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The major fund raising project each year is the annual auction. All staff and parents are required to be involved in this one event. It is held the first Saturday evening in February. There are many ways to participate. The auction committee provides information in the fall to all parents.  It is recommended that parents contact committee members early in the school year to secure their assignments.

A limited number of partial scholarships are available for returning students. If you would like an application form you may request one from the business office. Preference is given to families that are active in the church and to students who attend St. Mary’s the year prior to applying.

Our school is within minutes of both bases and currently serves children ages 2 to grade 5. We are in our 10th year of operation and have served many children from military families who then have made successful transitions to schools worldwide.

We cater to the individual needs of a diverse population in a challenging multi-age, continuous progress format. Our goal for each child is to build a strong spiritual and academic foundation in order to assist them in becoming life long learners. We are small by design, housed in a modern and secure educational wing of the church. We have certified teachers and an excellent staff to student ratio. You are invited to join our school and church family, find a home away from home, and an extended network of supportive new friends.

The Scholarship committee is especially interested in supporting families with members who have expressed a desire for Christian education. The degree of financial support will be determined by the financial needs of the family. The committee is prepared to offer 50% to full tuition to each child depending on the number of applications received from students who meet the established criteria. Previous church membership is not required.

Interested families need to contact Shirley Nelson at St. Mary’s Christian School (253-984-9475) for tours, an enrollment package and the financial aid application. Students may be enrolled within one week of application approval.

St. Mary’s Episcopal School utilizes the FACTS Tuition Management Company for the electronic payment of student tuition. FACTS was founded in 1986 initially providing service to one school of 30 families. They now service nearly 3,000 schools and over 350,000 families. Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, they make use of the latest methods in electronic fund processing. Tuition payment transfers are possible on the 5th and/or 20th of each month from an established checking or regular savings account. Missed payments are reattempted on the next transfer date (For instance, payments missed on the 5th are reattempted on the 20th). Parents have the ability to purchase tuition payment insurance, and track their individual account on-line. Annual charges for FACTS’ services is paid by the parents.

Beginning with the 2005-06 school year, St. Mary’s will now offer (through the FACTS Tuition Management Company) a tuition payment plan utilizing charge cards. (Only Visa, American Express, or Discover accounts are eligible.) There is a convenience fee for this service, paid for by the account holder.

Further information may be obtained at www.factsmgt.com or by contacting FACTS at 800-624-7092.

The School Office has brochures available for review.

Introduction
We believe that tuition payments are an investment in your child’s education and religious formation. Therefore, the School Board, acknowledges its responsibility to ensure that enrollment is as available and affordable as possible to all families.

Tuition Payment

Tuition payments shall be made on behalf of all students registered and attending St. Mary’s School. The rate of tuition shall be that which is in effect for the current school year and program in which the student is enrolled. Rates shall be charged according to the tuition established and approved by the School Board to include fees, and any applicable discounts.

All responsible parties (hereafter called families) shall be expected to make tuition payments according to one of the following payment plans. The preferred manner of payment must be submitted each year at the time of student registration. Options for payment shall include:

A. Full payment. Under this plan, the entire amount of tuition is paid on or before the Opening Day of school. This payment is made directly to the school office.

B. Monthly Payments. Under this plan the entire amount of tuition is paid monthly over as many as twelve (12) months beginning in July through the FACTS Tuition Management Plan, or through the use of a Visa, American Express or Discover charge card.  The FACTS plan is an automatic payment made through the debit of a checking or statement savings account. Those choosing this plan will authorize their financial institution to make automatic monthly payments to FACTS on the 5th or 20th of each month until the tuition is paid in full. Regardless of the beginning month of payments, all tuition for the current school year shall be paid in full by the last day of school in June of the year following. Those families opting to use the charge card payment system are also able to make monthly installments on tuition owed.  There is a fee for both of these payment options.

Late Registrations

Families registering any time after July 1st shall be expected to fulfill their tuition obligations according to the tuition policy stated above.

Tuition for students registering on or after the first day of school shall be charged tuition according to the following schedule:

Entrance on any date up to the 15th of the month shall be charged a full month’s tuition, per student, for that month, and shall pay a prorated tuition for the number of school days remaining in the school year according to a formula established by the School Board.

Entrance on any date from the 15th to the end of the month shall be charged one-half month’s tuition, per student, for that month and shall pay a prorated tuition for the number of school days remaining in the school year according to a formula established by the School Board.

Late Payment

It shall be the responsibility of families to keep the school office informed of their need to make any changes in their preferred tuition payment plan or adjustments in the amount of tuition expected to be paid. Without such information, the following policy will apply when tuition payments are received late.

Full Payment

When full payment has not been made by opening day of the new school year, the family will be contacted concerning the missed payment date and alternative tuition payment options will be offered. If funds are not received according to a new agreement, all tuition payments shall be made through the FACTS Tuition Management Plan. Families need to be aware that failure to meet tuition payment dates may be cause for student withdrawal.

Monthly Payment

Families who choose a monthly payment plan and miss a monthly payment due to insufficient funds will be assessed a $25.00 missed payment fee by FACTS and may incur a fee from their own financial institution. The missed payment will be reattempted by FACTS in approximately two weeks. Additionally, there will be a missed payment fee assessed by the school of $25.00.

In addition, families who have missed two monthly payments and have not made suitable arrangements within fourteen (14) calendar days of the second missed payment will be informed that their child(ren) will not be re-admitted to school according to the specifications of this policy.

Tuition Adjustments

There shall be no adjustment to tuition owing for days missed as a result of illness, family vacations, or other planned events. No adjustments are made as a result of partial day attendance, or missed full days as result of parent or school administration request (such as in the case of discipline consequences.) In the case of serious extended illness, the board may consider tuition adjustment based upon the circumstances of the extended absence. While immunization records and a general letter regarding academic performance, any special placement, and disciplinary actions will be released to a student’s new school, official student transcripts will be withheld until the financial account is settled and paid in full. Transcripts will be forwarded to the new school, or released to the parent or guardian upon settlement of the account in full.

Tuition Assistance

There is a limited tuition assistance program available to enrolled students. Please contact the office for the appropriate form. Committee members are appointed by the governing body of the Church, and do not include staff members of the School.

Non-admission of Students due to Tuition Delinquency

Families failing to pay tuition according to the agreement which they have made with the school office, or who have been unwilling to make suitable alternative arrangements with the school will be informed that their child(ren) will not be readmitted to our school. All families must be current in their payment of tuition.

By August 1

A plan for payment of tuition is in place, with the first payment made. If not, arrangements must be made with the office prior to August 20th.

By Opening Day of School, in the current school year:

A plan for payment of tuition is in place, with appropriate payment(s) made. If not, student will not be admitted on the first day of school.

By December 20th in the current school year:

If tuition payment is not current, student may not be readmitted on the first day of class in January.

By March 20th in the current school year:

If tuition payment is not current, student may not be readmitted on the first day of class after Conference break.

By April 15th in the current school year:

If tuition payment is not current, report cards and permanent records will not be released, and student will be withdrawn from school.

Delinquent Tuition from Previous Year

All previously unpaid tuition must be paid by August 1 if a student is to be readmitted on the first day of class for a new school year. Payments are to be made directly to the school office. If payment is not possible, suitable arrangements must be made with the school office, and/or the School Board.

Nonpayment of Tuition and Charges

Sums due and owing to the School shall be considered a debt payable upon presentation of billing. If repeated attempts at billing have failed to produce a repayment arrangement, the School shall take steps necessary to recover sums owed. This action may include, but is not limited to, referral of the debt to a Collection Agency.

Families need to be aware that withdrawal of student(s) from school does not cancel tuition indebtedness.  Tuition earned through student attendance shall remain payable to the School.

Tuition Refunds

A thirty day notice of student withdrawal is required.

Families withdrawing students prior to the first day of school shall be refunded one-half of one month’s tuition deposit made. This sum does not include the Registration Fee paid which is not refundable in any case. No refunds shall be made on tuition paid in advance where a student is withdrawn from the school after April 30th of the current school year.

For the sake of each family’s security and peace of mind and for the general financial stability of our school, we encourage parents or guardians to contact the school office as soon as possible when they are experiencing economic difficulties.

The state spends an average of $6779 per student each year. The national average is $7734 per student per year. Private Christian schools in this areas charge between $4000 and $11,000 for full time students each year. While the church does not charge us for rent, and the time the chaplain devotes to our students, our staffing cost, materials, supplies, insurance and operating cost must be covered by tuition and fund raisers. Currently the annual auction is our major fund raising event. Full time students are in school 6 hours and 15 minutes for 180 days. We charge $5.78 per hour and have only made slight increases in our tuition during the 10years we have been open. Part day preschool programs are charged at a higher hourly rate due to the lower adult to child ratio that we have chosen to maintain.

Other Costs
We have attempted to keep additional costs to a minimum. Uniforms, school supplies, occasional snacks, field trip transportation fees, weekly reader fees for some classes and small fees for special projects are the only additional costs you should incur. Individual student pictures, class pictures, after school enrichment classes and tutoring are all optional fees.

• Tuition Policy
• Facts System
• Scholarships
• Fund Raising

Parents and prospective students are welcome to visit classrooms, sitting in on regular classroom activities for a part, or full day.  These sessions are by appointment only so as to avoid excessive disruption to normal classroom routines. Whether or not parents are expected to stay with their child will depend upon several factors.  This expectation will be addressed when setting the visitation date. Please contact the Office for further information.

Students may enroll and enter School at any time in the school year providing there is space available. Assessment of the student’s progress level is key in correct classroom placement. In this case, it is recommended that parents plan for an assessment appointment prior to date of entry. A visitation by the student (where they spend a half or full day in the classroom) is preferable to assess compatibility with existing classroom students.

Each student will be assessed to determine their classroom placement. Testing may occur prior to, or during the first few weeks of enrollment. In addition, student assessments will be made during the year to record continuous progress. If movement is warranted as a result of testing, the student may be shifted to another classroom.

Report cards, transcripts, and other assessment reports from schools previously attended by the student are required in the enrollment packet. The information in these reports provides data necessary to assist the school administration in proper placement of students. The office can assist you in assembling your student’s packet. Please bring address information on previous schools your student attended. A request for release/exchange of information form will need to be signed by the parent.

Students are required to be the age appropriate for entry to their selected program by August 31 of the year in which they enroll. For example, a student for the Two Year Old Program, must have turned 2 by August 31. The age of a student will be verified by presentation of the Birth Certificate. Classrooms in the full day programs are organized as Multiage. Under this organization, the ages of students will span a two year spread. Minimum ages for entry are as follows:

• Two Year Old Program - 2 years
• Three Year Old Program - 3 years
• Pre-Kindergarten - 4 years
• Multiage Kindergarten - 4-5 years
• Multiage 1 - 5-6 years
• Multiage 2 - 6-7 years
• Multiage 3 - 7-10 years

Please remember that age alone is not the determinate factor in placement. Students must also meet entrance benchmarks for learning to gain placement in a specific classroom.

Students are required to have completed the immunization schedule, or provide suitable exemption for immunizations appropriate to their age group prior to entry. Unless exempted, a child in a daily school setting in Washington state is required by law to be immunized, or in the process of being immunized against:

• Diphtheria
  Tetanus
  Pertussis
  Polio
  Measles
  Mumps
  Rubella (German Measles)
  Hepatitus B
  Haemophilus influenzae type b (hib disease)

A completed and signed Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) form is required to be on file at the school. A blank form can be found in the Enrollment packet. Timing for recommended immunizations can be found on the reverse of the CIS.

The School does not require a special visit to the student’s physician. Transcription of immunization records onto the CIS can be made by parents.

Our program format is based on age, skills, maturity and parents desire for a half or whole day program. Each year we have designed and changed the program to meet the needs of the enrolled students for the current year. We are considering going to a year round calendar year with 9-week learning session followed by 3-week inter-sessions in the future which will provide a variety of options for enrichment classes, tutoring, vacation days, daycare, or opportunities to seek classes off campus. Our 2-year-old program runs one morning a week, but may be expanded to meet twice a week. Our 3-year-old program meets 3 days (mornings or afternoons) a week.

Our Pre-Kindergarten (Four-year-olds) have a choice of a half or a whole day program.

Our full day Multiage K program combines 4 and 5 year olds in a readiness or Kindergarten format with academic skills in reading, writing, math, computers and geography in the morning and art, science, social studies, religion, and physical education and music in the afternoon. Most students stay for 2 years in the program.

Multi 1 is equivalent to a full day first grade program for 5 and 6 year olds depending on their reading ability.

Multi 2 is designed to meet the needs of students who are generally 6 and 7  years old. It is designed to encompass the skills normally taught in second and third grade. Since we do not restrict a child from moving forward, some students move up to the next level mid year or go to another level that better meets their skill level for a portion of the day.

Multi 3/4 serves students who are ready for the content taught in grade 4 and 5. Many students are also introduced to skills normally taught at grade 6 and 7, if they are ready to work at a more advanced level.

St. Mary’s School offers Multiage Classrooms in order to support the continuous academic progress of each of our students.

WHAT IS MULTIAGE?

Simply defined, a multiage classroom is a mixed-age group of children who are flexibly grouped and regrouped frequently according to the task, learning objective needs and interests of the students. These groupings are set up to allow children to move along a continuum of academic and social skills rather than be restricted to a single grade level program.

A multiage classroom is not a combination class where a teacher instructs two or three grade levels in their designated curricula. Ages and grades do not divide this community of learners within the classroom. Rather, in the multiage community, every child can become a successful learner on his or her own continuum of growth. This individual growth is supported through a process approach to learning that is child centered rather than curriculum centered. This means that teachers facilitate the learning of each child rather than instruct just the whole class based on predetermined grade-level skills and content.

WHY MULTIAGE?

Our decision to create multiage classrooms for St. Mary’s School was made based on our focus on the best interest of our students. Looking at up-to-date research, we found consistent support for the multi-age format.

Research shows increased academic achievement as a result of multi-age experiences. Students performed better on academic tests, demonstrated better higher-order thinking skills, scholastic independence, and a knowledge base greater than those children in graded classrooms. Longitudinal studies also showed positive results socially for multi-age placed students. These students were more likely to develop healthy self-concepts, leadership skills, positive attitudes toward school and good rapport with a broad age range of peers and adults.

STRENGTHS OF MULTIAGE CLASSROOMS

FAMILY UNIT. A primary goal is to establish a community of learners that support and nurture each of its members. This ‘family’ includes the children, teachers, specialists, support staff, parents, extended family members and volunteers.

RESPECT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL. Each child’s learning rate and style is honored and supported. Students may pursue their interests as far as their interest and abilities may take them. Teachers learn each child’s strengths and areas of needed development so they can support and challenge each child appropriately.

FOCUS ON SUCCESS. Each child’s progress is viewed in terms of success rather than failure. This focus on success keeps the child engaged in the learning process and provides repeated success for all children, no matter where they are on their continuum of learning.

CROSS-AGE LEARNING. Children look to each other and not just to the teacher for learning opportunities. Younger students benefit from collaborating with older children who often model more sophisticated approaches to learning. Older students benefit in their roles as mentors to younger children by becoming teachers and by modeling the learning.

MENTORING/LEADERSHIP. Peer mentoring, where a more experienced or knowledgeable student takes the initiative to ‘teach’ the less experienced student, is an exciting process. Mentoring directly benefits the mentors as well as the ‘pupil’. Higher level thinking skills and a solid knowledge base are required to teach a skill to another person. This application of skills reinforces the abilities of the mentor. In addition, the social and emotional benefits of mentoring for younger and older children cannot be overstated.

AUTONOMOUS LEARNERS. The structure of the multiage classroom develops self directing, autonomous individuals because children are invited to participate in their own learning and are offered choices in the process of learning to read, write, and solve problems. Children are given exposure to more advanced skills and information, so that when students are developmentally ready to master those advanced skills, success will be accelerated.

FLEXIBLE GROUPINGS. Groups are flexible and are based on demonstrated skills and age. Grouping is not used to define a child’s learning capabilities as children are not placed in traditional low, medium, and high groups within a grade level. Students who have advanced skills in a content area are often sent to the next level during the day to work at a more challenging concepts.

NO RETENTION OR PROMOTION. Continuous learning and success for each child is the focus. Retention is a by-product of traditional classrooms where the expectations are the same for all children. Because we know that all children do not learn at the same rate and because the research on retention shows it can be an emotionally difficult experience for children and parents, multiage classrooms do not depend on retention or automatic end of the year promotion to the next level.

Most children in the full day program spend two years at a level. Some children may spend one year, others three years depending on their individual readiness.

NO LABELING. In same-grade classes, children are typically labeled as ‘below grade level’, ‘on grade-level’, or ‘above grade level’. When expectations are the same for all children, labeling inevitably occurs in the multiage classroom, the focus shifts from getting every child to the same level of performance to encouraging each child’s individual progress on the continuum of skills.

CHILD CENTERED. Because learning is a personal construction of knowledge, multiage curriculum goals and plans are selected based on individual needs and strengths. Washington State Learning Goals are incorporated within an integrated, child-centered format. Children who move to another school will find themselves well prepared in not only the state requirements, but also in the skills and attitudes of a life-long learner.

AUTHENTIC ASSESSMENT. Teachers use qualitative reporting tools such as portfolios, anecdotal records, observations, formal and informal testing. Each child’s growth is recorded on academic and developmental continuums. Traditional letter grades are not used; rather, a check list of skills and narrative reporting give specific information of the progress being made. Older students are involved in self-assessment and are invited to help report progress and set goals. Our goal is to have each child see her/him self as a competent learner and individual. We focus on individual successes rather than by comparison to group standards.

PROFESSIONAL PARTNERSHIPS. Each child has the benefit of professional collaboration among adults who are actively working together to meet each child’s needs.

CONTINUOUS PROGRESS MODEL. As a staff we believe that grade levels can become barriers that restrict the rate of learning. We individualize as much as possible and work to design programs that will best meet the child’s individual learning style and skill level. Even when students are involved in the same lessons, teachers may hold very different expectations and give different assignments to students. Levels are designed so students may stay one, two or three years with the same teacher. Our students have made excellent progress and transitioned well to new schools all over the world.

Beginning of the Year Tour
To allow students time to feel more comfortable prior to opening day, students may come on Tour Day. A time is set up to visit with teachers, find out where to put lunches and coats and tour the classroom. Students will also be shown where they will sit the first day of school. Tour Day is held for a half day in late August prior to opening. Students are encouraged to bring in their school supplies and look around the school. Parents can talk with teachers. The office will be open to drop off payments or paperwork. Staff members will be available to answer questions.

August Information Night

An evening in late August is set up for families to come in and gather information about a wide variety of things. There will be an opportunity to meet new students and for returning students to greet friends. Refreshments will be served. Families will be able to turn in paper work, pick up their family handbooks and get information about fund raising, after school classes, family events, uniforms, extended care and volunteering.

Family Events

Once a month during the school year, different classes host family events. Some are traditional like the October Harvest Activity Night, The Christmas Program, The Mother’s Day Tea and The Father’s Day Lunch. Other events like puppet shows and pizza, Christmas Caroling and Cookies, and the Cultural Potluck are rotated from year to year.

Field Trips

Classes attend plays, museums, farms, the zoo, low tide at the local beaches and special events. Trips are tied to curriculum.

Community Services Project

Each class is involved in at least one community service project each year. Food Drives, coat, drives, blanket drives, Operation Christmas Child, toys for children, musical programs for retirement homes and special collections for those in need are typical types of projects done annually.

Annual Chapel and Outdoor Celebration

The last day of school a final Chapel is held at school. After Chapel, families are invited to a no host outdoor celebration off campus. If the weather does not permit an outside celebration, an indoor event will be held at school.

Kid’s Night Out

Once a month, students may come for dinner, activities and games put on by members of the staff. This evening event allows parents time to go out to dinner or plan some special time while children are having fun in a safe, supervised environment. The cost for these events are outside of tuition.

Fashion Show

A voluntary style show is held to allow children to wear non uniform clothes and to gain self confidence in front of a crowd. They can perform in groups or alone and learn how to walk a runway, to turn and to move to music.

Summer School

Summer School is held for 3 to 6 weeks in the summer. Students are able to attend all or some of the weeks offered. Different themes and classes have been offered each year.

Jump Rope Club

Several times a year an after school jump rope club meets to learn new routines and skills. They often perform at the last day celebration or at an assembly.

Sports Club

This is an after school offering where the students have the opportunity to learn and participate in a variety of sports.

Music Lessons

While lessons are not part of the school curriculum, they may be arranged through the school Music Teacher.

Languages

Spanish language instruction is available as part of the curriculum.  The arrangement of private lessons is at the discretion of the parent.

Tutoring

Staff members are available for tutoring after school for students in Multi 1 through Multi 4. There are individual and group opportunities.

Vacation Care

Care may be  available during some school vacation days and in the summer, depending on the need. Care is available during parent, teacher conferences.

Before and After School Extended Care

Before School Extended Care is available from 6:45am to 8:00am for a fee. After School Extended Care begins at the end of the class day and end at 5:15pm, for a fee.

Special Programs and Services

Computers

Computers are available to the students as part of their ongoing educational foundation.

Library

Each classroom has a collection of literature and books in addition to our curriculum materials. There are over 11,000 books in our current inventory. We also provide opportunities for students to order books from several book clubs at a reduced price. Students have many opportunities to read, and are read to daily by staff. Our older students also use the public library next door. Students may donate a favorite book in honor of their birthday to the classroom library.

Music

Music is part of our regular program. Children will learn educational, religious, cultural, and traditional songs and basic music skills. Thanks to generous donations, students will also have hands on experience with musical instruments.

Physical Development

Our program focuses on wellness and physical development. Students are involved in skill development and exercise during play times each day. There are also formal structured physical classes each week by our Physical Education Specialist.

Special Needs

Students who may need some additional instruction with academic or behavior issues will have the opportunity to work with a certified teacher one on one or in a small group. This is an additional service provided to families upon request. A fee will be charged by the hour. Parents will contract for a specific amount of time per week. This fee is in addition to regular tuition. Should a student require more services, the school will assist the family in working with the public schools, medical resources and private providers to seek the additional assistance.

Early Childhood
Children are born learners, but they have to be taught to be successful students.  Job skills, life skills, relationship skills don’t all happen by magic.  Our joy is to give young children the tools they need to be able to work independently, to learn in a school setting and to develop passion for learning that will last a lifetime.  Our preschool program is designed to give each child a running start at reaching this goal.

Program Offerings

We currently offer a one-day a week 2-year-old class on Tuesday mornings.  Next year, we may expand this to two days a week.

We offer a 3-year-old class 3 mornings a week or 2 afternoons a week.

Our 4-year-old Pre-K class meets five days a week.

Entry Requirements

Children in the 3 and 4-year-old programs must be self-toileting.

We follow the Washington State Requirement for entry age.  Children entering a program must be that age by midnight August 31.

Probationary entry may be granted, based on testing in August, for children who miss the deadline by a few weeks.

Philosophy / Program Design

Research indicates that early intervention is the key to success for many students.  We have found this is true in helping to identify potential learning problems, preventing the development of low self esteem and more importantly in building children’s self confidence. Teaching the skills that learners need in order to be successful in a school setting is our primary focus.

Working with a child three or four years prior to kindergarten gives ample time for staff members to observe how each child learns best and, what his or her strengths are in order to help build each learner’s self confidence and expand his or her repertoire of skills.

We can also identify potential areas where children may need remediation. We work closely with parents and specialists to determine what accommodations may be needed.  We have been successful in individualizing programs to meet children’s identified needs.

Our preschool program includes work on readiness skills in the basic content areas and teaches children how to function successfully in a group setting.  Children are taught how to take responsibility for their work and for the behavior choices that they make.

Children who leave our program and enter kindergarten in schools all over the world have made successful transitions into other programs.  Our job is to start each child on the path of life long learning while fostering the passion and joy that comes with the learning of new concepts and ideas.

In 1993 the Legislature established an 11 member Commission on Student Learning and assigned it the dual task of developing clear, challenging academic standards that every student in the state will be expected to meet, and to find more effective ways to measure whether schools are preparing students to meet these higher expectations. These standards are now established as the Washington State Early Learning. The law called for full implementation by school districts, of both higher academic standards and assessment systems by the year 2000. As a private school we voluntarily support these goals as a part of our program.

Goal 1: Read with comprehension, write with skill, and communicate effectively and responsibly in a variety of ways and settings.
Goal 2: Know and apply the core concepts and principles of mathematics; social, physical, and life sciences; civics and history, geography; arts; and health and fitness.
Goal 3: Think analytically, logically, and creatively, and integrate experience and knowledge to form reasoned judgments and solve problems.
Goal 4: Understand the importance of work and how performance, effort, and decisions directly affect career and educational opportunities.
New Washington State Early Learning and Development Benchmarks
The State published this document in draft November 2004. Our preschool programs and our pre K, K and 1st grade program are using this document as a base for their programs, along with developmental growth charts and our previously adopted continuum in reading, writing and math readiness skills. Parents can obtain a copy of this new document by visiting one of the web sites listed below.

http://www.governor.wa.gov/earlylearning/
http://www.k12.wa.us/Publications

Continuum
All full day classes use learning skills continuum for reading, math and writing. You can pick up a copy of these documents in the office. With this continuum at hand they recognize ‘holes’ in their child’s previous learning, see at what level their child is currently functioning, and look ahead to future skills that will be taught. Parents are encouraged to work with students at home on the skills that are listed. Should you wish to look at the skills in these areas before enrolling, you may ask to have copies sent to you with the information packet.
Parents are also given a list of the most commonly used words, so they can continue to review what is done in the classroom. Once students have been taught these words they are held accountable for spelling them correctly in all written work.

We have a large selection of materials and books. We have adopted the SCIS Science Program, Connections in ART by Davis Publications, Rebecca Sitton’s Spelling Program of High Frequency Words, Read it, Draw it and Solve it Math (as one part of our math program), Character First Education and D’Nealian Penmanship for all full day students. In other subject areas teachers use a wide variety of materials to select from to meet group and individual needs.

Most teacher send home weekly or bi monthly newsletters summarizing what learning is taking place.

We have a large selection of materials and books.  We have adopted the SCIS Science Program, connections in ART by Davis Publications, Rebecca Sitton’s Spelling Program of High Frequency Words, Read It, Draw It and Solve It Math (as one part of our math program), Character First Education and D’Nealian Penmanship for all full day students.  In other subject areas teachers use a wide variety of materials to select from to meet group and individual needs.

Students will receive learning experiences in the following areas, depending on their skill and age level:

Literacy

1. Reading comprehension
2. Sight word recognition
3. Literature appreciation & exploration of different genres
4. Phonics
5. Phonemic awareness
6. Reading strategies, decoding skills
7. Oral reading
8. Vocabulary development
9. Communication - Speaking & Listening Skills
10. Spelling application - High frequency words
11. Writing process - Penmanship
12. Six-trait writing
    • Mechanics & conventions (grammar)
    • Voice
    • Word choice
    • Organization
    • Fluency
    • Ideas & Content
13. Writing for different purposes and audiences
14. Famous authors & illustrators

Mathematics

1. Problem solving
2. Number sense
3. Operations
4. Measurement
5. Patterns and relationships
6. Probability and statistics
7. Estimation
8. Geometry and spatial sense
9. Money, time and measurement
10. Graphs, grids and tables
11. Fractions, decimals and percents
12. Famous mathematicians

Student Work Skills

1. Organizational skills
2. Time management
3. Work quality
4. Direction following
5. Information gathering
6. On task behavior
7. Thinking/Learning strategies
8. Test taking strategies
9. Teamwork - collaborative skills
10. Skills of independence
11. Focus & Concentration

Religion

1. Prayer
2. Ritual
3. Bible stories and characters
4. Music
5. Christian behavior and principles
6. Appropriate church etiquette
7. Character traits

Social Studies

1. Community service
2. Citizenship
3. History
4. Geography and map skills
5. Value of work
6. Cultural Literacy
7. Value of Diversity
8. Economics/money management
9. Famous people in history
10. Current events

Science

1. Biology
2. Earth science
3. Physical science
4. Scientific methods
5. Environmental science
6. Astronomy
7. Famous scientists

Art

1. Use of tools
2. Different mediums
3. Line
4. Color
5. Form
6. Texture
7. Patterns
8. Shapes
9. Space
10. Value
11. Drawing/painting
12. Techniques
13. Study of famous artists
14. Art appreciation
15. Creativity

Music

1. Basic elements - reading music and notation
2. Music appreciation and analysis
3. Audience and performance behavior
4. Introduction of major composers and types of music
5. Experience with a variety of instruments
6. Singing

Technology

1. Proper use of hardware and software to extend classroom learning
2. Basic word processing
3. Internet use
4. Keyboarding
5. Multimedia presentation
6. Spreadsheets
7. Drawing/Painting

Physical Education

1. Fitness/exercise
2. Fundamental movement
3. Basic sport skills
4. Sportsmanship - team play
5. Famous athletes

Health/Wellness

1. Physical safety
2. Nutrition
3. First Aid
4. Substance abuse
5. Disease prevention
6. Wellness/Development of healthy self-esteem
7. Hygiene

Social Skills

1. Leadership
2. Management of emotions
3. Decision making
4. Problem solving and thinking skills
5. Attitude
6. Manners
7. Appropriate humor
8. Negotiation skills
9. Respect for self & others
10. Self care
11. Care of property
12. Cooperative play and work
13. Development of positive relationships

Library and Research Skills

1. Fiction and nonfiction book selection
2. Locating materials
3. Use of reference materials
4. Questioning techniques
5. Use of library computer system
6. Research process
7. Internet research
8. Care for books and materials
9. Project development & presentation

Enrichment

1. Field trips
2. Assemblies
3. Specialists for Music, PE & Technology
4. After school classes
5. Family events

Parent Teacher Conferences are held in the fall to set educational goals and in the spring to report progress. Written report cards are issued mid-year and on the last day of school. School is closed during conferences, although childcare may be available. Parents may request additional conferences at any time. Some teachers also issue progress reports between reporting periods.

All parents are expected to be involved in our annual auction and to support other fund raising events to help defray operating costs, keep tuition at a reasonable amount and to raise scholarship money. We are a tuition-based non-profit corporation and depend on fund raising to help us provide a quality program.

There are numerous tasks that volunteers can perform to support and benefit the school program. It is up to the discretion of each individual teacher how and when volunteers will be utilized in his or her classroom. The use of volunteers will differ between classes based on the needs of the students and the preferences of the individual teacher. Families may sign up to go along on field trips and to assist with events outside the classroom. There may also be opportunities for teaching or sharing special hobbies, talents, and information with students.

All parents who work with or supervise children will be required to have a background check. Volunteers need to read and agree to the conditions, guidelines and limits for volunteering and sign a contract agreeing to abide by the established policy. Each volunteer will sign in and out and wear an identification badge.

Volunteering is a gift of your time and is not mandatory at St Mary’s. It is an excellent way to learn first hand about our program.

The school is housed in one wing of the Church. The first phase was built in 1998. Phase two was completed in January 2006. We have 6 classrooms and an office complex. We use additional areas of the church for music, PE, Chapel, some activities and special events. We have a fenced secure playground and security cameras in the halls and classrooms. Observation windows into the classrooms from the main hallways allow parents to see what is going on in classrooms. Students have computers available. We have ample materials, equipment and current resources available for staff to use. We are located next door to the Lakewood Library and across the street from Clover Park High School. Students are frequent visitors to the library.

What is the typical class size?
Classes usually range from 14-16 in Multiage 1, 16-18 in Multiage 2, 18-20 in Multiage 3.  The half day preschool programs for 3 and 4 year olds have a class size of 12 - 14 students with one teacher and a full time assistant.  The 2 year old program has 8 – 10 students with 1 teacher and 1 assistant.

What measures are in place for security?
Video cameras are placed in the halls; windows allow viewing from the rooms to the hall and from the hall to the play area.  The playground is fenced and adults are on site supervising during recess.  All students must be signed in and out by family members or authorized adults.  Students wear uniforms for quick identification.  The front desk adult volunteer and the church office monitor all visitors entering the building.  Staff and volunteers wear identification badges.

What about snacks and lunch?
Parents are asked to send a healthy lunch daily for full time students.  There is a microwave and refrigerator available for students.  Parents will be asked to provide some snack items for field trips and for some of the younger classrooms.

How will I know what is happening each week?
A white dry erase board in the entry way will be updated daily with current information.  Flyers, classroom and school newsletters and the family handbook will provide you with other necessary information.  Information will be placed in your child’s mailbox.  (Please check your mail file daily.)  Some information will also be available on the website.

What technology is available?
Computers are available for student use in our full day program.  We are connected to the internet and have a wide variety of learning programs to support our curriculum.  Our web address is www.stmaryschristianschool.com.

What about naps/rest periods?
Regular naps are not included in the full day program schedule.  Quiet rest time is built in as needed.

Can you assist me in finding others to car pool with or to pick up my child occasionally?
We will be happy to assist you.  We publish a family directory, so that you may easily contact other parents and mail invitations or exchange necessary information.

Are there days when uniforms are not required?
Students are to wear uniform colors and approved clothing items everyday unless notified otherwise.  On days when the class has physical education, tennis shoes are required.  Since students are climbing on equipment at recess and running, we ask that dress shoes and beach or open toed shoes are not worn.  A shirt with the school logo is required on field trip days.  Free Dress Day, Valentine’s Day, individual picture day, summer school days, extended care only days and a few days during the year may be declared as uniform optional days.

What do I do when my child will be absent?
You are asked to let the school know by phone between 7:00 am and 8:30 am the morning that your child will be absent.  You may let us know at any time if an absence is preplanned.

Will I still be charged for days my student does not attend?
Yes, your contract is for the entire school year, not for a number of days.

What hours and days do you operate?
We hold school 180 days for 6 and ¼ hours per day; 8:15 am to 2:30 pm. Our ½ day programs operate fewer days and hours.  We are closed for a short spring vacation, and have 2 weeks off during Christmas time.  There are a few four day weekends and school is closed during parent/teacher conferences.

What is tuition based on?
The budget is based on $5.78 an hour for each child in the full day program.  We operate with state certified experienced staff in a new facility with up to date materials and methods.  We are a non-profit organization.  We are funded with tuition, fees, donations, and fund raisers.

Am I required to volunteer a specific amount of my time?
No, you are welcome and encouraged to assist with the program and events, but no set amount of time is required.  You are asked to assist us in any way possible with fund raising, donations or grant writing to raise additional monies for the school.  You are expected to help your child’s class host one family event and to be very actively involved in the yearly auction.  You will also be expected to fill out the annual customer satisfaction survey at the end of each year.  This helps us to monitor the level of customer satisfaction.

How will inappropriate behavior be handled?
Children act in ways that attempt to get their needs met.  When a child displays inappropriate behavior, we see this as a learning opportunity for the child.  A more appropriate behavior will be taught, practiced and reinforced.  We will make every effort to insure the child understands the rationale for the correct behavior.  All serious inappropriate behaviors will have consequences and parents will be notified when it is necessary to follow up at home.

How can I help my child at home?
Depending on the age of the child, homework may be assigned.  All parents especially, of our younger children, are encouraged to read daily with and to their child and to make vocabulary development a priority.  Children can also work on math facts and practice expressing themselves orally and in writing.  Children are expected to become successful problem solvers and creative thinkers.  If your child is experiencing difficulty with behavior, role playing at home also helps to give the child better options for dealing with situations.

How often will the teacher contact me or meet with us about our child’s progress?
Parent conferences occur twice a year.  Progress report cards are handed out between conferences and at the end of the year.  You may request a time to talk with the teacher as often as you feel the need.  Teachers will contact you, if an academic or behavioral issue needs immediate attention.  The beginning and end of the school day, when you pick up your child, are often busy times for staff with little opportunity for quality conversation to occur.  Unless you have prearranged this time with the staff member, we ask that you limit your sharing or questions for the teacher to only the most immediate need to know items at these times of the day.  Staff members strongly encourage you to schedule a time when you can focus totally on the needs of your child.  Often this can be done with only a few hours notice.

What are the qualifications of staff members?
The majority of our teachers hold BA degrees in education, early childhood or related areas.  Several staff members have master’s degrees.  The staff has a total of over 200 years of experience working with children.

What if the school needs to cancel classes or close early due to weather or an emergency situation?
It is critical that you keep the office up to date with current phone numbers and the names of relatives or other adults who could pick up your child from school should we need to close early.  Each child needs to have an emergency kit with food and water and a change of clothes at school.  We will contact you by phone, at home or at work to pick up your child.  If we are unable to reach you, we will call the designated emergency numbers.  A staff member will remain with your child until someone comes to get them.  You may want to make arrangements with another parent of a student here at school to act as an alternate pickup person for you.  Should we be unable to open due to weather conditions, we will try to call you at home prior to the opening of school, if possible.  During the time public schools are in session we will follow the same closure schedule as the Clover Park School District.  We are located across from the high school and about a half mile from an elementary school, so we feel that their decision will be based on valid safety information.  Local television stations and their web sites also carry current information starting at 5:00 am.

What supplies will my child need for school?
You will receive a basic list prior to the start of school.  You may be asked to have your child bring a special item for an art project or special event.  You may also be asked to provide snacks or other food items from time to time.

What other fees or costs will there be beyond the registration fee, tuition, extended care fees (optional) and the cost of required supplies and uniforms?
There may be an entry fee required for some field trips.  There are several optional fees; for school and class pictures and for special projects.

Do I have to be an Episcopalian to attend?
Families of all Christian faiths are welcome to attend.  You are encouraged to attend church on Sundays and any church activities that you and your family are interested in.  The Pastor and Principal are available to answer questions for you.  Your child is invited to attend Vacation Bible School, Sunday School and be a part of the Christmas Pageant.

Will my child be tested?
Children will be tested to determine a base line for developing their individual program.  We do both formal and informal assessment on an ongoing basis to track your child’s individual progress.  We do not compare children with other students.  We do compare them to developmental norms and a continuum of skills.  We use a wide variety of commercial and teacher developed assessment tools to determine the progress made by students.  We build our program around the determined needs of our currently enrolled students rather than asking students to fit into a totally predetermined program.

Why multiage?
Grouping this way allows us the greatest flexibility to place children where they are performing and to allow continuous progress in their skill development without restricting them by using age levels.  Students may be moved from one class to another during the school year depending on their needs and the rate of progress academically and behaviorally.

What if my child is injured or gets sick at school?
If your child is running a temperature, is vomiting or has diarrhea, they will need to be picked up as soon as possible.  We do have a nurse’s office where they can be isolated for short periods of time.  You will need to have a backup plan in place, if you are unable to leave work or work some distance from school.  We are unable to give any medication (including over the counter) without doctor’s written orders.

We are able to handle most minor injuries here at school.  In the event of a serious problem, we will call 911 and make every attempt to contact you.  A staff member will ride in the aid vehicle, if it is determined there is need to transport your child to an emergency room where you will be expected to meet us.

Are there discounts or available financial aid?
A limited amount of financial aid is currently available.  Contact the school office for information on the application process.

What payment options are available?
Tuition can be paid monthly, quarterly or in a single lump payment.  We will work with you to determine what works best for you.  As the school is tuition funded, it is imperative that payments are made on time in order for us to meet our contractual obligations to staff and our payment of operating expenses.  We are unable to allow accounts to become past due.  If an account becomes 30 days past due, the child will be withdrawn if satisfactory payment cannot be arranged.  The school uses an electronic transfer system for tuition payment.  Transfers can be established for once or twice a month over a period of time agreed upon by the school and parents.  Tuition for the current school year is expected to be paid in full by June 30th so that each year’s tuition is paid prior to the beginning of a new school year.  Detailed information and arrangements for establishing a transfer contract can be made through the school office.

Do you enroll children with special needs?
We feel all children have special needs.  We serve a diverse population.  We make every attempt to accommodate the special needs of all individuals.  Should we be unable to provide adequate service for a child, we will make other program recommendations for families.  If we find we cannot adequately meet a child’s needs after a child has enrolled, we will work to assist families in finding another program that can meet those needs.

Is transportation available?
Due to the cost of operations, and insurance, this is not a possibility now or in the immediate future.  Parents are encouraged to car pool.  We are located on the bus line with a stop in front of the school.

What steps are made to assist my child’s transition to their next school?
We currently serve students from six local school districts including military families who are deployed all over the world.

Students develop portfolios of work to take to their next school to indicate their skill levels and competencies.  We constantly monitor trends in education internationally to stay informed about new programs.  We have been very successful to date in preparing students for their next educational experiences.

What curriculum do you use?
Our curriculum is developed using a wide variety of resources.  It is dynamic and constantly revised based on new research, state requirements, national content standards, developmental criteria and the needs of our current students.  A copy of the skills taught at each level is available.  We have recently adopted Washington State’s New Early Learning and Development Benchmarks for our youngest students.  To obtain a complete copy of the document parents can visit the following web sites:

Office of the Governor
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Do you have specialists for some areas?
We currently have specialists for music and physical education.

Updated December 2007

The school office is open between 8am and 4pm for tours.  We prefer that you call at least a day in advance, but walk-ins are welcome.  Call (253) 984-9475 and ask for Mrs. Nelson or Mrs. Van Dyken to make arrangements.

The Preschool program has been a positive learning experience for my daughter.  She absolutely loves coming to school! 

4 Year Old Preschool Parent

Our child has grown and learned tremendously and loves school.

Multiage 1 Parent

The Preschool program has been amazing.  The teacher is a true gift.  My child has accomplished so much academically as well as socially.  Best of all, she is excited about learning!

4 Year Old Preschool Parent

I love this school! My son enjoys coming every day.  The teacher is wonderful! My child has come so far this year and St. Mary’s has changed him, especially academically. Thank you St. Mary’s.

Multiage 3 Parent

We have really enjoyed being a part of St. Mary’s School.  My child loves to come to school every morning and talks about her class all weekend.  She has excelled in many areas over the past year.

3 Year Old Preschool Parent

I cannot commend the school enough.  It is a wonderful, loving and academic place for my children.  We are very happy here.  Wish you went to 8th grade!

Multiage 1 Parent

We are very pleased with our child’s progress at St. Mary’s School.  We would highly recommend St. Mary’s School to other families.

3 Year Old Preschool Parent

St. Mary’s has been the perfect educational environment for my child.  I wish I had been aware of it sooner.  I can say that a school is a reflection of its administration.  Our principal has created a learning community that reaches beyond what most leaders envision.

Multiage 2 Parent

St. Mary’s Episcopal School is a non-profit, co-educational day school. The school is open 180 days for Multiage 1-4, 37 partial days for Two Year Olds, 106 half days for Three Year Olds, and 180 half days for Four Year Olds . We are closed for 12 major holidays and 12 days during the school year for vacation, parent conferences and staff training.

St. Mary’s is in the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia and is governed by St. Mary’s Rector and Vestry. The Principal carries out the day-to-day operations of the school. During the 2001-2002 school year a school advisory council (SAC) was created. Its mission is to assist the administration in program planning and operational policy development. A 12-member school board assists with legal, financial, policy and marketing responsibilities.

Cities Served: DuPont, Fircrest, Gig Harbor, Lacey, Lakewood, Olympia, Puyallup, Spanaway, Steilacoom, Tacoma, Tumwater, University Place

School Districts We Serve: Clover Park, Fife, Franklin Pierce, North Thurston, Olympia, Peninsula, Puyallup, Steilacoom, Tacoma, Tumwater, University Place

Military Bases We Serve: Ft. Lewis Army Base, McChord Air Force Base

 Family Handbook

The school will provide you with a comprehensive handbook that is updated annually. It will give you detailed information about the polices, rules and responsibilities, enrichment opportunities, expected behavior, discipline policy, fund raising, school reports, parent involvement opportunities, curriculum, health policies, special events, emergency procedures, and current information.

Annual Goals

These goals are established by the members of the staff and approved by the School Board.  Our goals are based on the results of our annual survey, progress made on the previous year’s goals, available financial resources, current research on best educational practices, the Washington State Benchmarks and Expected Learnings documents, as well as informal input from students, parents and church members.  We also consider the feedback we receive on how prepared our students are for their next school experience.

Some goals are ongoing and carried over from previous years.  These goals deal with areas that are designated as areas where we want to continue to focus our energy and resources.

1. To continue to strengthen the linkage with all church programs, including Sunday School, the MOPS program, Vacation Bible School, music ministry, youth ministries and the church’s outreach programs, in order to assist all families as they work to develop a strong Christian foundation for all children attending St. Mary’s

2. To continue to develop our marketing plan using a variety of sources to include: our web site, the reader board, tours, local papers, the military base education officers, telephone directory, State and Government Agencies, other Episcopal Churches, former and current family members, church members, Chamber of Commerce, Vestry and School Board members. Our plan is to use any available resources within our financial means in order to insure our classes are filled to capacity.

3. To continue to work with all members of the St. Mary’s community to increase our endowment and scholarship funds, in order to insure that the school is able to serve all children who come seeking a Christian based educational experience.

4. To maintain and improve a cost effective before and after school program to meet the custodial needs of families.

5. To continue to assess and refine all areas of our curriculum in order to insure the appropriate linkage between levels and to insure alignment with the most current State Essential Learning Requirements, the newly developed Washington State Early Learning Requirements and Developmental Benchmarks for birth to kindergarten Entry and current trends in education that will strengthen our program.

6. To work to develop a staff training and benefit package that will insure low staff turnover and the opportunity for increasing the skill level of all our employees. This will include providing the mandatory First Aid training and employee awareness class required by our revised insurance plan.

7. To work to strength the roles and coordinate responsibilities between the members of the School Board and the Vestry in order to further clarify the working relationship between these groups.

Administration

Glen Lutz, Principal

Shirley Nelson, Business Manager

Stephanie Spraggin, Administrative Assistant

Pre-School Program (2 & 3 year olds, am program)

Nikki Walker, Para Educator

Pre-Kindergarten Program (4 year olds, am & full day program)

Cindy Childs, Teacher

Charlotte Smith, Teacher

Nikki Walker, Para Educator

Patricia Watters, Para Educator

Emily Childs, Para Educator

Multiage Kindergarten Program (full day program)

Cynthia Gorath, Teacher

Kristy Maguire, Para Educator

Multiage 1 (full day program)

June Tennyson, Teacher

Kristin Bruce, Teacher

Multiage 2 (full day program)

Heather Quail, Teacher

Multiage 3/4/5 (full day program)

Kathryn R. Ness, Teacher

Specialists

Tracie Davis, Physical Education Instructor

Barbie Gonzalez, Music Instructor

Extended Care

Tracie Davis, Extended Care Director

Nikki Walker, Extended Care Provider

Kristin Bruce, Extended Care Provider

Advisory Council

The School Advisory Council is made up of parents representing each classroom, staff and church members. It’s function is to advise and assist the administration and staff in the operation and future development of the overall program offered by the school.

School Board

The School Board is made up of members of the church and representatives of the school. Its function is to oversee the financial and legal issues impacting the operation of St. Mary’s Christian School.

Volunteers

Members of the church, parents, extended family members, high school students and community members are invited to assist staff. Each volunteer must pass a background check. We have written policies and guidelines established for volunteers work under the direction of a staff member.

Our mission shall be to work in active partnership with parents to:

Assist in the development of the whole child - intellectually, spiritually, morally, socially, emotionally and physically and to help awaken and educate children about the special capacities and talents they each possess.

Provide the highest quality education possible, through excellence in curriculum, instruction, and individual attention to student needs.

Challenge students to achieve their full potential and to experience the joys of life-long learning and the rewards of life as a Christian individual.

Support and nurture each child’s God-Given gifts, in order to prepare each one to become a competent, contributing citizen and Christian leader in the community, his or her church and in the world.

Provide a safe and caring environment in which each child can develop healthy self esteem, confidence in his or her abilities, a positive attitude and a sense of stewardship for others.

We also plan to:

Assist parents in further developing their parenting skills, in strengthening their Christian faith, and in finding additional ways to enrich the lives of all members of their families.

Help to create a supportive network of Christian families who can assist each other in the challenging and rewarding task of raising children in today’s world.

Develop a regular means for joint planning between parents and teachers in order to develop common goals and to celebrate the progress of each individual child.

St. Mary’s School exists as a ministry of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church.

St. Mary’s Christian School started as a part of the Many hands Project in 1987.

Under the direction of an Ad Hoc Committee consisting of Fr. Kent McCulloch, Jane Lundern (St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Principal), Bob Minnerly, Roger Johnson, Howie Guy, Lorraine Hamilton and Alice Borg, the plan for the school took shape.

During the 1997-98 school year the mission statement, bylaws, budget, curriculum, and the overall program design were developed, while the remodeling of the building was completed.

The staff was hired during the year and moved into the school wing in July 1998. Enrollment opened in July for Grades K-2, and a 3 and 4 year old preschool. We opened our doors on Sept. 2, 1998 with 28 students.

In the school year 1999-00 we doubled in size moving from two classrooms to four. We also held our first annual auction to raise funds for playground improvement.

In the school year 2000-01 we moved our older students into the cottage after it had been remodeled. We revised our program to include a half-day program for 3 and 4 year olds and two multiage programs serving students 5 to 8 years old. The student population increased to 62.

In the year 2001-02 we added an afternoon 5 day a week program for 4 year olds and served a total of 70 students in our program.

In the year 2002-03 we added grade 3 to our program and a health consultant to our staff.

In 2003-04 grade 4 was added and 79 students were enrolled.

In 2004-05 grade 5 and a 2 year old program were added.

In 2005-2006 we served 100 students. We expanded our playground and added a new wing which includes an office complex, two new classrooms, a staffroom, a nurse’s room and a workroom.

Those students with current special needs or a documented special education diagnosis that may require additional support or staffing time in the areas of learning or behavior may be enrolled on a probationary status, on a case-by-case basis.If the staff determines that we are not able to successfully meet the needs of the child due to:

1. The amount of time needed to provide adequate support for the child’s learning seriously impacts the time available for meeting the needs of other students.
2. The child’s behavior is seriously disrupting the ability of others to learn and the teacher’s ability to teach.
3. The parents are not providing the support, information or cooperation needed by staff to be successful with the child.
4. The parents are asking for accommodations that are not available, are excessive, interfere with the learning of other students, are not within the school’s financial means or are not in keeping with best practices.
5. The student’s behavior becomes a threat to the safety of other students or staff members.

The school reserves the right if one or more of the above conditions are observed and documented to withdraw the student.

Tuition will cease to accrue from the point of withdrawal. No reimbursement will be made for days missed for disciplinary actions or a reduced day schedule prior to the student’s withdrawal.

Should a student enroll without a diagnosis and the staff find a reason to believe that there may be a need to consider a medical or psychological assessment, as a result of observed difficulty with learning, retention of information, or behavior, the staff will inform parents that they need to seek outside professional evaluation. Parents will be asked to share the results of this assessment and any accommodations or interventions that are recommended.

Staff members will fill out any required paperwork, encourage classroom observations, provide samples of work and any other documentation that may be needed to assist in this assessment.

Based on the results of the assessment, staff members and parents will determine whether it is in the child’s best interest to enroll in another program that has more resources and specialized staff members who can provide the type of support that is recommended for the child or if the staff at St. Mary’s will be able to continue to work with the child in the existing program with some accommodations. The student will be placed on probation at this time and his or her progress will be monitored on a regular basis.

The conditions for ongoing attendance at this point will follow the same procedure as it does for those who enroll with already identified special needs.

Should a parent select to move the child to a public school or to another private program or if it is determined that we is not going to be able to serve the child at St. Mary’s, tuition will cease to accrue, (starting 30 calendar days from the point that the decision is made).

If a parent refuses to seek outside professional evaluation, withholds information from the evaluation or refuses to follow the recommendations that are outlined by the professionals, the school reserves the right to terminate the enrollment contract at any time. Should the tuition be prepaid, the parent will be refunded the amount remaining 30 days subsequent to the notification that the student can no longer be served by the school.

Adopted by School Advisory Council August 28, 2004