V. NORMS OF STUDENT CONDUCT
Parental Expectations: Failure of parents to cooperate with school administration, faculty, coaches or personnel and to support the spirit and letter of the school rules will jeopardize their student's enrollment at the school. The Principal is the sole person who shall determine if a parent’s or parents’ attitude or behavior is too unsupportive for the student to continue at St. Ignatius.
As members of this Christian community, all of our actions should reflect Gospel values of love and respect for ourselves and for each member of the St. Ignatius community. The fundamental norm is the commandment that we love God and our neighbor. Our goal is to treat each St. Ignatius student as an individual, and to respect him or her. The student, in turn, must assume responsibility for his or her actions. If there is a conflict, none of us can afford to be myopic in our view. Our relationship must be based on trust and an openness to the viewpoints of others; this includes respect for all cultures, races, gender and nationalities. To that end, students who deceive or lie to faculty or administration – especially during a disciplinary investigation – are liable for dismissal.
A student is expected to be diligent in his or her studies. The student’s class attendance is expected to be both regular and punctual. The student’s speech, manners and personal grooming are expected to reflect a respect for himself or herself and for the rights and sensibilities of others. Further, the Deans of Students will counsel a student who violates the rights of another or who shows a lack of respect for those rights. We consider a student as severing himself or herself from this community if his or her behavior shows little improvement after such counseling.
Concerning physical displays of affection: because such exclusive behavior can detract from the St. Ignatius community spirit, it is not considered appropriate for students to engage in public, physical displays of affection in the school building or on the school grounds.
Since parents are the primary educators of their children, the responsibility for the development of the discipline necessary to achieve intelligent, self–directed behavior belongs primarily to them. Parents cannot abdicate their responsibility for the conduct and actions of their sons and daughters during school hours, school-sponsored events or off campus.
Open and honest communication and responsibility are fundamental to the relationship between families and St. Ignatius. Thus, no one should have the expectation that anonymous communications will be acted upon. However, confidentiality will be respected in all cases.
The administration reserves the right to separate any student from St. Ignatius College Preparatory whose attitude or behavior, or whose parents' attitude or behavior, are inconsistent with the values and goals of this school. The Principal is the sole person who shall determine if the student’s attitude or behavior is inconsistent with the school’s values.
Statement of Reserved Rights: St. Ignatius College Preparatory reserves the right to modify or depart from the provisions in this Handbook, to further serve and protect the student body and the mission of the school. St. Ignatius reserves the right to investigate and discipline any student conduct that the school, in its discretion, believes to be contrary to mission or otherwise detrimental to the school community.
Attendance of Classes
Attendance—Students are expected to attend all of their classes and to be on time for these classes. Only illness or other serious circumstance should cause a student's absence from class. Notes from parents or guardians are always required when a student returns to school after an absence. The school's policy recognizes excused absence and unexcused absence from classes. Essentially, unexcused absences may affect a student's academic standing.
Excused absences: Illness, family funerals, retreats, retreat leadership, InSignis events for Campus Ministry, and athletic department approved sporting events. Students who miss class for these reasons may make up tests or turn in late homework assignments; they will suffer no academic penalty. Makeup of assignments and tests must be done within one week of return from retreats.
Retreat absences: Every student has a right to attend a Campus Ministry sponsored retreat each year. Students will be extended the regular accommodations for excused absences. This accommodation extends beyond our classrooms to all co-curriculars unless the retreat interferes with games or ticketed performance. However, Juniors and Seniors should make every effort to schedule retreats during the time when they are less committed toschool co-curriculars.
Unexcused absences: Family vacations, college visits, athletic events not approved by the athletic department. Students who choose to miss class for these reasons may not be allowed to make up any missed homework, tests, or in-class assignments.
Excused and unexcused absences will be indicated on the daily master absentee list from the Deans' Office. The Deans' Office will publish the names of students who have unexcused absences.
If a student is absent 10 times or more from any class during any given semester, whether "excused" or "unexcused," he or she is liable to receive no credit for that class for that semester, unless there is medical verification for the absences. The 10-or-more-absence rule includes all absences (including school-related ones) with the exception of attendance at retreats, school assemblies or reconciliation services. This rule may be waived or modified by the Principal and Assistant Principal for Academics in cases of extreme circumstances. Any such waiver or modification shall be made in the sole discretion of the Administration.
Parents will be mailed notification from the Deans' Office when their son/daughter has reached six absences in any one class.
Students who have 10 or more absences due to extraordinary circumstances may submit a written petition to the Dean of Students explaining the reasons for the absences and requesting credit for the course(s).
When a student is absent, the student’s parent or guardian must call the Deans' Office (731–8571) before 9:00 a.m. and send a note with the student upon his or her return to school, explaining the reason for absence. Absentee notes must be given to the Deans' Office by 8:15 a.m. Students who fail to report their absence by 9:00 a.m. must be considered truant and liable for suspension. Students who neglect to check in with the Deans' Office after an absence will be assigned detention. The attendance office will not accept emails for an absence or tardy. A call must be made to the attendance office.
Medical, dental or other appointments should be scheduled after school, on school holidays, or during vacation periods.
Students who must leave school for any reason during the school day must report to the Deans' Office before leaving campus.
Recording of absences and tardies will be kept by the Deans of Students. A student who is absent for six class meetings in any given semester may be readmitted to classes by a note from his parent or guardian. After the sixth absence in any given semester, the student must present a note from his or her physician for any further absence that semester before a return to classes. If a student is more than 10 minutes late for a class, the student is considered absent, the student absence will be recorded, and he or she will receive 1 day of detention.
Tardy students must report to the Deans' Office. Tardy students arriving without a note or a prior phone call from a parent may be assigned detention. When a student is seeing a counselor during class period, he/she must report to the Deans' Office before returning to class. Students may only be admitted to class by a note from the Deans' Office.
Students who cut a full day of classes will be suspended. A student who cuts a particular class will automatically receive 5 days of detention. On game or performance days, students that are involved are expected to be in class.
Use of Lockers
Lockers remain the property of the school and may be opened at any time by the administration. Assignment of lockers is made at registration, and changing lockers is rarely allowed by the Deans. Students who do not abide by this rule will forfeit the use of a locker. All excess equipment and bags must be stored in an appropriate locker during school hours. Any equipment, bag or personal belongings left unattended throughout the school will be taken to the Deans' Office. A fee of $5.00 must be paid before a student will be able to retrieve his or her belongings from the Deans. Any damage to lockers will be billed to students assigned to the lockers.
Lockers must be kept clean and orderly. Locker combinations should not be given to anyone. Only locks purchased at school are permitted on school and gym lockers. The school is not responsible for anything taken from the lockers.
A student shall not have an expectation of privacy within his or her locker. The school reserves the right at any time, with or without notice, to open and inspect any student’s locker, in the school building or in the athletic locker rooms, with or without cause.
Personal Appearance
It is the responsibility of the parents to see that their student leaves home properly dressed and groomed for school and school-sponsored activities. The enforcement of dress and grooming standards are the responsibility of the faculty supported by the Deans’ Office. Students are expected to be clean and neat in their personal grooming, observing the standards of modesty, moderation, and good taste. Extraordinary attire that disrupts due order and decorum within the classroom is prohibited. The Deans have the authority to call a student’s parents to pick up a student who is improperly dressed or have the parent bring appropriate clothes to the Deans’ Office. The periods missed until the student is appropriately dressed will be considered unexcused absences; the student will not be allowed to make up any missed homework, tests, or in-class assignments. Offenders of the dress code will be given after-school detention. A total of three dress-code detentions in a school year will result in a suspension of one day, at which time the student will report to the Deans’ Office and write a reflection paper. The absence is “unexcused,” and the periods missed will be made up in after-school detention. Subsequent detentions for dress code violations may result in suspension and disciplinary probation. The Administration reserves the right to make individual determinations affecting dress code policy.
Students' Dress Code
Shirts—Polo shirts of any color or with designs, with sleeves of any length, with at least 2 buttons and no more than 4 buttons and that fit loosely and fall below the waistband of the pants and/or skirts are the only shirts to be worn. Any visible midriff will result in student’s parents being called to bring an appropriately fitting polo. The student will be unexcused from class(es) until the appropriate shirt arrives and the student will be assigned to detention. All SI team and club polo shirts are acceptable. Any polo shirts that represent drug, alcohol and/or tobacco products, or other unacceptable organizations are not acceptable. The collar of the polo shirt must be visible at all times, even when worn under a sweater.
Pants/Walking Shorts—All pants must be clean, neat and properly fitting. Excessively tight-fitting pants or loose pants are not appropriate for school attire and may not be worn. Jeans are not permitted; pants that have writing on any part of them are not permitted; athletic pants, wind pants, sweat pants, workout pants, yoga pants, and pajama pants are not allowed; additionally, pants/shorts made out of denim, velour, flannel, fleece, and silk fabrics are not allowed. All pants, shorts, and cropped pants must fall below the knee. Athletic shorts are not allowed. Any pants/shorts that have holes, patches, that are not hemmed or have ragged hems are inappropriate for school and may not be worn.
Outerwear—The collar of the polo shirt must be visible at all times. Any type of sweatshirt and sweater are allowed as long as the collar of the polo is visible at all times. Logos, designs, etc., that represent drug, alcohol and/or tobacco products or other unacceptable organizations are inappropriate and violate school policy. Sweatshirt hoods may not cover the head while indoors. Denim jackets, shirts, vests, etc., are not permitted.
Skirts and Dresses—Skirts of any color or pattern may be worn with a polo shirt/polo sweater top. Skirts/dresses that are too tight or that do not fall below the knee are not acceptable attire for school. Dresses may be worn at any time as long as they are modest in their design; no plunging necklines/backs and they must have sleeves or be worn with a covering that has sleeves. Excessive slits, sheer fabrics, denim, and tight-fitting skirts or dresses are inappropriate for school and may not be worn. Dresses or skirts that are worn over tights or leggings must fall below the knee.
Footwear —Shoes must be worn at all times.
Hair—The hair must be clean, combed and styled neatly. Distracting hairstyles are inappropriate and students will be asked to wear a hairstyle more appropriate for the school setting. Inappropriate hairstyles will be left to the discretion of the Deans. Unnatural coloring, streaking, bleaching, dying or highlighting that is considered distracting is inappropriate for school. Facial hair is not allowed. Unshaven students will be asked to shave, charged a fee of one dollar for the disposable razor and assigned detention.
Head Gear—Hats, caps, hoods, visors, scarves, and sports headbands are not allowed to be worn or to be held inside school premises, before, during or after school -- this includes both lunch hours. This includes from the Jesuit Residence to the foyer of the North Gym complex. Students in violation of this policy will have the head covering confiscated.
Jewelry—Excessive jewelry is not allowed. Multiple body piercing sites are distracting. Nose, tongue, lip, navel and eyebrow rings are not allowed. Jewelry that interferes with classroom performance and behavior is not allowed. Students who violate this rule will be asked to remove the excess jewelry. Detention may be assigned.
Make-up—Excessive or distracting make-up is unacceptable. Students will be asked to remove the offensive make-up.
Dress Up Attire for Special Events –
Boys Attire—Dress pants, shirt and tie, and dress shoes. Cargo pants, shorts and jeans are not acceptable. Shirts must be tucked in. Sneakers and flip-flops are not allowed.
Girls Attire—Dresses that are modest in appearance and within four inches of the middle of the knee cap. No plugging necklines or backs. Dressy pants may be worn with a polo shirt/sweater. Skirts may be worn as long as they fall below the knee. Skirts must be worn with a polo shirt/sweater. Sleeveless, sheer and short, tight-fitting polo shirts/sweaters and or dresses are inappropriate for the school and should not be worn. Flip flops of all kinds and sneakers are not appropriate for these occasions, all other dress shoes are acceptable.
Students who choose to violate the dress code will be asked to have the appropriate items brought to school by their parents before they will be allowed to participate in the event and detention will be assigned for the offense.
Misconduct
Alcohol & Drug Policy—St. Ignatius, as a Jesuit school, fosters respect for each individual member of the SI community and promotes the well-being, health, and safety of all students, faculty, parents, and alumni. The faculty and administration of St. Ignatius College Preparatory are committed to creating an alcohol- and drug-free environment at all school activities.
We expect that students’ activities in private homes reflect the same values and philosophy, and we encourage parents to communicate with other parents to achieve these ends. We expect that parents will not provide students access to alcohol or drugs in their homes and that they will supervise students’ social activities held at their house. Parents are also expected to participate in alcohol and drug education programs at SI (See calendar for scheduled parent education meetings).
The school’s policy towards alcohol and drug use is designed to:
- provide avenues for students to safely care for themselves and their friends;
- educate students, parents, and faculty about drugs and alcohol;
- promote enjoyable, drug/alcohol-free events;
- promote the health, well-being, and safety of our students and the larger community;
- promote trust and communication within the school community;
- allow community to enjoy co-curricular events of the school while maintaining a substance-free environment; and
- provide information about and assistance for students having difficulty with substance abuse.
All teachers, staff, and counselors at SI desire to support students dealing with substance abuse issues. No student who seeks assistance from the Counseling Department or who is referred to the Counseling Department by another member of the SI community regarding an issue with substance abuse will be subject to disciplinary consequences, provided the student is not otherwise in violation of a school rule. However, a student must not be under the influence of any substance when requesting assistance.
St. Ignatius College Preparatory recognizes that drug and alcohol use by minors under the age of 21 is illegal and that severe civil and criminal consequences exist for adults who provide alcohol and drugs to minors. Because we believe that alcohol and drugs present a grave health risk to our students and our community, the following consequences will apply if a student has been found to facilitate another student’s ability to use controlled substances, be under the influence of, possess, use, exchange, or purchase alcohol, illegal drugs, or unauthorized prescription drugs at schoolsponsored or school-related functions.
Consequences for Facilitating, Being Under the Influence of, Possessing, Using, Exchanging, or Purchasing Alcohol, Illegal Drugs or Unauthorized Prescription Drugs at St. Ignatius College Preparatory-Sponsored or St. Ignatius College Preparatory-Related Activities:
1st offense
- One day suspension either at home (must be supervised by parents) or at school, to be determined by the Deans
- Students will not be allowed to participate in or attend co-curricular activities, athletics events, dances, etc., for 28 calendar days. SI reserves the right to modify or extend the probation period at the discretion of the Deans’ Office.
- Professional assessment by in-house SI Drug/Alcohol Counselor. A copy of the assessment report will be provided to the Deans' Office and to the student’s academic counselor. Students and families must follow through with the recommendations of assessment. Failure to complete the assessment and/or follow through with counselor’s recommendations may result in recommendation for withdrawal or expulsion.
- The student may be required to participate in an alcohol/drug education program with an outside agency as recommended by the SI Alcohol and Drug counselor (i.e., visit hospitals, education through a nonprofit organization, etc.). Completion of this program will be verified by the Alcohol & Drug counselor.
- Peer counseling during the period of probation
2nd offense (occurring at any time during the student’s enrollment at St. Ignatius)
- One day suspension (must be supervised by parents)
- Students will not be allowed to participate in or attend co-curricular activities, athletics events, dances, etc., for 45 calendar days. SI reserves the right to modify or extend the probation period at the discretion of the Deans' Office.
- Professional assessment by outside counselor (paid for by parents). SI reserves the right to a copy of any professional assessment before removing conditions of above probation. A copy will be provided to the Deans' Office and to the student’s counselor. Students and families must follow through with recommendations of assessment. Failure to complete the assessment and/or follow through with counselor’s recommendations may result in recommendation for withdrawal or expulsion.
- The student will be required to participate in an education program with an outside agency as recommended by the SI Alcohol & Drug counselor (i.e., visit hospitals, education through a nonprofit organization, etc.). Completion of this program will be verified by the Alcohol and Drug counselor.
- The student and parent will be required to sign a personalized Disciplinary Probation Agreement that will include restrictions and guidelines for expected behavior set by the Dean of Students, with the approval of the Principal.
- Student will undergo regular counseling with SI’s Drug/Alcohol Counselor. At a minimum, the student will attend counseling during the period of probation; however, the counseling can be extended at the sole discretion of the Drug/Alcohol counselor.
3rd offense (occurring at any time during the student’s enrollment at St. Ignatius)
- May result in immediate expulsion.
- If student is not expelled, the student and parent will be required to sign a personalized Disciplinary Probation Agreement that will include restrictions and guidelines for expected behavior set by the Dean of Students, with the approval of the Principal.
Consequences for Facilitating, Being Under the Influence of, Possessing, Using, Exchanging, or Purchasing Alcohol, Illegal Drugs or Unauthorized Prescription Drugs at non-school-sponsored or non-school-related Activities:
1st offense and 2nd offense
- The same consequences as outlined above under 1st offense and 2nd offense except there will be no suspension.
3rd offense
- The same consequences as outlined above under 3rd offense.
Breathalyzer Testing—St. Ignatius reserves the right to subject any student at any time while on campus or at any school event, including sporting events, on or off campus, to breathalyzer testing should any administrator, teacher, coach or staff member suspect that the student is under the influence of or in possession of alcohol or if the student is in the company of another student or students who are suspected of being under the influence or in possession of alcohol.
Consequences for Selling Alcohol, Illegal Drugs, or Controlled Substances (Including Prescription Drugs):
Any student who sells alcohol, illegal drugs, or controlled substances on or off of the St. Ignatius College Preparatory campus or at St. Ignatius College Preparatory-sponsored events will be liable for immediate dismissal from school.
The student's signature on the Emergency Card indicates that he or she agrees to abide by this policy. Individual athletic teams or fine arts companies may also require their members to sign drug and alcohol policies in addition to this one.
Alteration of Records—A student who falsifies or alters a school record or any communication between home and school will automatically be suspended and liable for dismissal.
Extortion and/or Coercion—Extortion and/or coercion are expressly prohibited and an offender will automatically be suspended and liable for dismissal.
Gangs—A student associated with a gang, or a member of a gang, on or off campus is liable for dismissal.
Stealing—Stealing school property, the property of teachers or fellow students, or goods from an agency employed by the school results in automatic suspension, and the student is liable for dismissal.
Vandalism—Students who deface or damage school property shall be suspended and liable for dismissal from St. Ignatius; further, they will be subject to restitution and/or punishment provided by law.
Weapons and Dangerous Instruments—A student shall not knowingly possess, handle or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon: (a) on the school grounds at any time, (b) off the school grounds at any school activity, function or event, or (c) while en route between home and school. Offenders will be dismissed.
Bus Conduct—Disruptive conduct on city buses or school buses will result in automatic disciplinary action, possible suspension and, in severe cases, the student will be liable to dismissal from St. Ignatius.
Disruptive Conduct—Conduct which interferes with the educational process is considered serious at St. Ignatius and may result in immediate suspension.
Fighting—Any fighting between students at school or a school-sponsored event will result in suspension and, in severe cases, the student will be liable for dismissal.
Wrong Place Wrong Time—Students involved in activities off campus that conflict with the values of the school, whether the student is an active participant in the conduct or not, are liable for disciplinary action.
Harm to Oneself/Others—Any student endangering him/herself, or others, or threatening to do so, immediately affects the welfare of the entire St. Ignatius community. Therefore, all members of the St. Ignatius community are obligated to notify a St. Ignatius counselor to ensure the safety of the individual(s) at risk. The counselor will in turn report to the student's parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or a protective service agency. Professional care may become a requirement for continued enrollment. The Counseling Department will be responsible for coordinating such care. Students who threaten harm to themselves or others in the community will receive automatic disciplinary action, possible suspension and, in severe cases, the student will be liable for dismissal.
Insubordination—Willful disobedience or failure to comply with a directive from any faculty or staff member of St. Ignatius College Preparatory is insubordinate behavior and liable for suspension.
Off Campus Without Permission—Students are to remain on campus at all times. Whenever a student needs to leave campus, he/she must receive a pass from the Deans' Office. Students who leave campus without permission will be given one week's detention. A second offense, any time throughout a student's term at St. Ignatius, will result in automatic suspension from school.
Police Investigation—As member of the greater community, the school will respond to police investigation in an appropriate way. If the police come on campus to question a student concerning a matter not directly related to a school incident, the parents of a student and the student will be notified as soon as possible. The police will be asked to arrange an interview with the student after school hours and off school premises. Absent a search warrant or arrest warrant, or other circumstances justifying an immediate interview, a student will not be interviewed at school.
Presented with a search warrant, arrest warrant, or notified by police of exigent circumstances in a police investigation, the school will allow a student to be interviewed by police at school. Parents of that student will be notified as soon as reasonably possible.
The school reserves the right to call the police and allow students to be questioned in an investigation of a school-related incident. The parents of students interviewed under these circumstances will be notified. Students cited by the police in any criminal investigation will be subject to investigation and possible disciplinary action by the school.
Investigations of Misconduct—In the event of any allegation of serious misconduct, St. Ignatius reserves the right to place the student on home study pending the conclusion of any investigation by the school or outside law enforcement. S.I. may commence its disciplinary procedures at any time. If the investigation continues for an extended period of time, the student may be asked to withdraw from the school.
Pornographic Materials—Students in possession of, selling, promoting pornographic material, or engaged in Internet activity with pornographic material, will result in automatic disciplinary action, possible suspension and, in severe cases, the student will be liable for dismissal.
Racism And/Or Prejudiced Behavior—Students who exhibit verbal and/or physical behavior of a racist or prejudiced nature towards any other member of the community at school or at any school-sponsored event will be disciplined by the Deans. Students who continue racist and/or prejudiced behavior may be dismissed from St. Ignatius.
Smoking—Smoking and chewing tobacco are health hazards and are prohibited on the campus, at school events and within five blocks of the school property. Violators will be automatically suspended from school.
HARASSMENT
St. Ignatius College Preparatory affirms the dignity of every student. Harassment is unacceptable conduct that is severe, pervasive, and deliberate. Harassment occurs when an individual is subjected to treatment in a school environment, which is hostile, offensive or intimidating because of an individual's race, creed, color, national origin, physical disability, gender, or sexual orientation. Harassment of any student by any other student is prohibited and will not be tolerated. It is the policy of St. Ignatius College Preparatory to provide an educational environment in which all students are treated with respect and dignity.
Sexual Harassment—Includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment can be directed toward a student under conditions such as the following:
Verbal Harassment: Sexually demeaning comments, sexual statements, questions, slurs, jokes, anecdotes or epithets;
Written Harassment: Suggestive or obscene letters, notes or invitations;
Physical Harassment: Unkind, immoral and/or unlawful physical touching, contact, assault, deliberate impeding or blocking movements or any intimidating interference with normal study or movement;
Visual Harassment: Leering, gesture, display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures, cartoons or posters.
Student-to-Student Harassment
1. This policy prohibits student-to-student sexual harassment whether occurring at school, at a school activity, or otherwise, and occurring at any time.
2. Any student who engages in the sexual harassment of another student is subject to disciplinary action up to and including verbal and/or written warnings and reprimands, counseling, suspension and expulsion.
A charge of harassment shall not, in and of itself, create the presumption of wrongdoing. However, substantiated acts of harassment will result in disciplinary action up to, and including, dismissal. Students found to have filed knowingly false or frivolous charges will also be subject to disciplinary action up to, and including, dismissal. Depending on the nature and extent of the charge, if reasonable suspicion of misconduct is determined, the alleged harasser may be sent home pending conclusion of the investigation by the school. Students may be allowed to make up missed work. Discipline, up to dismissal may be imposed.
Student's Responsibility
It is the student's responsibility to:
- Conduct himself or herself in a manner that contributes to a positive school environment;
- Avoid any activity that may be considered discriminatory, intimidating or harassing;
- Report all incidents of discrimination or harassment to the Deans, Assistant Principal for Student Affairs, or the Principal;
- If informed that he or she is perceived as engaging in discriminatory, intimidating, harassing, or unwelcome conduct to discontinue that conduct immediately.
To promote an environment free of harassment, the Principal shall take appropriate actions such as removing vulgar or offending graffiti, establishing site rules and providing staff in-service or student instruction and counseling. Teachers shall discuss this policy with their students in age-appropriate ways and shall assure them that they need not endure any form of harassment. The school will treat allegations of harassment seriously and will review and investigate such allegations of harassment in a prompt, professional and thorough manner.
Disciplinary Action
Detention—Students may be detained after school for at least a 50-minute period beginning fifteen minutes after the dismissal bell. In some instances a student may also be detained before school (7:30 – 8:20 a.m.) or on Saturday. A student may be given detention by the Deans of Students or teachers. Students must report to detention on the day assigned, and no excuses will be accepted. This includes appointments, after-school employment, athletic events and seeing teachers. A student who fails to report to detention on the day assigned will automatically receive five days detention and is liable for suspension. Detention is assigned to students who are tardy for school and classes and for minor offenses.
JUG—Justice Under God (JUG) detention may be issued by the Deans for violations of school regulations, repeated offenses, excessive tardiness, or in addition to a suspension. Students who receive JUG will be expected to report to school early on a school day or on an assigned Saturday to serve their detention under the supervision of a Dean. Students will be expected to assist community members in various ways, including but not limited to campus clean-up, event set-up, and physical maintenance of facilities.
Suspension—For some disciplinary reasons, a student may be officially suspended from school. The student does not return to class until his or her parent or guardian has had a conference with the Deans of Students. The Deans of Students will determine whether a student will receive ahome suspension or an in-house suspension. The home suspension requires the student to remain home and write a reflection paper, and to make up missed classes with double after school detention upon return. An in-house suspension requires the student to report to Mr. Thomas at 8:15 am and is assigned projects throughout the school building or plant until 3:15 pm. Those students receiving in-house suspension are required to write a reflection paper and serve detention for double the class time missed.
During the suspension time, class work is to be kept up to date and is to be turned in to the teachers on return to class. It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with his or her teachers for make-up work and tests. The suspension includes exclusion from any and all school activities while the student is serving detention as a result of the suspension. If a student receives two suspensions in one year, he or she is liable for dismissal. Two-day suspensions will be noted on the student transcript and reported to colleges.
Discipline Board—The purpose of the Discipline Board is to determine the appropriate disciplinary action to be taken by the school regarding a student who because of misconduct, or other handbook violations, may be subject to disciplinary action resulting in suspension or dismissal from school.
The Discipline Board will be convened within two school days after it is determined that a student may be liable for dismissal. The Principal, Assistant Principal for Student Affairs or the Deans of Students may convene the Discipline Board. During Discipline Board deliberation(s), the Deans will inform the Board members of the alleged misconduct or violation(s). After Discipline Board deliberation(s), the members of the Discipline Board will make a final decision regarding student(s) suspension or dismissal and promulgate that decision to the student(s) and parent(s).
Parents may submit a letter to the Discipline Board in support of their child. Parents may not attend the Discipline Board meeting, nor bring legal counsel to the Discipline Board. The Discipline Board will not consider letters from legal counsel.
A student choosing to appeal the Discipline Board’s decision must do so in writing to the Principal within 24 hours of the decision. The Principal’s decision will be final.
The members of the Discipline Board are: Assistant Principal for Student Affairs, the Deans of Students, one faculty member selected by a vote of the entire faculty for a term of two years, and a faculty member proposed by the student council every year for one year term.
Disciplinary Probation—Students whose conduct warrants a stronger sanction than suspension may be placed on Disciplinary Probation. Probation usually lasts 6 to 12 months. A student on probation will be dismissed if he or she violates school regulations. Parents of a student placed on disciplinary probation will be asked to sign a Disciplinary Probation Contract before the student may return to school. Violation of the Disciplinary Probation Contract will result in dismissal.
Dismissal—Students are liable for dismissal for serious and or repeated misconduct as set forth in this Handbook. Any student whose attitude or behavior is inconsistent with the values and goals of the school, on or off campus is liable for dismissal.
Miscellaneous Student Regulations
Bike Rack—A bicycle rack is available for student use in the parking garage.
Campus Cleanliness—The faculty is encouraged to help our students to be responsible with their refuse. The faculty is encouraged to assign students to cleaning up the halls surrounding their classrooms before the beginning of the first period of the day and following recess.
Chewing Gum—Eating or chewing of gum is not permitted in the school building. Offenders will be assigned detention.
Conduct Off Campus—Students at school-sponsored, off-campus events shall be governed by school rules and regulations and are subject to the authority of the Deans of Students and discipline as if the conduct occurred on campus. Students are liable for discipline for off campus activity not sponsored by the school that conflict with school policy and regulations.
Dance Attendance—Students attending school dances may not leave the dance until the doors re-open 15 minutes prior to the end of the dance. Adult supervision will be provided outside for 30 minutes after the dance ends and the doors close.
Dance Passes—A Student Guest Pass for dances must be completed and returned to the Deans' Office by recess of the Thursday prior to the dance by any SI student bringing a guest to a school-sponsored dance. The guest pass must be signed by the SI student, the guest, and either the Dean or Assistant Principal of the guest's school. Passes are available in the Deans' Office.
No guest passes will be issued for the Fall Dances. Guest passes will be available for all other school dances and the Junior and Senior Proms. SI students may purchase individual bids to the Christmas Dance and both proms. Freshmen are highly discouraged from attending the Junior and Senior Prom and may only do so upon approval from the Deans and the Assistant Principal for Student Affairs.
Conduct at Dances—School dances are created for the enjoyment of all students. The music and the dancing cannot be offensive or create an atmosphere that makes anyone feel uncomfortable. Additionally, drugs and alcohol are illegal controlled substances. Students who are suspected of being under the influence of a controlled substance at a dance will be required to take the breathalyzer test. Those students who are under the influence will have their parents called to take them home, and the school drug/alcohol consequences as stated in the Student/Parent Handbook will be implemented. Furthermore, all students will be subject to random Breathalyzer testing when entering the dance and throughout the course of the dance.
The rental of hotel or motel rooms for parties is definitely not to be tolerated. The rental of buses or limos is not allowed since many students cannot afford this added luxury. Parent cooperation is expected in the above areas of concern, and disciplinary action will be taken by the school.
Music that is degrading, violent, sexually explicit, or has inappropriate content, will not be allowed to be played at St. Ignatius College Preparatory school dances. Front to front dancing is appropriate for St. Ignatius dances. Sexually explicit dancing (genital touching, front-to-back grinding, pelvic thrusting, dancing on the floor, sandwich dancing and bending over or other simulated sex acts) is not allowed. Any dancing that involves physical bumping, shoving, pushing etc. is not allowed, is not appropriate and offenders will be asked to stop and/or their parents will be called to take them home. Disciplinary action may be taken.
Dress for Dances—Students and guests attending St. Ignatius dances are expected to be clean and neat in their personal grooming, observing the standards of modesty, moderation, and good taste. Blue jeans will be allowed, as long as they are within the standard of pants/shorts as specified in the handbook; polo shirts are not required; however, all shirts or tops must have sleeves and must fit properly. Offensive slogans are not appropriate and will not be allowed. Offenders of this dress code will be asked to leave the dance, and their parents will be called to pick them up. If the dance is a date dance, the offender and his/her date will both be asked to leave the dance and will be picked up by their parents. The dance dress code for school dances will be printed on the back of each bid. Specific rules regarding proms will be posted on the SI website.
Christmas Dance—To ensure the attendance of St. Ignatius students who wish to attend, the Christmas Dance will be closed to guests.
Eating in Classroom—Students may not eat during class time.
Electronic Devices—Cell phones, pagers, ipods, discmans, etc., are allowed as long as they do not interfere or cause distraction in the classroom/building. Cell phones may only be used outside the school building. Students who violate this rule will have their electronic device confiscated and disciplinary action may be taken.
Elevator—Students may not use the elevator unless they have permission from the Deans' Office.
Gambling—Gambling of any kind is not allowed on campus.
Guitars/Instruments—Students will not be able to play guitars/musical instruments in the school building or student center during school hours. Amplifiers are not allowed at any time.
Laser Pointers—Laser pointers are considered weapons and are not allowed in the school building. Those students who possess or use them are liable for dismissal. See Weapons and Dangerous Instruments in this Student/Parent Handbook.
Library—Silence must be observed in the library at all times.
Lost and Found—Lost and found items may be turned in or claimed in the Library. Unclaimed items are discarded after thirty days. The school cannot be responsible for items or valuables left in classrooms, hallways, Student Center or athletic areas.
As a matter of policy, students are encouraged to write their name in their textbooks and notebooks in order to facilitate their return in case they are lost.
Lunch/Recess Times—Students choosing to eat their lunch in the Commons or Student Center are expected to clean up after themselves at all times. Students are also expected to recycle as much as possible. Full cooperation with the lunch and recess proctors is expected. Students violating the standards of behavior in the Commons or the Student Center will be subject to disciplinary action.
Students are directed not to congregate in front of the school or the first floor hallways (front of Deans' Office, Academic Office, etc.) during recess and lunch periods.
Parking Garage—The garage is for students and faculty who have a parking permit clearly displayed on the front windshield of their vehicle. Those vehicles parked in the parking garage that do not have a school permit visible, park in school van spaces, park in handicap spaces, park in undesignated areas or park in spaces marked for motorcycles may be towed at the owner’s expense. If you need a parking permit, please see the Deans.
To ensure the safety of everyone using the garage, only right turns may be made when exiting the garage onto Rivera Street.
Students who wish to park in the garage and on 37th Avenue between Quintara and Rivera Streets will be required to have a parking permit displayed in the driver’s side windshield of their vehicle. To register vehicle(s) and receive parking permit(s), please see the Deans.
Payments—Payments made for any activity over the amount of $20.00 must be in the form of a check or money order.
Public Displays of Affection—Students and staff members are offended when exposed to certain behaviors between students. Students are to refrain from any public display of affection that would offend others. The following actions are unacceptable: kissing on the lips, sitting on another student's lap, licking, hugging/holding from behind (front to back) and touching another student's body in an inappropriate way or location. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action by the Deans.
911 Calls for Illness—911 will be called for students who exhibit health issues that require immediate care, in the opinion of the deans. Parents will be notified of the decision immediately and the student will be transported to an available hospital. All costs are the responsibility of the student’s family.
Skateboards—Skateboards are not allowed on school premises; they will be confiscated, and violators are liable for disciplinary action by the Deans.
Sports Bags, Backpacks, Oversize Bags and Equipment, Other Personal Belongings Left Unattended—All unattended bags and/or equipment left in public places will be confiscated and placed in the Deans’ Office. Students will be assigned afternoon detention and a $5.00 fee to recover their property. Detention and payment must be completed on the day of the confiscation and before the belongings will be returned to the student. Sports locker should be used for athletic equipment. Personal lockers should be used for additional belongings. A student shall not have an expectation of privacy as to the contents of any backpack, purse, sports bag or other item brought to campus or to an off campus school event or sporting event. The school reserves the right at any time to open and inspect any item brought to school or to a school event.
Student Sales—The solicitation of students or the selling of goods, candy and paraphernalia (i.e. shirts, sweatpants, sweatshirts) to other students is forbidden. Students who wish to promote their club/activity or school sport in this manner must have the guidance and approval of their moderator and the Assistant Principal for Student Affairs. As a rule, clubs/activities that have a budget will not be allowed to solicit other students.
Student Transportation—Students are NOT permitted to park on 37th Avenue between Pacheco and Quintara Streets. The area between Pacheco and Quintara Streets is for faculty and visitors to the school. Students are asked to refrain from parking on 36th Avenue between Pacheco and Rivera Streets. Students should refrain from parking in the West Sunset parking lot due to the high number of cars vandalized there in past years. Students who violate these rules will be liable for disciplinary action.
Student Visitors—No student may bring visitors onto campus for class visitations without permission of the Dean of Students or Associate Dean of Students. All visitors must check in at the Main Office and receive a "Visitor's Pass."
Teacher Proctor Absence—In the rare event that a teacher or proctor does not arrive for class, students are to wait in a quiet manner either outside the classroom or in the room. If, after the second bell has rung, the teacher or proctor still has not arrived, one student is to go to Room 101 to alert either the Academic Coordinator or the Assistant Principal for Academics. Students are not to leave the classroom unless directed to do so by the Academic Coordinator or the Assistant Principal for Academics.
Telephone Messages—Messages will be delivered to a student only in the case of an emergency. Other messages will be posted on the Message Board outside the Deans' Office. Students are responsible for checking this board.
Unstructured Time—There are no free periods at St. Ignatius, and students may not study or congregate in the halls while classes are in session. Students enrolled in a study period are required to check in with the study hall proctor in the Activities Center Computer Lab, and then are restricted to the Computer Lab, Library, or Student Activities Center. Students may not wander the halls during their study period. The Academic building is to be vacated by 4:00 p.m., the Activities Center by 5:00 p.m.
Students are not to be in the main school building during their lunch period. They must remain outside, in the Commons, Campus Ministry or Student Center, then proceed to their locker and class when the bell rings. Teachers will assign detention to students who congregate in the hallways at lunch periods.
Visitors—All visitors are asked to report to the Main Office upon their arrival. An identifying badge will be distributed to visitors.