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Statement of S. H. Religious Education
To live out our Parish Mission Statement, we at Sacred Heart Parish look upon Religious Education as a total parish experience involving not just the child, but also parents, families, Catechists, clergy and religious that form our parish community of faith. Beginning with Baptism, God’s freely given Gift of the Faith is nurtured and developed through Religious Education in a life-long process. It is begun in the home, the “Domestic Church” – the first meeting place of the child with God. “Parents must be acknowledged as the first and foremost educators of their children” (NCDC #212). Home experiences of prayer, meals, forgiveness, love, and sharing prepare the child to gather and celebrate with God’s People the Central Worship Prayer of the Catholic Christians-The Mass.
S. H. Religious Education’s curriculum and programs, continuous and developmental, are structured to provide information and experiences that are theologically and psychologically sound and in accord with the students’ abilities and levels of understanding. They are planned in accordance with the Archdiocesan Guidelines.
Through our Religious Education Programs, we seek: To lead the students to develop a deeper and more personal relationship with Jesus. To lead the students to participate in the Parish Faith Community and its Sacramental life. To help the students to form a moral conscience rooted in Gospel discipleship. To provide a learning atmosphere of peacemaking as an alternate to violence in all its forms. To raise student and parents awareness and create opportunities for Gospel service to those in need. To support parents in their primary Faith responsibilities of their children.
Non-Discriminatory Policy The Catechetical Program affirms the belief that each person is made in the image and likeness of God and endeavors to bring the Gospel message to all its students. The Program does not tolerate discrimination of age, race, color, national origin, sex, marital status (except as it affects one’s status as a practicing Catholic), or disability of any individual. The Catechetical Program does reserve the right to act on the basis of its religious principles at all times including the admission to service of volunteers and other like activities relating to their supervision.
Registration and Special Program Fees are charged to help toward costs of books, AV, activity materials, Sacrament retreats, banners, certificates, receptions, staff salaries, etc. The balance of the budget for Religious Education is subsidized by Parish funds: Current Fee Amounts: See annual Calendar/Fee inserts 1. 1. Registration Fee: Rates (1 child, 2 children, 3 or more) Due: March 1 of current year
2. Sacrament Preparation Fees (per child) Due: 2 weeks prior to Date of Sacrament*Payment: Full or monthly partial payments, by Cash or Check. Check payable to: “Sacred Heart Religious Education”
ADMISSIONS; Open to all registered families of Sacred Heart Parish (of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, or disability conditions).
SPECIAL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION: All children have a right to Religious Instruction / Sacrament Preparation. Therefore, in “one-on-one”, small group, mainstreaming, or “At Home” programming we try to pro vide for children with special needs. Parents meet with the Director to plan.
NEW REGISTRATIONS: Registration for Religious Instruction must be done IN PERSON and with the consent of the Parent/Guardian,
1. Register at the “Pre-Registration” held in early March or early September, or by appointment. 2. Bring a copy of each child’s Baptism Certificate (If a child needs Baptism, parents meet with Director) 3. Bring previous records of Religious Program attended. Parents are expected to bring the children to weekly Saturday or Sunday Liturgy. 4. Complete and submit the Medical Emergency Form for each child. Verify “contact” person and phone # you give. 5. Sign the Parent Handbook Verification Form. This signature will also be used to verify any future signed messages
RE-REGISTRATION; Each child must be re-registered by a parent/ guardian IN PERSON, annually during March Pre-Registration weeks. Information is mailed regarding dates/procedures. A $10 “Late Re-Registration Fee” is charged after September 10th.
CUSTODIAL RIGHTS OF PARENTS: At time of Registration, please inform Director about any important home or education needs of your child, the rights of non-custodial parent regarding child’s religious education, etc. If any changes occur during the year please notify the Director.
CURRENT CLASSES: Classes are closed by the end of September. Late transfer, or other special situations are arranged by the Director and those involved. We try our best to meet families’ needs. Students are expected to attend Religious Education classes from Gr.K through Gr.8. Any child who drops out of the Religious Education Program upon re-entering the program will be required to complete the grade(s) curriculum missed. Placement of the student is determined by the Director after meeting with the parent.
ATTENDANCE/ABSENCE/TARDINESS: 1. Please have the children On Time with books, homework, etc 2. Absences: Parent/Guardian please CALL THE OFFICE ON THE DAY OF ABSENCE. Reasons: Child’s safety, our concern, yearly promotions; missed assignments, Sacrament preparation requirements. Makeup session(s) related to absences and repeated tardiness will generally be scheduled for a Sunday morning. Tardiness is a real problem for safety check, and class participation. Latecomers sign in at front desk.
Attendance/Absentee Policy – Your child’s regular attendance at Religious Education classes is very important. These classes should take priority over other programs and activities. Absences from 4 classes may result in a student’s repeating the grade. A conference between the Director and the parents regarding this matter will be called by the Director.
COMMUNICATION (DIRECTOR, CATECHISTS, PARENTS/ GUARDIANS): On-going communication is essential for the Religious Education Program to effectively serve its Families here at Sacred Heart Parish. Feel welcomed to call with ANY questions, concerns, suggestions, volunteer offer, (even a “Thank you”). If a problem arises, please call the Director within 1-2 weeks of concern. Do not let a situation build up unaddressed when early attention might result in a good, positive, peaceful learning experience for all.
To Contact Director of Rel. Education: Office; 428-5043 To speak with or make an appointment with the Director. Please call outside of class time, as Director is supervising classes.
To Contact the Catechist: Do Not go to the Classroom during classes. Either send a note with your child to the Catechist indicating your desire to speak with him/her, giving your phone number and best time to be reached; or, call the Director to set up an appointment. (Catechist phone number is not given out unless Catechist so chooses).
PARENT HANDBOOK: Each family will receive a copy of this HandBook for on-going reference. Calendar and Fee inserts will be given in September. (A replacement copy is $2.00).After reading the entire Parent Handbook, the Parents are to sign the Handbook Verification Form (provided by the DRE) indicating that they and their children agree to follow the policies and procedures specified in this book.
Sundays: 9:45 a.m. - 10:50 a.m -- Gr. Pre-K, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 Mondays: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. classes - Gr. 6, 7 & 8
Safety Notice: (At Wilson St. Entrance to School) -Blue Rel.Ed. Banner in Door Window = Open for Classes -If no Blue Banner in window = No Classes; = Take child home
Snow/Emergency Cancellations: Sunday/Monday Classes, or Events 1.Listen to RADIO WFAS 1230 AM/ 104 FM for “S.H.Rel.Ed” 2.You may call Office (914) 428-5043 for a recorded message. 3.Do not call the Rectory or Convent. 4.No Monday evening classes IF PUBLIC SCHOOL IS CLOSED.
Traffic: Arrival, Parking, Pick-up (At Wilson St. Entrance)
Arrival: 1.Check for Religion Ed Blue Banner in window 2.Drop child ONLY at Orange Safety Cones Child must be brought directly to Wilson St. Door. Not dropped off /picked up at the Church, etc
Dismissal: Students are dismissed in the front hall to the care of the Parent. If someone other than the parent is to pick up the child, this must be given in writing to the Director prior to the session in question.
Pick-up: 1.Park in School yard and come into front hall to pick up your child. They are not allowed to leave alone 2. Please be on time to pick up your child. Do not have your child have to call you after class to pick him/her up.
Supervision of Students: All students are supervised when they are in the building. There is to be no “hanging around” before/after classes. Non-students or non-authorized adults are not permitted on the grounds or in the building during Religious Education sessions.
Early Dismissal: This should be rarely done. The parent must report to the Director’s Office prior to the class session and present the request in writing. This request includes: n the name of the person picking up the child; n the designated date and time; n the reason; and the Signature of the Parent.
GRADE LEVEL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM
Texts: Archdiocesan approved Texts and materials are used throughout the grades. Bibles are given to 5th grader for Gr. 5-8 lessons.
Pre-K & K: Children are led to experience and celebrate God’s great love of them, God’s wonderful gifts of Creation, the wonders of their minds and bodies, and how to respond to God in prayer. Weekly lessons are God-centered and child-centered.
Grade 1: To develop an awareness of God the Creator, who gives us life us life and grace and promises us eternal life through Jesus. Bible: Creation, Guardian Angels, Jesus’ Birth, The Good Samaritan Prayers: (MCF) Sign of the Cross, Our Father, Hail Mary, Morning & Evening Prayer, 1st line of Apostles’ Creed.
Grade 2: Jesus nourishes us, and strengthens God’s life, grace within us. Children will be prepared to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. Bible: Annunciation, The Lost Sheep, The Last Supper, The Prodigal Son, The Multiplication of Loaves and Fish. Prayers: (MCF) Act of Contrition, Our Father, Simple Mass, Responses, Simple form of the Ten Commandments.
Grade 3: Jesus continues his life and work through his Church. Children will learn about the prayer, worship, Gospel works of justice and peace of the Catholic Church, especially as it is lived on the local parish level. Bible: Wedding at Cana, Kingdom Parables, The Two Great Commandments, Pentecost, The Great Commission, The Good Samaritan. Prayers: (MCF) Glory Be to the Father, Grace at Meals, Our Father, Spontaneous Prayer, Act of Contrition, Apostles Creed
Grade 4: As God’s people, we are called to live as Jesus did choosing a life of love, obedience to God, and service to others. Students will learn how to form their consciences based on: Bible: The Ten Commandments, The Two Great Commandments, The Beatitudes, The Call of Abraham,The Covenant of God.. Prayers: (MCF) (Review Gr.1-3), Memorize: The 10 Commandments, The Corporal Works of Mercy, The Sanctus.
Grade 5: Through the Sacraments the Church celebrates Christ’s saving action in our lives. Students receive Bible for (Gr. 5,6,7,8). Bible: Vine & Branches, Matrimony, Annointing of Sick, Ordination, Parable of The Prodigal Son Prayers: (MCF) Gloria, Sorrowful Mysteries of Rosary, Act of Faith, Stations of Cross (during Lent), Review Prayers (Gr. 1-4).
Grade 6: God’s saving actions are found throughout history. The Bible written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, records God’s plan of salvation for us. Through “hands on use of the Bible” students learn how God’s salvation continues to work in our “history” today. Bible: Creation, Adam & Eve, Noah, Abraham & Sarah, Moses, Gospels, Acts. Prayers: (MCF) Glorious Mysteries of Rosary, Magnificat, Psalms.
Grade 7: As Pre-Candidates for Confirmation, 7th graders will study Jesus’ life through Gospels, Prayer, Church History and lives of the Saints, (and Pre-Cand.Preparation Activities) Bible: The Good Samaritan, The Prodigal Son, Ten Commandments Prayers: Memorize 10 Commandments, Works of Mercy, Sacraments, Parts of the Mass.
Grade 8: As Candidates for Confirmation, 8th graders will learn about the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. (and participate in Confirmation preparation activities) Bible: Pentecost Acts 2:1-13); Rite & Meaning of Confirmation, The Gifts of the Holy Spirit, Responses of the Liturgy, Prayer and Morality, Christian Values of Sexuality.
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HOMEWORK POLICY – Homework reinforces classroom learning and is part of the requirements for promotion to the next grade level. Parents are expected to help their children complete the assignments. The student must make-up the work of missed classes.
TESTING – The objective of testing is to monitor student growth and effectiveness of our Religious Education Program. Students will be tested regularly, both orally and written. Generally the testing is very simple, brief, and based on the weekly class lessons. If a child has difficulty with written tests, the Catechist will arrange for an oral test to be given.
REPORT CARDS/PROGRESS REPORTS –Religious formation of the child takes place in the home, in church, and in the class setting. Report cards for the Religious Education Program reflect class performances only. They are issued twice yearly to indicate the students’s progress.
The areas of evaluation are: Attendance Achievement Presence Class Participation Absence Assignments Tardiness Effort Behavior, etc.
The marking code is: E – Excellent G – Good S – Satisfactory I - Needs Improvement
RETENTION – Students who do not satisfactorily complete the course of study at each grade level or do not attend the required number of classes may be required to repeat the grade. This is at the discretion of the Director.
TEXTBOOKS – Each student receives Religious Education text materials on the first day of classes. These are to be brought to class weekly If a textbook is lost, stolen, or damaged, a new one must be purchased .
Student Behavior – An important part of Religious Education is to lead children to put the Gospel Values of peace and justice into practice. Therefore: 1. Self respect and respect of others is expected. Disrespect, prejudice, violence of speech or action is not tolerated. 2. Any child causing damage to parish property will be required to PAY FOR REPAIRS/REPLACEMENT
The following types of conduct are inappropriate and unacceptable: 1. Fighting, or intimidating fellow students 2. Defiance of staff 3. Use of profanity 4. Refusal to prepare assignments or to participate in class 5. Possession of dangerous objects 6. Possession or use of tobacco 7. Possession or use of a controlled substance 8. Damage to property 9. Leaving the building/premises during class without permission 10. Habitual tardiness & absenteeism 11. Cheating 12. Throwing snowballs or other objects 13. Eating in class (except for special occasions determined by the Catechist)
N.B. Students will be held responsible for their conduct. If a student’s behavior threatens the safety of one’s self or another’s, he/she may be subject to suspension, or if warranted removal from the Program. This is at the discretion of the Director and the approval of the Pastor.
Academic warning - If a student is not working to one’s potential, a notice will be mailed to parents, advising them of the situation. It should be seriously regarded, signed, and returned to the Director.
Behavioral warning – When a student consistently fails to follow the safety and classroom rules, a notice will be mailed to parents, advising them the need for a DRE/Parent/Student conference to resolve the difficulty. Sacred Heart Religion Ed. Catechetical Program reserves the right to remove a student from the group session: 1. if it is believed that the student would benefit significantly from an individual or smaller group situation, 2. if the student’s behavior is seriously inhibiting the learning others in the group, 3. if temporary removal is used as a disciplinary measure for serious and persistent disruptive behavior.
INTRODUCTION: Receiving Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, we say “Yes” to God’s freely given love, and are initiated in the Catholic Christian Faith Community. As we continue to participate in the Sacramental life of the Church, we deepen and grow in our Faith in our local parish community, and as part of the universal Church.
The Director, working with the Pastor, Priests, Principal of S.H. School, Catechists, Parents and Parishioners, provides special activities, retreats, and sacramental celebrations to prepare our Parish children to receive 1st Reconciliation, 1st Eucharist and Confirmation.
BAPTISM; For an unbaptized child 5 yrs. or older: 1. Child attends 1 year of Religious Instruction and weekly Mass. 2. The, Director with Parents set up meeting with a Parish Priest to examine readiness of child, and set date of Baptism.
FIRST RECONCILIATION & FIRST EUCHARIST; (Gr. 2) 1. Child must regularly attend 2 years of Religious Instruction (no more than 2 absences per yr. unless serious illness, etc.) 2. Parents and children are required to attend planned retreats or events. 3. Child’s Baptism certificate is required at Registration or Gr.1. First Reconciliation and First Eucharist are received in the 2nd year of preparation. All children after completing preparation, receive these Sacraments as a Parish community.
CONFIRMATION; (Grade 8) 1. A 2 yr. Parish Program (Gr. 7 & 8 for all Parish youth). 2. Pre-Candidates (Gr.7) Religious Instruction, Part I Service Meeting, Saint’s Project, Sponsor selection, Weekly Mass. 3. Candidates (Gr. 8) Religious Instruction, Retreat, Meetings, Part II Service, Interviews, Weekly Mass, Practices, Confirmation (It is expected that students have been attending regular classes since Gr.1).
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION : Older Children or Adults 1. Older Children: Parent/Child meet with Director to plan the 2 year preparation. Child will continue in regular Rel. Ed. Grade classes. 2. H.S. & Adults: Call the Rectory (949-0028) to speak with one of the Priests regarding the preparation process to follow.
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION FEES; (See “Program Fees)
Safety
Emergency Procedures: 1. (in case of accident or illness): If a relatively minor accident occurs to a student while attending the catechetical program, the following steps are taken: a) The catechist reports the accident immediately to the Director; b) If bleeding is involved, the procedures outlined under “Bloodborne Pathogens” are followed; c) The Director notifies the parent; if the parent cannot be reached the Director follows your instructions on the “Student Accident Form”
2. (In case of serious accidents or illness):
a) The catechist reports the accident immediately to the Director; b) The Director will call 911 or the local police/emergency rescue squad immediately; c) The Director notifies the parent. If a parent can’t be reached, the Director follows instructions on the “Student Medical Emergency” Form.
3. Emergency Evacuation of the Entire Building: a) With Fire & Police Department assistance we have developed a plan for the safe evacuation of all persons from our building. b) Everyone will exit onto Wilson St. Students will be led down to lower Wilson St. to the back entrance of the Parking of the Casa Mesa Restaurant, where they will remain with their Catechists. c) Lawton Ave. & upper Wilson St. will not be accessible. So, parents are to walk from East Hartsdale Ave., to the lower part of Wilson St.to the Parking Lot Site. A Team person will direct you to your child (ren)’s line. Parent must sign the Catechist’s class attendance sheet for each child that you are taking home with you. d) In the event that your child needs to be taken to the hospital, we will provide the EMS with child’s Medical Emergency Form you signed. e) No one is to return to the school for any reason. Items left in class will be returned at the next class session f) When we are sure EVERYONE is out and at the evacuation site either Msgr. Carney or Sr. Mary will make a brief statement to the Press. We ask that you do not give out information to the Press until you have heard from Sr. Mary what actually took place. g) By the next day we intend to mail a written statement to each family regarding the event. There will be a message on our answering phone (if it is still functioning). h) ADAPP counselors will be available if needed. Time (TBA).
Abuse Reporting: As required, we follow the Archdiocesan, and New York State guidelines in regard to reporting Child Abuse.
Transportation: Parents have responsibility for the transportation of their children to and from the parish class sites.
Visitors: Visitors are not permitted in the classroom or building during classes. All visitors are to report to the Religion Ed.Office.
Fire Drills: At least once a semester a fire drill is held. No student is to leave the line during drill. Silence and safety is a must.
Field Trips: If a field trip is planned for the Religion Ed program, the Parish-Sponsored Trip Form must be completed by the parent of every child who will participate. Telephone calls are not accepted in lieu of written permission forms.
In the event that volunteers have offered to use their own automobiles to transfer children for various catechetical program, they should understand that the automobile policy of the volunteer responds first in the event of any accident. (Insurance follows the car, not the driver.)
1. Parish “Family” Liturgy: Family members meet and plan with the Priests for special Family Sunday Masses. See Sunday Bulletin.
2. Parish Children’s Choir: Open to ALL children of S.H. Parish - Registration forms available from Parish - Children are required to attend the practices. - Choir Robes are loaned for Special Liturgies. - A parent is asked to accompany child to the Liturgy.
3. Altar Servers: Open to ALL girls and boys (Gr. 4 & Older) of S.H.Parish. Call Rectory (949-0028) for application form and arrange with Priest Moderator for training and schedule.
. Special “Family”celebrations sponsored by Sacred Heart School - open to ALL in the parish: Watch the Parish Bulletin Notices for fun events for you and your family: Eg. Christmas Fair, Halloween & Valentine Bingo, Parish Breakfast (March), Rollerskating, etc.
5. Phone Use: Students may use the office telephone for emergencies Cell phones or Beepers are not to be used in the classrooms.
6. Valuables: The catechetical staff cannot be responsible for valuables which students bring to class. It is recommended that all valuables or toys be left at home.
7. Lost & Found: All clothing, money, jewelry or any other articles of value that are turned in, may be claimed at the Religious Education Office after proper identification.
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