Mission Statement
Butte Central Catholic Schools pledges to teach, model and promote Gospel values rooted in Catholic principles and traditions in an environment of academic excellence. The schools shall enable students to develop as spiritually and intellectually well-rounded individuals willing to take their place as responsible citizens, committed to their faith community and care-takers of God's creation.
Strategies for Success in our Mission
To achieve the Mission of Butte Central Catholic Schools, the school is committed to:
- providing a learning environment where faculty, staff, and students are treated with dignity, respect, and honor
- applying the highest standards of excellence in all courses, programs, and activities that foster continual growth and development
- encouraging enthusiastic participation by all students, parents, faculty, and staff in the full range of activities offered within the Butte Catholic School Community
- insisting upon forthrightness, honesty, and accountability of everyone in maintaining and enhancing the common good of the community.
BCCCS School Council
Vatican II and Catholic Councils
Since Vatican Council II (1962-1965), the Catholic Church motivates the establishing and fostering of councils for Catholic Schools to:
- promote the concept of lay ministry and responsibility
- develop ownership and stability for the future
- offer financial advice
- develop and defend policy
- serve as a good public relations source
- enable the principal to spend adequate time as an educational leader.
What is a Catholic School Council ?
- Butte Central Catholic Schools are established and maintained as an entity of Butte Catholic Schools, a regional school system in the Diocese of Helena to promote the Catholic education of the children of western Montana .
- The Bishop, as the chief catechist of the diocese, has final authority over the school. He relies on the Diocesan Superintendent of Schools to exercise the administrative jurisdiction in accordance with diocesan policies, state accreditation standards (where applicable) and the laws of the State of Montana . The Bishop also appoints school administrators and members of the school council. Together, these groups are responsible for the operation of the schools.
- Just as a parish council serves with the pastor on behalf of the total parish community, so the school council serves with the school administration on behalf of the total school community. Today's Catholic school administrators, with the many demands that are made, need assistance from a group of people who are committed to Catholic schools and are willing to work for the good of the schools and Catholic community.
- The Council is a consultative body to the school administration and to the Bishop, subject to the regulations promulgated by the Bishop or the Diocesan Superintendent of Schools acting on behalf of the Bishop.
Butte Central Catholic Schools Philosophy of Education
As a Roman Catholic academic community, Butte Central Catholic Schools affirm their commitment to providing comprehensive and challenging educational opportunities for their students which shall enable them to realize their full human potential - spiritually, intellectually, creatively, physically and socially. Acknowledging that God created each individual with unique talents, abilities and purpose, the schools are dedicated to providing the tools with which all students can reach full maturity as caring intelligent and faith-filled individuals, ready to meet the challenges of vocation and life-long learning with vision and responsibility.
In partnership with the family and the parishes of the Butte Catholic Community, Butte Central Catholic Schools profess their support of parents in their efforts to form their children in the Catholic faith by providing a curriculum that is grounded in Gospel values, Catholic traditions, and the ongoing ministries of parish life. Within the context of strong academic programs, we are steadfast in our commitment to teach and promote the teachings of Christ in all things; Jesus is our focus and constant point of reference. Students are encouraged to actively embrace their faith commitment through community outreach and service to others, within and through their faith community, as well as to nurture to fullness an ever developing relationship between God, neighbor and self.
Butte Central Catholic Schools strive to offer a Christian value centered education to those desiring it. We shall cooperate with families to provide enrollment to our schools as our financial resources allow. In gratitude and respect, we welcome all those who have and continue to work to promote a positive and comprehensive learning experience for our youth. Our goal is to develop mature individuals, committed in faith, positively embrace the challenges of society, ultimately building the Kingdom of God .
BCCS Equal Opportunity - Non Discrimination
BCCS, a Catholic school under the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Helena, attests that it does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, or national origin in its admission policy, treatment of students, or its employment practice. All students are entitled to the same rights, privileges, programs and activities. All who accept the values of BCCS are encouraged to enroll, regardless of religious denomination.
Catholic Students Code of Ethics
Commitment to the Student
As Catholic school students, we believe that we are pilgrim people, making our journey through this life with a constant focus on the next. As Catholic Christian students, we have a special responsibility to encourage each other to achieve our maximum potential. We work to stimulate the spirit of inquiry, the acquisition of knowledge, and understanding, and the thoughtful formulation of worthy goals.
Commitment to our Family
As Catholic school students, we believe that we are influenced by home, community, and a society in which attitude toward Christian values is often challenged. Our parents, the source from whom we derive our values, entrust us to the Catholic school to instruct, complement, and intensify the education and formation begun at home. We are called to support our parents in fulfilling their obligation for the Christian formation and education of their child.
Commitment to the Community
As Catholic school students, we believe the school community is both an agent of appropriate change and a preserver of basic tradition. We consider the school community an integral part of the parish whose people it serves, and a vital force for preparing future civic and Church leaders.
Commitment to Learning
As Catholic school students, we believe that academic excellence in Catholic schools directly influences our Church, country, and world. We strive to create a Christian environment that promotes sound moral and professional judgment. Through our spirit of joy and enthusiasm, we encourage others to join us in our search of the Truth in school.
Catholic Liturgies
All students shall participate in regularly scheduled, celebrations of Eucharist and Liturgy. Although many students attending BCCS are not Catholic, they will attend all liturgies in support of the Catholic Faith, practices, and rituals.
Daily Prayer
As a Catholic School , basic practices reflect a Christian Orientation to God. Prayer is an essential part of this orientation. Therefore, each school day will begin with a prayer in the classroom.
Guidelines for Receiving Communion
United States Catholic Conference, 1996
For Catholics
As Catholics, we fully participate in the celebration of the Eucharist when we receive Holy Communion. We are encouraged to receive communion devoutly and frequently. In order to be properly disposed to receive Communion, participants should not be conscious of grave sin and normally have fasted for one hour. A person who is conscious of grave sin is not to receive the Body and Blood of the Lord without prior sacramental confession except for a grave reason where there is no opportunity for confession. In this case, the person is to be mindful of the obligation to make an act of perfect contrition, including the intention of confessing as soon as possible.
For Fellow Christians
We welcome our fellow Christians to this celebration of Eucharist as our brothers and sisters. Because Catholics believe that the celebration of the Eucharist is a sign of the reality of the oneness of faith, life, and worship, members of those churches with whom we are not yet fully united are ordinarily not admitted to Holy Communion. Eucharistic sharing in exceptional circumstances by other Christians requires permission according to the directives of the diocesan bishop and the provisions of canon law. Members of the Orthodox Churches , the Assyrian Church of the East, and the Polish National Catholic Church may receive Holy Communion.
For Non Christians
We also welcome to the celebration those who do not share our faith in Jesus Christ. While we cannot admit them to the Holy Communion, we ask that they offer their prayers for the peace and unity of the human family.
BCCS ACADEMIC PROGRAM:
Academic Structure
• BCCS is comprised of kindergarten through eighth grade. Kindergartens through fifth grades are self-contained classrooms, with extended classrooms for music, computer applications, and physical education. The sixth, seventh, and eighth grade classes are departmentalized into language arts, mathematics, science, religion, and social studies.
Admission
Procedure Requirements for Admission into Kindergarten:
- The child must be five (5) years of age on or before September 10th.
- Montana law requires that prior to the first day of school ALL students must have current immunization against the following:
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTP)
- Oral Polio Vaccine ("OPV" or "Triv Polio"). Polio")
- Measles (Rubeola or Hard Measles)
- Proof of immunization will be required. Students applying for admission without proof of required immunizations, or a certified exemption, will not be admitted.
Daily Schedule
On regular school days, Monday through Thursday, classes begin at 8:15 a.m. and classes are dismissed at 2:30 (K-2) and 2:45 (3-8) p.m. . On Friday, classes are dismissed at 12:15 (K-2) and 12:30 (3-8) p.m. for staff development and teacher meetings. Regular lunch periods are in split sessions.
Emergency Closures
In the event that school has to be closed due to weather or any other unpredictable emergency, radio announcements will be made on all Butte commercial stations. If you hear of an emergency, turn on your radio or television . The school district will keep the media informed if there is an emergency.
When the school is closed or dismissed early for emergency reasons, all school sponsored activities and programs scheduled for the date or dates of the closure or dismissal will be automatically canceled or postponed, unless specifically approved by the school administration.
Once a school day begins, unless the safety of the children is threatened, school will not be dismissed before regular dismissal time. This precaution is taken to assure the safety of pupils for parents who might not be aware of an early closing. If an early closing does become necessary for safety reasons, children who ride buses will not be dismissed unless the buses are available to transport them to their normal discharge points.
In the event of such an emergency, no child shall be dismissed from school until it is determined that there is someone at home to receive the child, or unless some other satisfactory arrangement has been made.
Grading Systems:
Report Cards
Report Cards are issued four times each year. Grades assigned on report cards and on regular assignments shall have the following meanings for grades 3-8:
- A = 93 to 100% Excellent
- B = 85 to 92% Above average achievement
- C = 77 to 84% Average achievement
- D = 70 to 76% Below average achievement
- F = below 70% Unsatisfactory progress
- S+ = Excellent
- S = Satisfactory
- S- = Could do better
- U = Unsatisfactory
Grades K-2:
- C = Commendable
- V = Very good
- S = Satisfactory
- I = Improving
- N = Needs Improvement
- X = Not applicable at this time
Homework
Homework is a useful part of the school program. It enables students to form desirable, independent study habits. It should be an outgrowth of the student's interest in the regular classroom work. It is the intention of our faculty that all home study assignments will be well planned, of a positive learning nature and assigned in moderation. The purposes of such home study are to provide essential practice in needed skills; to train students in good work habits; to afford opportunities for increasing self-direction; to teach students to budget time and to promote growth in responsibility.
- Primary children are expected to spend an average of twenty (20) to thirty (30) minutes a night on homework.
- Intermediate grade students are expected to spend an average of thirty (30) to forty-five (45) minutes on homework.
- Upper grade students are expected to spend an average of one (1) hour on their home assignments.
Parents should contact the teacher if they believe their child's performance could be improved by adjustment of the amount of home study being assigned. Students can be placed on academic probation if they fail to take responsibility to complete their academic work. Continuing the lack of study skills may lead to dismissal at BCCS.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled annually during the school year. Informal conferences may be scheduled with your child's teacher at any time. Communication is a vital component of the Butte Central Catholic Schools' philosophy.
GENERAL SCHOOL RULES:
Athletic and Activities:
Philosophy
BCCS strives to provide an athletic program that enhances our academic program and reflects the philosophy and objectives of our school. As such, the primary goal of our athletic program is to provide an atmosphere in which the students gain an appreciation of his/her role in the family and the community through developing an appreciation of his/her role as a member of an athletic team. This concept implies many things, including:
- The student should be taught the skills necessary to contribute his/her best ability to the team.
- The student should be provided the opportunity to participate so he/she can begin to realize and fulfill his/her role.
- The student should be provided the opportunity to develop his/her self-dignity and the recognition of the dignity of fellow teammates and opponents.
Participation (Junior High: 6th-8th)
Each student has the right to participate in the activities of his/her choice. The student may forfeit his/her right to participate temporarily based on the discipline policies found in the BCCS Manual and at the discretion of the principal. Participation in athletics and activities is encouraged, but presupposes satisfactory academic performance as well as satisfactory deportment and Christian conduct.
Each participant is evaluated weekly by each of his/her teachers. Students must maintain an acceptable level of class work in order to be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities. If a student is doing unsatisfactory work for a teacher or has incomplete assignments, it could be so designated on the eligibility form from that teacher. Students who are ineligible must attend all practices but are ineligible to play in any game until his/her work is acceptable. Eligibility notices will be sent home weekly.
ACTIVITY REGULATIONS (BCCS Policy for Junior High Students):
To participate in extra-curricular activities at BCCS, students must comply with the following regulations:
- On the day of an event, student participants must be in school on time and remain for the entire day (all seven periods). The tardy bell is 8:15 a.m. After 8:20 a.m. it becomes an absence for 1 st period. If this occurs, a student is ineligible to practice or participate in their extracurricular activity for the day.
- IIf the activity falls on a non-school day, the student participant must be in school all seven periods on the nearest school day prior to the event. On any shortened day that does not have a lunch period; students must be in school the full day. A student remains eligible if a legitimate doctor's note is received for any absence during the day. Exceptions may be discussed with the Principal. Absences as the result of extraordinary circumstances beyond the student's control will be considered.
- Student participants placed on in-school-suspension (ISS) for any reason, will be eligible to practice during the suspension, but ineligible for competition in the next regularly scheduled extracurricular activity.
Team Participation
Students will play on the team for their own grade unless there are an insufficient number of players to field a team.
- The principal may move students for the following reasons:
- A student is a year or older than other students of his/her grade level.
- The principal may move other students after discussing the situation with the affected coaches, parents and students. The decision to move the student rests with the principal.
Practicing/Playing Up
The priority of student participation in school sponsored activities is that students will be provided a fair opportunity to participate in the activities for the school in which they are enrolled. On occasion, junior high teams may be invited to practice with a high school team. This shall be called "practicing up".
Practicing up will not be a regularly scheduled event. When a practice up event occurs, it shall count as a regular practice for both teams and will be theonly practice of that day. Under no circumstance shall individual players be allowed to participate in a practice up without their school team present. Under no circumstances shall a grade school team practice up with the high school varsity team or high school varsity players. Practicing up may occur when each of the following conditions is met:
1. When an insufficient number of student participants to constitute a team exists
- This applies to only the teams and their respective numbers, as described below
- A basketball team has less than ten (10) players on its roster or available for practice
- A volleyball team has less than six (6) players on its roster or available for practice
- A softball team has less than ten (10) players on its roster or available for practice
2. When the high school coach requests a practice up date and time
- The high school coach may request a grade school team to practice up, in advance by first asking permission from the High School AD
- The High School AD will forward the request to the Grade School Principal
- The Grade School Principal holds the final decision for grade school participation and practicing up
3. When the coaches of both teams are present
- Practicing up shall occur as a "team" event, requiring both teams and both coaches to be present for the entire practice
4. When the parents of the participants are notified in advance of the event
- The coaches shall inform parents from their respective teams of the date and time of a practice up event
Sportsmanship
Butte Central's students are to develop an appreciation of the dignity of self and of others. Through stressing sportsmanship, the student and coaches will demonstrate their appreciation of this dignity through:
- abiding by the rules of the game
- refraining from the use of profanity
- refraining from the physical or verbal abuse of opponents and officials
- respecting Butte Central's and their opponents' fans
- respecting the property of Butte Central and of opposing team.
Coaching Decorum
BCCS coaches are role models for our students. As such, we expect them not only to teach the skills, but to also instill Catholic values and behavior and to promote sportsmanship through their own words and actions. It is important for the coaches to insure that students follow the guidelines of good sportsmanship and for the coaches to model good sportsmanship and Christian ideals. Coaches serve at the discretion of the School Principal and BCCS Athletic Director.
Coaches will be responsible for issuing equipment and uniforms and that equipment and uniforms are returned at the end of the season. Coaches must schedule gym time with the principal, and the schedule may be subject to change. In issuing equipment and scheduling, the upper grades will be given special consideration.
School Spirit
BCCS, while supporting a variety of athletic teams, is also a team in itself. As such, Butte Catholic Schools Council encourages staff, parents, coaches, patrons, and students to support all of our teams and to work with one another. Through teamwork, Butte Central will maintain a winning tradition no matter what its team win/loss records may be.
Class Parties
Room Parents will sponsor parties for the classes during the school year. Parents will be contacted to give assistance to Room Parents. Parties are normally held in the building
Parents will be informed as soon as possible of the date on which the school photographer will take individual and class photographs.
Dances
On occasion, dances are provided for all 6 th , 7 th , and 8 th grade students. School dances are provided quarterly from 10:35 a.m. - 12:20 p.m. The building principal along with the junior high faculty will be responsible for chaperoning these events.
After-school-care
The "After-School-Care" program is for after school supervision of students in K through 5th grade. This program runs concurrently with our academic calendar. Students not picked up following dismissal of school will be placed in the "After-School-Care" program and charged the hourly rate.
Wednesday - Newsletter
Each and every Wednesday a packet of information is sent home in a large manila envelope. This packet provides parents with information pertaining to school events. A $1.00 fee will be charged for replacement envelopes.
DRESS CODE AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE
The Official School Dress Code for male and female students (Option 1) is:
- Students will be fully clothed in neat, clean, and modest attire.
- Clothing will fully cover undergarments.
- Clothing will be free from tears, holes, and frayed edges.
- Clothing will not be excessively tight, worn, patched, or bizarre in design.
- Clothing will be free from any reference to illegal substances, drugs, alcohol, or tobacco.
- Clothing will be free from any reference to violence, sexual themes, gang identification, or anti-Christian themes and will not conflict with the mission or image of Butte Central Catholic Schools.
- Short pants with a hem length at mid-thigh or below may be worn at the administration's discretion.
- No shorts may be worn on Mass day.
- Shirts will have sleeves extending to the shoulder.
- Shirts will not have a picture, writing, or logo larger than the size of a fist.
- Any color dress pants are acceptable
- Hospital, military (camouflage), spandex, warm-up, tear-aways, and sweat pants are never allowed.
- Undershirts, tank tops, halter-tops, low-cut shirts, bare midriffs, and backless apparel are never allowed.
- Hooded sweatshirts, worn other than as a coat, are never allowed.
- Flip flops and excessively high heeled shoes are never allowed.
- Headphones are never allowed.
The Official School Dress Code for male students (Option 2) is:
- Any color jeans are acceptable (must be waist high/no low riders)
- Any color dress shorts (at a length of no less than mid-thigh)
- Black, gray, white, pink, maroon BC oxford style shirt (long sleeve or short sleeve)
- Black, gray, white, pink, maroon BC polo style shirt (long sleeve or short sleeve)
- Black, gray, white, pink, maroon BC turtleneck style shirt
- Black, gray, white, pink, maroon BC crew, v-neck, cardigan, or pull over sweater
BC ATTIRE IS AVAILABLE AT THOMAS'S AND THE MAC MERCANTILE
The Official School Dress Code for female students (Option 2) is:
- Any color jeans are acceptable (must be waist high/no low riders)
- Any color dress shorts/skirts (at a length of no less than mid-thigh)
- Black, gray, white, pink, maroon BC oxford style shirt (long sleeve or short sleeve)
- Black, gray, white, pink, maroon BC polo style shirt (long sleeve or short sleeve)
- Black, gray, white, pink, maroon BC turtleneck style shirt
- Black, gray, white, pink, maroon BC crew, v-neck, cardigan, or pull over sweater
BC ATTIRE IS AVAILABLE AT THOMAS'S AND THE MAC MERCANTILE
Illness or Accident During the School Day
Illness
If a child becomes ill during the day, it is always in his best interest to go home. It is the responsibility of the family to provide transportation for this purpose. Be sure you have signed the registration form and have given emergency information with your name, phone number, doctor, and person to be reached if you cannot be contacted.
Accident
The school aims to enforce rules to protect your child from accidents. If an accident should occur, first aid will be administered, parents will be notified, and action will be taken according to instructions given by parents or the person named on the emergency form. In no instance will a sick or injured child be sent home unless a responsible person is at home to receive the child.
Medication
Regulations forbid the administration of any internal medication, including aspirin, to a student by school personnel without the advance permission of a physician. Authorized personnel must dispense all medications.
Lost and Found
Lost and found articles will be kept in the Lost and Found Box. Articles not claimed at the end of each quarter will be given to the Goodwill.
Network Acceptable Use
- BCCS has a filtered Internet service in the school. The Internet is available to all computers online with the school's network, including all computers in the computer room and library. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner.
- Access is a privilege - not a right. Access entails responsibility. Violations may result in loss of access and disciplinary or legal action.
- Parental and/or guardian permission is required for students to access the network. Access to the Internet will enable students to explore thousands of libraries, databases and bulletin boards while exchanging messages with Internet users throughout the world. Although the Internet at SJS is filtered, it is impossible to filter all that may be offensive. Families are warned that some material accessible via the Internet might contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive.
- We believe the benefits to students from access to the Internet, in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, exceed the disadvantages. Ultimately, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media information sources. To that end, Butte Central Catholic Schools (BCCS) supports and respects each family's right to decide whether to apply for access.
- To gain access to e-mail and the Internet, all students under the age of 18 must obtain parental or guardian permission. Network Acceptance Use form must be signed and returned to school.
- Individual users of the computer network are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. It is expected that users will comply with school standards and will honor the agreements they have signed.
- Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are utilizing the system responsibly. Files stored on servers are not private.
- Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored. Teachers will guide students toward appropriate materials.
- Use of the computer network is limited to educational purposes only.
The following activities are prohibited :
- damaging computers, computer systems, software or computer networks
- sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures, hate mail, obscene language or discriminatory remarks
- all anti-social behavior such as harassing or insulting others
- attempts to use other people's passwords or access other people's files
- intentionally wasting limited resources
- violating copyright laws
Student Attendance
Butte Central expects students to attend each class, on time, every day
BCCS recognizes that school attendance has a direct impact on a student's level of academic achievement. In order to make the most of one's educational opportunity, a student must have consistent, punctual daily attendance. School attendance, according to the State of Montana , is ultimately the responsibility of the student and his/her family and the responsibility of BCCS is to provide, monitor, and adjust appropriate attendance procedures to enhance the curriculum and educational opportunities.
BCCS believes that students should remain out of school only when absolutely necessary, as the classroom experience cannot be replaced in the home. The benefits of scholastic development are lost to those who are absent from school and daily classroom attendance is a vital key to student success.
BCCS supports communication efforts between the school and family and therefore will notify the family of deficient attendance in an appropriate and timely manner.
BCCS recognizes the obligation it has as a Catholic school to assist those students and their families if a student chooses to violate the Attendance Policy. However, in the case of those students who repeatedly abuse the Attendance Policy and choose to not take school attendance seriously, BCCS will provide continual consequences that may ultimately end up in a student expulsion.
Absences
If a child will be absent from classes, parents are requested to notify the school by 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. If a child is absent and no notice has been received by 9:00 a.m. , parents will be contacted by the school to verify that the absence is valid.
No student may leave the school grounds during school hours (including recess and lunch periods) without permission from the principal granted upon prior written request of the parent or guardian.
Pupils absent from school are expected to make up assignments. The student is responsible for getting his/her homework assignments from each of his teachers. Make-up work should be requested by 9:00 a.m. and will be available in the office after 2:45 p.m. All tests missed during absences will be made up as directed by the teacher.
The school recognizes that certain travel experiences and some extra curricular activities enhance overall development; nevertheless, such absences place an extra burden upon teachers and fellow students when the returning student attempts to "catch-up" with the rest of the class. Any family contemplating an event, which will cause a student to miss in excess of two days of school, should contact the principal and affected teachers well in advance to seek school approval. Unless prior agreement is reached, teachers are not required to work extra time to prepare or review assignments or give make-up lessons for students missing regular classes under these circumstances.
Partial Absence
The parent must provide written or verbal notification to the teachers or office before medical, dental or personal absences. Students will not be allowed to leave school without parental permission.
Extended Absences
Any student who is absent from school thirty (30) days or more in one (1) year shall repeat that year of education unless:
- the student has been physically or mentally ill and is able to show satisfactory proof of such illness
- the student has received a course of study at home, which, in the opinion of the BCCS Administration qualifies the student to advance with his or her class.
- In all instances, the building administration will make the final decision.
- Parents will also be notified at the end of each quarter if absences seem excessive.
Tardiness
Any student arriving late for class must report to the office and obtain an admission slip to be presented to the teacher before being admitted to class. Excessive tardiness will be considered absenteeism and will jeopardize the student's advancement.
ACTIVITY REGULATIONS (BCCS Policy for Junior High Students):
To participate in extra-curricular activities at BCCS, students must comply with the following regulations:
- On the day of an event, student participants must be in school on time and remain for the entire day (all seven periods). The tardy bell is 8:15 a.m. After 8:20 a.m. it becomes an absence for 1 st period. If this occurs, a student is ineligible to practice or participate in their extracurricular activity for the day.
- If the activity falls on a non-school day, the student participant must be in school all seven periods on the nearest school day prior to the event. On any shortened day that does not have a lunch period; students must be in school the full day. A student remains eligible if a legitimate doctor's note is received for any absence during the day. Exceptions may be discussed with the Principal. Absences as the result of extraordinary circumstances beyond the student's control will be considered.
- Student participants placed on in-school-suspension (ISS) for any reason, will be eligible to practice during the suspension, but ineligible for competition in the next regularly scheduled extracurricular activity.
Student Discipline and Conduct
All students are expected to act with respect and responsibility toward BCCS policies, personnel, property, visitors, and students.
BCCS strives to provide an educational opportunity that seeks to form Christian leaders spiritually, intellectually, physically, and culturally. In order to maintain and enhance the learning environment a positive educational environment, BCCS students are expected to follow a disciplinary code and exhibit a strong sense of moral responsibility.
BCCS students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects favorably on themselves, their families, their school, and the Catholic community. Students will conduct themselves inside and outside of school and at school related activities in a manner that reflects the moral teachings of the Catholic Church. The conduct of students outside of school as well as during school does reflect on BCCS and the Butte Catholic Schools . Therefore, any student whose behavior and/or lifestyle inside or outside of school may be subject to disciplinary action by the school.
In the event a student chooses to violate the Discipline Code, the education, growth, and development of the student shall be the major concern in all disciplinary planning and action, as well as the education, growth, and development of all BCCS students.
Unacceptable Behavior
Certain student behaviors qualify as serious unacceptable behavior and should not be tolerated within the school community. Among the behaviors, but not limited exclusively to them, would be the following:
- disrespect for faculty, staff, visitors, and/or other students
- abusive or unacceptable language
- any form of assault and/or harassment, including verbal and physical
- bringing onto school premises or concealing on his/her person illegal substances, including tobacco, alcohol, or drugs not prescribed by a physician, pornographic material or weapons of any sort
- willful destruction of school or personal property
- dishonesty, stealing, and/or cheating
- a pervasive attitude of generalized disregard for school policy, personnel, or property.
Classroom Rules
- The student will come to class prepared to learn. Students will be on time with their books, pencils, homework, and materials.
- The student will respect the rights of other students. Students will not hit, push, kick, throw objects, put down other students or do any action which disrupts the right of other students to learn and/or feel safe.
- Students will respect the right of the teacher to teach. Students will follow directions of the teacher, obey the teacher, and comply with any rule established by the teacher to make the room conducive to learning.
Lunchroom/Playground Rules
- Students will respect the rights of other students. Students will not do any act that might injure another student physically or emotionally, such as: hitting, pushing, kicking, throwing objects, or put-downs.
- Students will respect themselves. Students will not do any act that will injure themselves, such as: playing in unsafe areas, using the playground equipment improperly, climbing fences, or playing outside a designated area. Students will not swear.
- Students will respect the rights of the property. Students will not do any act which will damage property, such as: defacing property, throwing or kicking balls toward the windows, shaking the backboards, or littering on the school property.
- Students will obey the teachers and staff of the school.
Disciplinary Actions
- Any violation of the discipline code shall be confronted and settled promptly.
- Disciplinary measures to correct a student's behavior are intended to be progressive and increase in their stringency.
- Depending on the severity of the Disciplinary Code violation, the school administration reserves the right to determine the action level at which the violation is handled, up to and including student expulsion.
Conference with the Student
The teacher will have a personal conference with the student to discuss the inappropriate behavior. The parent may be contacted.
Time-Out
The student can be placed in a location in the classroom or outside the classroom that will be away from other students. The teacher will have a conference to explain the behavior the student must correct. Students cannot be restricted from attending a classroom of another teacher unless there is a mutual agreement with the teachers, and the principal is notified. Students can lose their free time. Parents may be notified.
Detention
- A student remains at school for a period of time beyond the normal dismissal hour to perform designated tasks under the supervision of a faculty or staff member. The duration of a detention shall depend upon the nature of the offense, but shall not exceed one and one-half hours per day.
- A student shall report to the assigned detention room immediately following the last school period on the day after the imposed detention. The principal must approve any substitution in advance.
- Unexcused absence from detention will make a student liable for "suspension."
- Parents will be contacted before the enforcement of any detention by a telephone call or detention slip. Should a detention slip be sent home, it is the responsibility of the student to see that his or her parent receives this notice from the school. This notice must be signed by the parent and returned to the school the next day.
- Transportation home from school after detention will be the responsibility of the student's parents.
In-School Suspension (ISS)
While assigned ISS, the student is excluded from attending classes and participating in school activities for a specific and limited period of time not less than one-half day. Parents of a suspended student will be notified immediately, and the student shall not return to classes until the parent and student meet personally with the principal and a satisfactory resolution of the offense is reached.
Out-of-school Suspension ( OSS )
While assigned OSS , the student is excluded from the school and all school related activities for a specified and limited period of time not less than two days. Parents of a suspended student will be notified immediately, and the student will not be reinstated in school until the parent and student meet personally with the principal and a satisfactory resolution of the offense is reached.
Expulsion
Expulsion from BCCS is the permanent removal of a student from Butte Catholic Schools and will meet one or more of the following criteria:
- formal charges have been filed against the student for the commission of a crime
- the student's actions violate moral turpitude, the mission of Butte Catholic Schools , or Catholic doctrine
- the student has been arrested or accused of same pending outcome of investigation or adjudication of innocence or guilt
- other avenues of remediation of the unacceptable behavior have been exhausted
- the moral and/or physical well being of the student and/or school community is at risk
- the student in question exhibits prolonged and/or open disregard for Catholic doctrine, Butte Catholic School 's policy, school personnel, or school property
- final determination of expulsion rests with the Building Principal
- in situations where expulsion is warranted, BCCS may first give the student the opportunity to voluntarily withdraw.
Safety Habits
Parent cooperation is needed to build good safety habits in the children. In addition to your own safety guidelines, please urge your child to:
- walk on sidewalks
- cross only at intersections or crosswalks
- refuse to enter automobiles that are being driven and/or occupied by someone not well known to the child
- exercise good sportsmanship and fair play.
BCCS shall comply with Montana State Codes and perform emergency drills throughout the school year. When a drill requires that students evacuate, children must leave the building in absolute silence and remain in both silence and rank outside. This is necessary to avoid panic and insure orderly exiting from the building.
Before and after school, the streets surrounding the school are congested with BCCS parents, students, and vehicles, which produces a hazardous environment for BCCS students. To help make this a more safe time, parents are asked to:
- Use the south entrance to Delaware Street
- Do not park on Delaware Street
- Keep the flow of traffic moving
- Parking is available adjacent to our playground
Student Services
Hot Lunch Program
BCCS participates in the Butte Hot Lunch Program. Hot lunch is served in the school cafeteria each full school day. A menu is sent home at the beginning of each month. Free/reduced lunch applications are available in the school office. Lunch meals should be purchased daily or monthly. Hot lunch notices are sent home with your child when his/her money is depleted. If your child's lunch card has a negative balance please send additional money to the office. Any account that reaches -$5.00 will be contacted by the office.
Milk is included in the hot lunch program. Those bringing their own lunches also can purchase milk separately.
Fast Food" is available to all 6 th , 7 th , and 8 th grade students. A "Fast Food" card can be purchased at the office.
The school will make a concerted effort to hold vision, hearing, and scoliosis screenings, as well as a dental fluoride program for the students of Butte Central. If problems arise in any of these areas, parents will be notified to secure further follow-up by their family physician.
The school library will be open on a daily basis to serve all the students of Butte Central. Reference books may not be taken from the school library. Fines or fees are imposed for overdue, lost or damaged books.
Students will be supervised from 15 minutes before the first class of the day until 15 minutes after dismissal of the last class, during detention periods and during field trips. Students attending school sponsored early education or after school care programs will be supervised in accordance with the rules and conditions applicable to those programs. The school is not otherwise responsible for the supervision of students.
Students may not use the school telephone except in emergencies. Articles or written messages for students shall be delivered to the principal's office to be given to the students at the next class break. Routine messages are discouraged.
Students are discouraged from bringing valuable items or large amounts of money to school.
Parents and guardians are invited and encouraged to visit the school at any time. If a parent wishes to visit a classroom, we ask that prior arrangements be made with the teacher involved. All parental visitors are asked to check in at the school office before going to a particular classroom. Teachers are rarely free for consultation with parents during class hours. This time belongs to the children, and the teachers are expected to carry on their usual routine during parental visits.
Walkmans, Discmans & Cellular Telephones
BCCS does not allow the use of cellular telephones, walkmans or discmans during the school day. Unless a teacher authorizes them for educational purposes, these items should be left at home.
Unauthorized use of cellular telephones, walkmans or discmans will be immediately confiscated in the school building. Confiscated items may be picked up by a parent from the school administration after the first offense. If a second confiscation occurs, the items will be taken away permanently.
As people in a Catholic environment, we have the responsibility to be "Christ-like" with each other, treating all fellow people with dignity, respect, and trust. As people involved in an educational institution, we have an obligation to learn from each other, acknowledging that learning best occurs when people listen and talk with compassion and honesty. As people who are dedicated teachers and supportive parents, we tend to be far more receptive when we receive information directly, rather than through "the grapevine". Please help us to keep the lines of communication open and improve our learning, Catholic environment!
In order to facilitate productive communication and trust among us, when there is a suggestion, concern, or complaint - take it immediately to the person(s) involved. If a concern or complaint has been communicated to the involved person(s) and there is not a satisfactory dialogue or resolution, please present the concern or complaint to the next level of administration.
The levels of Administration are as follows:
- Faculty, school support staff, and other school employees.
- School building administrator..
- Helena Diocesan Superintendent of Schools.
- Bishop of the Helena Diocese.
A helpful reminder that all communication is best offered and received in the appropriate time and place. "Drop In" conferences and dialogue that occurs in the "heat of battle" are rarely productive and tend to cause further harm. Please show courtesy by scheduling a conference and communicate with respect.
