must stop. If the objectionable behavior does not cease immediately, the person must report the harassment to the Principal In the case of sexual harassment allegation, the person is free to raise the issue with another administrator if he/she prefers to do so.
If the complaint is against the Principal, the person must report the incident to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools.
As soon as the verbal report has been given, the school personnel must report the incident ot he Parent and Superintendent.
The person alleging harassment will be asked to complete a formal, written compliant. The claim will be investigated thoroughly, involving only the necessary parties. Confidentiality will be maintained as much as possible.
The investigation will include a meeting with the person alleged to have harassed, sharing with that person the nature of the allegations as well as the name of the person bringing the allegation.
Once the facts of the case have been gathered, the Principal, in consultation with the Superintendent will decide what, if any, disciplinary action is warranted. The disciplinary action will relate to the nature, context, seriousness of the harassment and can include all disciplinary actions up to and including expulsion.
If the complaint is against a non-employee such as a parent, volunteer or vendor, the school will take steps, within its power, to investigate and eliminate the problem.


VOLUNTARY WITHDRAWAL
Parents have the right to voluntarily withdraw a student from Holy Cross High School at any time prior to the matter being placed before the Probation Review Board. A voluntary withdrawal is not treated as an expulsion, and there are no adverse markings or disclosures made on the student's permanent record. However, if the matter is placed before the Probation Review Board and a recommendation for dismissal is accepted by the principal, the decision will be noted on the student's permanent record.


CATHOLIC VALUES POLICY

Holy Cross High School is a Catholic school and attempts to impart Catholic values through theology classes, various campus ministry programs and the overall academic and disciplinary programs. Any student known to the administration to be involved in practices contrary to the values of a Catholic education will be confronted by the Director of Discipline or Principal in the presence of his parents to establish the validity of the allegation. If unacceptable behavior is established, he may then be subject to dismissal if he intends to reject the Catholic values on which the school is founded. However, if the student now intends to comport himself in a manner consistent with Catholic values he may be subject for a specified period of time to forfeiture of his privileges to participate in student social and athletic programs. During this specified period of time, the principal will monitor the conduct of the student. Based on that assessment, the student may be dismissed, the period of forfeiture of privileges extended or all restrictions ended.

CATECHESIS IN HUMAN SEXUALITY AND SEXUAL MORALITY
Human sexuality and morality are addressed according to the guidelines issued by the Religion Curriculum Guide, in special sessions and in the Annual Wellness Fair.

FATHER-TO-BE/PREGNANCY
A primary purpose of Catholic Education is to guide students’ growth in Christian values and moral conduct. Catholic teaching stresses that the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and that the sanctity of family life is enhanced through the fulfillment of God’s plan as expressed by a loving and permanent commitment. Premarital sexual activity is contrary to these values. However, when a pregnancy occurs outside of marriage, the total school community seeks to offer support to the pregnant student and the student father so that the pregnancy can be brought to term. The reality of the situation, in all its dimensions, is to be treated in a Christian and humane manner.
In order to insure the best interests of the student(s), parents and the school community, the following guidelines will be implemented.
If a Holy Cross student is identified as a father–to-be then, he and his parents and/or guardians will be called to meet with the Principal.
The student will be required to receive appropriate professional counseling consistent with Catholic teaching.

ABORTION
Abortion, which disregards innocent human life, is incompatible with and contradictory to the fundamental teachings of the church, the mission of the Catholic School and the values that ought to permeate Catholic education. Catholic teaching does not accept that anyone may justifiably arrange for or procure an abortion for oneself or for another person, be forced or pressured into having an abortion or influence or coerce another person to have an abortion.
Therefore, the involvement of any student in procuring or assisting in the procurement of an abortion is cause for such student to be dismissed from school.
If it becomes known to any member of the school community that a student is contemplating or planning an abortion all reasonable encouragement must be given to the student to save the life of her unborn child, In all circumstances, the mother of the unborn child must be treated with compassion and respect.

MARRIAGE AND CO-HABITATION
If a marriage of a student is recognized as valid by the Catholic Church, the administration of Holy Cross High School will determine the status of the student within the school on an individual basis. Such a marriage, in itself, is not cause for dismissal or sanctions against the student. The requirements for such a valid marriage are determined by local Archdiocesan policies.
Co-habitation and a marriage not recognized by the Catholic Church are causes for expulsion.

ARCHDIOCESAN SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

In accordance with Archdiocesan School Board policy, no student shall possess, use, or attempt to possess, use, or be under the influence of any of the following substances on school premises during any school term, or off school premises at any school–related activity, function, or event:
Any controlled substance or dangerous drug as defined by law, including, but not limited to, marijuana, any narcotic drug, hallucinogen, stimulant, depressant, amphetamine, or barbiturate.
Alcohol or any alcoholic beverage.
Any abusable glue, aerosol paint, or any other volatile chemical substance for inhalation.
Any other intoxicant, or mood–changing, mind–changing, mind–altering, or behavior–altering drug.

DEFINITIONS:
“Use” means a student has smoked, ingested, injected, imbibed, inhaled, drunk, or otherwise taken internally a prohibited substance recently enough that it is detectable by the student’s physical appearance, actions, breath, or speech.

“Under the influence” means a student’s faculties are noticeable impaired, but the student need no be legally intoxicated.

Students who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action including expulsion.

A student who uses, in the manner prescribed, a drug authorized by a licensed physician through a prescription specifically for the student’s use shall not be considered to have violated this policy. Any prescribed medication must be administered by an authorized school personnel.

The transmittal , sale, or attempted sale of what is represented to be any of the above listed substances is also prohibited under this policy. Students involved in such actions shall be expelled from school.

Lockers, student automobiles, and other personal property may be searched by administrators for alcohol, drugs or other controlled substances.

Please note, it is unlawful in the State of Texas for minors to use, buy, sell, or possess alcohol. Any Holy Cross Student who may be recognized by the State of Texas as an emancipated citizen by reason of age of majority or marriage, may not claim an exception to the school policy on forfeiture of his right to use, buy, sell or possess alcohol.


GUN–FREE AND DRUG–FREE SCHOOL ZONE

In cooperation with state authorities, Holy Cross High School will enforce the “Gun–Free and Drug–Free Zones” policy which prohibits the possession, use and/or sale of weapons and/or drugs, or look–alike weapons and/or look–alike drugs, within 1000 feet of a school property; onto Holy Cross property or bus or at a sponsored athletic, social, or extracurricular activity. Please bear in mind that the property of Holy Cross High School is bounded on either side by public schools, thereby extending the "school zone" beyond the 1000 feet limit of our own property. Any student in violation of this policy is subject to arrest by the police, and immediate suspension pending a hearing by the Probation Review Board to consider possible expulsion from Holy Cross.


ATTENDANCE POLICY

Regular and punctual attendance at Holy Cross High School is required by state law. Credit is awarded for each course when the student has met the minimum standards established by the school for academic achievement and regular attendance. It is imperative that a student attend school every day unless prevented by illness or convincing family necessity. Perfect attendance means zero absences and zero tardies.

ABSENCE
The school calendar is published at the beginning of the school year to allow parents to plan their activities so as to avoid unnecessary absences from school. Parents have the responsibility to notify the school as early as possible on the day of a student's absence from school. Parent failure to notify the school on the day of absence will require the student to contact his family when he returns to school. This delay in notification will result in additional loss of time from classes and a notation of unexcused absence until the matter is clarified. A student having more than five (5) absences will be referred to the Academic Council. Also, more than five (5) absences in a semester may result in loss of credit for that semester, that is, a grade of “Failure Due to Absence.” If a student loses credit because of excess absences or for failure to abide by the terms of his Academic Probation, he will be given a failing grade for each involved course and a notation will be made on his transcript explaining the reason for the failure.

There is a distinction between excused absences, unexcused absences and truancy.
Excused absences are those occasions when the parent informs the school on the day of absence of a student's legitimate need to miss school; i.e. illness, etc. However, parents must be aware that although a student is legitimately absent from school, that does not give him a right to a passing grade for work missed during his absence. Missed classroom work must be mastered for a student to receive a passing grade. Therefore, on returning to school, the student has the responsibility to contact each of his teachers to arrange for missed assignments and to take all necessary examinations.
Unexcused absences are those occasions when the parent informs the school on the day of absence of a student's need to miss school for a reason unacceptable to the school; i.e., vacation trip, routine medical appointments, etc. An absence is also recorded on the attendance record as unexcused when a parent fails to notify the school on the day of absence. In either case, the student forfeits his right to make up assignments or to take missed examinations. A student's grade can be adversely effected by unexcused absences.
Truancy is an absence from school for the entire day, or a part of the school day, which is not authorized by the parent. A student will be placed on Disciplinary Probation if he is truant. This probation status will coincide with a review of the student's discipline record by the Probation Review Board. A second truancy may result in expulsion.
Absences because of suspension or truancy are unexcused.
Any absence, excused or unexcused, is recorded as an absence.
Absence from school for one to three class periods is counted as one-half day absent. Absence for four or more class periods is considered a full-day absent. This applies to any reason a student is not in school, such as, attendance at funerals, appointments with doctors, etc.

RELEASING STUDENT DURING SCHOOL HOURS
The time of dismissal from school is included in the Parent – Student Handbook. Any changes in this time are indicated on the school calendar and the Parents Newsletter. In addition, these times are announced to students.
Students will not be released from school during school hours into the custody of any person other than those listed on the emergency information card for the student. Identification of the person to whom the student is released is required.
Parents or guardians will be notified by telephone to make suitable arrangements and documentation will be made when it is necessary to send a student home because of illness or other reason.
Students may not be sent on errands off the school property or sent home for books, homework, etc, without parental permission.
Students will be released through a definite process conducted through the main office and only with written parental permission.

RELEASE OF STUDENTS TO POLICE
When students are released to police the following are observed.
Verify that the person is a police officer. The officer is not required to present a warrant to speak with a student, but is required to wait until the parents are notified and given reasonable time to come to the school.
Contact and ask the parents or guardian to come to the school to be present with the student during the interview. If a parent or guardian cannot come to school, the Principal or his designee will sit in for the interview in loco parentis.
A warrant for arrest must be presented by a police officer before removing the student from school. If the student has been involved in some suspected illegal activity immediately prior to the police arrival on campus, or while the police officer is present, the Principal or his designee must contact the parent or guardian to come to the school.
If the parent of guardian cannot come to the school, then the Principal or designee must accompany the student to the police station.
Contact the Superintendent immediately if a student is arrested.

ABSENCES FOR FUNERALS
There are funerals which many students should attend. So that this may be done orderly and that the school has knowledge of who is legitimately absent, the following procedures are in effect.

Students wishing to attend a funeral must bring a note from their parent(s) or guardian(s) and the note must clarify the following.
The student may attend the Mass only or both attend the Mass and go to the cemetery.
The student will drive his own automobile.
If the student drives his own automobile, the names of any students who may ride with him.
If the student will ride with another student or parent, then the name of the student or parent involved.
Each student leaving school must present this note to the school secretary at the time he leaves school and not in the morning before school.
In the case when a large number of students will be attending the same function, the time that students will leave will be announced.
Students must report back to school at the end of the services that he had parental permission to attend. Failure to return to school will be treated as truancy from school.
Absence from school to attend a funeral is considered an excused absence.

TARDINESS
Students not seated by the sound of the bell to start each class are considered tardy. Students who come to class after the bell must present a tardy slip issued by the school secretary. All tardiness is considered unexcused and requires the student to report to the Dean of Discipline immediately after school on that same day.
Tardiness is cause for corrective action.
A first tardy may be excused by the Dean of Discipline.
A second tardy incurs a written punishment.
A third tardy incurs a detention after school on the same day and is assigned by the Dean of Discipline.
A fourth and each successive tardy incurs a Saturday morning of work at Holy Cross and a $5.00 penalty.

TARDINESS, FIRST CLASS PERIOD
Regular on–time attendance at school is necessary for academic success. A student who is tardy for the fist class period of the day must serve a detention on that day. If he is late for the first class period more than five times a semester, in addition to the penalties for tardiness he may lose credit for that class and also be placed on academic probation. This probation status will coincide with a review of the student's attendance, disciplinary and academic record by the Academic Council.

ARCHDIOCESAN GRIEVANCE POLICY

Holy Cross High School wishes to provide an opportunity for individuals to be heard. The administration of the school, in accordance with procedures determined by the Archdiocesan Catholic School Council, establishes procedures by which parents of students may seek redress from a policy, regulation, or decision that is perceived to work hardship on an individual or group. Student grievances will be presented by students in the presence of their parents or legal guardians. The primary aim of this procedure is to set forth a guide to establish procedures for any grievance, that is, to provide fair notice and fair hearing of the matter.
Grievances may be heard from individuals, parents, and parent organizations, but in all cases the opportunity to be heard shall be forfeited if the procedures outlined below are not followed precisely.
As used in this procedure, a "grievance" shall mean a complaint regarding any action by a teacher or administrator toward a student in the enforcement of discipline, policies and/or regulations; or a complaint by an employee regarding discharge.

REDRESS PROCEDURES: Parents, Parent Organizations and Employees
Prior to the initiation of a formal grievance procedure, parents who seek redress for their child(ren) in matters of policy, regulation, or discipline must first confer directly (either face–to–face or by telephone) with the administrator, teacher or staff member complained against, for resolution of the situation.
If there is not a satisfactory resolution of the complaint, the following are steps in the formal grievance procedure.
Prepare a written statement of the complaint, including a brief summary of the initial conference.
Present the complaint to the principal (except when the grievance is lodges against the Principal. When the grievance is lodged against the Principal, go directly to step 3). The principal will set a date for hearing the aggrieved party and provide a minimum of 48 hours notice. Student grievances shall be filed by their parents or guardians; at the hearing both student and parents or guardians will be present. The principal will provide a written response and decision to the complaint within three (3) school days after the hearing.
If the aggrieved party is not satisfied with the decision of the Principal, notification of the intent to move to this third step shall be made in writing to the President of the Board of Directors of Holy Cross High School within three (3) school days of receipt of the decision of the principal. Within 24 hours, the President of the Board of Directors will appoint a three (3) member Grievance Council to review the grievance proceedings and, if it deems necessary, will hear any further complaints within seven (7) school days of its receipt of the decision being questioned.
If the grievance is lodged against the Principal, notification shall be made in writing to the President of the Board of Directors of Holy Cross High School within three (3) school days of receipt of the previous decision or conference. The President of the Board of Directors will, within 24 hours, inform the three (3) member Grievance Council appointed by the Board of Directors who will then review the grievance proceedings and, if it deems necessary, will hear any further complaint within sever (7) school days of its receipt of notification. This council will render its decision within ten (10) school days of its receipt of the decision being questioned.
If the aggrieved party remains unsatisfied with the decision of the Grievance Council, the avenue of further appeal would be the Archdiocesan Council of Conciliation. Such an appeal must be sent in writing within five (5) school days of the Grievance Council's decision.

LOCAL GRIEVANCE COUNCIL – COMPOSITION
The Local Grievance Council shall be composed of three members appointed by the Board of Directors of Holy Cross High School.
Individuals appointed to this Council should be people of integrity with some expertise in education, human relations, and conflict management, if possible.
One member may be a present or former member of the Board of Directors.
The appointment to the local Grievance Council may be for one year and is renewable.
Local Grievance Council – Duties and Process
Both parties to the grievance will prepare a complete written statement of the nature of the grievance and the remedies sought. The Council will review these statements and the procedures followed and decide if additional steps need to be taken or if it will uphold the decision of the Principal.
If the decision of the Council is to uphold the Principal’s decision, then the process moves to No. 8.
If the decision of the Council is such that it feels that additional discussion of the situation needs to take place, it will call a meeting of both parties to the grievance.
Each party to the grievance may be accompanied by one other individual who is not an attorney and who will act as observer/advisor. This individual is not to directly address the Grievance Council.
Both parties will appear before the Grievance Council together and make an oral presentation of the written statements presented to the Council. The aggrieved party will make the first presentation. At no time is there to be cross examination of direct discussion between parties to the grievance.
After both presentations have been completed, the Council will enter into closed session to consider the oral and written presentation.
The Council may recall, together, both parties to the grievance for clarification of points that may have been raised in either of the written or oral statements.
The Grievance Council will render its decision in writing according to the prescribed Grievance Procedure.

DRESS CODE

Because of the many styles of dress and the variations in naming styles, it is almost impossible to strictly define a code of dress without having a prescribed Holy Cross uniform. Any clothing, styles, or worn articles reflecting that of gang attire or culture, in whole or in part, are never permissible by a Holy Cross student. This includes school related activities such as dances, games, festivals, etc. In any situation, the Director of Discipline is empowered by the Principal to act as the final authority as to the acceptability of a student’s dress. If there is any question regarding conformity to the dress code, parents or guardians or students should consult the Director of Discipline prior to purchasing or wearing questionable clothing.

Holy Cross recognizes the responsibility of parents for the appearance of their son and seeks cooperation in maintaining the following standards before, during or after school, and at any school related event.
A student's appearance should be clean and neat, reflecting respect and sensitivity for himself and others. Clothing which is worn or tattered is not permitted. Tattoos are highly discouraged Any tattoos deemed offensive, vulgar, obscene, reflecting gang significance, etc., must be removed.
A student must wear the Holy Cross shirt with the school logo on the pocket. These shirts are available for purchase at the school business office in three colors: white, blue and gold. At all times school shirts must be worn tucked inside the trousers. Neat and clean dress trousers (NO DENIM) must be worn with dress shoes. Belts must be worn at all times and inserted in belt tabs (not hanging). The following are considered dress trousers. (A) Dockers Pleated Classic Fit in khaki, blue or black. (B) Haggar Casual Pants Plain Front in khaki, blue or black. (C) Similar cuts or styles by other manufacturers or brands such as Savane.
If a student chooses to wear a jacket, sweater or sweat shirt over his school shirt, it must be a Holy Cross jacket, sweater or (non-hooded) sweat shirt. Holy Cross jackets, sweaters and sweat shirts are available for purchase at the school business office.
Clothing unacceptable at Holy Cross include: blue jeans, steel tipped boots or shoes, taps on shoes, T–shirts, hooded sweat shirts, bandanas hanging from pockets or worn around the head, chains hanging from pockets, earrings, shirts with pictures, diagrams or words not reflective of Holy Cross values, hats worn inside the building or carried to classes. Wearing baseball caps backwards and/or baggy pants are never permitted at school or at any school activity.
Shorts are not permitted as school attire.
Hair should be neat and trim at all times. There should be no distracting hair styles or hair dye treatments. Sideburns, facial hair, and mustaches must be neat. The Director of Discipline is empowered by the Principal to determine what specific style of hair is considered distracting.
Students must wear dress shoes and socks at all times.
A "dress day" may be announced in anticipation of a special assembly or school event. On such days, students are required to wear a white dress shirt and tie.
A student may be placed on Disciplinary Probation and even dismissed for repeated violations of the dress code. The acceptable trousers are available at Mervyns, J.C. Penny, Solo Serve, Sears and several other outlets. The dress code is enforced once a student arrives on campus in the morning and remains in effect 60 minutes after the final bell.
Repeated violations of the dress code may lead to detentions, work periods, Saturday work periods with the $5.00 penalty, probation, suspension and/or dismissal.


DANCES AND SPECIAL EVENTS POLICY

The Director of Discipline and/or moderator of the group sponsoring the dance is empowered by the Principal to decide what clothing and appearance is appropriate for a dance. Students must go into the dance area as soon as they arrive on the campus. No one will be allowed to loiter in the parking area, in front of the gym or other parts of the campus at any time during the dance. Students who leave the dance area are to leave the school grounds immediately.
Off–duty police officers will be hired to provide security for all dances held at Holy Cross. Faculty members and parent chaperones are empowered by the principal to make known to students what behavior is considered disruptive or unbecoming. Standards of Christian morality are expected of all present at the dance. Students who are corrected by a faculty member or parent chaperon are expected to cooperate, even if they disagree. Students who wish to challenge such corrections should speak with the sponsor of the dance on the next school day. If the student is still not satisfied, he should bring the matter to the attention of the Principal.

NON–DISCRIMINATION POLICY

Holy Cross High School admits students of any race or national origin to programs and activities of the school with all rights and privileges. Equal opportunity and access is provided to persons without regard to race, national origin or gender in the implementation of employment policies and procedures.

STUDENT SERVICES

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT CENTER
The Academic Enrichment Program is a program for students requiring additional academic support. Services to students include tutoring, tracking, modifications, tutorial software, counseling, and one-on-one instruction. Individualized Educational Plans are established to meet the specific needs of each student. These services are arranged through the counselor with the cooperation of the teachers.

CAMPUS MINISTRY
Campus Ministry provides opportunities for student prayer, worship, and service. It provides spiritual counseling, and gives students opportunities to enhance their Catholic faith beyond the theology classroom.
Campus Ministers, consisting of teachers and students, prepare and organize school liturgies, special class liturgies and retreats, provide opportunities to receive the sacrament of reconciliation, and supervise student voluntary service programs.
At Holy Cross, no distinction is made between Catholic and non–Catholic students. All students are expected to participate in religious activities, the development of Catholic values, and a respect for one's own personal worth and that of others. In particular, seventh graders, eighth graders, freshmen, and sophomores will be encouraged to participate in a retreat day. Juniors and seniors have the option to participate in school– sponsored overnight retreats.
Students in their junior year are required to fulfill a service project supervised by their theology teacher. Service projects may also include food drives, new student orientation, music ministry, peer counseling, and student prayer services.
With the approval of the Archbishop, eight seniors are chosen to serve as Eucharistic Ministers. They assist the campus ministry staff with liturgies, prayer services, and peer counseling during retreats.

GUIDANCE
At Holy Cross, the guidance department assists students in academic counseling, college preparation, career assistance, parent–teacher–student conferences, and personal counseling.
Students in grades seven through ten are assisted in developing good study habits and building self–esteem. Junior and senior students are guided in their college plans and in career– making decisions.
Juniors and seniors are provided with information concerning specific college entrance requirements, information on college scholarships and financial aid, and assistance in completing college applications.
In addition to college preparation, the guidance department provides information on career planning, religious vocations, vocational training, military options, and other career choices. Speakers from the community, including Holy Cross alumni, offer additional insight into career planning and goal setting.
Students, their parents, or concerned faculty can utilize the guidance department to confidentially discuss any academic, disciplinary, or personal concerns. Conferences among student–parent–teacher can be scheduled to help students cope with problems in the classroom or personal counseling. Sessions with members of the guidance staff may help students adjust to problems outside of school which might affect classroom performance.

ATHLETICS
All athletic programs are under the supervision of the Director of Athletics and subject to policies approved by the Principal. Holy Cross is a member of the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) league. The following are some pertinent rules with which all student athletes should be familiar:
1. Physical Exam – Any student wishing to participate in any athletic program sponsored by Holy Cross must have a physical examination before he will be allowed to try out for a team.
Age Limit – No student shall take part in any contest in this league who, on the first day of September preceding the contest, has reached or passed his nineteenth birthday.
Ten Semester Rule – No one shall take part in any contest in this league after the end of the tenth consecutive semester following his first enrollment of the eighth grade.
Holy Cross High School requires that student athletes have a full day’s attendance on both the day preceding and on the day of the contest. If the contest is on a Saturday, then the student athlete must have a full day’s attendance on the last school day prior to the contest. The Principal may approve exceptions to this rule in extraordinary cases.
A student must have a full day’s attendance in order to participate in practice on that day.
5. Any student who is ejected by an official from any contest at any level will be suspended from further competition pending a review of the facts and circumstances by the athletic director. The principal will prescribe the appropriate corrective action that is needed and will inform the head coach and the athlete personally of the duration and the condition of the correction.
Varsity letters are awarded to athletes who fulfill the requirements in a particular sport.
Athletes receive only one letter regardless of the number of sports or the number of years they have lettered. A certificate will be provided for additional letters earned in subsequent years or sports. All letter and numeral awards for each sport will be at the determination of the head coach for that sport.
Team district and state patches are awarded by the school. Patches for individual, district, and state honors must be purchased by the athlete at his own expense.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Participation in some form of extracurricular activity plays an important role in the education of the Holy Cross student. Teachers should encourage students to actively participate in the school's extracurricular programs and bring their individual talents to enriching these programs.
The Principal is responsible for all extracurricular activities, and is responsible for coordinating schedules with the athletic director where the interest of two groups do not coincide.
A student may practice or participate in an extracurricular activity only on days in which he has a full days attendance.
Students participating in authorized extracurricular activities and missing from school are allowed to makeup any missed academic assignments or tests. These arrangements should be made with the respective teachers before the absence.

USE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES
All buildings and grounds should be vacated by 9:00 p.m. or 1/2 hour following a school sponsored activity.
Any organization having a meeting in a school building must have its moderator present. The building must be left orderly and secure.
No student should be in the school building after hours without a faculty member present.
In general, Holy Cross does not lease its athletic facilities. Their use is restricted to students and alumni for classes, social functions, recreation, etc. Any use of the athletic facilities must be approved by the Athletic Director.
Rental of the gym or athletic fields by Holy Cross alumni or any other group must have the prior approval of the Athletic Director.
Use of any school related facility requires approval by the person in charge of that facility.

STUDENT COUNCIL
Members of the Student Council are official representatives of Holy Cross High School. They will represent Holy Cross High School at activities both outside as well as inside the school. For activities held at or sponsored by Holy Cross High School, the Student Council will serve as hosts, guides, coordinators and in any other capacity needed.

DISCIPLINARY REGULATIONS

ABSENCES
If a student is to be absent from school, then either his parent or guardian must call the school each day of the absence. On the day the student returns to school, his parent or guardian must send a written notice identifying the days on which the student was absent

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements will ordinarily be made at the beginning of the second class period each day. The announcements will be preceded by a prayer, followed by the pledge of allegiance. Students should stand at their desks during the prayer, and join in the recitation of the pledge of allegiance.
All announcements should be typed, dated, signed by a faculty member, and submitted to the front office before 8:00 a.m.

ASSEMBLIES AND PEP RALLIES
All student assemblies, religious celebrations, and scheduled pep rallies are mandatory for all students. During student assemblies and scheduled pep rallies, students are to sit in assigned sections. When the speaker or guest approaches the microphone and podium, students should stand, maintain silence, and follow any customary courtesies.
At student liturgies, students should behave with the reverence and respect due the religious occasion. Students should be dressed appropriately and conduct themselves as if they were in church attendance.
Pep rallies are considered an integral part of student life and are intended to inspire enthusiasm. Students are to show courtesy to the cheerleaders and school visitors at all times. After the assembly or pep rally, students are to remain seated until dismissed by the principal or his delegate.

AUTOMOBILES
Parking on the property of Holy Cross High School is a privilege, not a right, and the privilege may be revoked at any time for actions of a dangerous or irresponsible driver. Of particular concern are the following:
All students who drive to school and park in the Holy Cross parking lot must be licensed drivers, have proper vehicle insurance, and must register their vehicles with the Director of Discipline and obtain a parking permit.
The parking permit must be properly displayed at all times. Failure to do so may result in the automobile being towed away at the owner’s expense.
The parking fee for the school year is $25.00.
Students who drive to school are to use the assigned spaces provided in the school parking lot. No student is to park in front of the school or in the area reserved for the coaching staff next to the Gym. They should not block the cafeteria loading dock area or park near the trash container.
As soon as the car is parked, students must leave the parking area. Students may not return to the car until after school. Students are not to loiter in the parking lot or sit in their cars playing their car radios.
Drivers are reminded that there is a 10 mph speed limit on school property. This regulation is necessary to protect our own students as well as younger students from H.K. Williams Elementary School who use our parking lot as a short cut to and from their school. Students who ignore the 10 mph speed limit on school property will permanently forfeit their privilege to park on school property.
Vehicles with sensitive alarm systems will not be permitted to park on school property. The Director of Discipline is empowered by the principal to make such a determination.
Radios or other audio systems must be lowered to a volume heard only within the vehicle once school property is entered.

CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT
Regulation of the classroom environment is the responsibility of the teacher. Teachers and not students are to regulate blinds, windows and the air-conditioning units. Students who deface any classroom area, such as desks, walls, bulletin boards, etc. will be subject to disciplinary action restitution charges.
The teacher's desk is a private area and students are not to investigate the contents in or on the desk.

BACKPACKS
Backpacks may be used only to carry books and other necessary school materials to and from school. Upon arriving at school students will place the backpacks in their lockers. They may not be used during the school day; may not be taken to the cafeteria; and may not be taken to the library

BAND
Band members may not assemble for practice inside any building unless supervised by the director or another faculty member. Girl band members must assemble in the area assigned by the band director.

CHEERLEADERS
Cheerleaders must be accompanied by their moderator at all times when they are at Holy Cross High School. While waiting to assemble they may gather at the north entrance of the gym or the north door of the main school building.

CLUBS
Clubs for specific purposes may be formed with the approval of the Principal. Each club will have a faculty moderator approved by the Principal. All club activities must be supervised by the faculty moderator and any club money collected from any source must be kept in the business office.
The faculty moderator represents the school in all matters pertaining to the club and must attend all meetings of the club organization.

CONDUCT
Students are always expected to conduct themselves as maturing Christians: a credit to their faith, their school and their fellow students and should conduct themselves courteously and respect the rights of others. All students have the obligation to assist in the discipline of the school. Students should walk, never run in the halls. Shoving, horseplay, loud talking, whistling, and boisterous conduct are to be avoided. Students should not leave or stack their books in the corridor or in front of a classroom door before, during or after school. Students should respect the physical plant which includes the buildings, lawns, walkways and parking areas.

CONTRACTS
Only the Principal may sign a contract or give assurance of payment for any product or service in the name of Holy Cross High School. Any student, parent, faculty or staff member, who attempts to obligate the school without the specific approval of the Principal, may be found personally liable for any obligation implied in the name of the school.

CRIMINAL ACTS OR ALLEGED CRIMINAL ACTS
As a community, Holy Cross and its members have a right to a good name. The personal choices of individuals involving themselves in acts or activities that are criminal, or allegedly criminal, reflect negatively on that good name. Consequently, Holy Cross will adhere to the following policies:
1. Any student charged with a criminal act, or suspected of complicity in a criminal act, by a competent law enforcement authority is automatically subject to suspension and an appearance before the Probation Review Board.
2. This disciplinary action refers solely to the good name of the school and the individual members of the school community. It is not intended and should not be assumed to imply a judgment as to the guilt or innocence of the party or parties involved.
3. The determination as to whether a student is involved in such acts or activities as listed above will be based on the reports of the involved city, county, state, or federal law enforcement agencies.

DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
The school is common property and everyone has the responsibility to assure that it is properly maintained. It was built for use today and in the future. Anyone causing destruction either intentionally or unintentionally will be assessed replacement cost and be subject to dismissal.

DELINQUENT FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS
In those cases where it appears that “tuition due” notices are being neglected, the student may be asked to withdraw. If a student withdraws and has an outstanding financial balance, then that account may be sent to collection.


DESKS
Desk tops are for reading and writing materials. At no time should anyone sit on the desk top. Use of any materials which may mark or deface the desk top writing surface is prohibited.

DETENTION
Detention must be served on the day assigned. If there is a serious conflict that might prevent a student from serving a detention, then the parent or guardian must speak with the Dean of Discipline on the day on which the detention is to be served. If a Saturday detention is involved, then the parent or guardian must speak with the Dean of Discipline on the preceding Friday.
Saturday detention infringes on the free time of the Dean of Discipline or supervisor. A fee of $5.00 will be added to the student’s account for each Saturday detention.

DISHONEST SCHOOL WORK
Acts of dishonest school work are a serious matter and may result in a failing grade and/or other disciplinary sanctions. Acts of dishonest school work include, but are not limited to, the following: lending or copying homework in or out of class, giving or receiving answers to quizzes, tests or examinations, entering an academic testing situation with an unfair advantage, plagiarism, or violating testing procedures as defined by a teacher in an individual classroom.
If a student is suspected of dishonest schoolwork, the teacher may confront the student at the time of the incident, after the class period, or at the end of the school day. At the discretion of the teacher, students thought to be involved in dishonest schoolwork, will receive a “Notification of Cheating” form stating the circumstances and require the signature of a parent. A second such incident will require a parental conference with the Director of Studies. Continued dishonest schoolwork may lead to dismissal.

DISRESPECT
No student or teacher is to use any name or phrase that is derogatory towards another person. Any student guilty of disrespect to a member of the faculty, staff or student body will be subject to disciplinary action. In cases considered serious by the Director of Discipline, students accused of disrespect may be called to appear before the Probation Review Board. Students who believe that they or their families have been treated with disrespect by a faculty or staff member should report the incident to the principal.

DRESS CODE
The rules of the dress code apply at any school sponsored activity or any activity in which Holy Cross is participating, both on school property or away.


DRUGS
In general, the policy on drugs will be zero tolerance. It is better to expect this than to hope for any different interpretation or enforcement. (Refer to the Archdiocesan Drug Policy)

ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Students are not to bring an electronic device (tape recorder, camcorder, radio, TV, beeper, video game, cellular phone, etc.) on school property unless approved by a teacher and used for a specific purpose.

EMERGENCY CARDS
Information in these cards must be up to date at all times. Students do not have access to other students’ cards.

FOOD
Food must be consumed inside the cafeteria and not taken from the cafeteria. Food, candy, snacks, drinks, etc. are not permitted in the classrooms, corridors, library, etc. This applies before, during or after school hours; school or non-school days.

FIELD TRIPS
Field trips must be related to the curriculum. Adequate transportation and supervision must be provided by the school. Each student must have a signed and dated release form from his parents for each field trip. Any school-sponsored outing must be approved by the principal. Approval of such trips will be based on these considerations.
Relationship of the nature and purpose of the trip to the mission, philosophy and goals of Holy Cross High School.
Ability of the parents to pay for the trip while meeting all other school financial obligations.
Appropriate supervision by school personnel.
Educational objectives and goals must be explicitly stated.

Students going on a field trip must complete the “Field Trip Written Consent Form” obtained from the sponsor or moderator of the field trip.
(All forms necessary for Field Trips are at the end of handbook.)

FIGHTING
It is difficult to identify a single culprit in a fight between two students. It is not as simple as determining who threw the first punch. The responsibility for causing a fight is frequently shared by both parties because of a pattern of intimidation and/or verbal abuse over a period of time that preceded the incident. Fighting in school is further complicated by the misguided loyalty of friends who attempt to intervene on the side of one party which creates the danger of escalating an incident involving two students into a brawl inviting all to participate.
Fighting in school is a serious violation of school regulations and will not be tolerated. Therefore, both side