Handbook

MISSION STATEMENT

Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic School is committed to nurturing each child’s faith, education, and social development through Christ.

VISION STATEMENT

Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic School will provide an education that nurtures our students' spiritual, intellectual, and emotional development, enabling them to become kind individuals equipped to contribute positively to society. Our goal is to prepare our students for a lifelong journey of discipleship rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith united in the love of God.

ADMINISTRATION

Dear Parents, Students, and Families,

Welcome to Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic School! In choosing Holy Souls, you have demonstrated a commitment to the values and philosophy of Catholic education. The Parent/Student Handbook reflects the policies of Holy Souls School for the 2023-2024 school year. The handbook is not all-inclusive and serves as a guideline for school policy. 

The faculty and staff look forward to working with you to promote academic excellence and spiritual development in the context of the teachings of the Catholic Church. Together let us pray that God, who has begun this good work in us, may carry it through to completion. 

In Christ Always,
 

PARENT COOPERATION

After reading the handbook, please sign the Statement of Responsibility page in your re-enrollment packet.

The school-home partnership is fundamental to a successful relationship, and we welcome all families into our school community. As administrators, we know that your trust is crucial in helping us care for your children. We value clear and effective communication. For important or difficult conversations, we encourage families to have these discussions in person rather than over email or phone. This approach allows for more open and honest communication, which is essential for building trust and resolving issues effectively. If ever we feel that the partnership between home and school is irreparable, admittance will not be granted, or withdrawal of your child will be required. 
  

ACCREDITATION

Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic School is accredited by the Arkansas Nonpublic School Accrediting Association. With this accreditation and validation, Holy Souls School sets itself apart as an institution dedicated to providing its students with the best possible learning environment.

ENTRANCE ADMISSION

General
The Catholic schools in the Diocese of Little Rock admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. 

The Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Little Rock do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

While the school does not discriminate against students with special needs, a full range of services may not be available to them. Decisions concerning the admission and continued enrollment of a student in the school are based upon the student’s emotional, academic, and physical abilities, and the resources available to the school in meeting the student’s needs.

Admission Guidelines  

First Priority - Catholic families active in Holy Souls parish, especially those with children attending the school
Second Priority - Catholic families active in other Catholic parishes
Third Priority - Non-Catholic families

The following criteria will be considered in the event there are more In-Parish children than spaces available:

• Families who consistently attend Mass (as approved by our pastor)
• Active participation in parish and school activities
• Siblings already enrolled in Holy Souls School
• Number of years the family has been enrolled in the parish
   

Admission Processes

To be considered for enrollment in Holy Souls School, you must start by filling out the online application on our website. (Applications open late Fall) You can go to www.holysoulsschool.org and click on the Explore tab followed by the Apply Online tab to create an account or copy the link here: https://olh-ar.client.renweb.com/oa/register.cfm?memberid=2158

 

*ONLY SUBMITTED APPLICATIONS WILL BE REVIEWED * 
All information must be completed, including the teacher recommendation and the $50.00 non-refundable fee. This determines your spot in the queue. After your application has been reviewed, additional diagnostic testing may be required. Our Director of Student Learning and Curriculum will reach out to schedule the screening process. 

If accepted, you will receive a written letter from the principal once that decision has been made. (Acceptance letters will be sent starting late Winter)
 

New Family Enrollment

After acceptance from both parties (school and family), you will start the enrollment process. Our registrar will send an email with specific steps to set up a FACTS account, where you will be able to add your payment information and apply for scholarships if needed. 

Baptismal, Birth Certificates & Vaccinations

A Baptismal Certificate and a Birth Certificate must be presented at the time of registration. Failure to do so will result in loss of admission. 

The Arkansas Department of Health requires that school-aged children receive: 5 doses of DTaP, 4 doses of Oral or Inactivated Polio, 3 or 4 doses of HIB, 3 doses of Hepatitis B, 2 doses of Measles/Mumps/Rubella, and 1 dose of Varicella vaccine. 

A vaccination record must be presented at the time of admission. If a vaccination record is not given, the school will use the Arkansas Immunization Information System, WebIZ, to obtain the vaccination record. Holy Souls follows all requirements from the Arkansas Department of Health. Any change in requirements is immediately enforced. 

Age Requirement: Pre-K (3 Yr and 4 Yr), Kindergarten, and 1st-Grade

In compliance with Diocesan regulations: 

• No child shall be admitted to the three-year-old program unless he/she has attained the age of three years on or before September 1st of such school year. 
• No child shall be admitted to the four-year-old program unless he/she has attained the age of four years on or before  September 1st of such school year. 
• No child shall be admitted into kindergarten unless he/she has attained the age of five years on or before September 1st of such school year. 
• No child shall be admitted into first grade unless he/she has attained the age of six years on or before September 1st of such school year. 

Teacher Request & Classroom Request

Due to the professional qualifications of all teachers at Holy Souls School, parental requests for a specific teacher will not be granted. If the parent feels the need to discuss special learning differences of his or her child prior to the class placement, the need must be put in writing and an appointment made with the principal to discuss an educational plan for the upcoming year. The letter must be completed before the end of the school year.

Withdrawal from School

When a family is moving or withdrawing from school for any reason, the parents must submit written notification to the principal stating the reason for leaving and the planned date of departure. The same procedure should be used if the family is not returning for the next school year. All fees will be refunded prior to the start of the school year if your family is moving out of the area. For families that move for any reason during the school year, a $300 withdrawal fee will be assessed.

Parental Rights: Non-Custodial Parents

Non-Custodial Parents are not to use the school as a meeting place to visit with their child/children. In the case of divorce, it is the responsibility of the parents to provide the office with a copy of the divorce decree that includes the court order stating custody and visitation rights. The principal will only allow a non-custodial parent to take a child from school as specified by the court order or if the custodial parent has authorized other arrangements. If the court order is not on file in the office, it will be assumed that both parents have equal rights. Upon request, a copy of the child's report card will be provided to the non-custodial parent.

REGISTRATION

Registration for the 2024-2025 school year will be held in January 2024. A registration fee of $150.00 per family and $25.00 per child (maximum $225.00) will be charged to your FACTS account on February 20th. The registration fee is non-refundable. 

TUITION AND SCHOOL FEES

Financial Obligations

Students of families who fail to meet financial obligations may be required to leave the school. Transcripts will not be forwarded to another school until all payments are made.

Payment

Tuition and all school fees may be paid annually or monthly through FACTS tuition management. Visit the school website (www.holysoulsschool.org) to sign up for a FACTS account.

Tuition

Holy Souls Facility and Resource Fee 
Catholic & Non-Catholic families newly enrolling in Holy Souls School will pay a one-time Facility and Resource Fee of $1,000 per family. 

Holy Souls Campus Building Fund 
Non-Catholic families (PK4-8th grade) are required to make a one-time contribution of $1,100.00 to Holy Souls Church Building Fund per family. 

Catholic Families 
Families must be registered members of a Diocese of Little Rock (DOLR) Catholic church, have a record of regularly attending mass, and obtain written confirmation from their pastor that they are active members who financially support their church, as well as meet with our current Holy Souls Church pastor before receiving the Catholic Family Rate. 

*A family will only be considered Catholic if the student has received and continues to receive sacraments. 

*Catholic Families who are not registered members of a Diocese of Little Rock Catholic church, as well as members     for whom there is no record of regular mass attendance/ financial support to their DOLR church, qualify for the Non-   Catholic Family Rate. 
 

Non-Refundable Fees 
All pre-registration and enrollment fees are due at the time of acceptance and are non-refundable if you decide to attend another school in the area. Fees will only be refunded before the start of the school year if your family is moving out of the area. For families that move during the school year, a $300 withdrawal fee will be assessed
 

 Lunch and Milk 

 

Holy Souls School Church League Athletic Fees (GRADES 5-8) 

• HSS Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Cheer, Cross Country, Archery, and Track fees are $60.00 per sport. 
• Rental of HSS basketball, volleyball, track and field uniforms, and football jerseys are included in the fees. 
• HSS volleyball knee pads, football pads, pants, and helmets must be purchased individually. 
• Golf fees are paid directly to First Tee of Arkansas. 
• AAA sanctioned sports have separate fees from HSS sports.
   

Extended Care Program Fees
 

SCHOLARSHIP & TUITION AID GRANTS

SCHOLARSHIP & TUITION AID GRANTED BY HOLY SOULS CHURCH

The Holy Souls Catholic Church Scholarship and Tuition Aid program is designed to enable active parishioners with Catholic children to send their children to Holy Souls School, even though the parents may be unable to pay full tuition rates at the time. FACTS will administer the Church's tuition assistance program. FACTS will provide a high degree of objectivity, professionalism, and confidentiality. When applying for financial aid, each family is required to complete the formal application on FACTS and to send the application, any supporting documentation, and a $35.00 application fee directly to FACTS. 

Application for financial assistance may be found on the school’s website (www.holysoulsschool.org) under the Tuition and Fees link. The deadline for submitting applications is April 30, 2024. All applicants will receive written responses by June 15, 2024. Families receiving scholarship monies will be responsible for any remaining tuition, extended care costs, and all school fees, including lunch costs, books, pre-registration, athletics, PTO, school activity fees, etc. 
 

SCHOLARSHIP & TUITION AID ACCEPTED BY HOLY SOULS SCHOOL

ACE Scholarship:
“When it comes to education, everyone should have options. But the sad truth is not everyone does. Children from low-income families are more likely to be trapped in failing schools with nowhere else to go. But we’re changing that.”- ACE Scholarships “It’s not an achievement gap. It’s an opportunity gap.”- ACE Scholarships 

“ACE Scholarships was founded in 2000 to provide low-income parents with school choice for their families through partial scholarships to K-12 private schools.” Due no later than April 30th.
 
More Information: https://www.acescholarships.org/become-a-scholar/ 
Register: https://acescholarships.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/requests/new?ticket_form_id=4415861427099

Philanthropic Investment in Kids Scholarship (PIKS): 
Tax-credit donations fund scholarships for K-12 students to attend qualified private schools. The scholarships allow students to learn, grow and thrive in the environment that best meets their needs.
 
PIKS scholarships are awarded based on two conditions: 
If a student's family's income is no more than 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines AND 
You are enrolling in Holy Souls' Kindergarten for the first time OR 
You have been in public school for at least one year OR 
You have resided in a different state the previous year 

Register: https://thereformalliance.gosgo.co/users/sign_up?type=Household.
You can contact our registrar for assistance and more information on these scholarships. hss@holysouls.org

Arkansas Children’s Educational Freedom Account Program (EFA):
The Arkansas Children’s Educational Freedom Account (EFA) Program provides flexible funding to families who find that a traditional public school does not meet their student’s specific educational needs. Families who choose to participate in this program will have 90% of their child’s state education funding deposited in an online Educational Freedom Account. Parents can then use that funding to pay for approved school expenses, such as tuition at an eligible private school. 
Click here for more information and updates: 
https://thereformalliance.org/k-12-scholarship-programs/efa-program/

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE POLICY

Collection Procedures

A systematic procedure has been established for collecting tuition and incidental receivables. All tuition and fees will be collected by FACTS tuition management. The responsible party (defined as a student's family, guardian, or custodial parent) must pay any past-due debts and obligations incurred in prior academic terms before being permitted to re-enroll. Additionally, all known debts and obligations incurred during the current term must be paid before a student can complete re-enrollment for any future terms. In addition, no grade reports, certificates of credit, diplomas, or transcripts will be issued for any student with any unpaid or delinquent debt or obligation owed to Holy Souls.

Billing Procedures for New Families

Registration and building fees (if applicable) are collected immediately from new families when incurred during enrollment once the family completes the student's online enrollment. For receivables other than registration fees, collection efforts should begin no later than thirty days after the obligation has been incurred, or the student's enrollment will be released. 

Delinquent Accounts

For all accounts receivable, a minimum of three (3) billings or letters of contact shall be sent by Holy Souls at thirty (30) day intervals once an account becomes delinquent (defined as thirty (30) days or more past due.) The second letter or billing for delinquent amounts will require a meeting with Business office personnel within ten (10) days to determine the appropriate course of action for repayment. If the parties involved do not agree to this meeting, then a "Termination of Attendance" letter requesting payment within a period not to exceed ten (10) days will be sent by certified mail. A "Termination of Attendance" form will be initiated immediately by the Business Office if payment is not made in response to the final request. This will result in the termination of the student's enrollment. 
 

UNIFORM POLICY 

Uniforms are required for all students attending Holy Souls School. Students in grades PreK-4th not following the uniform policy will be given a uniform infraction notice. Students in grades 5th-8th not following the uniform policy will receive a conduct mark. 

Holy Souls uniforms are available for purchase at The Toggery and through Holy Souls School Used Uniform Sales. 

UNIFORMS MUST FIT APPROPRIATELY AND BE IN GOOD CONDITION (appropriate length and size/ no holes or faded)
 
Jewelry: 
Students may wear post earrings (girls only), watches (no smartwatches or Bluetooth watches), and rings (not too large or in excess). A religious necklace may be worn. 

Shirts: 
All shirts must be tucked in at the waist at all times. 

Hairstyles: 
Hair shall be worn in an appropriate manner, never extreme. Hair color may not be extreme. Boys are expected to maintain a hairstyle with hair above the ears and off of the eyebrows and collar. Girls' hairstyles must be off the face and out of the eyes. Hair feathers, ribbon braided in the hair, glitter, etc., is not permitted; however, girls may wear bows, barrettes, or soft/ quiet beads of any color. The final decision for an appropriate hairstyle rests with the principal. 

Nail Polish/ Make-up: 
3K-6th grade girls: Only clear nail polish may be worn. No make-up is allowed with uniforms or casual dress days. 
Jr. High girls can wear concealer and mascara only and must not be extreme. They also have the option of a French manicure- limited to a clear base with white tips only. 

Casual Dress Day: 
Clothes worn on casual dress days should be in good taste – no spaghetti straps, mini-skirts, revealing clothing, or shorts above mid-thigh. No hard-soled boots or sandals should be worn. Logos or designs must be appropriate for a Catholic school environment. Students not following these guidelines may be given a school uniform for the day and lose future casual dress day privileges. 

Pre-K 3 through kindergarten students must keep a change of clothes at school at all times. If your child does not have them, a parent will be called to bring a change of clothes if required. Holy Souls School does not provide extra clothes for students. 

DAILY UNIFORM POLICY: 

Girls:

Boys:

SCHOOL HOURS

Daily Scheduled Classes

Excluding recess and lunch, daily scheduled classes are in session for 5 hours and 30 minutes. Students in grades PK3-8 attend Holy Mass or prayer services at least once a week.

School Hours

The official school day for the 2023-2024 school year begins at 7:55 a.m. and continues through 3:00 p.m. (2:45 p.m. for PreK 3, PreK 4, & K). The school doors will open at 7:30 a.m. Do NOT drop off children before 7:30 a.m. All students will leave the grounds promptly after dismissal and go directly home. Students awaiting parents are NOT to use the playground equipment but are to wait in the areas designated by the school or use the after-school Extended Care service. Students not picked up by 3:20 p.m. will be sent to extended care and charged the daily rate of $15.00 per child. Students cannot wait in or by the office unsupervised.

Wireless Telephone Use (27-51-1609)

Restrictions in school zones – (a) Except as provided under subsection (b) of this section, a driver of a motor vehicle shall not use a handheld wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle when passing a school building or school zone during school hours when children are present and outside the building. (b) A driver of a motor vehicle who is passing a school building or school zone during school hours when children are present and outside the building may use a handheld wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle for an emergency purpose (Effective October 1, 2011).

*Do not use handheld cell phones in our school carpool lines during drop-off and dismissal. Help keep our children safe.*

Early Dismissal

School will be dismissed at 1:30 p.m. for in-service and faculty meetings on the first Friday of each month. PreK3, PK4 and Kindergarten will dismiss at 1:15 on these days. 

ABSENTEEISM AND TARDINESS

Reporting an Absence

If a child is absent, please call the school office or send a note to the office via a brother or sister. When calling to report the absence, you may also request homework to be left in the office or sent home with a brother/sister or friend. The work may not be picked up in the office until after 2:30 p.m. 

Twenty-Five Days of Absence

Students are expected to be in attendance at all times when school is in session unless illness or an emergency prevents attendance. Generally, a student who has accumulated 25 days of absence during the school year may be required to repeat the grade or to attend summer school. Proof of attendance at summer school must be presented to the principal by August 1, 2024.

Tardiness

Tardiness interferes with a child's progress in school and creates a disturbance for all members of the class. A child is considered tardy if he/she is not in the classroom when the 7:55 bell rings (Jr. High 8:00 a.m. bell).
In the case of tardiness, parents must sign in children at the office to receive a pass before going to the classroom. 
Students with ten tardy slips in one nine-week period will be given a form to be signed and returned stating that an unexcused absence has been incurred to count towards the Twenty-Five Days of Absence policy.
 

REQUESTING DISMISSAL FROM SCHOOL

Planned Reason

Parents are to submit a WRITTEN REQUEST IN ADVANCE when requesting a student to be dismissed for any planned reason. 

For the SAFETY OF THE CHILD, the parent or another authorized person must come to the office to meet the child. Students will not be allowed to leave with anyone other than their parent unless permission from their parent has been provided. 

Early Check-Out
Parents should arrive before 2:40 p.m. to check their children out for scheduled appointments or plans. It is highly discouraged to call after 2:40 p.m. Proof of appointment will be required for all excused check-outs.

Vacation and Trips

When parents take children out of school for vacations or trips, the principal and the teacher must be notified in writing (email is acceptable) in advance. Parents assume responsibility for the education of the child/children during the time they are absent from school. Teachers are not required to write lessons in advance or provide extended time for makeup tests when the child returns. These are considered unexcused absences.

Leaving School Premises

No student may leave the school premises during school hours or absent themselves from school-sponsored functions and events without the express permission of the principal. A student who violates this rule will be subject to disciplinary action at the principal's discretion.

Class Activities Outside of School

Any class meeting or activity outside school-time is to have the approval of the principal and must follow school rules and consequences.

EMERGENCY CLOSING

Decision of the Catholic Schools Office

When bad weather necessitates the closing of school, Holy Souls School will abide by the decision made by the Catholic Diocese of Little Rock, which will be announced by the media and through the Holy Souls notification system.

Threatening Weather

If the schools remain open and the weather is threatening, each family will have to decide whether to send their children to school.

Early Dismissal

If school is in session and the weather conditions deteriorate, listen for news of early dismissal. Make sure you have made arrangements to get your child home safely. NO CHILD MAY LEAVE THE CLASSROOM WITHOUT BEING CHECKED OUT THROUGH THE SCHOOL OFFICE.

Miscellaneous Emergencies- Crisis Plan

When a situation necessitates shelter in place, lock down, or other emergency protocol of the school, Holy Souls School will abide by the decisions made by the teachers under the leadership of the principal and will be announced to parents when the principal deems appropriate.

CURRICULUM

For more detailed descriptions of curriculum based on grade level, please visit our website.
 

Google Classroom
Google Classroom is a web-based program that some teachers use as a means of communication with students regarding assignments, test dates, and class updates.

Homework
Homework is assigned to help students become self-reliant and self-directed. Assignments are designed to create strong independent study skills that reinforce daily lessons and supplement and enrich class work. Homework is also assigned to prepare and enhance certain classroom lessons through various tasks. 

Since each student has different capabilities and interests, it would be difficult to specify the amount of time to be spent on assignments. Homework should also be seen as a time management tool where students, with the help of parents as needed, plan accordingly to avoid the  “cramming” of information and work and truly come to an understanding of concepts. Full credit cannot be given to students who do not turn in completed and on-time assignments.
 

Late Work School Policy
Students will have a maximum of 3 days to complete and/or turn in any late assignments. Ten percent of their earned points will automatically be deducted from the student's overall assignment grade. For grades 5-8, a homework mark will be given each day that the assignment is late. (see more on behavior marks below)

Make-Up Work
Make-up work is the responsibility of the student. Upon returning to school from an absence, a student should collaborate with his/her teachers and ask for assignments and tests to be made up. Students have one day per day of absence to complete make-up assignments and tests. If students miss the test day, they will be required to make it up the day they return. 

Grading
Grades are determined by a number of factors - daily work, test scores, projects, class participation and class preparation.

Learning Differences
Grades for students with documented learning differences are used to indicate a student's progress in relation to his/her ability and not in relation to an expected grade norm. 

A modified grading scale may be used in the areas of difference of each student. Each child with a documented learning difference will receive a Modified Academic Plan stating the modifications for grading.
 

Conduct Grades (5-8)
Students participating in extracurricular activities must maintain an overall average of 80% in conduct.

Report Cards
The students' grades are used to report individual progress and should not be used as a comparison to others. Create success for your child by praising genuine complete effort. If the child is low in a subject, use it as an opportunity to plan for improvement. All report cards require the signature of the parents before they are returned to the teacher. The cards need to be returned within one week of the distribution date. Parents should take note of the time when report cards and interims are distributed.

FACTS/ ParentsWeb 
FACTS/ ParentsWeb-Family Portal is a web-based program used as a means of communication with families regarding Holy Souls' news and posted grades for 3rd – 8th grades.

Promotion
Promotion of students will be based on the passing mark of sixty percent (60%) and parent/teacher consensus. Two subject failures constitute a grade failure unless the subjects are made up during summer classes or by working with a tutor approved by the principal. Students failing will be given a redemption plan devised by the teacher. Proof of passing marks based on the redemption plan will be presented to the principal before the child is promoted.

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-Teacher conferences for grades PreK through 8th-grade will be held twice throughout the school year. These may also be requested by the teacher or by the parent.
 

DISCIPLINE PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS

Goals of Discipline

The ultimate goal of Holy Souls' discipline system is to teach students to become effective modifiers of their own behavior. Self-discipline is learned; therefore, students are taught to internalize self-discipline behavior without diminishing self-esteem.

Methods of Obtaining Self-Discipline

In order to create independent self-discipline, teachers, administration, and staff  help students: express feelings in a controlled productive way, think through their actions and predict the consequences - assume responsibility for their action (good and bad), identify the causes of their misbehavior and change them to more appropriate behavior, understand that behavior is shaped and modified by its consequences, model desired behavior, learn problem-solving skills, and be consistent.

RULES AND PROCEDURES

General Rules of Conduct

Students will be mannerly, courteous, and respectful. The learning environment will be orderly and conducive to study. Students will respect school property and the property of others. Students will WALK and remain quiet while being respectful when moving through the building.

Major Offenses

• Bringing pocket knives, firearms, or any type of weapon on the school or church grounds
• Consistent lack of cooperation within or outside of the classroom
• Cheating, Plagiarism, Copying of assignments/ sharing answers
• Defiance of school authority (principal, teacher or staff member)
• Disrespect toward school authority (principal, teacher or staff member)
• Fighting
• Harassment/ cyberbullying 
• Leaving classroom or designated area without permission
• Possession of a powered-on cell phone or cell phone use during school hours
• Possession, use, distribution, or purchase of any drug, tobacco in any form, electronic cigarette/vape or alcoholic beverages in the school, on the school grounds, or any school function. See Diocesan Policy on pages 29–30
• Profanity (including inappropriate slang), verbal abuse, obscene gestures, language or conduct
• Property damage
• Receives 4 or more detentions
• Willful destruction/defacing of school or church property
• Any other offense deemed major by the administration
   

Automatic detention, in-school suspension, out of school suspension, expulsion, and/ or other restorative assignments as deemed appropriate by the school administration may be given for major offenses. Punishment is at the discretion of the administration.

Students in 3K-4th grade will be disciplined at the administration's discretion for any Major Offense.

When school property is damaged, the person responsible for such damage will promptly report it and be charged for the damage. Any time a student is guilty of vandalism, either during school or non-school hours, he/she will be subject to disciplinary action in addition to restitution.

Procedures for Communication & Complaints
Before contacting Holy Souls School staff members, remember that we have your child’s best interest at heart. We are a partnership and will work through the issues that arise together.

Use these steps to guide your conversations:

• Pray to the Holy Spirit for the gift of good counsel and piety.  
• Take the time to organize your thoughts and the information you have received.
• Start all conversations with a respectful, non-accusatory tone.
• Have an open mind and take time to process new information as needed.
• Remember to trust our processes- we are committed to nurturing each child’s faith, education, and social development through Christ.

Who to Contact?
Any person feeling aggrieved concerning any matter connected with the school will contact the individual concerned before discussing it with others.
Contact the Teacher
If a person has a complaint about a teacher, the individual will go first to the teacher to seek a solution to the problem.
Contact the Principal
If the matter cannot be resolved satisfactorily, the person will contact the principal for an appointment.
Contact the Pastor
If the problem is still unresolved, the person will contact our pastor to discuss the matter.
Contact the Superintendent
If no solution is found to the problem, the matter will be referred to the superintendent.

DISCIPLINE POLICY: GRADES 5th-8th

Behavior

Self-discipline is the behavioral goal of Holy Souls Catholic School. Our disciplinary policy is extended to all sporting events. Therefore, consequences for inappropriate conduct can be applied to both school and sporting events.

Mark System 

In grades 5th-8th the "mark system" will be used as a consequence for inappropriate conduct. Marks will be given for the following offenses:

Consequences for Each Mark Given - 5th through 8th Grade
Students earn ten (10) points per day for conduct. For each conduct mark given, 5 to 50 points will be deducted based on the severity of the infraction from the daily conduct grade. 
Students will attend 45 minutes of detention hall on the following Wednesday morning (6:45-7:30) if they earn: 
5th:         Three marks in one week (Monday-Friday) from the same teacher.
6th:         Three marks in one interim from the same teacher.
7th/8th:  Three marks in one 9-week period from the same teacher.
5th-8th:   Each - 15 points Major Offense = Automatic Detention Hall
 

• Failure to attend detention will result in one day of in-school suspension.
• If a student receives a 4th conduct/behavior mark in a one-week period, the student will serve one day of in-school suspension.  
• Students serving in-school suspension may not participate in sports or extracurricular activities.
   
• Marks given for incomplete, missing, or late homework will have five points deducted from their daily conduct grade and count towards detention. 
• Students will have a maximum of 3 days to complete and/or turn in any late assignments. Ten percent of their earned points will automatically be deducted from the student's overall assignment grade as well as a homework mark for each day the assignment is late.
   
• If students receive a mark, parents should be automatically notified via ParentsWeb email; however, parents and students must check ParentsWeb daily and not depend on the automatic email for the most current marks entered.
• Each student will receive a conduct grade on their interim and report card.

*Please see Parochial League Rules regarding conduct and eligibility to play.
 

Number of Detentions and Results

After a student has served two detentions and receives a third detention in a nine-week period, a conference will be held with the student, parents, teachers, and administration. If the individual's behavior does not improve, the results listed under Major Offenses will be implemented.

Number of Major Offenses & Results

A record will be kept of the number of times a student is disciplined for a Major Offense. Depending on the severity of the major offense, a student may be suspended or expelled at any time at the administration's discretion, regardless of the tracking system. A student with four major offenses in one school year is subject to possible probation for the next school year. A student with five major offenses in one school year may be denied admittance for the next school year. If a student is suspended from school, they will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities the day of the incident(s). If a student is serving suspension out of school, they will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities scheduled on the day(s) of the incident as well as the day(s)of suspension.

Individual Classroom Rules

Each teacher will post individual classroom rules in the classroom. Every student will be expected to know and follow these rules.

Parent-Student Statement of Responsibility

The material in this handbook contains detailed information intended to communicate and administer our students' educational and instructional goals and expectations. The information is excerpted from more extensive board policies and district procedures, which will control any given situation. It should be noted that policies and procedures are repeatedly under review, and changes can be made at any time.

*Providing your electronic signature during the re-enrollment process indicates that you have read and understand the contents of this document.
 

COUNSELING

Holy Souls School administration has the right to require counseling for students and receive reports, as requested, from a licensed child/adolescent specific counselor for a child to remain in school. Failure to comply can result in dismissal or withdrawal. 

PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION

Students will go outside for recess periods during good weather. A written note from a parent will be required if a child cannot go outside due to health reasons. Students are not to enter the school buildings during recess periods without permission from the playground supervisor.

PLAYGROUND RULES

• Students will go directly to the playground.
• Students will not stand or play in the area immediately outside the cafeteria. No candy, gum, or food will be allowed on the playground.
• Students will stay on the playground during the entire recess time unless they have permission from the playground supervisor to enter the school building.
• Students do not have permission to go after a ball that has been kicked over the fence. Playground supervisors will retrieve all lost balls.
• Students will not climb or hang on the walls and fences separating the playground levels.

Students will not:

• Fight, curse, or use bad language
• Climb on the slides
• Stand on the benches
• Jump from any apparatus
• Tackle or wrestle one another

POSSESSIONS BROUGHT TO SCHOOL

All items brought to school should be marked with the student's name (sweaters, jackets, raincoats, etc.) This includes BOTH of a pair. If a student loses articles at school, he/she should check the LOST AND FOUND BOX located in the Allen Center atrium.

Electronic devices such as iPod, mp3 players, radios, tape recorders, CD players, video games, and message devices are not to be brought to school without special permission. If students need a cell phone for after-school activities, they must leave it in their locker during the day. The cell phone must be turned off. Any student found with a cell phone during the school day will receive automatic detention, and the cell phone will need to be picked up by a parent. Cell phones are not to be used on school grounds during the hours of 7:30 and 3:20 unless authorized by the administration. Any unauthorized use, including contacting a parent, will result in an in-school suspension. Purses may be kept in a student's locker but will not be carried to the classroom or playground.

*Students may bring these items at their own risk. The school is not responsible for lost items.
 

TECHNOLOGY

Purpose

Our Lady of the Holy Souls School provides Chromebook, computer, and internet access for students. The primary purpose of this technology is to support the educational objectives of Holy Souls School. 

Supervision and Monitoring

Access to the school's network is a privilege, not a right, and all access must be consistent with the main objective of the school. In accordance with federal law, Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), Holy Souls Internet is filtered and monitored. Access to the Internet provides the opportunity to explore thousands of information resources. Due to the nature of the Internet, no technology protection measure or filtering device can stop all inappropriate material. Parents should be aware that every effort is made to supervise students and to filter inappropriate content, but that it is impossible to control all material.

Holy Souls helps protect students browsing the Internet through the campus firewall, the Google Admin Console and GoGuardian. When the student is logged into the browser 

on their device, the GoGuardian extensions are present, GoGuardian is both filtering and monitoring student  browsing.

The use of school owned technology resources is secure, but not private. Students should have no expectation of privacy in anything they create, store, send, delete, receive, or display when using the school network, devices, Internet access, email system, or other technological resources owned or issued by the school, whether the resources are used at school or elsewhere, and even if the use is for personal purpose.

The school reserves the right to determine which uses constitute acceptable use and to limit access to such uses. The school also reserves the right to limit the time of access and use. They may also use this information in disciplinary actions, and will furnish evidence of crime to law enforcement.

Student Responsibility

All students will receive instruction on the proper use of devices and online tools. The student assumes full responsibility for any cost, liability, or damage arising from the way he/she chooses to use school devices.  In order to use our network, students are expected to abide by the following rules. Violation of these may result in disciplinary action.

• Students are responsible for the use of their individual accounts and should take all reasonable precautions to prevent others from being able to use their account. Under no conditions should a user provide his/her password to another person.
• Students are only allowed access to the Internet, Chromebooks, computers, printers or PTD under the supervision of teacher/staff/administration.
• Students are not to take pictures or videos of themselves/student/teacher or administrator using their school device, except under the supervision of teacher/staff/administration.
• Students may not download programs or files from the Internet, except under the supervision of teacher/staff/administration.
• Students must follow copyright laws. Cite sources when using others’ work. Do not make illegal copies of music, games or movies.
• Visiting and posting to social networking sites (i.e. Facebook, Twitter) is strictly prohibited on school devices.
• Students must notify the teacher immediately if inappropriate material is found on a school device.

Personal Electronic Technology Devices (PTD)

Personal Electronic Technology Devices (PTD) including, but not limited to, smart phones, laptops or tablets are to be used only when permission has been granted by teacher/staff/administration.

• Personal commercially available networks (i.e., AT&T, Verizon, etc.) are not allowed to be activated on a student’s PTD on the school campus.
• Never capture, transmit, or store images or recordings without the express permission of the person being recorded, parent permission of a minor and/or approval of teacher/staff/administration.
• Such recording devices may never be accessed, turned on or operated in restrooms, dressing rooms, or other areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.
• The content of any PTD device may be reviewed by Holy Souls teacher/staff/administration as part of an investigation of policy violation or other suspected inappropriate, immoral and/or illegal use.
• To protect the safety and well-being of young people, guests, staff and other community member's personal property and to avoid disruption; Holy Souls teachers/staff/administration, reserve the right to confiscate or collect any PTD.
• If an illegal act is discovered, local law enforcement officials may be contacted.
• Holy Souls School and organizations are not responsible for any harm to PTDs, including but not limited to loss, theft, damage, or destruction.

Cyber-Bullying

Cyber-bullying brought to the attention of the administration will be addressed on a case by case basis. Once substantiated, students involved in such incidents (seriously or in jest) face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. Cyber-bullying includes, but is not limited to the following:

• Posting slurs or rumors or other disparaging remarks about students or school staff members on a website, messaging platform, or social networking site.
• Sending e-mail or instant messages that are mean or threatening.
• Using a camera phone to take and send embarrassing photographs/recordings of students or school staff members or posting these images on social networking sites or video sharing sites.
• Posting misleading or fake photographs or videos of students or school staff members on websites.
• To the extent permitted by the First Amendment, instances of cyber-bullying off school grounds that disrupt the school environment or interfere with the learning process will be considered violations of the Acceptable Use Policy.

Consequences for Violation

Violations of these rules may result in disciplinary action, including the loss of a student’s privileges to use the school’s technology resources. Further discipline may be imposed by the school administrator up to and including suspension or expulsion depending on the degree and severity of the violation.

Holy Souls School reserves the right to modify or change any policy. Conditions or circumstances not specifically covered by the expectations outlined in this policy may arise. On such occasions, the school administration will make decisions or pursue courses of action, which, in its judgment, can best sustain the wellbeing of Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic School, including the health and safety of the faculty, staff, and student body.

Google Workspace for Education Acceptable Use Policy

Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic School (HSS) has established a Google Workspace for Education account to support teaching and learning and to allow for easy sharing of documents, file storage, and connectivity within our school and classrooms. This service is available through an agreement between Google and Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic School. This software will allow students and teachers to create, collaborate, and share documents, spreadsheets, presentations, websites, calendars, and more, allowing for flexible access from any device – both at home and school – with Internet access and a web browser. While Google Workspace for Education provides for flexibility over traditional desktop software, it also allows students to work in a safe, protected environment in a private domain (holysouls.org). While all documents are stored online, no one outside our school domain can access them. Google Workspace for Education enables us to take steps toward promoting advanced technological skills. We feel this is another step in preparing your child for the future.

The Google student account name will be last name, first letter of first name, graduating year @holysouls.org (palazzik17@holysouls.org) and the password will be given to students and parents. This account will be considered the student's official school account until such time as the student is no longer enrolled at Holy Souls School.

This Google Workspace for Education holysouls.org account will be for school purposes only. Google Apps for Education runs on an Internet domain purchased and owned by the school and is intended for educational use. Your student’s teachers will be using Google Apps for lessons, assignments, and communication. Emphasis will be made that this account is not to be used for any social or entertainment purposes, and should only be used for school assignments. Students will NOT have access to email outside the Holy Souls domain.  Students will not be able to send or receive emails except from Holy Souls teachers and the administration. This is a supervised account for education use only.

Google Workspace for Education is also available at home, the library, or anywhere with Internet access. The administration, technology coordinator, and teachers will monitor student use of Google Apps when students are at school. Parents are responsible for monitoring their child’s use of Google Apps when accessing programs from home. Students are responsible for their own behavior at all times. Student safety is our highest priority.

Limited personal use: Students may use Google tools for personal projects but may not use them for:

• Unlawful activities
• Inappropriate sexual or other offensive content
• Violent content or promoting weapons of any kind
• Threatening or bullying another person
• Misrepresentation of staff or students. Apps, sites, email, and groups, are not public forums. They are an extension of classroom spaces where student free speech rights may be limited.

Access Restriction -‐ Due Process:

Access to Google Workspace for Education is considered a privilege accorded at the discretion of HSS. HSS maintains the right to immediately withdraw the access and use of Apps when there is a reason to believe that violations of law or HSS policies have occurred. In such cases, the alleged violation will be referred to the principal for further investigation and account restoration, suspension, or termination. As a party of the Agreement with Google, HSS also reserves the right to immediately suspend any user account suspected of inappropriate use. Pending review, a user account may be terminated as part of such action.

Laws and Policies that Help to Protect Our Students Online:

Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA)

The school is required by CIPA to have technology measures and policies in place that protect students from harmful materials including those that are obscene and pornographic. This means that HSS student email is filtered. In addition, students can only email within the holysouls.org domain.

Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

COPPA applies to commercial companies and limits their ability to collect personal information from children under 13. By default, Google advertising is turned off for Apps for Education users. No personal student information is collected for commercial purposes. This permission form allows the school to act as an agent for parents in the collection of information within the school context. The school’s use of student information is solely for educational purposes.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA protects the privacy of student education records and gives parents rights to review student records. Under FERPA, schools may disclose directory information (name, phone, address, grade level, etc...) but parents may request that the school not disclose this information.

• The school will not publish confidential education records (grades, student ID #, etc...) for public viewing on the Internet.
• The school may publish student work and photos for public viewing but will not publish student last names or other personally identifiable information.
• Parents may request that photos, names and general directory information about their children not be published.
• Parents have the right at any time to investigate the contents of their child’s email and Apps for Education files.

ONLINE COMMUNICATION POLICY

At Holy Souls School we firmly believe that the parents are first and foremost the primary educators of their children. In support of this belief, it is absolutely essential that parents, school staff, and administration support each other. In order to communicate the importance of this point, Holy Souls has adopted the following policy for all students, parents, school staff, and administration.

• When posting to social networks or communicating online, please be ever vigilant in maintaining professionalism.
• Vulgar, harassing, or unchristian-like postings, emails, or photos will not be tolerated.
• Remember, we are all representatives of Holy Souls School whether we are at school, a school-sanctioned event, or out in the community.
• Refrain from sending inappropriate messages or information critical of other parents, students, school faculty, and/or the school itself.
• Online communication (group texts, social media, etc.) is not the appropriate arena for airing complaints.
• Topics that require multiple emails, especially emotional ones, should be handled over the phone or in person.
• School staff may not engage in social network friendships, texts, or personal email with students.

As a parent of a Catholic school student, you have a responsibility to partner with and support your school. Ultimately, you are solely responsible for what you communicate online. Before creating online content, consider some of the risks and rewards that are involved. Keep in mind that any conduct that adversely affects employees, students, or families of the parish or school may result in disciplinary action up to and including withdrawal of your child from the school and/or legal action.

Families are encouraged to follow our school’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, use school email, ParentsWeb, or the school directory to communicate with our school staff and families, but please, do not be surprised or offended if a staff member ignores your friend request on their social media accounts or calls/texts to a personal cell phone as he/she has been instructed to only use school resources for professional communication and engagement.

Teachers who choose to engage in personal cell phone calls and text messages with school families during school hours may only do so during their planning time or lunch break.

When students post to social networks, they must be ever vigilant to follow Catholic morals and principles:

• Vulgar or unchristian-like postings or photos will not be tolerated at any time.
• Remind students that we are all representatives of Holy Souls School at all times.
• Students should not, at any time, send text messages or communicate in any way that is intended to harass, bully, or otherwise offend the recipient; set up fake pages; talk badly about teachers, administration, staff, or other students.
• Any of the above infractions will be considered serious and may be grounds for in or out-of-school suspension, detention, loss of conduct points, possible expulsion, or any other consequences deemed appropriate by the school administration.

OFFICE POLICY

Medication at School
If a child needs medicine during school hours, the parents must provide the medication along with written instructions for administering it. School employees are not allowed to give medication (aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, etc.) without the written consent of the parent, and the parent must provide the medication for the student.

ALL MEDICATION IS KEPT IN THE SCHOOL OFFICE. NO MEDICATION IS ALLOWED IN CLASSROOMS, BACKPACKS, OR SCHOOL LOCKERS.

The teacher or office staff will take care of minor accidents. In the case of a serious accident, the school will contact the parents as soon as possible. If the parents cannot be contacted, the injured child will be taken to the hospital immediately. 
If a student has a fever or diarrhea and is sent home, the student must be fever and diarrhea free (without fever-reducing medicine) for 24 hours before returning to school.

When to stay home from school:
Temperature of 100.4 or higher
Vomiting and/or diarrhea in the past 24 hours
Body rash with itching or fever
Redness, itching, and/or drainage from eyes or ears

When you may return to school:
Fever free without reducer for 24 hours
Free from vomiting and/or diarrhea for 24 hours
Free from rash and itching, or evaluated and treated by doctor if needed
Eyes and ears free from itching and drainage, or evaluated and treated by doctor if needed

If your child has strep throat or another bacterial infection, he/she should stay home until the antibiotic has been given for at least 24 hours and your doctor has given permission for your child to return. We encourage you to seek medical attention when your child is sick and to follow your health care provider’s recommendations about returning to school and other activities.

Transportation Update
To ensure that your child is informed about any transportation updates, please inform the office before 2:40 p.m. with the relevant details that you wish to communicate.

Use of the Phone
Student use of the office telephone shall be limited to EMERGENCY CALLS. Neither teachers nor students are called to the telephone during class hours unless it is an emergency. Your child should know arrangements for after-school transportation BEFORE he/she comes to school.

Flowers, Balloons, or Gifts Delivered to School
Students are NOT allowed to receive balloons, flowers, or gifts that are delivered to the school. If a delivery is made for a student, the office staff will not sign for the delivery.
 

MANUAL OF POLICIES AND REGULATIONS FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OF ARKANSAS, DIOCESE OF LITTLE ROCK

Harassment Policy

The Catholic Diocese of LR does not condone any form of harassment.

All individuals are to be treated with dignity and respect. Harassment in any form is prohibited. The prohibition against acts of harassment applies to all individuals involved in the school. (Policy 2.26 Harassment: Diocese of Little Rock.) All teachers and school staff are instructed to stop harassment when they witness it and inform the school administration of all allegations or rumors of harassment.

The following procedures will be followed in dealing with harassment:

• Report the incident to the Principal.
• The incident will be investigated and the parents will be notified.
• A report of the findings will be made available to all persons involved. 
• Records of complaints will be kept on file and confidential.

Alcohol/Drugs

THE POSSESSION, USE, DISTRIBUTION OF ILLEGAL DRUGS OR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IS NOT PERMITTED IN THE SCHOOL, ON THE SCHOOL GROUNDS, OR AT ANY SCHOOL FUNCTION.

• If any student brings to school or has in his/her possession any drug or alcohol during school hours or at any school function, regardless of time or place, he/she is liable for expulsion.  He/she will be suspended immediately and parents will be notified.
• Return to school will be contingent upon the student being actively involved in professional counseling and/or therapy if chemical dependency is evident. A second offense will result in automatic expulsion.
• When a student is involved in the distribution of alcohol/drugs to other students, whether for financial gain or not, he/she will automatically be expelled from school. The distribution of drugs in the State of Arkansas is a felony. Secondly, the action is aiding and abetting another youth in an illegal action. Such conduct will not be tolerated by the Diocese of Little Rock and its school system.
• A teacher is required by law to report to school authorities any incident of alcohol or drug abuse. Not to report such an incident is against the law. (Arkansas code Ann.6-21-608)

Behavior On/Off Campus

Since a Holy Souls student represents the school at all times, both on and off campus, it should be understood that any conduct which brings discredit to the student or to the reputation of Holy Souls School and its community may result in disciplinary action by the school.

ATHLETICS

Philosophy

The purpose of the athletic program at Holy Souls is to provide an opportunity for all interested students to learn good sportsmanship, teamwork, and to learn and improve in basic skills of the sport. The Athletic Department will strive to encourage the active participation and individual efforts of each student, regardless of skill level. As a result of participating in the sport, the student-athlete should develop a respect for authority (coaches, referees, parents) and a respect for others (teammates and opposing teams.) Our disciplinary policy is extended to all sporting events. Therefore, consequences for inappropriate conduct can be applied to both school and sporting events. The Athletic Department hopes that each individual will develop self-confidence, improve personal skills, and have fun.

Sportsmanship

If any player gets a red card, technical foul, or penalty called for unsportsmanlike conduct TOWARDS A REFEREE, it will result in a MAJOR OFFENSE disciplinary action. This behavior goes against all that our school and church teach. It is never the responsibility of a player to dispute a call. This can be through words or gestures such as the simple act of throwing their arms in the arm out of disrespect  The coaches will report any disrespect towards referees to the administration, and immediate disciplinary action will be taken. 

Procedure for Complaints

1. Submit in writing.
2. Give it to the school representative (Athletic Director).
3. If immediate attention is necessary, the school administration takes action.

Guidelines

• By signing the Statement of Responsibility, all coaches, parents, and students agree to follow and adhere to the Holy Souls Athletic Policy and the Parochial League Athletic Policy.
• Coaches must complete the CMG Safe Environment training before interacting with children.
• Team prayer is encouraged before each practice and each game.
• Holy Souls teams have priority for gym scheduling during basketball season.

Absent from School & Eligibility to Play

If a child is absent from school, checks in after 10:00 due to illness, or leaves school early he/she may NOT play in the game or cheer in the pep rally scheduled for that day. A full day of school must be attended to be eligible to participate.

Suspension from School & Eligibility to Play

If a student is suspended in school or out of school, they will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities scheduled on that/those days.  

Sports Deadlines

The following sports are offered for students in grades 5-8. Sign-up for each sport will be at the beginning of the season.  A deadline will be given for each sign-up. If students are not signed up by the deadline date, they will not be allowed to participate. The only exception will be new students that come to school after the deadline, in which case the student will be added to the roster, if possible. Sports fees are due prior to the beginning of the sports season. 

*Physicals and waivers must be in before the start of any sports season.
 

• Archery Grades 6 – 8
• Basketball Grades 5-8 Boys/Girls
• Cheerleading Grades 7-8 Girls
• Cross Country Grades 5-8 Boys/Girls
• Football Grades 5-8 Boys
• Track & Field Grades 5-8 Boys/Girls
• Volleyball Grades 5-8 Girls   
• Golf Grades 5-8 Boys/Girls

Assignment to Teams

The Athletic program strives to maintain a competitive balance between teams in all sports.

• Archery — All 6th, 7th, 8th, grade members are on one team
• Basketball and Volleyball - Players will be assigned to teams as follows:
  • The head coach will draft a team beginning with their child. Those wanting to assist will do so for the team their child is on.
  • Players are assigned by coaches by means of a supervised draft to assure equality. 
  • Teams will be kept the same for 5th & 6th grade. 
  • Teams will be re-divided in the 7th grade. 
  • Any new players signing up to play will be assigned to teams by coaches' draft with an equitable distribution of players maintained. 
  • In the event there is a significant increase or decrease in the number of players on one team, a redraft may be necessary. This will be determined by the principal and athletic director.
• Cheerleading - All girls are on one squad.
• Football - All 5th & 6th-grade students are on one team. All 7th & 8th-grade students are on one team.
• Golf - All 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade players are on teams by grade level.
• Track- All 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade players are on one team

Archery

Our school will participate in the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), through Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's (AGFC) Arkansas National Archery in the Schools Program (ANASP).

Participation in the program is subject to NASP Tournament Rules and other program requirements as stated within the NASP web-site and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission ANASP web-site guidelines.

Governing documents may be found at:

• http://naspschools.org/
• NASP Rules: http://naspschools.org/instructors/attachments/1387396733.pdf%20
• AGFC: http://www.agfc.com/Pages/default.aspx
• ANASP: http://www.agfc.com/education/Pages/EducationProgramsANASP.aspx
• Handbook: http://www.agfc.com/education/Documents/ANASP/ANASP_handbook

Students in 6th, 7th and 8th grades are eligible to participate in the extra-curricular Archery Team.

• ANASP teams must have at least 12 but no more than 24 archers per team. Each team must have at least four archers of each gender.
• Only Archery Team coaches, volunteers, members and member parents will be allowed in the gym during team practices. Younger siblings may not be present in the gym during practice.
• Only school purchased bows and arrows may be used on the school campus. Students may use their own bows if they meet the NASP requirements. Students may bring their own finger pads and/or arm guards. These items are available at local archery supply stores and/or online. Please ensure students have these types of items labeled with their name before bringing them to school.
• ANASP Equipment specifications outlined under Section 3, Competition, of the ANASP Handbook and in paragraph 4 of the 2014 NASP Rules and Regulations document.

To have a successful archery program, parents must be willing to volunteer their time.

• The number of volunteers depends each year on the number of students that participate.
• All parent volunteers will be required to complete the CMG safe environment training before volunteering.

Basketball

• No basketball team should have more than ten players unless there are not enough players to form another team.
• Teams will stay together during the fifth and sixth grades. At the beginning of the seventh grade, the students will be reassigned by the seventh-grade coaches and the athletic director. The teams will stay together during the seventh and eighth grades.
• The fifth-grade teams will be assigned by the incoming fifth-grade coaches and the Athletic director after accessing the students' abilities.
• A student who has an unexcused absence from basketball practice will miss playing in one game. If he/she misses two practices they will miss playing in two games. An excused absence is granted for illness or a family emergency.
• The coach must be called when a player will not be at a practice or a game.

Cheerleading

To have a successful cheerleading squad, parents and players must agree to abide by the Church League rules regarding cheerleading, as outlined in the Church League Policy, below. Also, parents MUST attend the yearly MANDATORY squad meeting and adhere to the coaches rules. Failure to do so will result in forfeiting your child’s spot on the team.

Cross Country

To have a successful cross-country program parents must be willing to volunteer their time during one of the three cross-country meets. Our school will be assigned to watch over a particular section of the 2-mile course, with parent volunteers spread out just to make sure the athletes aren't intentionally or unintentionally cutting the course or getting off course.

• All parent volunteers will be required to complete the CMG safe environment training before volunteering.
• The cross-country run shall be a course 3200 meters in length. Measurement shall be along the middle of the course. The course shall be clearly marked. This may be by a wide line marked with a material which is not injurious to the eyes or skin, or by signposts with large directional arrows wherever the course turns, or by cones, or any combination of these.
• The course should be at least 3 feet (0.91 m) wide at its narrowest place.
• Each Athlete should have proper running shoes and socks.
• Jewelry is not allowed except for medical medals or properly covered "newly pierced ears".
• Each contestant shall wear shoes. Shoes shall be worn on both feet and shall have an upper and definitely recognizable sole and heel. The shoe upper must be designed so that it can be fastened securely to the foot. The use of slippers or socks does not meet the requirements of the rule.
• Each competitor shall wear a full-length track jersey or one-piece uniform issued by the school. The jersey and shorts may have the school identification and the jersey may have the competitor's name.
• The jersey shall not be knotted or have a knot-like protrusion.
• Bicycle shorts, thigh huggers, abbreviated thigh huggers, leotards, bodysuits, abbreviated briefs (French or high cut) and similar apparel may be worn under the shorts, but not in lieu of shorts. Loose-fitting boxer-type shorts are permitted for boys and girls and closed-leg briefs/shorts are acceptable for girls.
• The waistband of a competitor's shorts shall be worn above the hips.
• Bare midriff tops are not acceptable.
• Visible undergarments: any visible shirt(s) worn under the uniform must be unadorned (except for the manufacturer's logo) and of a single color and hue. Visible garments worn under the jersey and shorts do not have to be the same color.

Golf

• Players must have some experience playing golf.
• Players must have their own clubs.
• Players must be able to walk 9 holes and carry their bag.
• Each player must be a member of the First Tee of Arkansas and follow all rules set forth by the organization.
• Parents will be scheduled to walk with their child's team throughout the season. On your scheduled day, you will check in at the clubhouse and let First Tee know how many members of your team will be playing that day. You will then walk the entire match with your child's team.
• All parents of students playing golf will be required to complete Safe Environment training.
• Parents are not allowed to carry clubs or offer advice or suggestions in any way while they are on the golf course with the team.

Track and Field

To have a successful track and field program, parents must be willing to volunteer their time. The number of volunteers depends each year on the number of students that participate. There are approximately 12 volunteers that must be secured before the start of the season. Each volunteer must commit to at least one full meet from start to finish. Meets typically last from 4:30 - 8:30p.m. depending on location availability and restrictions. This does not include coaches or volunteer coordinator. The following are required event positions from Holy Souls:

• 1 Head Coach Coaches schedule and assists athletes
• 1 Volunteer Coordinator Schedules volunteers for meets
• 2 Event Coordinators In charge of the assigned event
• 10 Event Volunteers Assists assigned Event Coordinator

• All parent volunteers will be required to attend a Safe Environment training session.
• Each athlete should have proper running shoes and socks. Track "spikes" are allowed.
• Jewelry is not allowed except for medical medals or properly covered "newly pierced ears".
• Athletes are encouraged to wear sweats, hats, warm-ups, etc. on cold days. Gloves are not permitted for discus or shot put; however, wrist braces are allowed.
• The maximum number of events an athlete can participate in is 4 track and 2 field. There is no minimum.
• The maximum number of entries per event is 7 per school. This could be reduced to 4 in the "Championship Meet".
• Athletes must provide attendance status to the head coach no later than Monday at 5:00 p.m. prior to a Wednesday meet. If the head coach is not contacted and the athlete is absent for the meet, the athlete will not be allowed to participate in the next scheduled meet. Sudden injury or illness will be handled on a case by case basis.
• Practice will be determined based on track availability and restrictions.
• Typically, there are 5 meets per season. 2 practice meets where all events are split over 2 meets (unlimited participation), 2 league meets (participation restrictions) where all events are included and 1 Championship meet participation restrictions).

Team Banners

Teams that are named parochial league champions or win the end of season parochial league tournament may purchase a banner to be placed in the gymnasium.  All banners are purchased through the Athletic Director.

Gymnasium Use

Holy Souls School gymnasium is available to rent for basketball/volleyball purposes by any active member of Holy Souls Parish over the age of twenty-five (25) or a parent of a student who is currently enrolled.  Availability will depend on the schedules of Holy Souls School and Church.  Contact the athletic director for more information at athleticdirector@holysouls.org or 501-663-4513.

Selection of Volunteer Coaches

Cheerleading - Sponsors will be faculty members appointed by the principal.

Football & Archery  - The head coach is appointed by the principal. Assistant coaches will be selected by the head coach in consultation with the principal from qualified volunteers.

Basketball & Volleyball - Volunteer coaches will be selected from all interested in coaching. First preference will be given to parents of children on the team. If more than one parent wants to be head coach, consideration will be given to;

1. Those that have completed the Safe Environment training.
2. Whether the interested parties are already coaching another team
3. Experience

A coach that takes a team at the entry level into a sport (i.e. 5th-grade basketball) will be allowed to stay with that team through the 8th-grade whenever possible. If a coach must leave, the assistant coach may be moved to the head coach position or a qualified coach will be found. In the event a team needs to be split, a qualified coach will be found for that team. 

2021-2022 CHURCH LEAGUE ATHLETIC POLICY

Procedure for Changing the School's Mission, Policies, Programs, or Special Projects