School Handbook
Absence Policy
Admission Policy
Arrival and Dismissal
Birthday Party Celebrations
Bus Policy
Calendar
Cell Phones / Electronic Devices
Change of Address
Communication and Conferences
Computers - Acceptable Use Policy
Court Orders
Curriculum and Academics
Daily Schedule
Discipline Code
Doctor and Dental Appointments
Dress Code
Dress Down Days
Extended Care
Extracurricular Activities
Field Trips
Fundraising
Harassment Policy
Health Policies
Homework
Homeroom Parents
Honor Roll
Insurance
Late Arrival
Leaving School Early
Lunch Program
Medication
Mission
Parish Active Membership
Phone Numbers
Plagiarism Policy
Playground Rules
Religious Education / Sacramental Preparation
Report Cards
Safety
Sign-in Policy for Visitors and Volunteers
Staff
Tuition
Vacations
Volunteer
Weather Delays/Cancellation
The mission of St. John Vianney Regional School (SJVRS) is an essential part of the educational ministry of the Roman Catholic Church.
SJVRS exists to serve the parishes of St. Paul, St. Francis of Assisi, and the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, as well as any family seeking the advantages of high academic standards within the context of a Christ-centered environment.
The primary goal is the formation of the Christian person by following the way of Jesus, proclaiming and teaching His truth, and living in accordance with authentic Catholic doctrine.
SJVRS is committed to developing the spiritual, intellectual, social, cultural, emotional, and physical gifts of each student.
Within the Christ-centered community, SJVRS strives to educate all students to achieve their highest potential as a child of God and to become a productive memeber of a globally diverse society.
This integration of faith and academic achievement instills a lifelong commitment in our students to learn religious truths, to live Catholic values, to pursue intellectual formation, and to promote community service.
Be safe.
Be respectful.
Be responsible.
Be ready.
Be Christian.
The facilities and services of St. Catharine of Siena, St. Francis of Assisi, and St. Paul parishes are available to its active members. This includes use of the church for Baptisms, weddings, and other sacramental events. It also includes parishioner status in St. John Vianney Regional School. Active membership is determined by four things:
1. Being registered in the parish for a sufficient period of time
2. Faithful attendance at Mass on Sundays and Holy Days
3. The use of the weekly envelope system in the support of the parish
4. The request that every family volunteer ten hours (minimum) during the school year
It is expected that all parish families will be in active support of the parish envelope system throughout the year. This envelope system is part of the direct subsidy payment from parish to school account. Failure to contribute through the envelope system may result in non-parishioner status.
St. John Vianney Regional School serves the Allentown parishes of St. Catharine of Siena, St. Francis of Assisi, and St. Paul. It is open to all children. Our preschool program includes three separate age groups. We have individualized curriculums for a 3 year-old 2 day/week program, a 4 year-old 3 day/week program, and a pre-K curriculum designed for young 5 year-olds, which meets four afternoons each week.
Registration is completed with birth, baptismal, immunization records, and a registration fee. Students entering kindergarten must be five years old by October 15th, of the academic year in which they begin kindergarten. (First graders must be 6 by October 15th.) Formal registration is held during Catholic Schools Week, with formal screening being administered in the spring. The registration fee is $100 per student ($125 per family) with $50 of the fee applied to the tuition.
With the admission of a new student, an appointment must be made with the principal to complete final registration. At this time, copies of report cards, testing and immunization records are required. Testing of all new students will be administered by reading and math specialists.
Non-Catholic students are welcome to attend St. John Vianney Regional School, provided individual grade enrollment permits their attendance. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, creed, religion, or national origin.
After the start of the school year, late registration will depend upon available space, testing, and other scholastic information.
For the 2011-2012 school year, St. John Vianney Regional School will participate in the First Star Tuition Program. Tuition is electronically transferred from the provider’s account to the school account on either the 5th or 20th of each month. The First Star bank fee of $1.00 per electronic transfer is drawn with the first transfer (i.e. $2 for a semi-annual plan or $10 for the ten-month plan). The program is mandatory and encompasses K-8 families. Report cards will be held and conferences will not be scheduled for family accounts with insufficient funds of any type. Any family that does not have tuition paid in full by July 1, 2012 may not re-register students for the following school year.
Tuition for 2011-2012 St. John Vianney Regional School Year
Catholic
1st Child - $2,880
2nd Child - $1,945
3rd Child - $1,375
4th Child - $540
Non-Catholic
1st Child - $3,380
2nd Child - $3,140
3rd Child - $3,140
Each family is required to raise $450 through fundraising activities. Half of any fundraising amount exceeding $450 will be credited to the following year’s tuition.
August
- 25 New Family Open House
- 29 Opening Day Grades K - 8
September
- 2 No School - Labor Day
- 5 No School - Labor Day
- 6 Open House Grades K-4
- 8 Open House Grades 5-8
- 10 Back to School Barbecue
October
- 5 Academic Warnings Issued
- 7 Walkathon
- 10 No School - Diocesan Education Conference
- 12 School Photos
- 25 Noon Dismissal
- 28 Halloween Parade
November
- 14 Report Cards Issued
- 18,21,22 Noon Dismissal
- 18,21,22 Parent/Teacher Conferences
- 23-28 Thanksgiving Holiday
December
- 14 Academic Warnings Issued
- 22(noon)-1/2 Christmas Holiday
January
- 3 School Resumes - full day
- 16 No School - Teachers Inservice
- 29 Opening of Catholic Schools Week
- 30 Report Cards Issued
February
- 3 Noon Dismissal
- 20 No School - Presidents' Day
- 22 Academic Warnings Issued
- 22 Ash Wednesday
March
- 14-16 CogATS
- 20 Noon Dismissal
- 26-30 IOWA Testing
April
- 4-9 Easter Holiday
- 10 Report Cards Issued
May
- 2 Academic Warnings Issued
- 8 May Procession
- 24 Golf Tournament
- 25 Noon Dismissal
- 28 Memorial Day Holiday
- 29-6/1 Exams
June
- 8 Last Day of School - Noon Dismissal
This calendar is subject to change due to unexpected situations.
* St. John Vianney Regional School meets all state requirements of 990 instructional hours and Diocesan requirements of 1001 hours.
8:05-8:15 a.m. Arrival of students
8:20 a.m. First bell for both buildings. Children are tardy after the first bell
8:25 a.m. Classes begin
3:07 p.m. Classes end followed by prayers and dismissal
For morning drop-off (after 8:00-8:15 a.m.), parents are asked to turn onto St. Cloud Street from Chew Street and turn right onto the Russell Street alley, which runs between the church parking lots. Student drop-off is on Russell Street across from the school. Please do not get out of your car. Staff and volunteer parents will be available to receive students and direct your exit off the campus.
Dismissal occurs in 2 phases.
Dismissal #1: 3:07 p.m.
- Extended Care
- All walkers
- All buses
Dismissal #2: immediately following
Car riders and Activity Groups.
Cars enter 18th Street from Chew Street and form 3 lanes. When a signal is given, students board cars. When all cars are boarded, cars are dismissed from campus. Activity groups are subsequently dismissed.
Walkers: Children walk to corner accompanied by a teacher and safety patrols. Parents may meet children at corner, not in front of school building. These directives are for the safety of everyone. In the past, cars have ignored the wooden barriers and the patrol directives. Please instruct your children at which corner they are to meet you. (No cars at these spots).
Bicycles: Children are permitted to ride bicycles to and from school. Bicycles must be secured on bicycle rack with a lock. (Each child must have their own lock). Bicycles are walked off of school property.
It is imperative that parents be mindful of early dismissals and also be prompt in picking up students at dismissal time. Students not picked up after 3:15 will be sent to Extended Care.
This is a service for working parents only.
Our extended Care Program at St. John Vianney School provides the security of enrolling your child (Grades Pre-K thru 8) in a unique program designed for before and after school care. Enrollment is limited. Our hours of operation are 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. and 3:07 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Snack is included. When there are early dismissals for faculty related meetings, Extended Care will be open from time of dismissal to 6:00 p.m. On snow days, Extended Care will close 2 hours after official school closing. On late start mornings, Extended Care will not operate. Service concludes in early June.
Occasionally, students are not picked up on time at the end of the school day. We realize that emergencies occur (car, work, etc.) and there are times that parents are detained. The St. John Vianney staff is not always available to watch your student. Therefore, we reserve the right to place your child in Extended Care should your student lack supervision on any such occurrence. This would require an additional billing from the Extended Care service should the need arise.
For further information please call Mrs. Ann Marie Morasco (610-435-8981 x 2015 - Extended Care phone) or visit the Extended Care link.
The parking lot is used as a play area and is closed to all automobile parking from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on school days. Children are to remain in the school yard during lunch. Prior to this time, children will not be monitored in the yard or buildings. Any student who is present in the school building or on the school grounds at unlawful times (prior to 8:00 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m.) without permission will be placed in Extended Care and parents will be billed accordingly.
Parents are asked not to come into the building in the morning. After 3:30 p.m., if a homeroom teacher has left the building and the classroom is locked, that classroom door will not be opened, under any circumstances, to retrieve forgotten books, papers, belongings, etc.
1. On the day of absence, parents/guardians are required to call the school office (610-435-8981) by 8:45 a.m. and leave a message if necessary.
2.PA State requirements and those of the Diocese of Allentown require that for the student’s return to school, the student must be accompanied by a written note stating the particular reason for the absence and the specific date(s) of the absence(s). This note must be signed by the parent/guardian which will become an official document to be placed into the student’s files.
3.If a student is absent three or more days, a formal doctor’s excuse is required.
4.It is the student’s responsibility to make contact with each teacher immediately upon return to school to receive assignments. Completion time for assignments is at the discretion of the individual teacher. Special arrangements can be made with the teacher(s) after a more lengthy illness.
1.Although ultimately the choice to take a family vacation while school is in session is left to parental discretion, these vacations are strongly discouraged. Children who are absent because of family vacations miss valuable classroom instruction that cannot be replaced.
2. The policy regarding vacations is as follows:
a. If a student will miss 3 or more school days, an Extended Absence Form stating the reason and the travel dates must be sent to the principal at least one week prior to the vacation. Forms are available in the school office.
b. Such requests will not be approved for the first ten days of school, during exam periods, or standardized test periods. No make-up of standardized testing will be administered if a child has missed the tests due to a vacation.
c. Work that the student has missed will be gathered during his/her absence and will be given to the student when he/she returns to school.
d. Make-up work is the responsibility of the parent and the student. All make-up work, including tests, quizzes, and projects will be due within one week.
1. Parents/guardians are urged to arrange doctor and dental appointments for their children on school holidays or after school hours.
2. If this is impossible, a written note from the parent/guardian stating the date and time of the appointment must be sent to the child’s homeroom teacher.
3. Children are to be picked up and signed out at the Main Office by a parent/guardian.
1. When it is necessary for a child to be excused from school before the regular dismissal time, a note from the parent/guardian must be sent to the child’s homeroom teacher in the morning.
2. A child leaving school early must be picked up by the parent/guardian or an AUTHORIZED person representing them. The parent/guardian must go to the Main Office to sign the child out.
Any student who arrives late for school or class must report to the school office to receive a late slip in order to be admitted to class.
When the weather is severe and transportation hazardous, please listen to your TV or radio stations to find out whether school will be closed or have a delayed opening. Please do not call the rectory or school. Local stations carrying information are: WAEB (AM 790), WFMZ (Channel 69). Also access the St. John Vianney website or the WFMZ website.
Due to the new Immunization requirements from the Pennsylvania Health Department starting in the 2011-2012 School Year, any student that does not have the #2 Varicella will be excluded from school on the 1st day and until it has been completed and documentation received by the school.
It is imperative that all children entering school for the first time be properly immunized. Please check all immunization records with your family doctor. No child will be admitted without required immunizations. As part of our health program, all new pupils entering kindergarten or first grade are required to have a thorough physical and dental examination.
The following is a schedule of required exams/screenings:
| Complete Physical | Pre-school (ages 3, 4 and 5), kindergarten and new 1st graders, 6th graders and all new children entering our school without proper records. Due by September 1st of school year. |
| Dental | Kindergarten, 3rd, and 7th grades. |
| Hearing | Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 7th grades. |
| TB Test | 1st grade |
| Height | Every grade, every year |
| Weight | Every grade, every year |
| Vision | Every grade, every year |
| Scoliosis Screening | 5th, 6th and 7th grades |
Parents are notified before dental and physical exams are given. These exams may be done by your family doctor and dentist, if preferred.
No student absent from school because of the conditions listed below may return to school before the specified time period.
| Measles | 4 days from onset of rash |
| Whooping Cough | 4 wks from onset if not seen by a physician, or 7 days after medication is started. |
| Scarlet Fever | 7 days from onset if not seen by a physican, or 24 hours after medication is started. |
| Strep Throat | 7 days from onset if not seen by a physican, or 24 hours after medication is started. |
| Mumps | 9 days from onset of swelling |
| Rubella/German measles | 4 days from onset of rash |
| Chicken Pox | 6 days from last crop of vesicles |
| Pink Eye | 24 hours after medication is started |
| Ring Worm (all types) | Until judged non-infectious by physician or school nurse. |
| Impetigo | Until judged non-infectious by physician or school nurse. |
| Lice | Until judged non-infectious by physician or school nurse, or after treatment is given and no nits present. |
| Scabies | Until judged non-infectious by physician or school nurse. |
| Tonsilitis | 24 hours after medication is started. |
After 3 days of illness, a doctor's note is required.
Teachers are prohibited from administering medication to students. If a child needs medication during school hours, parents must come and personally take care of this responsibility. Please contact the school office.
The Diocese of Allentown has implemented a Student Accident Insurance program covering all students attending our school.
St. John Vianney School believes that our manner of dress is a reflection of our Christian values and strives to provide a positive environment that is conducive to learning. Any type of clothing, footwear, make-up, nail polish, hair style or color, jewelry, or any other accessory deemed inconsistent with these values is unacceptable. The administration reserves final judgment in all dress code matters. Traditional school uniforms can be worn throughout the entire school year, but they must be worn from November 1 through March 31.
Children need to be free of fever for 24 hours before returning to school.
Traditional school uniforms must be worn throughout the entire school year, beginning with the first day of school. Students have the option to wear summer uniforms from April 1 through October 31.
Traditional and summer uniforms need to bear the Flynn & O’Hara tags and must be purchased at:
Flynn & O’Hara
Valley Plaza Shopping Center
1876 Catasauqua Rd.
Allentown, PA 18103
610-231-3788
Visit the student uniform link on our web page for further information.
For the 2011-2012 school year only, 10% of all St. John Vianney Regional School uniform purchases made at Flynn & O’Hara will be credited toward the fundraising goal. Receipts should be turned in to the office.
Uniform Exchange is available in the Parish Activity Center (PAC). Please contact the office for further information.
Summer Uniform (Optional)
Students have the option to wear summer uniforms from April 1 through October 31.
K-4 Girls Summer
Khaki skort
Cardinal golf shirt
Closed black dress shoes, brown dress shoes, navy dress shoes or tan suede buck dress shoes (no sneakers or mocassins)
Plain white crew socks (must cover ankles, no printing) or navy blue/Flynn & O’Hara maroon knee socks
K-4 Boys Summer
Khaki shorts
Cardinal golf shirt
Brown or black belt optional (no ornate buckles or printing)
Closed black dress shoes, brown dress shoes or tan suede buck dress shoes (no sneakers or moccasins)
Plain white or tan crew socks (must cover ankles, no printing)
5-8 Girls Summer
Plaid skort
Cardinal golf shirt
Closed black dress shoes, brown dress shoes, navy dress shoes or tan suede buck dress shoes (no sneakers or moccasins)
Plain white or navy blue knee socks
5-8 Boys Summer
Khaki pants or shorts
Cardinal golf shirt
Black or brown plain dress belt (no ornate buckles or printing)
Closed black dress shoes, brown dress shoes or tan suede buck dress shoes (no sneakers or moccasins)
Plain white or tan crew socks (must cover ankles, no printing) with shorts
Plain navy or tan dress socks (no white socks) with pants
Traditional Uniform
NOTE: All grades may wear the optional cardinal cardigan sweater.
K-4 Girls Traditional
Plaid jumper or khaki pants
White Peter Pan collar shirt, long or short sleeved.
Closed black dress shoes, brown dress shoes, navy blue dress shoes or tan suede buck dress shoes (no boots, sneakers, or moccasins)
Navy blue or white knee socks or tights
NOTE: K-4 girls are also permitted pants/golf shirt combination during the winter only.
K-4 Boys Traditional
Khaki pants
Cardinal golf shirt, long or short sleeved
Black or brown belt optional (no ornate buckles or printing)
Closed Black dress shoes, brown dress shoes or tan suede buck dress shoes (no boots, sneakers, or moccasins)
Plain navy or tan dress socks (no white socks or ankle socks)
5-8 Girls Traditional
Plaid skort or khaki pants
White oxford blouse, long or short sleeved. Only top button may be unbuttoned
Cardinal sweater vest
Black or brown dress belt must be worn with pants (no ornate buckles or printing)
Closed black dress shoes, brown dress shoes , navy dress shoes or tan suede buck dress shoes (no boots, sneakers, or moccasins)
Navy blue or white knee socks or tights
5-8 Boys Traditional
Khaki pants
White oxford shirt, long or short sleeved
Cardinal sweater vest (Optional)
Flynn & O’Hara striped uniform tie
Black or brown dress belt (no ornate buckles or printing)
Closed black dress shoes, brown dress shoes or tan suede buck dress shoes (no boots, sneakers, or moccasins)
Plain navy or tan dress socks (no white socks or ankle socks)
Gym Uniform
The gym uniform must be purchased at:
Schuylkill Valley Sports
South Mall
3300 Lehigh Street
Allentown, PA 18103
610-791-5233
K-8 Summer Gym Uniform
Navy shorts
Cardinal t-shirt
Sneakers
White crew socks, no insignia
K-8 Traditional Gym Uniform
Navy crewneck or hooded sweatshirt
Navy sweatpants
Sneakers
White crew socks, no insignia
Grooming
Girls may not highlight or color their hair. Unusual or extreme hairstyles are not permitted. Make-up, nail polish, and artificial nails are not permitted.
Boys may not highlight or color their hair. Hair must be neatly trimmed-not longer than shirt collar and may not cover ears. No extreme hairstyles are permitted (i.e. tails, shavings, mohawks, designs).
No writing is permitted on body parts.
All shirts must be tucked in at all times. If a t-shirt is worn under a shirt, it must be plain white. Pants must be worn at the natural waist.
Jewelry (Boys and Girls)
Only girls may wear one pair of post earrings in the lower lobe. Ear cuffs are not permitted.
Students are allowed to wear one religious medal or cross of a reasonable size on a gold or silver chain. It is permissible to wear watches. Visible body piercing jewelry is not permitted to be worn. Rubber band bracelets are not permitted.
Shoes (Girls)
Shoes may not have a heel higher than 1½”. Flat-soled shoes are preferred for safety.
Shoes (Boys and Girls)
No moccasins, clogs, boots, or flip-flops are permitted.
St. John Vianney Regional School updates curriculum according to state and diocesan guidelines and mandates. Texts are chosen to meet the educational needs of our students. In addition, our testing programs and results assist in these decisions. These meet both diocesan and state requirements.
Christian education is intended to “make one’s faith become living, conscious, and active, through the light of instruction”. The Catholic School is the unique setting within which this ideal can be realized in the lives of Catholic children. Instruction in religious truth and values is an integral part of the school program. It is not one more subject to be learned, but it functions as the underlying reality in which the student’s experiences of learning and living achieve their deepest meaning.
Community service programs comprise an important part of our Catholic educational experience. Service is based on the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, and most of all, on the example of Christ, who came to serve. The Confirmation candidates’ service is not just a job to be done. It should be selflessly and lovingly done to help those in need. As parents of 8th grade Confirmation candidates, you should help them reflect on how their service project is helping them take on the mind and heart of Christ, fulfill the needs of others, and build up the Christian Community.
All Sacramental students must have two classroom years of religious instruction. The sacraments of Reconciliation, Holy Eucharist, and Confirmation will be administered to the students at their home parish.
As the primary educators of their children, parents are involved in the catechesis of their children. Meetings are held for the parents prior to the children receiving the sacraments. The teachers in the classrooms can expound, but it is the parents who create the environment in the home for the child’s inborn need to seek God.
Report cards are issued four times a year. Academic warnings are sent via the Parent Information Envelope (PIE) approximately mid-point in each quarter. Parents must be aware of their student’s progress and potential failure. Academic warnings are to be signed and returned to the respective teacher immediately.
Honor Roll is a positive goal for our students in grades 5 through 8. It challenges them to work to their potential.
High Honors
General Average of 93 with every major subject 90 and above
Specials – S and above
Conduct and Effort – G and above
Christian Values – S and above
Honors
General Average of 87 with every major subject 85 and above
Specials – S and above
Conduct and Effort – S and above
Christian Values – S and above
(Conduct and Effort requirement applies to all subjects and specialties.)
Homework is a review of work presented in class. The homework consists of two parts – study and written. All students are to come to school prepared, i.e. having studied the materials and completed all the required written work.
Fifteen minutes per grade level is a good rule of thumb for the average child (Example: 2nd grader, 30 minutes). Exceptions may apply in the form of long-term assignments, projects, skill maintenance, etc.
Please visit the CYO (Catholic Youth Organization) website.
Field trips are an extension of the curriculum and enhance the educational experience. Field trips are also privileges offered to the students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip. Participation will be denied if students fail to meet behavioral requirements. If financial obligations are not current at time of field trip, the student may not be permitted to attend the trip.
Before a student is permitted to go on a field trip, the parent/guardian must complete and sign the school permission slip. At the discretion of the teacher, certain field trips may require an adult aged 21 or over to accompany each student. The adult chaperone should bring a cell phone for emergencies.
Field trip attendance is mandatory and a scheduled school day, unless a parent note is submitted and it is deemed an excused absence by the principal. Projected costs will be provided by teachers at the September Open House.
The moral development of each child is an integral part of Saint John Vianney Regional School; therefore, proper behavior is expected and required of our students. Based on this expectation, our students are continually taught the importance of self-respect and respect for others. The Discipline Code’s expectations are set forth to ensure the safety, positive experience, and success of all students. Discipline points are issued to students in Grades 4 through 8 who fail to meet these expectations. Be sure to review the Discipline Code and possible offenses with your child(ren) so that they may be fully aware of the academic and behavioral expectations at Saint John Vianney Regional School.
Level I Offense - 1 point
- Drawing or markings of any nature on a student
- Gum Chewing
- Infraction of Dress Code
- Misbehavior
- Not prepared for class (includes missing homework for 7th and 8th grades)
- Tardiness to class
- Uncovered or defaced textbooks/workbooks
- Unsigned paper / test / discipline slip / PIE material (left to teacher discretion)
Level II Offense - 2 points
- Frequent or constant misbehavior
- Inappropriate language / gestures
- Lack of Respect
Level III Offense - 3 points
- Aiding & Abetting a Level III Offense
- Cheating
- Disobedience
- Disorderly Conduct
- Disrespect
- Forging Signatures / Plagiarism
- Harassment/ Bullying
- Lying
- Petty Vandalism - minor damage
- Drawings of a violent nature
- Skipping Class
- Skipping Detention
- Use of electronic devices during the school day (7:45 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.) including electronic hand-held games, Ipods. (See Cell Phone Policy).
- Violating the Privacy of a Teacher's Desk or Computer
Level IV Offense - 5 points
A Level IV Offense is an automatic detention. All Level IV offenses will result in a school team conference and possible in-school suspension or expulsion as a result. All Level IV offenses will be handled on an individual basis with possible psychological referral.
- Commission of a crime on school property affecting the safety and well-being of the school community
- Fighting or Assault with Bodily Injury
- Insubordinate or abusive language toward another
- Leaving school property without permission
- Lack of respect (3rd offense)
- Possession of a contraband
- Possession of a controlled substance (drugs, alcohol)
- Possession of weapons of any kind and/or any other dangerous instruments
- Possession or use of tobacco products or matches
- Serious or unwarranted act affecting the safety of others
- Tampering with report cards or any legal document
- Theft
- Vandalism – major damage
Special Notes:
- All disciplinary points will be doubled if infraction involves a substitute teacher or volunteer.
- All disciplinary points are erased at the end of each quarter.
- A total of 5 points will result in detention.
- It is the student's responsibility, not that of the teacher, to hand in all signed documents on the next school day.
- The School Discipline Code is "in effect" for all school sponsored extracurricular activities (e.g., dances).
At the bus stop:
1. Be on time, but no earlier than 5 minutes.
2. Respect the rights of property owners in the area.
3. Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children before the bus arrives.
4. Children are encouraged to dress warmly during cold weather when waiting at the bus stop. It is acceptable for girls to wear gym sweats under their uniform for warmth. The sweats can then be removed at school.
Each student must ride the same bus to and from school continually throughout the school year. Only students residing in their respective busing school districts may ride school buses. Thus, no Allentown student is permitted by law to ride a Parkland, East Penn, Northwestern or other school district bus. Students living in a school district that offers busing may only ride another bus from their district if they provide a note, and have it approved in the office.
On the bus:
Bus drivers monitor the safety and proper behavior of students. While riding the school bus, there is a responsibility to be shared by all concerned - students, parents and bus and school administrators. Parents shall instruct their children that they must obey the Bus Code of Conduct and encourage "would be" violators to do the same. St. John Vianney Regional School has adopted the following Bus Code of Conduct.
Bus Code of Conduct:
All student being transported by bus shall not:
1. Smoke or possess smoking paraphernalia.
2. Eat or drink in the bus.
3. Engage in scuffling, fighting or other unwarranted acts of misbehavior.
4. Possess any illegal drug or drug paraphernalia.
5. Possess weapons of any kind, including but not limited to, knives and other dangerous instruments.
6. Use profane or indecent language.
7. Regulate windows unless permitted to do so by the driver.
8. Extend any part of their bodies out of windows.
9. Stand or walk while the bus is in motion.
10. Place books, gym bags, or other articles in aisles or in front of the emergency door.
11. Vandalize the bus or the personal property of others.
12. Behave in any manner which would endanger the health, safety or welfare of other students or the driver.
Disciplinary Action:
A violation of Nos. 1,3,4,5,11 or 12 above shall be considered a serious infraction. As to a serious infraction, St. John Vianney School and/or the bus company reserve the right to terminate a student's busing privileges. At a minimum, a first offense will result in a letter of warning being mailed to the student's parents. A second offense will result, at a minimum, in a three (3) day suspension of busing privileges. A third offense may result in a partial or full suspension of busing privileges.
Enjoy your free time and fresh air. Be polite and play carefully. Obey volunteers and teachers on duty.
The following rules must be obeyed:
- Lunchboxes should be placed alongside the building in assigned areas.
- Play equipment should be treated with respect and played with safely.
- At no time may a student ever retrieve a ball or any other object from a street, alley, or neighbor’s yard.
- If an injury occurs, consult a volunteer or teacher.
- Students may not enter the building without permission.
- Lavatory needs should be taken care of before lunch.
- Students are to stay away from any parked vehicles.
- When the second bell rings to indicate that playground activity is over, all students are to walk quietly to the designated line, and they will proceed according to the teacher’s signal into the school.
- The following behavior will not be tolerated:
--Pushing, pulling students and their clothing.
--Running wild. (skipping, hopping, galloping or jogging are fine).
--Fighting, bad language, wrestling, kicking
--Screaming - be reasonable with your voice.
--Climbing the fence or gates.
--Hanging anything on the fence or walls.
--Standing, waiting or playing in the stairs of the cafeteria, by the side doors of the church, near the Kindergarten door, the garage or the dumpsters.
- If a volunteer or student has warned a student and student continues to break the rule, the student will stand quietly against the wall and not play.
- If there is a continuous misbehavior or disobedience toward volunteers or teachers, the student will be sent to the principal's office.
Electronic devices are not permitted on school property. Cell phones can be used as a form of emergency communication with a parent either before or after school hours. Cell phones will be collected at the classroom door and locked for safe keeping for the day. Phones will be released to your child at the end of the day and will not be viewed. Extended Care students may not use cell phones or electronic devices during Extended Care hours. You do have the option of keeping your child’s cell phone at home rather than sending to school.
Any cell phone or electronic device observed during the school day will be turned over to the principal who in turn will contact the parent for pick-up. Should a second offense occur, the cell phone/electronic device will be kept by the principal until the end of the school year.
St. John Vianney School faculty and staff will not be held responsible for lost, misplaced, or broken items.
Students are expected to behave in a Christian manner toward all. Harassment in any form is unacceptable. Consistent with the ideals of Diocesan Policy #4119, physical, sexual, or verbal harassment will not be tolerated. This policy specifically prohibits harassment. Harassment/bullying consists of a pattern of continuing and unresolved antagonism or offensive conduct directed against another person. It interferes unreasonably with another student’s school performance and may create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive school environment.
Any pervasive or abusive actions, whether physical, verbal, or written, which disrupt the normal or appropriate activities of a teacher, staff member, or student are prohibited. Penalties will vary according to the nature of the offense, but may include detention, suspension with possible counseling, and expulsion.
Harassment by phone, e-mail, text message, web site, or any other means of electronic communication that is brought to the attention of the administration will be referred to the Allentown Police Department for further investigation.
When a student takes unfair advantage of another student through negative actions, whether verbal, non-verbal, or physical, the victim must report each incident to his or her teacher or a member of the administration. Students who observe negative actions toward others have the obligation to inform a member of the faculty or the administration.
All students understand before they turn in a group project, all members of the team will be held responsible for plagiarism should it be discovered. The students shall be subject to the disciplinary action deemed appropriate by the principal.
Any student who plagiarizes material from any source, printed or multimedia, or submits swapped projects will receive a failing grade for the project.
This issue is addressed in its entirety at the beginning of each school year followed by signed documentation.
St. John Vianney Regional School’s computer facilities exist for the academic enrichment of our students and faculty. Guidelines exist to protect our investment, to ensure maximum positive usage of our facilities, to protect our students from external negative influences, and to reinforce appropriate conduct. This policy will be enforced in accordance with the Discipline Code. This issue is addressed in its entirety at the beginning of each school year followed by signed documentation.
| St. John Vianney School | 610-435-8981 | |
| St. John Vianney School FAX | 610-437-7951 | |
| Extended Care | 610-435-8981 ext. 2015 | |
| Cafeteria | 610-434-4607 | |
| St. Catharine of Siena Rectory | 610-433-6461 | |
| St. Francis of Assisi Rectory | 610-433-6102 | |
| St. Paul Rectory | 610-797-9733 | |
| Religious Education Office | 610-432-7655 | |
| Department of Education | 610-866-0581 | |
| Parkland Bus Company | 610-351-5691 | |
| Northwestern Bus Company | 610-298-8661 | |
| East Penn Bus (Leibensperger) | 610-966-5191 | |
| Salisbury | 610-791-0146 | |
| Allentown | 610-709-0244 | |
| Whitehall/Coplay | 610-797-4780 | |
| St. John Vianney Regional School email address | altlcath@ptd.net |
Click here for Staff Directory.
1. In the month of September, an Open House is held. The purpose of the evening is for parents/guardians to come to the school, to meet their child’s teacher(s), and to become acquainted with the curriculum of the particular grade.
- This evening also affords parents the opportunity to meet members of the school community, to learn about the school’s various activities, and to volunteer to assist in these activities.
- Open House is NOT for the purpose of individual parent-teacher conferences.
2. In November, mandatory formal parent-teacher conferences are held. Throughout the year, conferences are recommended and encouraged. If, at any time during the school year, a parent wishes to speak with a teacher, please make arrangements with the individual teacher through the teacher directly or a phone call to the office. There will be no conferencing if tuition is not current.
3. A “PIE” (Parent Information Envelope) will be sent home (with the oldest/only child) each Wednesday. It will contain the entire week’s important papers (i.e. calendars, tests, academic warnings). Please sign all tests and paperwork and return in the PIE the next day (Thursday). It is essential that parents review this packet, as it is a vital source of communication.
1. Please notify the school office immediately if there is a change in any of the following:
- Residence
- Home phone number
- Work phone number
- Emergency phone number or information
2. Updated information is essential for good communication and for the well-being
of the student.
The school voluntarily complies with the provision of the Buckley Amendment: "Non-custodial parents will be given access to unofficial copies of student records and staff will be available to discuss the student's records, unless a Court Order providing otherwise is filed with the school." Non-custodial parents wishing important school information are asked to send 12 self-addressed, stamped envelopes to your child's teacher. This information will then be mailed to you. If each parent needs a PIE and/or Report Card, please also notify the teacher in writing. Divorced parents are required to file a notarized copy of the custody section of the divorce decree with the school.
During school hours visitors and volunteers are to report to the school office on the 2nd floor of the Main Building. If it is necessary to deliver a message or items to a child or teacher, please report to the office. Under no circumstances may a parent go to a classroom.
Our volunteer program includes service in many areas - typing, nursing care, school yard monitoring, cafeteria, substitute teachers, and paraprofessional work. We encourage you to join in making our school more vital through your services. Please contact our school principal (610-435-8981).
Each classroom will have a representative from each homeroom acting as homeroom parent for communication between parents and teacher for activities during the school year.
Based on the needs of the teacher's activity, the homeroom parent will contact all families for party items and/or materials, which will directly benefit the children.
Distribution of “at home” party invitations will not be permitted unless the complete class is invited (all girls, all boys, or whole class). If you would like to supply a birthday treat for your child, contact the homeroom teacher in advance, as we participate in the National Lunch Program / Wellness Policy.