SAINT ANN CATHOLIC SCHOOL

  “Education of Spirit, Mind, and Body” 

 2025-2026

Family Handbook 

“Be who you are and be that well.”

Saint Francis De Sales

Phone Number: (239) 262-4110  

School Fax: (239) 262-3991

Address:  542 Eighth Avenue South, Naples, Florida 34102

School Office Hours: 7:30AM – 3:30PM

Website: www.stann.net 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/SaintAnnSchool 

Accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference  

Education of Spirit, Mind, and Body 

Established: August 16, 1956

School colors: Navy and Red • Mascot: The Dolphin

A Catholic School of The Diocese of Venice in Florida 

Accredited By The Florida Catholic Conference 

Frank J. Dewane

Bishop of Venice in Florida

  ______________________________

Rev. John Belmonte, S.J., Ph.D.  

Superintendent of Catholic Education

Diocese of Venice in Florida

______________________________

 Rev. William Davis, O.S.F.S.

Pastor, Saint Ann Catholic Church

Rev. Robert Mulligan, O.S.F.S.

Parochial Vicar, Saint Ann Catholic Church

______________________________ 

Ms. Micah O’Connor, M.Ed.  

Principal

Mr. Nick Lahr, M.Ed.

Assistant Principal

Table of Contents

Saint Ann Catholic School General Information & Accreditation                 4

General Policies                                                                                              5

Admissions & Enrollment                                                                               9

Tuition & Fees                                                                                                 11

Attendance & Punctuality                                                                               13

Arrival, Dismissal, & After School Care Policies                                          15

Health & Safety                                                                                              18

Communication                                                                                               21

Academic Policies                                                                                           24

Dress Code                                                                                                      30

Social Guidelines & Behavior Expectations                                                   35

Extracurricular Activities                                                                                40

Parent/Student Handbook Agreement & Acknowledgement Page                 42

PARENT AND STUDENT HANDBOOK 

This Handbook has been prepared to provide you with often needed facts, policies, and procedures. It is an essential component in promoting cooperation and a spirit of support within the School Family.  Our Parent/Student Handbook is part of your contractual agreement with Saint Ann Catholic School. Your signature on the Handbook Agreement form in the back of this Handbook, which must be returned no later than August 23, 2025, verifies that you agree with and will abide by the school policies as stated herein.  The Administration retains the right to amend the Handbook at any time.  Parents or guardians will be notified of any such changes.  Please take the time to read it and familiarize yourself and your children with the information.

Accreditation

Saint Ann Catholic School is fully accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference (FCC). It also holds membership in the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) and other Curricular-based Associations to enhance the learning environment.

Mission Statement

Saint Ann Catholic School, a ministry of Saint Ann Parish, rooted in Gospel values and the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, welcomes, and inspires children in grades Pre-K through 8 to Live Jesus, to embrace academic excellence, and to foster discipleship in the spirit of Saint Francis de Sales, the Gentleman Saint, and Saint Ann, the grandmother of Jesus.  In partnership with our families and the community, we support and celebrate each child as the Heart of God on earth through an education of spirit, mind, and body.

Our Philosophy

The fundamental purpose of Saint Ann Catholic School is to promote the teachings of the Catholic Church and to instill in its students a profound and personal spirituality.  The school seeks to provide a unique setting where spiritual, academic, emotional, social, and physical growth is realized within our faith community.  The faith community is strengthened and nourished by active participation in liturgy and prayer.  The school develops Catholic values and attitudes within its students, faculty, and staff and emphasizes our responsibility to bring Christ to others.

Academically, students are afforded the opportunity to advance their individual abilities and to realize their unique talents.  This is accomplished by the faculty and staff being responsive to the needs of the students, empowering them with skills and factual knowledge that stimulate creative thinking and by uniting the Christian community in prayer, work, and love.  Our pursuit for academic excellence is strengthened by our common love for Jesus Christ and the deepening of our children’s faith and trust in God.

Education is one of the most important ways by which the Church fulfills its obligation to the dignity of the person and the building of community, by nurturing a commitment to serving others.  Saint Ann Catholic School echoes the words of the United States Bishops’ document, To Teach as Jesus Did: “Proclaiming the Gospel is a perennial task and joy for the Church of Jesus Christ.  Rarely, if ever, has it been more pressing a need, more urgent a duty and more ennobling a vocation than in these times when mankind stands poised between unprecedented fulfillment and equally unprecedented calamity.”

“Catholic education is an expression of the mission entrusted by Jesus to the church He founded.  Through education, the Church seeks to prepare its members to proclaim the Good News and translate this proclamation into action.”

History 

In the late 1930’s, there were just nine Catholic families in Naples. Since the closest parish was in Fort Myers, vacationing priests and priests from neighboring cities came to celebrate Mass each week in the old Naples Theater (a site now occupied by Marissa’s shop on 3rd Street South) and later in the Solarium of Naples Hotel near the Municipal Pier (now the parking area for the Third Street South shopping district).

As the number of families increased along with Naples’ explosive growth, the Archdiocese of St. Augustine approved construction of Collier County’s first Catholic Church.  Named for the young, deceased daughter of a founding parishioner whose patron saint and namesake were St. Ann. Saint Ann Catholic Church celebrated its first Mass on Palm Sunday, 1950.  The original church is now used as Rooney Hall.

The need for a parish school soon became apparent.  In 1956, Pastor Timothy Geary opened Saint Ann Catholic School to provide a Catholic education for the 100 families of the parish.  While construction of the school’s initial buildings progressed, the sisters of St. Joseph held classes in the choir loft of the church, under the giant banyan tree next to the church, and in the parking lot.  During inclement weather, classes were also held in the Naples Hotel.  The completed 8-classroom building (on the site of the new Middle School and Administration buildings) welcomed the school’s 140 students in September 1957.

As Naples continued to develop, the parish and school expanded.  The existing church building was dedicated on March 14, 1970.  In 1975, two new classrooms and a library were added to the school.  In 1984, the school added the Gymnasium and in 1987, a science laboratory.  In 1991, the church building was renovated and expanded. With an enrollment of 350 students in 1996, the school began an ambitious program to build and upgrade campus facilities.  The parish Convent was remodeled into new Parish Offices in 1999.  The Saint Joachim Chapel and our present-day Elementary School were completed in the fall of 2000.  In August 2001, the new Media Center and Administration building were ready for occupancy.  In June 2002, the new Middle School was completed.  The Saint Ann Jubilee Center was completed in January 2006.  It houses a gymnasium, kitchen, auditorium, and meeting room facilities.

Today, Saint Ann Catholic School, one of 15 schools in the Diocese of Venice, enjoys an excellent reputation in the community as a school that is academically challenging and rich in faith traditions. Saint Ann Catholic Parish is the spiritual home for more than 2,000 registered families.

Salesian Direction of Attention

My God,

Give me the grace to perform this action with you and through love for you.  In advance, I offer to you all the good that I will do and accept all the difficulty I may meet therein.  Saint Francis de Sales, pray for us.  Saint Ann, pray for us. Amen. 

General Policies

Campus Hours Information:

The campus opens each school day at 7:30 a.m. and closes at 3:30 p.m. Unless previous arrangements are made directly with the school or enrollment in the After Care Program, students are not allowed on campus before or after these hours, unless accompanied by the parent/guardian. The school will not assume any liability for students on campus outside of these school hours. Students on campus before or after hours will be subject to disciplinary measures. Regular school hours are 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Early dismissal hours are 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

The school year consists of a minimum of 180 school days and a minimum of 10 teacher in-service and planning days. The school year is divided into two semesters or two quarters each.

Office hours consist of the following:

Ministry: 

Parental Involvement:

The Church teaches that parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children.  They bear witness to this responsibility first by creating a home where tenderness, forgiveness, respect, fidelity, and service are the rule. Parents have a grave responsibility to give good examples to their children.  Parents also receive the responsibility and privilege for evangelizing their children.  They should initiate their children at an early age into the mysteries of the Faith of which they are the first heralds for their children.  This happens when family members help one another grow in faith by the example and witness of a Christian life. 

Participation in Weekend Liturgies:

A student’s religious formation begins at home and follows the example set by his/her parents.  Families are expected to participate fully in the liturgy each weekend so that students are prepared to participate in religion class discussions.

Prayer and Liturgy:

At Saint Ann Catholic School, students commence each day with Morning Prayer, offer Grace at lunchtime, and conclude the day with prayer. Prayer is offered at the beginning of every class period. They also attend Mass weekly and on holy days of obligation.  Parents are welcome and highly encouraged to attend. Other services include Stations of the Cross, Benediction, Seder Meals, Retreats, and May Crowning. Non-Catholic students follow the same religion curriculum as Catholic students and will attend Mass.

Reconciliation:

Students can receive the sacrament of Reconciliation at least twice a year during the seasons of Advent and Lent.  Frequent reception of the sacrament at the student’s home parish is also highly recommended.

Sacramental Preparations:

All sacramental preparation and the reception of the sacraments are done in your home parish, not the school. Contact your parish for their procedures. 

The preparation process is two-fold.  An important part is forming an understanding of the Catholic faith, which students develop in their school religion classes. Additionally, students undergo specific preparation for the sacrament at their home parish, including special meetings and/or retreats for students and parents.  Parental involvement is essential as well as regular participation in weekend Masses.

Established School & Classroom Policies:

Lunch:

Parents may order hot lunches for their students from a daily lunch program online. Please note that we cannot microwave lunches brought from home nor can we supply condiments, utensils, etc.  Students may always bring their own lunch from home.

• Home lunches brought later in the day are delivered to the school office with the child's name and grade on the outside of the bag. This should be a rare occasion. The child will be called to pick up the lunch at their scheduled lunchtime.  

• Fast foods and/or hot lunches may not be brought to school during the school day.
• Soda, energy drinks or any caffeinated beverages may not be brought to school, including in home brought lunches.

Lunch Behavior:

A meal is a time to break bread with others and enjoy their company.  Students are expected to remain seated during lunch and demonstrate exemplary table manners. This includes ensuring that food is not shared, wasted, and never thrown. Students are expected to pick up after themselves before leaving the table.

Deliveries:

The school cannot accept third-party deliveries intended for students, including but not limited to food delivery services. All such deliveries will be refused.

Parties:

Please plan birthday celebrations outside of the school day. Birthday parties in the classroom are not allowed.   Parents may send a small store bought/ allergen friendly treat before 8:00am that is easily served during the lunch or snack period. Parents need to gain teacher permission prior to dropping off the treat. The teacher reserves the right to designate a specific time for the birthday treat, so it does not interfere with class instruction or a loss of educational time.

Students are allowed to distribute invitations to parties and other gatherings to classmates if all classmates are invited, or all the girls (for a girl’s party) or all boys (for a boy’s party).  Prior permission from the teacher is requested.

Backpacks:

Each student is provided either a cubby or designated area in their classroom for the storage of their books, supplies, backpacks, bags, and other belongings. During class, backpacks should be stored only in designated areas.  When purchasing student backpacks, parents are discouraged from selecting items which are unreasonably large or unwieldy. Middle school students are permitted to use roller backpacks to help alleviate the weight of the backpack on their shoulders.

Cubbies & Desks:

Students in primary and intermediate grades may be assigned desks and cubbies to store their belongings.  They are expected to keep these areas clean and organized.

Searches:  

The school reserves the right to conduct searches of lockers, etc.  These may be random or purposeful.

Lost and Found:

Students are expected to keep track of their belongings independently. The school is not responsible for any lost or damaged items brought to school by students or parents. all articles/items found on campus are to be turned into the Front Office and will be stored in the Lost and Found area in the library.  Items that remain unclaimed after two weeks will be donated to welfare agencies.  Found books will be returned to the issuing teacher.  Students and parents can promote the safe return of personal belongings by ensuring that the student’s name is written in ink on all items.

Library:

The Library contains a wide variety of books, periodicals, reference materials, video, and other media, some available for check-out by students.  Students with overdue, lost, or damaged materials will be assessed a fine, not to exceed the replacement cost of the item.

Technology:

All students and parents are to read the Technology Use Agreement that outlines conditions of use of computers and electronic information services, including the Internet. Failure to sign the Handbook agreement will prohibit a student’s use of such equipment.  Students not following the agreement can be subject to disciplinary measures, including suspension or expulsion.

iPads & Google Chromebooks:

Saint Ann Catholic School is committed to student use of technology as a tool to expand learning opportunities and conduct scholarly research.  The use of technology facilitates global collaboration – a vital skill for our 21st century learners.  Students in grades 6-8 utilize Apple iPad on a wireless network.  Apple iPads and the wireless network on the school’s campus are strictly for educational use consistent with the school’s educational goals. Along with the opportunity this provides, comes responsibility.  This Acceptable Use Policy is designed to give the student and the student’s family, as well as others on the school’s campus clear and concise guidelines regarding the appropriate use of Apple iPads.  The underlying premise of this policy is that all members of the school’s community must uphold the values of honesty and integrity.  We expect our students to exercise good judgement and to utilize technology with integrity.  There is an additional yearly rental fee for the iPad.

Social Media Policy:

Any student that uses social media inappropriately or in a non-Christian way on or off campus will be punished. The first incident will be a parent meeting with the principal. The second incident will be a two-day suspension and the third incident will be expulsion (This rule can vary on the severity of the incident and punishment will be determined by administration/Pastor). 

Textbooks:

Students are issued textbooks and/or workbooks at the beginning of the year and are responsible for their condition.  All hardcover textbooks should be always covered.  The student’s name will be written on the inside front cover.  Students who lose or damage any textbook or workbook must purchase a replacement.

Admissions & Re-Enrollment

Parent Communication Agreement:

Enrollment in a Catholic school is a privilege, not a right. Especially in the Catholic schools, an expectation of a child’s enrollment is the support and close cooperation of the parent(s) or guardian(s). Should disagreements, problems, or criticisms arise, all informal efforts between the parent(s)/guardian(s) and school(s) are to be used to resolve the concern. The parents are strongly encouraged to first meet with the teacher, then Administration, and finally the pastor to resolve conflicts.

Parent(s)/guardian(s) are requested and expected to communicate any concerns they have directly to school administration and not to express them through social media or broadly distributed email. If parent(s) or guardian(s) use any form of electronic media to defame or denigrate the school or any of its personnel or use electronic media to post inappropriate negative statements about the school or its personnel, as well as political propaganda, or anything that goes against the Catholic teachings as determined by the school in its discretion, this could be cause for the school to immediately end the enrollment of the child(ren) of the parent or guardian who has done so. By enrolling children in this private, Catholic school, parents are agreeing to abide by this policy as well as all other policies and regulations of the school.  

Cooperation as a Condition of Enrollment: 

The education of a student is a partnership between the parents (primary educators) and the school. Just as the parent has a right to withdraw a child, if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require the withdrawal of a student if the administration determines that the partnership is irretrievably broken. Parents are expected to support the philosophy and policies of the school. Threatening, hostile, aggressive, or negative behavior of parents is not tolerated. This includes in person or electronically. In such instances, the school may request the withdrawal of the student and may offer a refund of tuition according to the Refund Policy.

Required Paperwork:

Every student who plans to attend Saint Ann Catholic School must complete and submit the following: enrollment application, financial commitment form, full disclosure, and financial assistance application (if requesting parish or school foundation tuition assistance). Submission of incomplete paperwork or failure to meet deadlines will result in a student being placed on a waiting list.

In addition to the above, certain other documents must be submitted unless already on file with the school.  Enrollment cannot be considered, and students will not be admitted to any classes if these records are incomplete.  

Documents that must be on file include:

• Birth Certificate (copy)

• Baptismal Certificate (copy)

       (If the child has been baptized Catholic))

• Medical Insurance Card (copy)

       (Or letter stating family is self-insured) *delete from required documents

• Florida Department of Health Physical Record DH3040

• Florida Department of Health Immunization Record (DH680al)

• Medical exemption for Vaccinations (only type accepted)

Religious Exemption - The Diocese of Venice does NOT accept religious exemptions from vaccination requirements based on the Church’s belief that vaccines are morally acceptable as their intention is to preserve life.

Required Releases:

To fulfill diocesan and parish legal requirements, it is vital that the school have certain release forms signed by the parent(s) of each child.  Failure to sign any release can result in privileges or programs not being available for students.  

• Medical Authorization (Emergency Card):  This release must be completed and notarized for your student to participate in extracurricular activities or any off-campus field trips.

• Medical Procedure Release:  This release is necessary if the student requires or may require a medical procedure be performed by school personnel (such as an injection or blood glucose monitoring).

• Handbook Acknowledgement: This form must be signed and returned by August 22, 2025. Includes Image Release Authorization and Technology Agreement.
• Image Release:  This release must be completed for a student’s image to be included in any school-sponsored publication or broadcast, including the yearbook, school newsletter, school newspaper, etc.
• Technology Use Agreement:  This release must be completed before use of school computers is allowed,

or access to the Internet is granted.  

New Student Requirements:

Students not currently enrolled at the school, including siblings of current students, must meet additional requirements for enrollment including submission of a non-refundable application fee, student records from the child’s previous school, and letters of recommendation.  For students seeking admission in grades Kindergarten through 8th, the school will conduct an interview with the prospective student and his/her parents.  An entrance exam to determine the student’s performance in various subject areas will be administered.

Admission Priorities:

The faculty and staff of Saint Ann Catholic School are committed to providing a quality Catholic education.  Saint Ann Catholic School Admissions Committee gives priority to the order applications are received, Catholics, members of Saint Ann Catholic parish, members of other Diocese of Venice parishes, previous academic records, placement exam performance, disciplinary and service records. An additional consideration is whether a relative of the student is an alumnae of Saint Ann Catholic School.  However, applying for financial assistance has no bearing on admission decisions nor does the promise of a financial contribution to the school.

Acceptance Policies:

Students accepted to Saint Ann Catholic School are subject to a probationary period during which time the student and family will be evaluated to determine their compatibility with the school.  The school reserves the right to accept those students whose needs can be met within our existing educational program.  

Age Requirements:

Enrollment in certain primary grades is dependent on the student meeting certain statewide age requirements:

• Pre-Kindergarten 3 must be 3 years old by September 1 and be fully potty-trained. If the child has an accident, they will be sent home.

• Pre-Kindergarten 4 must be four years old by September 1.

• Kindergarten must be five years old by September 1.

• 1st Grade must be six years old by September 1, have successfully completed Kindergarten, and meet the reading readiness requirements of the school.

Re-enrollment Procedures:

Current family re-enrollment period is from December 15th - January 30th.  Parents must complete the re-enrollment packet through the parent portal and pay the enrollment fee.  Any student not re-enrolled during the time period is not guaranteed their space for the next school year.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition:

This covers most of the cost of educating the child.  However, tuition alone cannot cover all expenses.  Therefore, parents must meet other financial requirements such as fees, service hours, and fundraising.

Enrollment  Fees:

This includes the textbook rental fee, supply fee, technology fee, standardized testing fee, diocesan student insurance fee, handbook fee, lab fees and enrollment fees.  For students in 8th grade, the graduation fee is additional.  This fee is non-refundable.  

Tuition at Saint Ann Catholic School has never been used to pay for capital improvements.  In fact, it has been because of the generous financial support of Saint Ann Catholic parishioners and other benefactors that we have been able to pay for most of our beautiful campus. School families are assessed a fraction of the remainder. This serves as a significant contribution towards our outstanding financial obligation, as well as a worthy reminder of our responsibility towards stewardship as primary users of our beautiful campus.        

Financial Assistance:

Tuition assistance is available for students in Pre-Kindergarten 4 through 8th grade. Most of this aid is distributed as parish subsidy in the form of Parish Assistance. This contributes a portion of students' tuition, depending on the number of children enrolled.    

The qualifications are simple:  full, active, and frequent participation in weekend liturgies at the Catholic parish supporting the student. Worshiping with your parish family is expected, not merely as an obligation, but as a testimony of belonging and being faithful to Christ and his Church.

Families in need of financial support in addition to that provided by Parish Assistance may request supplemental scholarships. Amounts that are awarded vary and are awarded according to need.

Payment Options:

All fees are due to the school upon submission of enrollment or re-enrollment paperwork.  Failure to submit fees by the required deadlines can result in students being placed on a waiting list. To assist families, a variety of payment arrangements can be made to pay tuition. Families able to pay their tuition in one payment can do so directly to the school by August. Families wishing to pay tuition over two, four or ten payments must arrange through the FACTS Management Company for an automatic installment plan, available for a nominal processing fee.

Refund Policy:

Upon withdrawal from the school, families are responsible to pay the tuition through the end of the current semester for which they are withdrawn plus any unpaid fees. Fees and assessments are non-refundable. Withdrawals and transfers are granted upon written request of the parents or guardians of the student. The office should be notified at least one week prior to the withdrawal or transfer. Textbooks, library books, and school property must be returned, and all financial accounts need to be settled before a transfer form will be issued, or before scholastic and health records will be sent to the new school.

Delinquent Payments/Monies Owed:

Report cards and interim reports will be held for any outstanding debts to the school.  All debts must be cleared for students to participate in graduation, both Kindergarten and 8th grade.

Service Requirements

Student Service Requirements:

In keeping with the teachings of the Gospel, all students are expected to commit themselves to serving others.  For students in middle school grades, service is a requirement for promotion or graduation:

• Students in 6th grade must perform a minimum of 20 hours of community service.

(Minimum 10 due first semester)

• Students in 7th grade must perform a minimum of 30 hours of community service.

(Minimum 15 due first semester)

• Students in 8th grade must perform a minimum of 40 hours of community service.

(Minimum 20 due first semester)  

Eighth grade students performing more than 50 hours of service are eligible to wear a silver honor cord at Commencement.  Students performing more than 100 hours of service are eligible to wear a red and silver honor cord.         

Middle school students are expected to keep track of their own service hours.  Service performed is subject to verification by the school.  Service hours completed during the summer may be applied toward the annual requirement; however, students are still expected to complete service hours each semester regardless of summer contributions.

Parent Service Requirement:

Each Saint Ann Catholic School parent(s) and/or guardian(s) are required to contribute at least 25 hours of service to the school each year.  Service contributions of less than 25 hours will require a financial donation of $500 payable to the Home & School Association.  

Transfer or Withdrawal from the School:

When a student withdraws or transfers to another school, it is the responsibility of the parent to complete a Saint Ann Catholic School withdrawal/transfer form, return all books and materials that belong to the school, and to pay all outstanding balances of their school accounts. Failure to do so will result in all records and transcripts being withheld. Schools in the Diocese of Venice do not release official student records to parents.  However, upon request from another school, records will be transferred directly.

Attendance & Punctuality

Absences:

The parent/guardian MUST notify the school office prior to 8:30am if a student will be absent for the day. Please let us know the explanation of the absence upon the student’s return to school.  A physician MUST verify illnesses exceeding three consecutive days. Students with chronic medical conditions should have a physician’s official statement on file with the school.

Students MUST be fever-free (without the use of medication) for 24-hours BEFORE they may return to school.  For the protection of the entire school, students sent home during the school day with a fever will not be allowed to return to school the next day, as this does not meet the 24-hour fever free requirement.

Early Dismissal:

Medical and dental appointments should be scheduled outside of school hours if possible. When appointments during the school day are unavoidable, the parent or guardian must send a written note stating the time the student will be picked up early. Parents are expected to arrive at the office no later than 2:00pm to sign out their child, permitting enough time for students to early dismiss. Students will NOT be early dismissed after 2:10pm to not disrupt the last class period of the day. After the parent arrives at the school office, the student will then be called to the office to meet his/her parent. At no time should parents go to the classroom to remove their child as this violates our safety policies. Students will ONLY be dismissed early through the office, after the parent/guardian is physically present in the office, signs the student(s) out, and departs the office. At no time will a student be permitted to leave early via any alternative methods or locations.

Planned Absences:

Planned absences caused by the personal convenience of the student or family for a family trip or extended holiday periods are discouraged. If a scheduled absence is unavoidable, the parents MUST contact BOTH the classroom teacher(s) AND the school office to provide the dates of the absences. 

Makeup Work:

The school faculty is not responsible for providing any advanced assignments for students. It is the student’s responsibility to complete missing assignments when they return to school.

If a student is absent for one to two days, makeup work for assignments will be provided to the student upon their return to class. Makeup work will not be sent home or available to pick-up from the office until a student is absent for more than two days. Upon the third consecutive absence, the parent/guardian may request work to be sent home with a sibling or available for pick up in the office only if the request is made prior to 9 a.m. The assignments will be ready for pick-up no earlier than 2:30 p.m.

If a student is absent from school due to illness, any assignments assigned before the absence are due upon the student’s return to school. Any work assigned during the absence period will be given an extension on the due date equal to the number of days absent but will NOT exceed five days. Any assignments, tests, quizzes, projects, etc. not completed within the allotted time period will be given a grade of zero.

Makeup tests/quizzes will be given at the teacher’s discretion.

Service Days and Field Trips are considered important learning opportunities. Students absent on a service day or field trip will be given a required and graded makeup assignment, typically a research paper.

Students who receive an “in school” suspension will be required to complete all work assigned during school hours on the day assigned. Teachers may also assign additional class work, homework, or behavior modification assignments to suspended students.  

Students who receive an “out of school” suspension may not make up any missed work or tests and will receive automatic zeroes for work missed.

Excessive Absences:

Excessive absence is defined as 10% or more of the school year which is an equivalent to eighteen (18) days within a school year. When absences occur, it puts students at a disadvantage as there are gaps in the learning process. Parents/legal guardians of a child of compulsory age are responsible for a child’s daily school attendance. If a student exceeds five (5) absences in a quarter, an administrative review will be conducted. Any student exceeding eight (8) absences may receive an administrative failure for the course.

Per Diocesan policy, if a student is absent more than thirty (30) days in the year retention may be considered. The administration may determine that in exceptional circumstances (for example, extended hospitalization), an administrative failure is not warranted.

If a student is absent three (3) days in a row, a doctor’s note may be necessary to return to school. Students cannot participate in any school activities if they are absent for half a day or more, no matter what the reason for the absence. Excessive absences may also be reported to the Florida Department of Children and Family Services (DCF). Scholarships, including Step-Up funding, and promotion to the next grade level may be jeopardized due to excessive absences.

Tardiness:

It is primarily the parent’s/guardian’s responsibility to promote punctuality and ensure that the student(s) arrive on time for school each day. Students should be dropped off NO LATER than 7:55 a.m. each morning to make it to the classroom before the 8:00 a.m. tardy bell.

Students arriving at school after the 8:00 a.m. tardy bell will be marked tardy. The parent/guardian must accompany their child to the office to sign the student in, including the reason for the tardy. Students will go to class independently or with a staff member. Parents are NOT allowed to accompany the student to the classroom as it violates our school safety policies.

Students that arrive after 10:30 a.m. will be officially marked absent for the day. Students that arrive on-time to school and leave prior to 1 p.m. will be officially marked absent for the day. Students must attend a minimum of four hours of academic instruction to be officially marked present for the school day. Academic instruction time does not include: homeroom, lunch, or recess time.

Excessive Tardiness:

Students with five or more tardies in a grading period will not be allowed to participate in any after school activities (including athletics) for the remainder of the quarter.

After ten tardies within a semester, the parents/guardians must have a meeting with administration to discuss the reasons for the student’s tardiness.

If a student has more than 15 tardies, may not be promoted to the next grade unless arrangements are made with administration for tutoring or summer school, or withdrawal from the school.

Arrival, Dismissal, and After Care Policies

For the safety of our students and staff, cell phone use is PROHIBITED

while moving through the active carline.

Acceptable transportation methods for arrival and dismissal include: carline, walker/bikers, and after care. Unless arriving after the 8:00 a.m. tardy bell, students may not arrive on campus through the office. At no time are parents permitted to walk their student(s) through the office or gate to their classroom as it violates our school safety policies. At no time are parents allowed to park to walk-up at drop-off OR dismissal time for the safety of our children and faculty.

Carline:

It is illegal, against school policy, and unsafe for children to be dropped off or picked up anywhere but the designated car line.  Adults are required to always follow established carline procedures. Violators are subject to being ticketed by the Naples Police Department. Those dropping off or picking up students in the carline are expected to be patient and respectful of other drivers, students, teachers, and safety patrol members.  

• Carlo Acuitis Way Carline:

• All students in grade 8 and their siblings. Any child who has a sibling in 8th grade will always be dropped off and picked up at this location.
• Located off of 8th Avenue, in the parking lot in front of the Middle School Building.
• Drivers should approach the school driving West (facing the beach) and turn left into the parking lot in front of the Middle School Building.

• Playground Path Carline:  

• Students in PK, K, and 1st grade will be dismissed in this car line along with older siblings in grades 2-7.
• Located in front of the PK playgrounds & Administration Building.
• Drivers should enter the 8th Ave. carline from the school parking lot entrance on 4th Street South and immediately turn right, circling the parking lot before entering the driveway adjacent to the playground and proceeding to the drive-in front of the Administration Building.

• Jubilee Way Carline:

• Students in grades 2-7 and any siblings in grades 2-7.
• Located in front of the Jubilee Center.
• Drivers should enter 9th Ave. carline by heading West on 9th Ave. South, entering 9th Ave. South no closer than 7th Street South and stay close to the right of the lane to not obstruct traffic heading East on 9th Ave. South. Drivers will enter into the semi-circle in front of the Jubilee Center where their student(s) will enter the car.

Walkers/Bikers:

Students who live within walking distance to campus may walk or ride their non-motorized bicycles/scooters to school. To be eligible, students MUST have written permission from their parent/guardian, follow the procedures for Bicycles and Non-Motorized Scooters (below), AND are able to walk themselves to and from class without assistance (all grade levels) to be permitted to walk/bike to/from school.

Students walking/biking will be dismissed from the Jubilee Trail carline area. Students MUST inform security staff as they depart campus. Any student not meeting the eligibility requirements, including helmets for bikers/scooters, will not be permitted to leave campus as a walker/biker.

Failure to follow the established procedures will result in the loss of privilege to be a walker/biker and must follow carline procedures.

Arrival:

Students may begin to arrive on campus at 7:30 a.m., but not prior to that time.  Parents are expected to follow established carline procedures (above) and drop off students in the proper carline. Students are expected to follow the established walker/biker procedures.

Parents may only walk their PK3-Kindergarten students into school for the first three days of school but then will be required to use the carline. Parents must park in the grass off 8th Ave. in front of the field to not interfere with active carline movements and for the safety of all people.

Dismissal:

At the beginning of each school year parents should inform the school of their children’s normal dismissal arrangement.  This can include:

• Pick up in carline (See “Carline” for more information.)

• Written parental permission for a student to walk or bike off campus to his or her home in the Saint Ann Catholic School neighborhood.
• After Care, via All in Education

Dismissal begins at 2:55 p.m. Any student being dismissed early must be picked up by 2:10 p.m. For the safety of all students and staff members, the school office will be closed during dismissal daily from 2:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Parents should not make arrangements that would result in the child remaining unsupervised on or off campus after school.  Once a student leaves campus, he/she may not return unless accompanied by his/her parent or guardian.  If a student’s pick-up plans change from the routine, parents are required to notify the office and email the teacher no later than 2:00 p.m. each day (11:00 a.m. on early-dismissal days).  

PikMyKid

PikMyKid is our dismissal software program. It is used by the school staff to make dismissal safe, fast, and efficient. This program comes with a parent app which notifies the school when parents have crossed a geo fence surrounding the campus at the start of dismissal. St. Ann staff will verify their place in line, prepare the students in order, and send them out to their cars for dismissal.

In the event of a change to normal dismissal procedures, parents can use the app to designate the change and duration of the altered dismissal procedures. Through the PikMyKid app, parents can change the dismissal arrangement to designate After Care, extracurricular activities, or dismissal with another selected adult. This change can be made by day or recurring (i.e., every Tuesday the student(s) attends After Care). Changes can be made up until 2:00 p.m. each day. Please make every effort to make all adjustments to dismissal through the PikMyKid app as it will replace an email to the office and teacher. If you are picking up your child via their normal dismissal arrangement, no action is necessary.

To sign up, download the PikMyKid app to your mobile device. You will be prompted to enter the phone number associated with your FACTS account. This will connect the account to your child(ren) enrolled at the school. In order for the app to notify the staff when you have crossed the geo fence at the start of dismissal, please ensure that the app always has access to your location. Alternatively, you can manually announce your arrival in the app when you first come to a stop in the carline.

Every child will be assigned a 3-digit ID number which is attached to the car tags you receive at the beginning of the school year. If another adult will be picking up your child, please ensure they have access to the ID numbers for your child(ren).

If you have any questions about how to use the PikMyKid app, please contact the Assistant Principal.

Severe Weather Arrival/Dismissal:

In the event of severe weather, heavy rain, or approaching lightning, dismissal may begin slightly earlier than usual to allow extra time for the safe dismissal of students. During heavy rain, the dismissal process will move more slowly. The school monitors the weather closely throughout the school day and reserves the right to pause the dismissal process for the safety of everyone outside. Dismissal will resume when administration determines it is safe to do so. We appreciate everyone’s patience and commitment to the safety of students, staff, and parents.

Aftercare:

Parents unable to arrange the pick-up of their children at the close of the school day can use the Aftercare program, which charges a nominal fee.  Students not picked up at 3:15 p.m. on regular school days and 12:15 p.m. on early dismissal school days will automatically be placed in the Aftercare program and will be charged accordingly. Aftercare is for parents that work and cannot pick up their child at 3pm. Please do not use aftercare as a play date destination.

All in Education is a third-party entity Saint Ann Catholic School uses to contract for aftercare services. To use aftercare services, you must register your child, pay the registration fees, and pay all fees incurred with the use of All in Education. Failure to register and pay will result in your child not being allowed to start the upcoming quarter and report cards being held until registration and payment is complete.

Early Dismissal:

On early dismissal days, parents are expected to pick up students no later than 12:15 p.m.  After care will be available on these days. Parents/Guardians must make necessary prior arrangements with All in Education for after carer on early dismissal days.

Bicycles & Non-Motorized Scooters:

Students may ride bicycles or non-motorized scooters while traveling to and from campus.  On campus, students must walk these items. As required by law, students on bicycles or scooters must wear helmets.  Students are to park and lock bicycles and non-motorized scooters in the rack provided at the rear of the Parish Office Building adjacent to the Elementary School. Helmets should be stored with their bicycle or non-motorized scooters. Students are not permitted to leave any equipment on campus overnight. Students not observing these rules are subject to having their equipment confiscated. The school is not liable for theft or vandalism or any loss of these items.

Motor Scooters:

The City of Naples ordinances prohibit the use of motorized scooters on city streets.  Students are also not permitted to use motorized scooters anywhere on campus.  Violators will have their equipment confiscated, can be issued a detention or suspension and are also subject to a ticket or fine from the Naples Police Department.

Transporting Students: 

On occasion, parents may be asked to transport students to field trips or other school events. Parents must satisfy the diocesan background check and take the Safe Environment class.  A parent who wishes to assist in this manner must submit a photocopy of his or her driver’s license and insurance card to the Front Office at least one week prior to the initial field trip or event.  Eligibility to transport students will be contingent and conditioned upon meeting insurance requirements and a satisfactory driving record investigation.  Faculty and staff members are specifically prohibited from transporting students in their capacity as faculty and staff members.

Health and Safety

Emergency Information:

For the safety of every child, emergency information must be on file in the school office and be kept up to date, including changes of address, phone numbers, medical information, doctors, etc. A change of address, telephone number, email, etc., should be reported to the school office immediately.  

Immunization Records:

As per the Required Paperwork Policy (on page 4), students will not be admitted to class if immunization records are missing or expired.  It is the parents’ responsibility to ensure that children have received all required shots and have submitted a DH680 Florida Immunization form to the school nurse.

Medication:

It is the policy of the Diocese of Venice that the administration of medication to students during regular business hours be discouraged unless necessary for the critical health and well-being of the student.  

Students are not to bring or possess any medication, including over-the-counter medication, to school. All medications must be brought to school by parent or guardian.  An authorization for prescription medications must be completed and signed by a physician or other health care provider licensed in the state of Florida.

Over the counter medications may be administered ONLY after the following has been received by the school nurse:  

• Parent’s written authorization per the Medication Authorization Form,
• The completed Medication Authorization Form is signed by a physician or other health care provider licensed in the state of Florida,
• Parents provided the school with the specific over the counter medication

All medications (prescription and over the counter) must be provided to the school in its original container and must provide instructions regarding proper dosage. The medication will be kept in a secure location in the Clinic and will only be administered by a staff member trained to dispense medication.  

With proper written authorization students may carry and self-administer life saving medications as prescribed by his/her health care provider. The child must demonstrate competency and have a physician’s order to self-carry medication.  

School personnel should not administer medication by injection except when a student is susceptible to a predetermined, life endangering situation and the personnel has received the special training required to perform the procedure.

Sick Policy:

Attendance is a priority at Saint Ann Catholic School. However, the health of our students, teachers and staff takes precedence. If a student is ill with any contagious disease or has exhibited a fever of 100° or more, a rash, or vomiting within the last 24 hours, the student should not be sent to school. A student must be symptom free without the use of medication for 24 hours prior to their return to school.    

Student Accident Insurance:

The school carries student accident insurance for incidents that occur during school hours, at school-sponsored events, or when traveling to such events in school-arranged transportation. Additional 24-hour coverage is also available for students at an additional fee.

Clinic:

A school nurse is available in the school clinic daily from 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. to tend to students who become ill or are injured. If a student is too ill to return to class, his or her parent or guardian will be contacted to pick up the student. If a student is suspected to have a contagious illness, proper documentation will be required for the student to return to school. If a child must be picked up from school, parents are expected to make arrangements to pick up their student within a half hour (30 minutes) of notice. We appreciate our partnership with parents in keeping their student’s health a priority.

Toilet Training & Accidents

All students at Saint Ann Catholic School must be properly toilet trained. Parents and guardians are highly encouraged to send a full spare uniform outfit to school in case their child has an accident. In the event of a toilet accident, the parent/guardian will be notified. The student is expected to independently clean himself/herself and change their clothes. No staff member is allowed to physically assist. If a student is not capable of independently cleaning and changing himself/herself, the parent/guardian must come to campus to assist the student.

Fire & Tornado Drills:

Fire, tornado, and other evacuation drills are held regularly throughout the school year.  At the beginning of the year, teachers familiarize their students with evacuation routes and procedures.  Maps of emergency exit routes are also posted in every classroom on campus.  During an evacuation, students are expected to remain calm and walk to the prescribed meeting area in silence.  Upon signal to return to classrooms, students should also walk back to their rooms in a calm and quiet manner.

Inclement Weather:

The general policy is to follow Collier County Public Schools.  Tune into local radio and television stations for more information and direction.  However, sometimes we may not follow the Collier County reopening schedule. Notification will be made via text/email/voicemail where possible.

Crisis Plans:

The school maintains specific action plans in the unlikely event of a crisis or other emergency on campus. In the event of an emergency, students and parents are urged to remain calm and follow the instructions of school administration.

Confidentiality:

All faculty and staff members will keep confidential information entrusted to them as long as no one’s life, health,

or safety is at stake.  Parents will be promptly notified of any such concerns.

Harassment:

The Diocese of Venice is committed to providing an environment that is free from harassment, intimidation, hostility, bullying and other offensive conditions.  Harassment based on one’s protected status (i.e., gender, sexual orientation, age, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, marital, or veteran status) is a form of discrimination and is unlawful and strictly prohibited.  Retaliation against an individual for having initiated a complaint of harassment or discrimination is also considered unlawful harassment.

Harassment encompasses a broad range of physical or verbal behavior that can include, but is not limited to, the following:

• physical or mental abuse

• insults or derogatory slurs based on one’s protected status.

• unwelcome sexual advances, touching, comments, jokes, innuendo, gestures, or noises related to one’s protected status.  

• display of sexually explicit photos, drawings, or cartoons

Any student, parent, teacher, or other school employee who believes that he/she has experienced any type of unlawful harassment should report his or her concerns in writing to the school Principal.

Every complaint of harassment will be investigated, and appropriate action taken.  The Diocese is committed to resolving complaints of harassment in a prompt, private manner, and to ensuring protection against retaliation or reprisal against the complainant.

Child Abuse and Department of Children and Families:

According to law, the school is required to report any SUSPECTED case of child abuse or neglect, even if there is no definite proof, to the proper authorities.

If there has been a report of child abuse, the Department of Children and Family Services may send an investigator to interview a child on campus. An administrator will meet with the DCF representative and the student. Flyers with abuse reporting procedures are posted throughout the school.

Sexual Misconduct:

The Diocese of Venice is committed to safeguarding the well-being of those who are served by the Church.  It has been the official policy of the Diocese since 1995 to train all personnel with respect to dealing with issues or professional boundaries and sexual misconduct, to provide expert pastoral care to all persons involved in such cases, to report and respond to information concerning allegations of misconduct, to investigate such reports thoroughly and to take proper administrative and legal action.

Volunteer Screening:

To ensure the safety of those persons under the care of the Diocese, all employees and volunteers are required to submit to the school a diocesan application which includes an Attestation of Good Moral Character along with a complete set of fingerprints to facilitate a criminal background investigation. There is a processing fee.  Eligibility for employment, volunteer work or ministry will be contingent and conditioned upon a satisfactory background investigation. A reasonable effort shall be made to update the criminal history background information every five years. Volunteers working with students must take the Diocesan Safe Environment class offered at the beginning of the school year and periodically throughout the year at Diocesan parishes.

Volunteering at the School:

To provide a safe and disruption-free campus for all students, teachers, and staff, all volunteers must first fully complete any and all Safe Environment requirements as listed above for Volunteer Screening. Once the Diocese of Venice has confirmed to Saint Ann Catholic School the volunteer has passed the required screenings, the volunteer MUST make an appointment with the classroom teacher they are volunteering for. Upon arrival to campus, all volunteers must report to the front office, sign-in, and obtain a Volunteer’s Pass. Visits to classrooms without an appointment are not permitted for the safety of all students and staff members.  

Communication

Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act and Custodial Rights: 

Saint Ann Catholic School adheres to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in regard to privacy of student records and the rights of non-custodial parents. It is the responsibility of the parent to share any official custodial information decided through the courts. In the absence of any court document, the school will view each parent as having full legal custody of the child. In the case of partial custody between two parents, the school assumes no wrongdoing for releasing students to one parent or another, regardless of privately arranged custodial schedules - unless a court order is provided with specific details. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, non-custodial parents have the right to receive records about their child’s academic progress. The school reserves the right to charge a shipping and processing fee for academic records sent to an additional address. 

Updated Information: 

The easiest way to ensure clear communication to and from the school is to have up-to-date contact information on file in the school Front Office. If a student’s information changes, it is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school immediately so that records reflect the new information. A copy of the same should also be provided to the homeroom teacher and After Care program, if applicable.

Handbook Changes:

The school administration reserves the right to add to or amend this school handbook for just cause. Parents will be given prompt notification when changes are made.

Parent/Teacher Conferences:

Teachers welcome parent conferences. These should be scheduled appointments outside of class times. Formal conferences between parents and teachers are offered after the first quarter ends. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact the teacher throughout the school year with concerns or a request for a conference in a timely manner from when the concern initially arose. From time to time, teachers, administration, or student support services may request a conference with a student’s parents/guardians to discuss the best way to support the student in school.  

Parent-to-Parent Communications:

Communication between parent to parent involving school business is encouraged and is also a great way to make friends. However, chats and apps should not be used to degrade Saint Ann Catholic School or staff in any way. If this is discovered, you will be subjected to our cooperation as a condition of enrollment policy on page 9.    

Complaints/Concerns:

Complaints/concerns should be handled at the appropriate level. Persons with concerns about a teacher should first attempt to address the concern with the teacher. Only then should school administration, and finally, the pastor or priest-in-charge, be contacted. Please refer to the Saint Ann Catholic School Communication Chart for Parents.

Expectations for Parents/Legal Guardians:

Catholic schools are partners with parents in raising their children in the faith and providing a Gospel-based, Catholic education for their children. The expectations for parents in this partnership is that there will be respect for the professional educators of their children, and adherence to the problem-solving process the school has in place, following a “chain of command” starting with the teacher, then the principal, then the pastor, then the Diocesan Director of Education, if necessary. It is also expected that the administration and the rules and procedures of the school will be supported by parents. Failure or unwillingness to do so as demonstrated by the behavior of parents can result in the partnership being irretrievably broken and can result in their student being withdrawn from the school.

Saint Ann Catholic School Communication Chart for Parents

At Saint Ann Catholic School, we believe that communication is necessary to ensure the success of our school community. Therefore, please use the following chart to help you contact the staff or faculty member to best answer your questions or concerns. If you do not hear back from the person you have contacted within two (2) business days, it is appropriate to reach out to them again before moving to the next level of the Communication Chart.

Messages to Students:

In case of emergencies, messages for students are left with the school office, who will see that they are delivered. Classroom instruction is not to be interrupted. Parents/Guests do not go directly to classrooms without a Volunteer ID from the office when they have an appointment with the teacher or other staff member.

Telephone/Email:

School telephones are intended only for business use.  However, a student will be permitted to make a call in an emergency.  Calls can be made with teacher permission only.

• Parents should plan the school day in advance with students regarding pickup, athletics, etc. to avoid the need for phone calls or emails.

• Parents may not text or email students directly during the school day; parents should communicate with the school office only if needed.
• Students will not be permitted to contact their parent/guardian for items forgotten, change their dismissal, etc.
• If a student must make a call home, they must go to the school office to call their parent. No students are permitted to use a teacher or staff member’s cell phone nor the telephones in the pods. Both phones are for adult use only.

Cell Phones/ Electronic Devices:

Like many school districts across the country, the Diocese of Venice is enacting a prohibition on cell phones and wearable devices (smart watches and any other wearable device that has internet connectivity) in schools. This has come about as a result of overwhelming research demonstrating the negative impacts of cell phone use, social media, etc. on student achievement, health, and well-being. See the Diocese of Venice Policy on Prohibition of Phones and Wearable Devices in Schools included in Appendix A.

Students in grades PK-5 are NOT permitted to bring cell phones or wearable devices to school. If a student does bring a phone to school, it will be held by the office until the end of the school day for the parent/guardian to pick up. The school is NOT liable for loss or damage to any phone or wearable device.

All middle school students will be assigned a Yondr pouch. Upon arrival students will place their phones inside the pouch and lock them. The teacher will check that all phones are safely locked in the pouches. Students will keep the pouches with them for the day and are solely responsible for them. At the end of the day, students will unlock their cases as they exit the school. Once unlocked, students are not allowed to be on their devices while on school grounds, especially during dismissal time. Students are responsible for storing their Yondr pouch and ensuring they have it with them daily.

• While attending after school extracurricular activities, students may only use their device with permission and supervision of the staff member in charge of the extracurricular activity.
• The responsibility for phones and wearable devices rests solely on the student.

• The school is NOT liable for loss or damage to any phone or wearable device.
• Students are responsible for the Yondr pouch that is assigned to them at the beginning of the year. If the case is lost or damaged, parents will be charged a fee of $30 to replace the phone.
• In the event of an emergency, when it is safe to do so, students will be allowed to unlock their phones so they can contact their parents.
• If a student is found on school property with a phone or wearable device during school hours, the phone will be confiscated and parents will be contacted to pick it up and a conference will be scheduled to discuss the situation.
• A second cell phone policy violation will result in detention. Further violations could lead to further disciplinary action including suspension and/or expulsion.

Those who continue to violate any of the rules listed above will face serious consequences including device confiscation, detention, suspension, and/or expulsion.

Special Events & Fundraising:

Parents involved in coordinating special events and/or fundraising activities must have all correspondence approved in advance by the administration.  Any correspondence from room parents must also be approved in advance by the teacher (or administration if asking for funds/donations).

• All fundraising done in the name of Saint Ann Catholic School by parents, students or staff must be approved in advance by the principal.

• A Fundraising Form/Request must be submitted and approved in advance.    

Home & School Association:

The Saint Ann Home & School Association dedicates itself to strengthening the partnership between the home and the school.  This group of parents, teachers, administrators, and other staff members work to provide consistent communication between parents and the school.

The association implements and supports fund-raising activities for the enrichment of all students and teachers.  In addition, the association encourages and supports volunteerism and service throughout the community.

Academic Policies

Curriculum:

Saint Ann Catholic School follows a curriculum approved by the Diocesan Department of Education and the Bishop of Venice which conforms to standards issued by the Florida Catholic Conference, the Department of Education of the Diocese of Venice, the Florida Department of Education, and the National Core Curriculum standards.  The school’s textbooks are selected from those approved by the Department of Education of the Diocese of Venice.

Saint Ann Catholic School is a member of the National Catholic Education Association and is accredited by and meets the policies, principles, and standards of the Florida Catholic Conference, a member of the National Council for Private School Accreditation.

The curriculum at Saint Ann Catholic School provides the student with the fullest and best opportunities to realize the fourfold purpose of Catholic education:  message, community, worship, and service.  The full development of each student is facilitated by a comprehensive educational program that includes a balance of appropriate and authentic school and real-life experiences; appropriate recognition of individual talents and differences; the acquisition of essential skills, concepts, and knowledge; and the developmental assessment of each student’s progress.

Participation Requirements:

The curriculum at Saint Ann Catholic School provides students the optimal opportunity to prepare themselves for high school, college and beyond.  As such, students must attend all courses and programs unless participation is designated optional.  Parents wishing to withdraw students from optional programs must do so in writing only after a conference with the program’s teacher(s) and members of the administration.  

Academic Testing and Progress Monitoring:  

The academic progress of students is closely monitored and reported to parents throughout the school year. By closely monitoring the progress of students, teachers are able to identify areas that require more intensive or alternate forms of instruction. The assessments used to monitor progress are:

• Formative Assessments – ongoing

• Summative Assessments – ongoing

• STAR Reading Assessment – Administered in August, November, February, and May

• STAR Math Assessment – Administered in August, November, February, and May

• Terra Nova Assessment – Administered in February/March to students in grades 2-8

• Please note Terra Nova Assessments are REQUIRED for all students receiving state scholarship funds; no exceptions.

• ARK Test (Assessment of Religious Knowledge) administered in the spring to students in grades 2-8.
• Florida Department of Education VPK Assessment - Administered 3x per year to PK4 students. 

Terra Nova:

Catholic schools in the state of Florida administer the TerraNova Standardized Tests to their students. The TerraNova test provides diagnostic information which can help identify students’ learning needs so that educators can better facilitate students’ learning.

Academic Honesty:

All students are expected to demonstrate honesty in their academic pursuits and submit work that is entirely their own.  Cheating, copying another’s work, allowing others to copy, plagiarism (including using AI), and doing another person’s homework, are forms of academic dishonesty.

Plagiarism, whereby another’s work is deliberately used or appropriated without any indication of the source, thereby attempting to convey the impression that such work is the student’s own, is also not permitted.  Any student failing to properly credit ideas or materials taken from another has plagiarized. When it is determined that a student has violated these academic standards, the student will lose some or all credit for the assignment. Additional disciplinary consequences may also be incurred.

Best Grading Practices: Philosophy -

We believe that:

• Students should have a clear and transparent understanding of the learning objectives.

• Grading practices must be timely, specific, fair, and accurate.

• Grades should reflect a clearly defined set of academic standards.

• A student's grade should accurately represent their demonstrated understanding of the material.

• Non-academic factors such as work habits and behavior should be communicated separately from academic grades.

• Assessments play a vital role in both teaching and learning.

Types of Assessments:

Assessments take many forms and types; however they are grouped under two broad categories.

Formative:

Formative assessments are ongoing checks of student understanding, used by teachers throughout the learning process to inform instruction and support student growth. The goal is to identify strengths and areas for improvement in real time, so that teaching can be adjusted and students receive timely feedback and support. Formative assessments help ensure that learning is on track before moving on to new concepts.

Summative:

Summative assessments are evaluations of student learning that occur at the end of an instructional period. These assessments measure how well students have mastered the content and skills taught during that time.

Grading Scale grades 1-8:

The grading scale for Saint Ann Catholic School grades 1-8 is as follows:

A        100-90           

B        89-80           

C        79-70           

D        69-60 

F        Below 60  

Pre-Kindergarten - Kindergarten Grading Policies:

Pre-Kindergarten 3: Assessed four times per year

Pre-Kindergarten 4 (VPK): Assessed three times per year

Kindergarten: Assessed on a semester basis

Grading Scale for Pre-Kindergarten – Kindergarten SKILLS:

E = Exceeds Expectations (Will be given rarely and only for “above and beyond” the normal classroom performance.)

M = Meets Expectations (An overall good performance in graded area)

B = Below Expectations

N/A = Not Applicable

*This grading scale does not equate to the ABC scale of the older children.

Conduct Grading Scales:  Students will receive a letter grade for conduct:

A        Outstanding

B        Good

C        Satisfactory

D        Needs Improvement

F        Unsatisfactory 

Determination of a student’s conduct grade is based on the student’s adherence to the school policies, classroom rules, and expectations.

Related Arts Grading Scale:

The Related Art Classes include: P.E., Computer, Music, Band, Art, and Spanish. Students in grades 1-8 will receive a letter grade for Related Arts classes.

Homework:

A student’s education does not end with the school day.  Homework assignments and studying are an integral and inseparable part of students’ daily lessons.  In all grades students should expect an appropriate amount of homework each night befitting the school’s academic standards.  Students need to complete all assignments before the school day begins.  Students could receive a lunch or regular detention to complete homework.

• Grades PK3-2nd Grades – Teachers will notify parents for incomplete/missing homework.

• Grades 3rd – 8th grades - Parents will receive a weekly email notice for their student’s grades. Missing and incomplete work can be found via Facts.

Report Cards:

Report cards will be sent home via email for the quarterly marking period one,two, and three. Parents are expected to review and contact the teacher with any questions or concerns. Final report cards will be mailed home after the last day of school.

Interim Reports:

Interim reports are issued via Facts weekly for grades 1-8. These provide parents the opportunity to gauge student progress in each subject. Parents are highly encouraged to regularly check Facts Family Portal throughout the year.

Promotion:

When our school accepts a student, we accept the responsibilities of educating that child. It is expected that the performance of each child will be directed toward maximizing the individual’s abilities and talents. The uniqueness and individual differences of each student are strong beliefs in the value system of our Catholic schools and every effort will be made to meet the varying needs among our students within the realm of local resources.

Several factors are considered in the promotion of the student:

• Classroom performance and academic achievement according to grade level requirements
• Student age and ability
• Attendance and tardiness

Retention:Students in grades Kindergarten through 8th, must meet the academic requirements for his/her grade level in order to be promoted. If the teacher and administration feel that it is not in the best interest of the student to advance to the next grade based upon the criteria listed below, retention may be considered. The final decision for retention will be made by the principal.

If a student does not meet the academic requirements of any grade level as determined by the teacher (s) and the principal, the parent will be notified by the end of 3rd quarter that retention in that grade is being considered. A final decision will be made at the end of the school year. Students having attendance issues will be considered for retention.

Eighth-grade students who do not meet the requirements for promotion will not receive a diploma until failed coursework is satisfactorily completed during summer school.  They may be allowed to participate in the activities and ceremonies related to their class graduation.

Honors Classes:

In middle school, students may be placed in the honors class for Language Arts and/or Math.  This placement is based upon a review of scores in Star Reading and Math scores, teacher recommendation, Terra Nova testing as well as past performance in five academic areas.  A committee of teachers reviews each student file.  The honors courses are taught as advanced classes, and the assignments and assessments will reflect this.  The honors class will allow students to handle challenging grade level work with more time given for questions and practice in each subject area.  There are no parent overrides to this policy.

High School Algebra I:

The Algebra I course is designed on the Diocesan curriculum guidelines for Algebra I.  The Algebra I course at the middle school uses the same book as the high school.  Only students who have qualified through a standardized Algebra aptitude assessment and matrix consisting of many factors taken at the end of seventh grade would be allowed to take the high school level Algebra I course in middle school.  The Algebra I final exam is developed by the high school department head or designee and the middle school teacher and will be administered at the middle school.  Course placement in ninth grade will be based on the final exam score.  

Students who take Algebra I in middle school and meet the criteria above can receive the credit on their Catholic high school transcript.  Students who pass the Algebra I class given in middle school would still be required to take four years of math in high school.

Honor Roll:

Students in 3rd through 8th grades can be named to one of two honor rolls according to their achievement during each grading period. The Pastor’s Honor Roll recognizes students earning all A’s and the Principal’s Honor Roll recognizes students earning A’s and B’s in all subjects.  Academic performance and conduct in all subjects are considered; a student with two or more N’s or any U conduct grades will be disqualified from honor roll consideration.  Disciplinary action, like suspension, detentions, and office referrals, and more than one negative card signature, will keep a student off the Honor Roll as well.

Annual Academic Awards:

At the close of each school year, awards are based on performance during the entire year and are given in each intermediate-level homeroom and each middle school grade.

Averages/Exams:

Each quarterly grade accounts for 25% of the final grade for students in grades 1-5. Students in grades 6-8 are given midterm and final exams. To take the final exam, the student must turn in all checked out library books, technology devices, etc. in good condition.

The final grade for middle school students is determined by the following:

Quarter 1 - 20%

Quarter 2 - 20%

Quarter 3 - 20%

Quarter 4 - 20%

Midterm - 10%

Final Exam - 10%

Field Trips:

Field trips are privileges and opportunities for students to supplement their knowledge and are an extension of their classroom studies. All field trips must be approved by the principal. To participate, a student must return a completed and signed Permission Form before the date of the field trip.  Verbal permission alone is not acceptable.  

A student is required to attend all field trips; it is not an optional holiday. Grades are given for field trip attendance. Although it is not the policy of the school to exclude any student from attending a field trip, if a student exhibits behavior indicating a lack of self-control or a pattern of disrespect for rules and regulations, the student may not be permitted to participate.  Regardless of the reason, if a student misses a field trip, the student will be given an alternative assignment on campus, typically a research paper.  

Student Support Services

Gifted Department Eligibility Process:

The Gifted Services of Saint Ann Elementary School are designed to provide eligible students with opportunities which extend the Diocese of Venice Curriculum.  Higher order thinking skills are explored, as well as a variety of problem-solving strategies.  Student-centered research papers and projects are developed throughout the year.  Small groups allow for social interaction and cooperative learning.  The Christ-centered philosophy strives to capitalize on students’ intellectual strengths while recognizing the importance of being humble and kind, all under the guidance of a Florida State Certified Teacher of Gifted.  The eligibility requirements for these services begin with a teacher nomination form, followed by a series of steps involving conversations with classroom teachers and parents, data collection, examination of work samples, and some testing.  Also, an evaluation of a Gifted Characteristics Checklist is completed by the classroom teacher or a recent teacher who knows the child best.  This will assist the department in determining eligibility.

Resource Department Eligibility Process:

The Resource Department of Saint Ann Catholic School strives to support the educational program of students through a collaboration of teacher, parent, and student interaction. Students accepted and enrolled at Saint Ann Catholic School provided with an Evaluation, IEP, Service Plan, or 504 stating a diagnosis will have a Student Support Plan developed by the Student Support Team. The Student Support Plan will be written by the Resource Teacher at the school level with parent and teacher consultation. Catholic schools may not be able to provide all the recommended or needed accommodations/services outlined in an IEP, Service Plan, 504, or Evaluation.

Prior to enrollment as well as the beginning of the school year, the Student Support Team will meet to discuss what services the school can provide. The pull-out services will be used for pre-teaching, re-teaching, reviewing, strengthening prerequisite skills, literacy instruction, oral test administration, reinforcement, or to work on specific goals. The best time to provide these services will be by replacing Spanish with Resource. Support is provided by the certified resource teacher on a regular basis until the student demonstrates appropriate achievement.

School Counselor:

The School Counseling Program at Saint Ann Catholic School is a data-driven, comprehensive program designed to provide all students, PK through 8th grade, social, emotional, academic, and career support. The school counselor is a highly trained educator and mental health professional that oversees the School Counseling Program. Services provided by the School Counseling program include: individual and small group counseling, crisis counseling, classroom lessons, consultation with stakeholders, support team collaboration, and special event planning.

The school counselor is committed to maintaining collaboration with parents/guardians. By enrolling a student at Saint Ann Catholic School, parents/guardians grant permission for the school counselor to meet with the student. Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the school counselor to make an appointment, should a need for support arise during the school year.

School counselors recognize their primary obligation regarding confidentiality is to the student and balance that obligation with an understanding of legal rights of parents/guardians to be the guiding voice in their children’s lives. School counselors respect students by keeping the information they share confidential. A critical step in building trust and rapport with students is making sure they know that the school counselor will respect their privacy. School counselors will share critical information with teachers, parents, and administrators on a “need to know” basis. If a student is hurting themselves or others, the school counselor will inform the appropriate stakeholders right away to ensure their safety.

The School Counseling program does NOT provide therapy in school. In some instances, a student’s needs may exceed the school’s resources and require the assistance of outside help. In these cases, the school counselor may refer parents to outside agencies or counselors. If a student is currently meeting with an outside professional, the school strongly suggests parents to notify the school counselor so that effective coordination can be arranged.

Dress Code

Uniform Requirements 

It is a privilege to wear a Saint Ann Catholic School uniform. It should be worn properly, be in good repair, and complete. Uniform items with holes or stains need to be replaced or repaired.  

• Shorts, skorts and skirts should not be hemmed. The new Tommy Hilfiger uniform has Slim to Plus/Husky and both Regular and Tall options. Under certain circumstances, permission may be given by the principal. Parents must contact the principal for approval before making any alterations to the uniform. If alterations are made without prior approval, the uniform may be deemed unacceptable and may not be worn.

• Shorts, skorts, skirts, and jumpers must not be shorter than 2 inches above the student’s knees.
• Pants, shorts, skirts, and skorts should be well fitted and worn in such a manner that undergarments are not exposed.

• Shirts should be buttoned to the second button from the top and be kept tucked in, so that the belt or waistband is visible from all sides.  

• Tight, baggy, or otherwise ill-fitting items are not permitted.  

• Girls must wear solid white or black crew socks or white knee socks with no logos.  

• Boys must wear solid white or black crew with no logos.  No knee socks or no-show socks may be worn.
• Crew socks are defined as: a type of sock that extends above the ankle and to the mid-calf area.

• Ties should be neatly knotted when worn.

• No long sleeve shirts under the uniform shirt are allowed.

Obtaining Uniforms 

The Saint Ann Catholic School uniform vendors are Renegades Sportswear and School Uniforms by Tommy Hilfiger.  The school has selected these uniform items for their higher durability and colorfastness compared to store-bought items.  Approximations or substitutes are not permitted. All uniform items may be purchased from:

Renegades Sportswear 

Alico Crossing Plaza

17051 Jean Street

Ft. Myers, FL  33967

Phone:(239) 275-6720 Fax:(239) 275-5088

Hours: Mon. - Thur. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

website: www.renegadesfl.com 

or 

Tommy Hilfiger  

Sizes available: Regular to Tall, Slim to Plus/Husky

Website for ordering:  https://www.globalschoolwear.com 

Website School Code: SAIN24

UNIFORMS BEING PHASED OUT (LAST YEAR TO BE WORN IS THE 2025-2026) 

• Renegade white regular uniform polo shirt for all grades both boys and girls 

• Renegade girls’ uniform skorts in plaid 

 The following items are not allowed: 

• No sweatpants for cold weather with the school uniform

• No ankle socks

• No rings or bracelets

• No logos other than Saint Ann Catholic School on any uniform items

Regular Uniform 

 Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger

The regular uniform is worn nearly every day except for Mass days and other special occasions.  

Regular Uniform for Girls:

All Girls wear solid black or white crew socks or knee socks with no logos (no rolling down) and solid black tennis shoes. Shorts, skorts, skirts, and jumpers must not be shorter than 2 inches above the student’s knees. Crew socks are defined as: a type of sock that extends above the ankle and to the mid-calf area.

PK3 & PK4 

• Girls in Pre-Kindergarten grades wear the navy polo dress with navy bike shorts underneath.

Kindergarten – Fifth Grade 

• Girls in Kindergarten through 5th grades wear the red polo shirt with SACS logo with the Renegades Dri Fit navy skort or Tommy Hilfiger navy skort.         

Middle School 

• Girls in Middle School wear the navy or red polo shirt with SACS logo with the navy or khaki Renegades Dri Fit skort or Tommy Hilfiger navy or khaki skort.         

Regular Uniform for Boys:

All Boys wear solid black or white crew socks with no logos (no rolling down) and solid black tennis shoes. Crew socks are defined as: a type of sock that extends above the ankle and to the mid-calf area.

 PK3 - Kindergarten 

• Boys in Pre-Kindergarten through Kindergarten grades wear the red polo shirt with SACS logo with the Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger navy shorts.

First Grade – Fifth Grade 

• Boys in 1st through 5th grades wear the red polo shirt with SACS logo and the Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger navy shorts with a plain black leather belt.

Middle School 

• Boys in Middle School wear the navy or red polo shirt with SACS logo with the Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger navy or khaki shorts with a plain black leather belt.

Dress Uniform 

Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger 

The dress uniform is worn on Mass days and other special occasions. All students wear dress shoes on these days.  

Dress Uniform for Girls:

All girls wear solid white or black crew socks or knee socks with no logos. Shorts, skorts, skirts, and jumpers must not be shorter than 2 inches above the student’s knees. Crew socks are defined as: a type of sock that extends above the ankle and to the mid-calf area.

PK3 & PK4 

• Girls Pre-Kindergarten grades wear their regular uniform on dress uniform days.

• Wear the solid black tennis shoes (no logos or light up shoes).

Kindergarten - 5th Grade  

• Girls in Kindergarten through 5th grades wear the white Peter Pan blouse and the navy and red plaid jumper with crest from Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger.

• Dress Shoe: Saddle Shoes

Middle School 

• Girls in middle school wear the white oxford shirt with crest and the Tommy Hilfiger plaid skirt and cross tie.

• Dress Shoe: Solid black leather penny loafer

Dress Uniform for Boys:

All Boys wear solid white or black crew socks with no logos. Crew socks are defined as: a type of sock that extends above the ankle and to the mid-calf area.

PK3 & PK4 

• Boys in Pre-Kindergarten grades wear their regular uniform on dress uniform days.

• Wear the solid black tennis shoes (no logos or light up shoes).

Kindergarten – 5th Grade 

• Boys in Kindergarten through 5th grades wear the white oxford shirt with SACS crest, SACS navy and red plaid tie, and navy pants with a plain, black leather belt.

• Dress Shoe: Solid black leather penny loafer

Middle School 

• Boys in 8th grade wear the white oxford shirt with SACS crest, SACS navy and red plaid tie, and khaki pants with a plain, black leather belt.

• Dress Shoe: Solid black leather penny loafer

P.E. Uniform 

Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger 

• The P.E. uniform is required for PK-8th grade students. (No Sideline wear, SACS spirit wear, or other sport team wear permitted).

• Students will wear the P.E. uniform during all P.E. classes.  

• Students may wear their P.E. uniform all day on days when they have P.E class (except on dress uniform days).  

• The P.E. uniform for both boys and girls in all grades is the red logo t-shirt, blue logo mesh shorts, white crew socks(girls), black crew socks (boys) and black tennis shoes with non-marking soles.

       (See “Shoes” in this section for more information).

• On days when students wear their dress uniform and have P.E., they need to bring sneakers for class.

• P.E. Cold Wear (may be worn only when the daily low temperature is below 50°F and the high temperature does not exceed 65°F) Tommy Hilfiger P.E. uniform blue coed sweatpants and sweatshirt with Saint Ann Catholic School Logo only.

P.E. Uniform Violation Policy 

Students who fail to bring their P.E. uniform will NOT be allowed to call their parents, and the infraction will be treated as any other discipline code violation.

Shoes & Socks Policies

Regular Uniform Shoes:

The required uniform and P.E. shoe for all students: Solid black tennis shoe (no colored tags, emblems, different sole color, etc.).  

Girls and Boys – all Black 

• Shoes must be a solid black tennis shoe

• The tennis shoes must have the same color soles and shoelaces  

• No slip-on shoes, high tops, or heels

• No Hey Dudes or loafers

• Shoes must always be kept clean and in good condition.

Dress Uniform Shoes:                                                                       

On dress uniform days, students in K-8 must wear dress shoes.

• Hey Dudes, boat shoes, or other types of dress shoes and loafers are NOT allowed.  

Girls Dress Shoes:

• K-5: Girls Keds Saddle Shoe
• 6-8: Girls all black Penny Loafer

Boys Dress Shoes:

• K-8: Boys all black Penny Loafer

PK3 & PK 4 ONLY Regular and Dress uniform Shoes:  

Girls and Boys:

• All black with shoelaces (PK4 only)
• All black Pre-tied/slip on
• All black Velcro  

Socks

Girls Socks:                                                          Boys Socks: 

All Black Crew Socks - No Logos                                             All Black Crew Socks- No Logos

All White Crew Socks - No Logos                                        All White Crew Socks - No Logos

All White Knee Socks - No Logos

*Crew socks are defined as: a type of sock that extends above the ankle  and to the mid-calf area.

Cold Weather – Outwear Options 

Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger

May be worn only when the daily low temperature is below 50°F and the high temperature does not exceed 65°F

ONLY Saint Ann Catholic School uniform outerwear may be worn inside the classrooms, church, etc.

Option 1: Saint Ann Catholic School navy cardigan  

Option 2: Saint Ann Catholic School navy fleece

Option 3: Saint Ann Catholic School navy sweatshirt (only on P.E. dress days)

• The Saint Ann Catholic School navy cardigan, fleece, or sweatshirt should be purchased from the Renegades Uniform Company or the Tommy Hilfiger Uniform Store.

• All other cold weather (may be worn only when the daily low temperature is below 50°F and the high temperature does not exceed 65°F) sweaters, coats, and jackets must be “logo free” and may only be worn outside.  

• Only the navy cardigan or the SAS fleece are allowed to be worn at church.  

• Navy full-footed tights are allowed but only on very cold days when the weather is below 50 degrees.

(No sweatpants are allowed with the school uniform).

• No sweatshirt-style hoodies are acceptable at any time.

Hair, Makeup, and Jewelry

Distractions:

The purpose of the rules for hair, make-up and jewelry is to prevent and discourage distractions.  Any distractions that take away from the educational process are not allowed.  

Hair:

Students are expected to have neatly groomed with conservative hairstyles. Extreme hairstyles are prohibited. A notice from the teacher will be sent if a student needs a haircut. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary consequences.

• Boys:

• Hair, when fully extended, must be cut above the eyebrows, above the ears, and above the collar.  

• Hair should not be cut with less than #2 razor.

• Boys are not allowed to have facial hair, including moustaches, beards, and sideburns.  

• Boys are not permitted to have lines or designs shaved into their heads.

• No dyed hair color or artificial highlights.

• Comb in a traditional style.

• Girls:

• Hairstyles should be conservative and in good taste.

• No dyed hair color or artificial highlights.

• Girls must keep hair out of their eyes and pulled back when attending P.E.  

• Girls’ hair accessories must be conservative and in our uniform colors.  

• Hair decorations: Bows, headbands, and scrunchies should be small (less than 3” for bows and 2” for headbands) in our red, white, or blue only.  

Make-Up:

• Make-up, artificial nails, dip, acrylic, gel, and nail polish are not permitted. Absolutely no grooming is allowed during class time.        

Jewelry:

• One thin small chain with one small religious medal or cross (less than 1”) may be worn under the shirt. No chokers or collars are allowed. No trendy or personalized necklace will be permitted. Large or thick chain, no wooden or rope type necklace are allowed.

• Earrings – girls only – One pair of small post earrings. (one on each ear only) Dangling or oversized earrings are not permitted.  Boys are never permitted to wear earrings.

• No rings or bracelets.

• One small conservative watch which is not audible may be worn. No smart watches are allowed.

• No ankle bracelets.

• Visible or simulated body piercing or tattoo is not permitted.  This includes writing on the body with ink or marker.

Attire for Dances, Graduation, and Other Special Occasions:

For dances/graduation, dress code will be defined by administration and must be followed, or the student will not participate

Dress Down Days:

On these designated days when students are not required to wear their uniforms, certain clothing is considered inappropriate to wear. Students must be dressed appropriately as defined by the theme of the day. Students must dress appropriately for the Catholic School environment and not distract from learning.  

• Saint Ann Spirit wear is acceptable but only on Spirit/Dress Down Days

• Jeans, appropriate length shorts, or pants may be worn

• Appropriate fitting tops

Denim Days:

On Denim Days, students may wear denim/jeans with a Saint Ann Catholic school t-shirt or polo with school appropriate shoes.  

ITEMS THAT ARE NEVER ACCEPTABLE AT SCHOOL FOR ANY OCCASION

• No form fitting clothing

• No leggings or jeggings

• No tops with low necklines or spaghetti straps

• No tank tops

• No shirts that are too tight, sheer, or expose the midriff

• No cut-offs of any kind

• No pants, jeans, or shorts with rips, tears, or holes

• No tight or baggy pants or shorts
• No skirts, shorts, pants, skorts, etc. which are shorter than student’s normal uniform code

• No open toed shoes, or heels

• No flip-flops or strapless sandals

• No sweatshirt style hoodies are acceptable at any time

• No items of clothing not consistent with the Catholic School Environment

Students with inappropriate clothing will receive a uniform violation. Additionally, a parent may be called to bring appropriate clothing and the student may lose the privilege of participating in future free-dress days.

Inappropriate Messages:

Clothing that displays inflammatory suggestive, alcohol or tobacco related, or otherwise inappropriate messages are never permitted.

 Behavior Expectations - Student Conduct Covenant

General Guidelines:

Our mission is to maintain a secure, challenging, and nurturing school environment in which students develop a strong sense of integrity and respect for others. To promote this goal, students are expected to be honest, use appropriate language, and have appropriate interactions with others.  

Students will be treated kindly, considerately, fairly, and in a Christian manner. Students represent Saint Ann Catholic School both on and off-campus.

It is a privilege for a student to be enrolled at Saint Ann Catholic School. Continued classroom disruptions and/or violations of our Core School Values will not be tolerated. If the behavior difficulties of a student cannot be resolved, then this privilege may be revoked at the discretion of the school and will be final.

Core School Values: Integrity, Respect, and Safety  

Integrity: Proverbs 27:17 – “Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens another.”

Students are expected to always act with integrity. Integrity is defined as: the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. Throughout his public life, Jesus warned against insincerity. As Catholics, we are called to maintain strong moral principles starting with being truthful in our words and actions; our words and actions should match our Catholic values.

Students are expected to be honest in all their interactions and academic work. Abusive language, profanity, forging/altering parental documents, theft, etc. will not be tolerated and will result in an automatic detention.  

During lunchtime, students are expected to remain seated and demonstrate exemplary table manners. This includes ensuring that food is not wasted by throwing it away and cleaning up their area before leaving the table. Students are NOT allowed to bring soda, coffee, energy drinks, or caffeinated beverages to school.  

Any student that uses social media inappropriately or in a non-Christian way on or off campus will be punished. The first incident will be a parent meeting with the principal. The second incident will be a two-day suspension and the third incident will be expulsion (This rule can vary on the severity of the incident and punishment will be determined by administration/Pastor). 

Respect: John 13:34-35 – “A new commandment I give you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”  

Students are expected to treat each other with respect and kindness.  

Students are expected to be respectful of adults by addressing them in a proper way and tone. Arguing with adults is a violation of respect and will result in an automatic detention.  

School rules apply during school hours, anytime on school grounds, during school-sponsored events, and while traveling in school-arranged transportation.  

All students have a right to a learning environment that encourages academic excellence and is free from disruption. Therefore, every student is expected to be punctual for every class or have a written pass. Students are expected to follow the teacher’s directions, not disrupting the lesson in any manner. Every student has the potential for choosing appropriate behavior. Failure to choose appropriate behavior will result in appropriate consequences.  

Safety: 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 – “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.”  

All students, faculty, and staff have a right to a safe learning environment. It is the responsibility of the entire school community- faculty, staff, parents, students- to contribute to the safety and the peaceful learning environment of the school. Therefore, every student is expected to respect physical/personal boundaries, keeping their hands, feet, and objects to themselves. Physical aggression will not be tolerated.  

Students are responsible for helping maintain clean and safe facilities on our campus by withholding from destroying or defacing property belonging to the school, teachers, staff, and other students.  

As a temple of the Holy Spirit, students are not permitted to have possession of illegal substances, drugs, tobacco, alcohol, or weapons of any kind on Saint Ann Catholic School campus. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medication (see ‘Medication’ under the “Health & Safety” section of the handbook).  

Additional items prohibited on campus include: Smart Watch of any type: Apple, Fitbit, Garmin, Google, Samsung, etc.; Cell phones (must be turned off, placed, and locked into Yonder Pouch daily); lighters or matches; pornography or other sexually explicit materials, (including viewing such material on school computers or other equipment); laser pointers; motorized scooters, and any material/items deemed unsafe by the principal.  

“Bullying” is defined as any intentional, repeated behavior that causes physical, emotional, or psychological harm to another person. Bullying involves an imbalance of power and is meant to intimidate, hurt, or control another individual. One or two mean incidents or interactions are NOT considered “bullying”.  

Bullying can take many forms, including but not limited to physical, verbal, social/relational, and cyberbullying.

“Harassment” means any threatening, insulting, or dehumanizing words or gestures, use of data or computer software, or written (phone text, email, or other transmission), verbal, or physical conduct directed against a student or school employee that:  Places a student or school employee in reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property.  

• Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s educational performance, opportunities, or benefits; or  

• Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.  

Students are encouraged to report bullying, harassment, and other safety violations immediately to their teacher or another trusted staff member.  

In accordance with our mission to uphold the dignity of every person as a child of God, the school administration and faculty take bullying or harassing behavior of any kind seriously. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken to eliminate such behavior at Saint Ann Catholic School.  

The principal has the authority to evaluate the severity of an offense and consider the age of a student before implementing disciplinary action.  Disciplinary action may include parent conference, detention, suspension, or expulsion depending on the frequency and severity of the offense.  

According to the Jeffery Johnson Stand Up for All Students Act (F.S. § 1006.147), if a bullying incident involves behavior that constitutes a criminal offense, Saint Ann Catholic School is obligated to report the incident to local law enforcement for investigation and determination if criminal charges are appropriate.

Reporting Concerning Interactions:  
Another equally important goal is to help students mature and learn a sense of self-responsibility. For this reason, students are held to a high standard of integrity and are expected to appropriately seek help and report problems to the adult in charge when circumstances arise. This is to ensure we can handle each situation fairly and in the moment. We encourage students to seek help and report problems on their own without parental involvement as much as possible. Reports made after the fact or solely by the parent will not be addressed until the student first speaks to the appropriate teacher or staff member.

Consequences:
To promote a secure, challenging, and nurturing classroom, students will initially be redirected and corrected by their classroom teacher. Students will earn a demerit if their behavior continues. Parents are encouraged to check their child’s behavior progress regularly through the Facts Family Portal.

PreK3 – 2nd Grade:

• A demerit slip will be sent home to the parent/guardian to explain the student’s behavioral choices. Parents/Guardians are expected to sign and return the demerit slip to the teacher.  

• The consequence depends on the severity of the behavior with consideration of the safety of the other students and staff. Consequences are issued at teacher discretion and include, but not limited to: loss of choice at recess/play/center time, loss of a privilege in the classroom, separated from classmates, or removal from the classroom.  

• Multiple demerits will require a Parent/Teacher conference and possible support from student support services staff and/or administration.  

3rd – 5th Grade: 

• The demerit will be entered into Facts by the teacher issuing the demerit. Teachers will notify parents of the demerit via email from Facts.  

• The consequence depends on the severity of the behavior with consideration of the safety of the other students and staff. Consequences are issued at teacher discretion and include, but not limited to: loss of choice at recess/play/center time, loss of a privilege in the classroom, separated from classmates, or removal from the classroom.

• A detention will be issued to a student who earns three (3) demerits (see Detention below).  

• If a student violates a Core School Value (Integrity, Respect, or Safety), they will earn a detention automatically (3 demerit points). Depending on the severity of the violation, a student may be issued an automatic suspension.

6th – 8th Grade: 

• The demerit will be entered into Facts by the teacher issuing the demerit. Teachers will notify parents of the demerit via email from Facts.

• A detention will be issued to a student who earns three (3) demerits (see Detention below).

• If a student violates a Core School Value (Integrity, Respect, or Safety), they will earn a detention automatically (3 demerit points). Depending on the severity of the violation, a student may be issued an automatic suspension.

• If a student earns more than six (6) demerits or two (2) detentions, he/she will forfeit the privilege of participating in social activities (i.e., school dances, etc.), attend field trips, and/or extracurricular activities (i.e., school athletic teams, drama, dances, etc.) for the remainder of the semester. The final decision is at the discretion of the principal.  

Parent Conference: Frequent misbehavior will result in a parent conference being arranged to discuss ways a student’s behavior may improve by way of cooperative discipline between parents and the school. A Parent Conference is required within five (5) days of a student’s fifth (5th) demerit point. The school may initiate a Parent Conference at any time throughout the school year.  

Suspension: Suspension (in or out of school) may be issued consequently for serious misconduct, including but not limited to academic dishonesty, destruction of property, violence of any kind, bullying, harassment, and/or the possession or use of any illegal substance and/or weapon.  

Upon issuance of two suspensions within the semester or three for the school year, a parent conference will be required to determine continued enrollment at Saint Ann Catholic School. Any work missed because of an out-of-school suspension may not be made up and will result in a zero for that work, including tests. Students are not permitted to attend any after school or extracurricular activities on the day of the suspension, in or out of school.  

Detentions: 

Detentions will be held on Tuesday mornings from 7:00-7:45 a.m. in the Library. During this time, students are expected to complete a behavior reflection and make amends/restitution with any person(s) hurt because of their behavior. Once a student completes their reflection and makes amends (as appropriate), he/she may read a book for the duration of the time. Students are not allowed to complete homework, be on technology, or engage with other students.  If a student misses their scheduled detention, another detention will be issued.  

Disciplinary Probation: 

All students begin each school year on a disciplinary probation period of one quarter in which the student’s academic progress and conduct is observed to determine if he or she is compatible with the school. At the end of this period, if the student’s conduct shows that the school’s program is not effective, the student can be asked to withdraw.  

Saint Ann Catholic School strives to uphold a nurturing, Catholic environment with the Core Values of Integrity, Respect, and Safety at the center In our efforts to maintain such an environment, students can be placed on Disciplinary Probation should he/she earn six (6) demerits; or two (2) detentions within a semester; or one (1) suspension, While on Disciplinary Probation, each demerit may result in a one day in school suspension.  

Furthermore, students may not participate in any extracurricular activities, including but not limited to athletics, drama, school clubs, dances, honor societies, etc. while on Disciplinary Probation.

Serious Misconduct: 

The authority to suspend or expel a student from school resides with the Principal. In his or her absences, that authority resides with the Assistant Principal.  The decision to expel a student will be made only with the agreement of the Pastor of Saint Ann Catholic Parish or the priest in-charge in the pastor’s absence.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Participation: Students who wish to participate in athletics, clubs, school organizations, social functions, or other extra-curricular activities should remember that their involvement is a privilege, not a right.

If a student checks out sick, he/she is not allowed to participate in activities after school.  If a student checks in with a written excuse by 10:30 a.m., then the student may participate in activities after school.

Academic/Conduct Eligibility: In order for students in grades 5-8 to participate in any extra-curricular activity, students must meet several academic criteria.  Eligibility will be verified after each Interim Report and Report Card.  

• academic grades must be C or better

• conduct may not exceed 2 N’s nor any U’s  

• No failing grades in any subject

Eligibility can be affected by conduct issues – demerits, chronic misbehaviors, detentions, suspensions.

If a student is found to be ineligible, the student will be put on probation and suspended from all extra-curricular activities until the 10th school day after the interim report or report card was issued.  At the end of this period, a review of the student’s academic and behavioral progress will be conducted, and the student’s continued eligibility will be determined.

Student officers of any campus organization may be removed from office upon receiving any kind of suspension.  Please note: There is a separate Athletic Handbook with more specifics.

Sports Available: Saint Ann Catholic School is a member of the Sunshine Athletic Conference. In the fall, the school offers competitive boy’s soccer, girl’s volleyball, and co-ed cross country. In the winter, boy’s and girl’s basketball programs are offered.  In the spring, girl’s soccer, co-ed golf, co-ed tennis, and co-ed track and field are offered. Intramural sports programs are also available for students in various grades.  Please see the Athletic Handbook for more information.

Clubs, Organizations, and Activities Available: Students in middle school are also encouraged to join:

• Scholar Bowl  
• Mini-Vinnies – St. Vincent de Paul Student Chapter
• Drama

Other activities available for students are:

• Sewing Club
• Robotics/STREAM

• Robotics/STREAM
• Safety Patrol

Parish Ministries:

Saint Ann Catholic Church welcomes and encourages students to participate in parish ministries such as:

• Choir
• Alter Serving
• Lectoring
• Ushering

In order to participate in these ministries, students must be Catholic and registered parishioners of Saint Ann Catholic Church. Students not registered as parishioners of Saint Ann Catholic Church are highly encouraged to be active and participate in their home parish ministries.

National Junior Honor Society:
Membership in the National Junior Honor Society is one of the highest honors that can be awarded to a middle school student. To be eligible for membership consideration, students must be in 8th, 7th, or the second semester of 6th grade and have a minimum grade average as determined by the Society’s Faculty Council.  However, no student is inducted simply because of a high academic average.  Additionally, potential members must meet high standards of leadership, service, citizenship, and character.  Students are then selected by the Faculty Council, consisting of five teachers chosen by the principal.

Students may be removed from NJHS for failure to meet appropriate standards in grades and conduct at the discretion of the principal.

Saint Ann School

2025-2026

Parent/Student Handbook Agreement

Family Name: _________________________________________________ Date: __________________


We have read and agree to support, abide by, and follow the procedures and policies of Saint Ann School as set forth in this Handbook. These include, but are not limited to the policies for Media and Technology, and all other policies that may be adopted or amended from time to time during the school year, as may be distributed in writing, emailed or posted on the school’s website. Revisions to this handbook may be made solely by the principal.

Parent Name: _________________________________________________________________________

Parent Signature: _______________________________________________ Date: __________________


Students, please sign below:

Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: __________________
Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: __________________
Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: __________________
Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: __________________
Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: __________________

Appendix A: Diocese of Venice Polices

Diocese of Venice Policy

Prohibition of Phones and Wearable Devices in Schools

Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to create one consistent and enforceable policy for all schools in the diocese regarding the use of mobile phones, wearable devices, and other electronic gadgets by students during school hours.

Goal: The goal of this policy is to create an environment in all schools in the diocese where both students and faculty can focus on education, interact with their peers, and engagement in school activities without distractions caused by personal devices.

Rationale: Educators are feeling the drastic effects of non-school issued electronic devices that have become an ever-present distraction to learning and a drain on teacher motivation leading to reduced student engagement, retention, interaction, and school safety.

Scope: This policy applies to all students within the Diocese of Venice who bring mobile phones or wearable devices (including, but not limited to, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and any other technology capable of communication or internet access) onto school premises, whether they are in classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, or other areas.

Policy Details:

1. General Rule: Students who bring mobile phones or wearable devices must store these devices in a diocesan approved lockable storage pouch. Bags will be locked at the beginning of each school day and students will keep the bag in their possession, whether in a backpack or locker. At the end of the school day, students will pass the bag across the unlocking mechanism to gain access to their phone or other wearable devices.
2. Definitions:

• Mobile Phones: Any device capable of making phone calls, sending messages, or accessing the internet, including smartphones.
• Wearable Devices: Includes smartwatches, fitness trackers, or any other device worn on the body that connects to the internet or communicates with other devices.

3. Exceptions:

• In the case of special permission granted by school administration (e.g., for medical reasons or specific school activities), students must provide the device to the principal's office at the start of the day and follow guidelines for its use.
• Students involved in extracurricular activities or after-school programs may use their devices only once they are off school grounds and away from the school premises.

4. Consequences for Violations:

• First Offense: The phone or wearable device will be confiscated, and a parent/guardian will be required to pick it up from the school office. A meeting with the student, parents, and school administration will be scheduled to discuss the situation.
• Second Offense: The student will be subject to a more serious disciplinary action, such as detention or suspension. Further violations may lead to an extended ban on bringing devices to school.

5. Exemptions:

• Medical Necessity: Students who require a phone or wearable device for health-related reasons (e.g., for monitoring medical conditions) may submit a request for an exemption, along with appropriate documentation, to the principal. These devices will be subject to strict regulations and must remain off and secured unless needed for medical purposes.
• Pre-approved School Activities: Phones and wearable devices may be permitted for use during specific educational activities with prior approval from the teacher and school administration.

6. Student Responsibility:

• It is the responsibility of students to ensure that their devices are stored securely in school issued lockable storage pouch upon entry into school. The school will not be held responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen devices.
• If the school issued storage pouch is lost or misplaced, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain an additional bag from the school office. If the storage pouch is permanently damaged or lost, the student will be responsible for its replacement at a cost of $30 per pouch.
• • Students should be aware that the use of any mobile device to record, take photos, or video without proper consent is strictly prohibited and may result in further disciplinary actions.

7. Enforcement: Teachers, staff, and administrators will monitor adherence to this policy. Random checks may be conducted to ensure compliance. Students who need to contact parents during the school day are encouraged to use the school office phone or designated communication methods.

Conclusion: With the cooperation of all involved (parents, students, faculty, and administration), we anticipate this policy will ensure a positive and productive school experience for all.

Effective Date: August 4, 2025

Appendix B: Prekindergarten-3, PreKindergarten-4, & VPK4:

This Appendix includes information pertaining to Prekindergarten 3 (PK3), Prekindergarten 4 (PK4), Voluntary Prekindergarten 4 (VPK4) only. Its intended purpose is to highlight policies and procedures that are unique to PK3 and PK4. It is NOT a replacement for the Family Handbook, nor is it comprehensive of all Saint Ann Catholic School policies and procedures. Please refer to the Family Handbook for policies not outlined in this document or for additional information pertaining to students in K-8.

Age Requirements:

Enrollment in certain primary grades is dependent on the student meeting certain statewide age requirements:

• Pre-Kindergarten 3 must be 3 years old by September 1 and be fully potty-trained. If the child has an accident, they will be sent home.

• Pre-Kindergarten 4 must be four years old by September 1 and be fully potty-trained. If the child has an accident, they will be sent home.

Arrival/Dismissal

Acceptable transportation methods for arrival and dismissal include: carline, walker/bikers, and after care. Unless arriving after the 8:00am tardy bell, students may not arrive on campus through the office. At no time are parents permitted to walk their student(s) through the office or gate to their classroom as it violates our school safety policies. At no time are parents allowed to park to walk-up at arrival or dismissal time for the safety of our children and faculty.

Carline:

It is illegal, against school policy, and unsafe for children to be dropped off or picked up anywhere but the designated car line.  Adults are required to always follow established carline procedures. Violators are subject to being ticketed by the Naples Police Department. Those dropping off or picking up students in the carline are expected to be patient and respectful of other drivers, students, teachers, and safety patrol members.  

Families with children in Prekindergarten will always use the Playground Path Carline for arrival and dismissal, unless a sibling is in 8th grade. Siblings in all other grades (2-7) will arrive and dismiss through the Playground Path Carline with their PK sibling.

• Playground Path Carline (enter via 4th Street S.):  

• Students in PK, K, and 1st grade will be dismissed in this car line along with older siblings in Grades 2-7.
• Located in front of the PK playgrounds & Administration Building.
• Drivers should enter the 8th Ave. carline from the school parking lot entrance on 4th Street South and immediately turn right, circling the parking lot before entering the driveway adjacent to the playground and proceeding to the drive-in front of the Administration Building.

Walkers/Bikers:

Students who live within walking distance to campus may walk or ride their non-motorized bicycles/scooters to school. To be eligible, students MUST have written permission from their parent/guardian, follow the procedures for Bicycles & Non-Motorized Scooters AND are able to walk themselves to and from class without assistance (all grade levels) to be permitted to walk/bike to/from school. Parents escorting students to campus may not enter through the gates. At times, safety patrol members may be available to assist PK3 & PK4 students to their classroom. However, this is not always available and students are expected to walk independently to their classroom.

Students walking/biking will be dismissed from the Jubilee Trail carline area. Students MUST inform security staff as they depart campus. Any student not meeting the eligibility requirements, including helmets for bikers/scooters, will not be permitted to leave campus as a walker/biker.

Failure to follow the established procedures will result in the loss of privilege to be a walker/biker and must follow carline procedures.

Arrival:

Students may begin to arrive on campus at 7:30 a.m., but not prior to that time.  Parents are expected to follow established carline procedures and drop off students in the proper carline. Students are expected to follow the established walker/biker procedures.

Parents may only walk their PK3-Kindergarten students into school for the first three days of school but then will be required to use the carline. Parents must park in the grass off 8th Ave. in front of the field to not interfere with active carline movements and for the safety of all people.

Dismissal for Students Registered Half-Day: 

Students in PK3 registered for the half-day schedule may arrive between 7:30a - 8:00a and will be dismissed from the Playground Path carline at 11:45a for regular dismissal days. On early dismissal days for the whole school, half-day PK3 students dismiss at 11:15am from the Carlo Acutis Way carline. Parents are expected to arrive on time, no later than 11:55a on regular school dismissal days and 11:25a on early dismissal school days to pick up their child. In the event of an emergency, parents shall notify the school office and their child’s teacher they will be late. Repeated non-emergency late pick-up offenses may result in a full day charge. Aftercare is not available for half-day students.

Students in PK4/VPK registered for the half-day schedule may arrive between 7:30a - 8:00a and will be dismissed from the Playground Path carline at 11:30a for regular dismissal days On early dismissal days for the whole school, half-day PK3 students dismiss at 11:15am from the Carlo Acutis Way carline. Parents are expected to arrive on time, no later than 11:40a on regular school dismissal days and 11:25a on early dismissal school days to pick up their child. In the event of an emergency, parents shall notify the school office and their child’s teacher they will be late. Repeated non-emergency late pick-up offenses may result in a full day charge. Aftercare is not available for half-day students.

Dismissal for Students Registered Full-Day:

Full Day PK3 and PK4 students will dismiss through the Playground Path Carline at 2:55p on regular school dismissal days and at 12:00p on early dismissal days. Aftercare is available via All In Education.

Attendance Policy

Saint Ann Catholic School believes regular attendance is directly related to academic success. Absences, tardiness, and early school departures must not detract students from their academic responsibilities. Students are expected to start school on the official start date of the school year and attend school regularly until the official last day of school. Trips planned for the beginning or end of the summer are highly discouraged. Parents are expected to make every effort to avoid these absences.

Florida Early Learning Coalition requires all students receiving the VPK4 voucher to attend 80% of VPK school hours beginning September 2nd. Monthly attendance will be sent home to parents/guardians for signature and MUST be returned to school the next business day to remain compliant with the FELC’s requirements. We appreciate all parent and guardian attention and cooperation to this very important policy. Failure to comply with these attendance requirements may result in the FELC revoking your child’s voucher.

 Communication

Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act and Custodial Rights:

Saint Ann Catholic School adheres to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in regard to privacy of student records and the rights of non-custodial parents. It is the responsibility of the parent to share any official custodial information decided through the courts. In the absence of any court document, the school will view each parent as having full legal custody of the child. In the case of partial custody between two parents, the school assumes no wrongdoing for releasing students to one parent or another, regardless of privately arranged custodial schedules - unless a court order is provided with specific details. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, non-custodial parents have the right to receive records about their child’s academic progress. The school reserves the right to charge a shipping and processing fee for academic records sent to an additional address. 

Expectations for Parents/Legal Guardians:

Catholic schools are partners with parents in raising their children in the faith and providing a Gospel-based, Catholic education for their children. The expectations for parents in this partnership is that there will be respect for the professional educators of their children, and adherence to the problem-solving process the school has in place, following a “chain of command” starting with the teacher, then the principal, then the pastor, then the Diocesan Director of Education, if necessary. It is also expected that the administration and the rules and procedures of the school will be supported by parents. Failure or unwillingness to do so as demonstrated by the behavior of parents can result in the partnership being irretrievably broken and can result in their student being withdrawn from the school.

Updated Information: The easiest way to ensure clear communication to and from the school is to have up-to-date contact information on file in the school Front Office. If a student’s information changes, it is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school immediately so that records reflect the new information. A copy of the same should also be provided to the homeroom teacher and After Care program, if applicable.

Cell Phones/ Electronic Devices:

Like many school districts across the country, the Diocese of Venice is enacting a prohibition on cell phones and wearable devices (smart watches and any other wearable device that has internet connectivity) in schools. This has come about as a result of overwhelming research demonstrating the negative impacts of cell phone use, social media, etc. on student achievement, health, and well-being. See the Diocese of Venice Policy on Prohibition of Phones and Wearable Devices in Schools included in Appendix A.

Students in grades PK-5 are NOT permitted to bring cell phones or wearable devices to school. If a student does bring a phone to school, it will be held by the office until the end of the school day for the parent/guardian to pick up. The school is NOT liable for loss or damage to any phone or wearable device.

Academic Policies

Academic Testing and Progress Monitoring:  

The academic progress of students is closely monitored and reported to parents throughout the school year. By closely monitoring the progress of students, teachers are able to identify areas that require more intensive or alternate forms of instruction. The assessments used to monitor progress are:

Pre-Kindergarten Grading Policies:

Pre-Kindergarten 3: Assessed four times per year

Pre-Kindergarten 4 (VPK): Assessed three times per year

Grading Scale for Pre-Kindergarten SKILLS:

E = Exceeds Expectations (Will be given rarely and only for “above and beyond” the normal classroom performance.)

M = Meets Expectations (An overall good performance in graded area)

B = Below Expectations

N/A = Not Applicable

*This grading scale does not equate to the ABC scale of the older children.

Toilet Training & Accidents

All students at Saint Ann Catholic School must be properly toilet trained. Parents and guardians are highly encouraged to send a full spare uniform outfit to school in case their child has an accident. In the event of a toilet accident, the parent/guardian will be notified. The student is expected to independently clean himself/herself and change their clothes. No staff member is allowed to physically assist. If a student is not capable of independently cleaning and changing himself/herself, the parent/guardian must come to campus to assist the student.

Rest-time

There is a scheduled Rest-Time each day for students in PK3 and PK4/VPK4. During this time, sleep is not required but students must rest on a mat free of distractions (books, puzzles, coloring pages, etc). Students should not arrive or dismiss during rest time to not disrupt the other students.

Part-Time PK3:

Part-time students in PK3 will attend school on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. These days cannot be substituted or changed, i.e., attend school on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday one week due to schedule conflict (school holiday, family obligation, doctor appointment, etc.). Part-Time PK3 students will attend full day or half-day depending on registration.

Uniforms

The Saint Ann Catholic School uniform vendors are Renegades Sportswear and School Uniforms by Tommy Hilfiger.  The school has selected these uniform items for their higher durability and colorfastness compared to store-bought items.  Approximations or substitutes are not permitted. all uniform items may be purchased from:

Renegades Sportswear 

Alico Crossing Plaza

17051 Jean Street

Ft. Myers, FL  33967

Phone:(239) 275-6720 Fax:(239) 275-5088

Hours: Mon. - Thur. 9:00am - 5:00pm, Fri. 9:00am - 4:00pm

website: www.renegadesfl.com 

or 

Tommy Hilfiger  

Sizes available: Regular to Tall, Slim to Plus/Husky

Website for ordering:  https://www.globalschoolwear.com 

Website School Code: SAIN24

There are three different uniforms for Saint Ann Catholic School: Regular Uniform, Dress Uniform, and PE Uniform.

• The regular uniform is worn nearly every day except for Mass days and other special occasions.

• The dress uniform begins in Kindergarten. PK students wear their regular uniform on dress uniform days.  Dress uniforms are worn on Mass days and other special occasions. All students wear dress shoes on these days. The dress uniform may be worn for field trips, as specified by the teachers.
• The PE Uniform is worn to school on PE days, unless PE is scheduled on a dress uniform day. In those occurrences, the dress uniform shall be worn to school and students will bring their PE uniform to change before PE class. The PE Uniform may also be worn for field trips, as specified by the teacher.

Regular Uniform for Girls:

All Girls wear solid black or white crew socks or knee socks with no logos (no rolling down) and solid black tennis shoes.

• Girls in Pre-Kindergarten grades wear the navy polo dress with navy bike shorts underneath.

Regular Uniform for Boys:

All Boys wear solid black or white crew socks with no logos (no rolling down) and solid black tennis shoes.

• Boys in Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Kindergarten grades wear the red polo shirt with SACS logo with the new Tommy Hilfiger navy shorts.

Dress Uniform for Girls:

All girls wear solid white or black crew socks or knee socks with no logos.

• Girls Pre-Kindergarten grades wear their regular uniform on dress uniform days.

• Wear the solid black tennis shoes (no logos or light up shoes)

Dress Uniform for Boys

All Boys wear solid white or black crew socks with no logos

• Boys in Pre-Kindergarten grades wear their regular uniform on dress uniform days.

• Wear the solid black tennis shoes (no logos or light up shoes)

P.E. Uniform 

• The P.E. uniform is required for PK-8th grade students. (No Sideline wear, SACS spirit wear, or other sport team wear permitted)

• Students will wear the P.E. uniform during all P.E. classes.  

• Students may wear their P.E. uniform all day on days when they have P.E class (except on dress uniform days).  

• The P.E. uniform for both boys and girls in all grades is the red logo t-shirt, blue logo mesh shorts, white crew socks(girls), black crew socks (boys) and black tennis shoes with non-marking soles. (See “Shoes” in this section for more information.)

• On days when students wear their dress uniform and have P.E., they need to bring sneakers for class.

• P.E. Cold Wear (may be worn only when the daily low temperature is below 50°F and the high temperature does not exceed 65°F) Tommy Hilfiger P.E. uniform blue coed sweatpants and sweatshirt with Saint Ann Catholic School Logo only.

Regular and Dress Uniform Shoes:

The required uniform and P.E. shoe for all students: Solid black tennis shoe (no colored tags, emblems, different sole color, etc.).  Dress shoe requirements begin in Kindergarten.

Girls and Boys:

• All black (with shoelaces PK4 only)
• All black Pre-tied/slip on
• All black Velcro  

• Shoes must be a solid black tennis shoe.
• The tennis shoes must have the same color soles and shoelaces.  

• No high tops or heels.

• No Hey Dudes or loafers

• Shoes must always be kept clean and in good condition.

Socks

Girls Socks:                                                          Boys Socks: 

All Black Crew Socks - No Logos                                             All Black Crew Socks- No Logos

All White Crew Socks - No Logos                                        All White Crew Socks - No Logos

All White Knee Socks - No Logos

Cold Weather – Outwear Options 

Renegades or Tommy Hilfiger

May be worn only when the daily low temperature is below 50°F and the high temperature does not exceed 65°F

ONLY Saint Ann Catholic School uniform outerwear may be worn inside the classrooms, church, etc.

Option 1: Saint Ann Catholic School navy cardigan  

Option 2: Saint Ann Catholic School navy fleece

Option 3: Saint Ann Catholic School navy sweatshirt (only on P.E. dress days)

• The Saint Ann Catholic School navy cardigan, fleece, or sweatshirt should be purchased from the Renegades Uniform Company or the Tommy Hilfiger Uniform Store.

• All other cold weather (may be worn only when the daily low temperature is below 50°F and the high temperature does not exceed 65°F) sweaters, coats, and jackets must be “logo free” and may only be worn outside.  

• Only the navy cardigan or the SAS fleece are allowed to be worn at church.  

• Navy full-footed tights are allowed but only on very cold days when the weather is below 50 degrees.  (No sweatpants are allowed with the school uniform).

• No sweatshirt-style hoodies are acceptable at any time.

Behavior Expectations

Classroom:

Students in Pre-Kindergarten are expected to do their best, listen, follow directions, be kind, share, use kind hands, and use walking feet inside. PreK teachers and assistants prompt and remind students throughout the day to follow classroom rules. If a serious behavior incident occurs, the teacher will contact the student’s parents/guardians. If serious behavior incidents continue, a meeting may be required with the resource teacher, school counselor, and/or administration.

Lunch:

The lunch period usually lasts around 30 - 45 minutes, with snack times being shorter. Each class is assigned an area at the picnic tables near the Gym. The area has shade coverings and fans. In the event of inclement weather, lunch is eaten in the classroom.

Students shall bring a packed lunch from home with them or parents may order through the Hot Lunch Program. Please note that we cannot microwave lunches brought from home nor can we supply condiments, utensils, etc.

Lunch from Home:

• Parents are usually asked to clearly label lunchboxes, snacks, and water bottles with their child's name.
• Please no glass containers.
• Home lunches brought later in the day are delivered to the school office with the child's name and grade on the outside of the bag. This should be a rare occasion. The child will be called to pick up the lunch at their scheduled lunchtime.
• Soda, energy drinks or any caffeinated beverages may not be brought to school, including in home brought lunches.
• Fast foods and/or hot lunches may not be brought to school during the school day.

Hot Lunch Program:

•  Hot Lunch must be ordered at least 5 days in advance via the ordering system:  https://stann.ahotlunch.com/login

Students may bring $1 with them to purchase a healthy snack or drink via our Blue Zone Program.

No Sharing: For everyone’s health and safety, sharing or trading lunches or snacks is often discouraged.

Supervision:
Teachers/ assistants supervise the lunch process, ensuring students eat safely and appropriately.

Clean Up:
Students are expected to clean up their own eating area and dispose of trash. Teachers and assistants are available to help, as needed, as well as offer encouragement to promote independent skills.  

Recess:

PreK students have three recess times each day:

Morning Recess is 7:30-8am

Midday Recess around lunch time

Afternoon Recess between lunch and dismissal

Playgrounds:

• PK3 - utilizes the PK3 designated playground until they begin transitioning to the PK4 designated playground. The transition begins in the Spring.
• PK4/VPK - utilizes the designated PK4 playground until they begin transitioning to the K-5 designated playground. The transition begins in the Spring.